Olhão: Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers – Tour along the islands

Olhão: Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers – Tour along the islands offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, relaxed activities, and hearty food—all set in the captivating landscape of the Algarve. This 7-hour boat trip from Marina de Olhão presents an intimate experience, limited to 15 guests, making it perfect for those who crave a more personal touch while exploring Portugal’s natural splendor. We’re drawn to how this tour combines spectacular island scenery with engaging activities like swimming and paddleboarding, plus a delicious BBQ.

However, it’s worth considering that the tour doesn’t include a bar service, and it starts from a specific meeting point, so you’ll need to plan your arrival accordingly. Still, if you’re someone who enjoys discovering secluded beaches, relishing good food, and prefers a smaller group, this trip could be your ideal escape. It’s especially suitable for those who want to enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort or engaging in a bit of adventure.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal, relaxed experience.
• Includes SUP and swimming, making it perfect for water lovers.
• Hearty BBQ meal prepared on board adds to the convivial atmosphere.
• Scenic channels and islands provide stunning views and photo opportunities.
• Comfortable boat with bathroom and safety instructions make the day easy.
• Flexible booking options allow cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Day on the Water: What You Can Expect

This tour is designed for travelers seeking an authentic taste of the Ria Formosa’s natural beauty combined with a laid-back, enjoyable day. Leaving from Marina de Olhão, the trip lasts around 7 hours, giving you ample time to relax, soak up the scenery, and enjoy multiple activities. The small group size—capped at 15—means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the personal touch from your guides helps you feel more connected to the environment and fellow travelers.

The itinerary begins with a prompt meet-up at a shop near the ferry tickets, 20 minutes before departure. After safety instructions and a quick briefing, you’re on your way along the channels of Ria Formosa. This lagoon, famous for its white sand islands and crystal-clear waters, is a favorite among locals and travelers for its vibrant birdlife, calm waters, and picturesque scenery.

Exploring the Islands and Channels

Once underway, you’ll cruise along the waterways, taking in views of some of the most scenic parts of the Algarve. Expect to see the white sand beaches with their inviting waters, perfect spots for a swim or some paddleboarding—this tour includes SUP as part of the package. Based on reviews, many guests particularly appreciate the opportunity to relax on the beaches, soak up the sun, and paddle around, all in a peaceful natural setting.

Your guides will share insights into the local environment and culture, making this more than just a boat ride—it’s an educational experience as well. The smaller vessel allows for a more intimate and flexible experience, with the boat capable of navigating closer to the islands’ more secluded spots.

The BBQ Experience

One of the main highlights of this tour is the onboard BBQ, prepared by the crew. Guests consistently praise the quality and flavor of the food, mentioning that the BBQ is hearty and satisfying after a morning of swimming and exploring. You’ll be able to enjoy your meal with spectacular views, adding a convivial, picnic-like atmosphere to the day.

The BBQ is complemented by fresh drinks and the company of fellow travelers, often cited as one of the most enjoyable parts of the trip. The crew’s friendly service and attention to detail make the meal feel like a special occasion, without the pretension of a fancy restaurant.

Swimming and Paddleboarding

Guests often mention the swimming stops as a favorite activity, especially the chance to soak up the sun on unspoiled beaches or paddle around with SUPs. Reviews note that the water is clear and inviting, with plenty of room to find a quiet spot away from crowds. The SUPs are included, giving you the option to try your hand at this fun water sport, even if you’re a beginner.

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The Comfort Factor

The boat itself is well-equipped for comfort, featuring a bathroom on board and providing safety instructions for a worry-free trip. The vessel’s size means you can enjoy a more personal experience than large group tours, and the friendly guides ensure everyone stays safe and informed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for nature lovers, small group enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxed day of water-based activities. If you enjoy spending time in beautiful environments, eating good food, and having the flexibility to swim or paddle at your own pace, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer a more personal touch and appreciate learning about local ecosystems from knowledgeable guides.

Practical Details and Worthwhile Considerations

Pricing at $80 per person offers solid value, considering the boat trip, BBQ meal, SUP, and the personal atmosphere. You won’t find many similar tours that include all these elements, especially with such small group sizes. The inclusion of safety instructions and a guide adds confidence, particularly for those new to boating or water sports.

The tour doesn’t include a bar on board—so if you’re hoping for cocktails or drinks beyond the provided water and soft drinks, you’ll need to plan accordingly. Also, no pick-up service is included; travelers need to meet at the designated shop location, which is a short walk from the ferry tickets.

The flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—adds a layer of peace of mind, perfect for travelers with uncertain schedules.

Visualize Your Day

Imagine starting your morning with a gentle cruise along calm waters, surrounded by the bright white sands and lush green islands. As you glide past the channels, your guides point out birdlife and interesting features of this unique ecosystem. After a swim or paddleboard session, you settle in for a delicious BBQ, enjoying the fresh air and stunning scenery. The day ends with more swimming, relaxing on the beaches, or simply soaking up the serene environment.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable day in one of Portugal’s most beautiful natural areas. It’s ideal for small groups, water enthusiasts, and those wanting a more relaxed, authentic experience away from crowded tourist spots. Travelers who appreciate good food, friendly guides, and scenic views will find this trip particularly satisfying.

If you’re after an active, immersive day with opportunities to swim, paddle, and explore the islands at your own pace, this tour offers excellent value at a reasonable price. It’s also suitable for those with limited mobility, thanks to the boat’s amenities and the manageable group size.

Who Might Not Enjoy It?

If you prefer a very structured, guided, or luxurious experience, or if you’re not comfortable on boats or in water, this might not be your best fit. Also, those seeking a full-day tour with extensive cultural stops or multiple destinations might want to look at other options.

Is transportation included in the price?
No, the tour only covers the boat trip and on-board activities. You need to meet at the designated shop location near the ferry tickets 20 minutes before departure.

What should I bring?
Consider bringing sunglasses, a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. These items will help you stay comfortable while enjoying swimming and sunbathing.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is the tour suitable for children or wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for families or travelers with mobility needs.

Does the tour include drinks?
No, a bar on board is not included. You might find soft drinks and water, but additional beverages are not provided.

What is the group size?
The maximum capacity is 15 people, which fosters a more intimate experience and personalized attention from guides.

To sum it up, the Olhão Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers tour offers a genuine, relaxed way to experience Portugal’s natural beauty. With scenic boat rides, opportunities to swim and paddleboard, hearty meals, and a small-group setting, it’s an appealing choice for travelers who value authenticity and comfort. Whether you’re a water enthusiast or simply looking to unwind in a stunning environment, this tour could be the highlight of your Algarve visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: