Vilamoura Sightseeing Cruise with Beach BBQ with Open Bar

Imagine cruising along Portugal’s southern coast, surrounded by towering sea caves, dramatic rock formations, and secluded beaches—without the crowds. That’s exactly what this full-day Vilamoura sightseeing cruise offers. It’s a well-rounded adventure blending scenic beauty, delicious food, and a dash of nautical fun. If you’re considering a day on the water that combines natural wonders with a laid-back atmosphere, this tour deserves a serious look.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see some of the Algarve’s most iconic sights from the water—including the renowned Benagil Cave—plus the leisurely vibe of a beach BBQ with open drinks. A minor consideration? The full day can feel quite long, especially if you’re sensitive to strong sun or long hours in the open air. Still, this trip fits best for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, good food, and a relaxed social scene.

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a combination of scenic coastal views, authentic beachside cuisine, and the ability to escape crowded land-based spots. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a group of friends, it offers a bit of everything—especially if you appreciate being on the water.

Key Points

• Stunning coastline views from a comfortable catamaran
• Visit to the legendary Benagil Cave, a must-see Algarve highlight
• Beach BBQ with grilled meats, seafood, and fresh fruit, served in a peaceful, secluded spot
• Open bar includes wine, sangria, beer, soft drinks, and water
• Nautical activities like snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding at various stops
• Long but scenic day, worth the effort for lovers of coastal landscapes and laid-back fun

This cruise is a blend of natural beauty, tasty food, and social relaxation. As seasoned travelers, we appreciate the value packed into the 7.5-hour itinerary for just around $65. For that price, you’re getting a full day enjoying the Algarve’s most photogenic spots, topped with a beach barbecue feast and beverages that keep the mood lively.

Booking and logistics are straightforward. The tour departs from the AlgarExperience office, conveniently located near public transport in Vilamoura Marina. The group size is capped at 50, which keeps things intimate enough for personal service but lively enough for a good social vibe. You’ll meet your crew at Cais Q, and from there, the adventure begins.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Coastal Scenic Tour: Vilamoura to Benagil Cave

The day kicks off with a cruise along the Algarve coast, where your boat will glide past spectacular rock formations and sea caves. The highlight for most is the Benagil Cave, a natural wonder with a secret sandy beach inside, accessible only by boat or swimming. The boat crew frequently offers commentary on the geology and history—though most of us are too busy gawking at the scenery to process everything.

Several reviews mention the extended ride: “The crew on the boat was cool and they actually extended the boat ride so we could go to a beach with better conditions,” one traveler notes. This flexibility means you might get more time at preferred spots, a real plus.

Stops for Photography and Relaxation

The cruise pauses at Praia da Galé, Praia dos Arrifes, and Praia da Faro, each offering different perspectives of Algarve’s rugged coastline. Travelers consistently remark on how beautiful these beaches look from the water, often better than from land. You’ll get a chance to float and take pictures, making the stops a highlight for those who love capturing natural beauty.

Beach BBQ at Praia Grande

The tour’s culinary centerpiece is the beach barbecue, set on a secluded, hard-to-access beach—most likely Praia Grande. The grilled meats, shrimp, fish, and fresh salad are widely praised for their quality and quantity. One reviewer mentioned, “The food was great at the beach and there was plenty of it!” The relaxed atmosphere, with the aroma of grilled seafood mingling with salty sea air, makes this a memorable part of the day.

Nautical Activities and Secluded Beach Access

At the beach, you can try snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding, adding an active element to your day. The quiet spot offers an escape from the busy tourist beaches—“an opportunity to enjoy in seclusion,” as some travelers put it. The open bar also kicks in here, with drinks like wine, sangria, beer, and soft drinks, which many guests find helps keep the mood festive.

Visiting Additional Beaches and Sights

The cruise also passes by Praia da Ponta Piedade and other scenic spots, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the coastline’s natural sculptures. The dolphin sightings are a bonus some travelers have experienced, adding to the sense that this trip is more than just sightseeing.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the friendly and helpful crew who go the extra mile. One said, “The crew did a great job,” even when the main sail ripped during foggy conditions. The level of service seems consistently high, contributing to a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

Food and drinks are also a major hit. Multiple reviewers mention the delicious barbecue and good selection of drinks, including wine, sangria, and beers. One even notes, “The bar on the boat was good and the food included tasted lovely,” indicating that the quality exceeded expectations for a day tour at this price point.

Several travelers appreciated the long duration: “We were gone from 9:40 am until almost 5 pm,” one said. The extra hours allow ample time to enjoy the scenery, swim, and relax, though some might find it a bit tiring, especially under the sun.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $65.35 per person, this cruise offers notable value. You’re paying for the experience of seeing iconic caves, eating a well-prepared beach BBQ, and enjoying unlimited drinks—all in a relaxed group setting. The reviews suggest that many feel it’s money well spent, especially considering the inclusion of lunch and beverages.

However, a couple of reviews mention disappointments—such as being rebooked onto a different boat or feeling the beach time was a bit long. These are exceptions rather than the rule, but they do highlight the importance of being flexible and prepared for a full day in the sun.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially if you burn easily, because you’ll be in direct sunlight most of the day.
• Pack some water shoes or sandals for the beach, as the stops are on rocky or sandy beaches that might be a little rough.
• Arrive early to ensure a smooth check-in at the marina.
• Prepare for a long day, and consider bringing a light jacket or cover-up for the boat.
• Note that food and drinks are limited, so if you’re a big eater or drinker, plan accordingly.
• Be ready for possible weather changes—the tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations can occur in poor conditions, with full refunds offered.

This cruise is ideal for those who value scenic coastlines and natural caves, and who want a laid-back, social experience. It fits well for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a mix of sightseeing, beach time, and good food. If you love being on the water and enjoy a casual, friendly environment with good value for money, this tour hits many marks.

It’s less suited for travelers who prefer quick, high-energy excursions or are sensitive to long hours in the sun. Also, if you’re after luxury or a more exclusive experience, you might find this somewhat casual, but for most, it’s a delightful day out in Algarve.

This cruise offers a well-balanced day of scenic beauty, delicious beach barbecue, and nautical fun. The combination of stunning coastline views, a relaxed atmosphere, and an open bar makes it a memorable outing in Algarve. The friendly crew, quality food, and flexible itinerary are big selling points, especially considering the reasonable price.

If you’re after a casual day on the water that captures the essence of Algarve’s rugged coast, this tour is a practical choice. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy authentic experiences, want to avoid crowded beaches, and appreciate the simple pleasures of good food, scenic views, and good company.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to see the coastline, enjoy the beach, and relax.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers lunch BBQ at the beach, including grilled meats, shrimp, fish, salads, and seasonal fruit, plus an open bar with water, soft drinks, wine, sangria, and beer.

Can I get a full refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancelling within 24 hours results in no refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is family-friendly, especially with nautical activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is AlgarExperience at Marina de Vilamoura, Cais Q. It’s near public transportation, making it easy to access.

Are drinks and food available throughout the day?
Drinks are available on the boat and at the beach BBQ. However, food and drinks are limited by onboard supply, so if you have specific preferences, consider bringing extras.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How does the boat ride feel?
The boat is comfortable, and the crew is friendly. Some reviews mention a long ride with scenic views, which most find enjoyable.

Can I swim or snorkel?
Yes, the stops include swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, making it a fun experience for water lovers.

Is the experience worth the price?
Absolutely. Most reviewers agree it’s good value for the quality of sights, food, and drinks included, especially considering the length of the trip.

This Vilamoura sightseeing cruise with beach BBQ offers a memorable way to enjoy the Algarve’s coast—combining natural beauty, tasty food, and good company for a fair price. Whether you’re after iconic caves, seclusion, or just a relaxing day at sea, it’s a trip that many will find well worth their time.