Portugal · CATAMARAN TRIPS
Good catamaran trips fill up weeks ahead; the great ones go first. Below: the 15 to book early, what each includes and how they actually differ.
3-hour eco catamaran cruise from Funchal with hybrid-electric silent cruising for dolphin and whale watching in Madeira.
“Offering a complimentary water would be appreciated. Overall it was fun, appreciative of the guide helpfulness and they helped retrieve a lost backpack. I’d definitely recommend Magic Dolphin Boat tours, and will use them next time I come here.”
3-hour catamaran cruise from Funchal to Cabo Girão to spot dolphins, whales, and turtles, with panoramic views and a swim stop.
“It was a beautiful activity, we were fortunate enough to see dolphins! My only advisory for people is the chance of getting sea sick. It’s a long ride, so by the last hour i got sea sick. But one of the staff, Philip, was so kind and attentive with ensuring I was feeling okay.”
Catamaran cruise from Albufeira to Benagil Sea Cave with guided coastal sights, a possible swim stop, and sea cave views in 2.5 hours.
“The boat felt safe and it was very comfortable and clean.”
90-minute Lisbon Tagus sunset catamaran with music, blankets, and a welcome cocktail, sailing past Cristo Rei, Belém, and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
“A 1.5h relaxing journey around the bridge, at sunset. It was very relaxing, we liked that they had 2 catamarans prepared so they didn't overcrowd us. They've got a good bar inside where you can go get your welcome drink and order more. The music was a playlist, had a nice mix of 80s, 90s, and 2000s music. Don't forget to bring a jacket, after sunset, it got really chilly.”
Luxury catamaran cruise from Funchal Bay in Madeira with snorkeling at Cabo Girão and chances to see dolphins and whales.
“Very nice boat. On the smaller side which is why I booked it. Friendly, helpful staff. We saw some dolphins which was nice. Each boat can only stay 10 minutes when there’s a sighting so it seems a lot of boats go to the same spot. There’s a bathroom on the boat that I did not use and drinks available to purchase. I thought the trip was worth the money.”
Kayak Lagos sea caves from a catamaran at Ponta da Piedade, with a slide into and out of the ocean, plus a short swim break.
“the guides were fun and informative, we very much enjoyed the good vibes on the water and the well organized trip. did not expect we could swim in the sea in november and were pleasantly surprised! big recommend!!”
Eco catamaran cruise from Funchal to spot dolphins and whales, guided by land spotters and hybrid-electric sailing, plus Madeira coastline views.
“Best way to see dolphins and whales in Madeira in their natural environment, excellent boat tour respecting the wildlife and providing lots of information and getting as close as possible safely”
Luxury catamaran dolphin and whale watching from Funchal to Cabo Girão, with comfort, expert ocean talks, and possible swims.
“The most amazing experience! We were very lucky to see many bottlenose dolphins. And we were very near to killer whales and the crew done their best for us to get a sighting, I managed to see a glimpse of their fins from afar! Thank you!”
Catamaran cruise from Lagos along Ponta da Piedade and Camilo, with a swim stop near Praia da Luz. WiFi onboard, drinks available.
“This was so much fun. Th crew was so nice and professional. Amazing tour for the price we paid. It’s so much more worth. Would recommend this to everyone.”
Lagos catamaran cruise for dolphin watching in the Algarve, plus a swim stop with a water slide, snack, and marine biologist commentary.
“This trip was enjoyable, firstly looking for dolphins which we luckily saw, they swam around the boat for about 20 minutes, and we had plenty of time to observe and take pictures. Afterwards were given the opportunity to dive off the boat and use the inflatable slide which my husband and son thoroughly enjoyed in a quiet bay. Guides were friendly with everyone and accommodating to everyone's needs. We were all given cookies and delicious fresh fruit skewers as a snack which were very welcome. Overall an enjoyable experience.”
A 3-hour Albufeira catamaran cruise to Benagil with nonstop sea views, a supervised swim stop, and a champagne toast on return.
“Fantastic trip. The guys on the catamaran were very friendly and polite. Great knowledge on the local area. Would recommend.”
3-hour catamaran sunset cruise from Funchal, with guaranteed dolphins or whales follow-up plus a swim stop near Cabo Girao.
“Great trip, saw whales from far away and offered another trip the following day to see more but unable to squeeze it in. The sunset was beautiful and the boat trip was calm and relaxing. Would recommend”
Half-day catamaran from Faro through the Ria Formosa Natural Park, with 3 islands, swimming, oyster farming, and optional island lunch.
“Informative of Ria Formosa & most importantly it was enjoyable pleasant experience. Joao the Guide from Estrela da Ria Formosa boat tour was exceptional. The boat trip was good which I'm sure all tours could provide but it's a huge bonus to have an exceptional guide. Highly recommended to have Joao & go for all the islands provided.”
Catamaran hopping in Faro’s Ria Formosa Natural Park, with time on Farol Island and Deserta Island for swimming, birds, and views.
“Great guide, very kind and knowledgeable. Just the right ratio if boating and free time. The waters are nice, great photo stops, then great places to explore on your own time.”
Kayak Ponta da Piedade caves from Lagos by catamaran, paddle grottos and cliffs, swim, then cruise back. About 2h15, from $48.
“So fantastic. Knowledgeable and interesting guide. The environment is gorgeous and the tour was well organized and professional”
Every kind of day out, and the best of each.
