We went on a private sailing tour on the Tagus River, in Lisbon. We met our skipper, Nuno, at the Docas de Santo Amaro where he welcomed us on his lovely and cosy “Alchemist”. As we did this sailing tour during the post-lockdown period, Nuno helped us disinfect our hands and shoes before boarding and he’d wear a face mask. These are the protocols by the national Clean and Safe seal.
Unforgettable moments with friends, that’s what we want now, after-lockdown
Once we were all comfortably seated, we were ready to set sail. The wind was on point so we were lucky to almost not use the engine.
Nuno has a passion for sailing in his veins and you could really sense that. He’s very passionate about sailing, about his boat and about the city of Lisbon. So if you’re interested in these topics, be ready to learn a lot! Even us, Portuguese living in Lisbon learned some interesting historical facts with Nuno. And some of us even accepted the challenge to help a bit with the sailing.
Nuno gave us the choice of a more touristic route in the River towards downtown or to go out to the sea. As we had already sailed in the Tagus River, we were super excited with the option of sailing towards the Atlantic.
We had a great time onboard. We prepared a delicious picnic to share onboard and also brought our drinks from home. Nuno also has a refrigerator available and is happy to share some of his rosé or “green” wine.
We cruised in the direction of Carcavelos beach and were lucky enough to spot some wild dolphins! These were incredible moments. Seeing these magical mammals in their natural habitat is always special.
Enjoying the sun on the water
Regarding the weather, despite having good wind, we were not so lucky with the clouds that showed up later and made the sunset not so stunning as usual. As such, we’ll go sunset sailing in Lisbon again soon, and try to capture the amazing colors in the sky.
We strongly recommend this sailing experience in Lisbon. It’s a great way to enjoy the city from a different point of view. And, in these crazy times, to be outdoors with a small group of friends, away from the crowds.
Portugal has an enormous coastline. Portugal mainland has a coast of almost 1000km. To that, we should add 670km from the Azores archipelago and 250km from Madeira. Enough space to develop a broad variety of water sports and boat tours. Today we’ll share the best of sailing in Portugal.
Beside its geographically fortunate conditions for sailing, Portugal is also blessed with amazing weather conditions for sailing. With its mild climate and characteristic ocean breeze, sailing in Portugal can be done all year round. Another factor that makes Portugal a great sailing destination are its many sophisticated marinas along the coastline, from North to South and to the islands.
The best of sailing in Portugal
However, there are a few places that stand out, for example Cascais, near Lisbon, and Lagos in the Algarve as well as Albufeira. These cities with modern marinas are amongst the best regatta locations in the world. Cascais, Lisbon and Lagos host some of sailing world’s most prestigious events and regattas. The Tall Ships Races and the Volvo Ocean Race in Lisbon are examples on Portugal mainland. In the Algarve, the TP/52 Audi Med Cup was held in Portimão. Also the Islands, for example Madeira are popular as the Clipper around the world Regatta was held in Madeira.
Sailing in Portugal is a great thing to do during your holidays, especially given its mild climate, cheerful sunshine and favourable winds. In addition, the Atlantic Ocean is a “little box full of surprises” as sometimes it is beautiful and calm for a relaxed sailing session while sometimes more temperamental, offering challenges that require more experience and energy.
Sailing in Portugal is a great thing to do during your holidays in Portugal. If you do not owe your own sailing boat, no worries, there are enough experiences that will make you have a great sailing experience and make you feel like you own the boat!
This three hour sailing in Albufeira will make your dream to feel like you own a yacht come true. While on holidays in the Algarve, feel like you’re the owner of a beautiful yacht, on board of FINISMAR. With a small group of friends or family and a trained and friendly crew, you’ll experience the joy of sailing in Portugal, departing from the Marina of Albufeira. You’ll be cruising along the coast with its spectacular rock formations, caves and white sandy beaches up to Carvoeiro light house.
FINISMAR is a modern yacht with a length of 15 m (50 ft) and width of 4.5 m (15 ft). Its engine is a Perkins Sabre (92 HP) which can reach a speed of 10 knots. The vessel has a capacity of 12 passengers and includes all modern technologies for an unforgettable and smooth experience and great comfort and stability.
This sailing experience in the Algarve is similar to the one above. The difference is that this is a full day experience. As you’ve got more time, you will anchor next to a quiet beach for a BBQ lunch.
You will also have time to visit the marine caves or go for a dive into the deep blue ocean. This sailing experience depart from the Marina of Albufeira around 10h30 and the return to the marina will be around 16h45.
This experience is great for those who are looking for a Sporty and fun way to discover the coastline of the Algarve during their vacation in Portugal. The Algarve, and in Particular Praia da Luz, is characterized by the well-known “Nortada”, an offshore wind coming from the northwest quadrant. The “Nortada” gives excellent conditions to practice sailing.
To learn and improve your sailing skills, the Beach Hut Sailing center, based on the beach of Praia da Luz, provides the latest equipment, has got a large selection of gear, from initiation level up to advanced levels of sailing.
This sailing experience will take about five hours and is designed for the complete beginner. Guided by friendly and experience sailors, you will learn the basics of sailing. You will learn about sailing in all directions in light winds and you will also get an introduction to the sailing equipment, about how to start, control the boat, steering it and enjoy!
This sailing experience is designed for beginners as it’s got a big learning component and is suitable for all ages (above 14 years old). It takes place in the surroundings of the marina of departure. Depending on the conditions of the wind and tide, you will go out head to the lighthouse of “Bugio” in direction of the Atlantic. Alternatively, you’ll make a beautiful approach into Lisbon, along the Tagus River.
In this sailing experience in Portugal, you will learn the basics of sailing and be involved in the manoeuvring of the vessel. This sailing experience in Lisbon takes approximately two hours. You’ll get the possibility to try and learn this unique sport and will supply support and gear for all levels of experience. Come and try it!
Sailing in Portugal is not only about sports and energy, it can also be done in a more relaxed and even romantic way. In Lisbon you can go on a private boat cruise for two. This is an unforgettable experience: a romantic sailing cruise on a unique over 10 meter luxurious sailing yacht.
The tour departs from Oeiras, near Lisbon and you’ll be sailing along the Estoril Coast or in direction of Belém, according to your preference. During this sailing experience, you can simply enjoy the ride and your beloved one or participate in manoeuvring the vessel. If you want, you’ll be involved in hoisting the sails, taking the wheel and sail towards the horizon for a more intense experience.
If you like sailing and are looking for a more cultural touch too, this historical sailing tour from Lisbon is for you. While sailing along the Tagus River, you’ll enjoy a special view over the city and also over the other side of the river.
The historical Lisbon sailing tour starts at Doca de Santo Amaro. This “Doca”, one of the many small harbours of the Portuguese capital, is located under the emblematic Bridge of the 25th of April.
First, you’ll head in direction of the Atlantic. In this direction, you’ll pass by Belém with its famous tower and Padrão dos Descobrimentos. You’ll also be able to see the Monastery of Jeronimos, another great monument of Belém. When you pass by the contemporary building of the Champalimaud Foundation, you’ll turn to head back in direction of the city center.
The extraordinary view over Terreiro do Paço, also known as Praça do Comércio – the main square of the Portuguese Capital, is one of the main highlights of this tour. The sailing tour will finish at the same place where it started, under the bridge.
Combining nature, adventure and historical experiences, this is sailing experiences is among the best sailing cruises in Lisbon.
On Madeira you can enjoy a sailing tour that involves dolphin observation and also allows you to enjoy the dramatic coastal views of the island.
For the children, the observation of dolphins or other marine mammals in their natural habitat is a moment that stays forever in their memory.
Given its specific conditions, in the middle of the Atlantic, almost 30 species of cetaceans (dolphins and whales) can be found around the Madeira Islands Some of the most common species are Common Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, Pilot whales and Atlantic Spotted Dolphins. Sometimes even Killer whales and Sperm whales are found.
This sailing tour from Madeira takes place on a beautiful traditional wooden sailing boat. Beside the highlight of the dolphins, the trip is also very worth it for the sailing experience itself and for the beautiful sights over the ocean and to the shore of the island.
You may have the chance to have a swim at the base of Cabo Girão. Cabo do Girão is the 2nd highest sea cliff in Europe with 580m! This depends on the weather and ocean conditions. This experience is one of the best ways to enjoy Madeira to the fullest!
Sailing Lisboa Portugal
Does this combination of a sailing experience and a stunning holiday destination sound good to you? Please don’t hesitate to contact us for more details or feel free to book your sailing in Portugal now!
Living in Lisbon, we’re blessed with a mild climate all year round. Sailing can be done all year round and we go sailing in Lisbon, on the Tagus River, quite often. We had never gone sailing in Cascais yet so we were happy when we were invited to join go sailing from Cascais to Lisbon.
Going to the beach in March or October actually happens quite often as we love the beach and there are many nice beaches around Lisbon. And yes, to truly catch some sun and not only for a nice beach walk. It was the mid October when we were invited to go sailing in Cascais. The weather was still very summery, around 30ºC.
Cascais is a picturesque fishermen town about 30km away from Lisbon. You can easily go there by car or train. The train is really nice as the trainline goes along the Tagus River which slowly flows into the Atlantic. The train station in Cascais is really in the city center. It’s about 15 minutes walk from the Marina of Cascais.
We decided to go by train as we’d be sailing in Cascais and finish the tour in Lisbon. The whole family was invited, so we took our 3 year old who loves boats. The stunning sailboat was already waiting for us in the Marina. We were very warmly welcomed by João and Susana. It was a very warm and sunny day but unfortunately there was not much wind so we needed to use the engine too.
Sailing in Cascais is a very nice thing to do with the family. The views over Cascais town and its surounding beaches are unique from the point of view of the sea. It was a great experience to enjoy the coastline from Cascais to Lisbon from this perspective. Of course there was also time for a refreshing swim.
João and Susana had prepared some delicious snacks and drinks. The boat is a very charming sail boat with a toilet for extra comfort. The first part of the trip we were sitting in the back while enjoying some drinks. The youngster was even allowed to steer the boat for a bit. A true highlight for her! Then, we went to the front were we could lay down on a comfy pillow and enjoy the views while laying down and cuddling. The trip took about two and a half hours but this really depends on the wind and tides.
We highly recommend this experience sailing in Cascais. This trip is only done on request, so feel free to contact us to know more. Prices start at 450€ for the whole boat and you can take up to 8 pax. You can go sailing in Cascais to Lisbon or the other way around, of course!
Our client and friend, Inês, offered us to share her experience about sailing in Lisbon. It’s a great way to get to know the city and enjoy the Tagus River by sunset. Check it out:
Sunset, Sailing, Friends and Fun
Join a group of friends and come sailing in Lisbon!
The Dock of Belém, Lisbon, on a late afternoon of a beautiful summer Saturday, friends and a sailboat just for us, with skippers, beer, champagne and fresh cherries waiting for us. We’re gonna go sailing in Lisbon!
Yes, I know it sounds like a scene from a movie or who is a multimillionaire, but is not the case, I assure you!
It was just what I did last weekend and (yet) with a smile, here I share this fantastic experience that SeaBookings has given us and that is accessible to all (to have an idea, rather than going out to dinner I went sailing in Lisbon).
Champagneand friends while sailing in Lisbon
Once we embarked on Blangai, Gonçalo and Filipe, our skippers, kindly explained in detail how our tour would be (we could even decide what route would be!). The also explained all the specifics of the vessel and some sailing techniques and all the security measures. “Above all, we want you to have fun!”, they told us and so we did.
We set sail in the direction of Santa Apolonia, while Gonçalo enthusiastically explained some technical sailing stuff.
Unique views over the city!
We crossed the bridge of the 25th of April and dazzled with that architectural colossus. On the right side we contemplate the margin of Almada, Cristo Rei, the beauty of Gingal Pier. On the left the hills of Lisbon show up and we realize the urban history of the city with this point of view.
We passed Cais do Sodre and the renewed Ribeira da Naus and remember the courage Portuguese sailors had over 500 years ago when they conquered the oceans from that place! Sailing in Lisbon, without engine, without fuel, just with the mastery of natural resources: the tides, the wind and the stars.
The majestic Terreiro do Paço, Sé and Castelo
We arrived at Terreiro do Paço and looked at this square from a magnificent viewpoint. This image represents the city of the Tagus, which so many times seen in the history books, now there live and in color!
I see the São Jorge Castle, the Cathedral, the typical neighborhoods of old Lisbon, the Pantheon. Even with the views and thoughts back in history, I quickly return to the twenty-first century, with my friends who give me a glass of champagne to do a toast (some with beer, others with champagne!). We do three “cheers”: to life, to friendship and to this spectacular evening!
Tall Ships Races in Lisbon ’16
The day was particularly special for sailing in Lisbon, as in Santa Apolónia the largest free nautical festival in Europe took place: the Tall Ships Races, the traditions of the great sailing ships. And we visited this event from the best point of view: there were 50 tall ships from around the world and crew members of various nationalities, right there next to us!
We then turned around. The skippers warned us as the boat turned while we playfully let ourselves slip, laughing and splashing water with our legs. Our concern was not to spill the drinks!
The skippers: Gonçalo and Filipe
We started to sail down the river while the sun began to set, a true “Kodak” moment (I confess that I lost count of the number of photos we took I am not “photo-addicted” but it was impossible to not capture the moments and unique landscapes we enjoyed during that ride).
In zen-mode, I closed my eyes and felt the warm breeze, the boat and the freshness of the river. It gave me the feeling of complete relaxation. I do not know how much time had passed, but it had the effect of 25 massages, 5 yoga classes 5 and at least 3 meditation sessions.
Torre de Belém by sunset
After this “time for myself,” I went back to friends and the toasts! We passed the Monument to the Discoveries and arrived at the Belém Tower. This tower is UNESCO World -Heritage and voted one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal. It was a privilege to watch this monument from the river and we realized its defense function of the Tagus estuary.
The tour was already over and it was time to return to the dock. The tide and the wind changed and even the engine could not move us. No, no one came into stress because we knew we were in total safety. Gonçalo and Filipe quickly opened the front of the sail. In the end, for us it was even better because we experienced to “sail the bowline” (follow in the opposite direction of the wind).
Moments of friendship while sailing in Lisbon
We enjoyed the final part of the ride to the fullest, in between champagne and fresh cherries the crew kindly offered us. I’m sure that you now think: “I want that too”.
The best of it all is that this experience was not only for me, you can do it too! Join a group of friends and contact SeaBookings! I will definitely repeat! It’s even much more accessible than we think and is at a distance of a click through SeaBookings! Let’s go? 🙂
Inês
Kodak moments!
Many thanks to Inês for translating this unforgettable experience of sailing in Lisbon into words. As Inês said, we’re happy to organize the same for you. Just grab a group of friends and tell us when and where and we’ll arrange a unique and unforgettable experience just for you, according to your budget! Happy sailing!
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