Algarve Benagil Cave Cruise & Beach BBQ from Portimão

Summary

Benagil cave cruise with beach BBQ and secret Algarve coves

You’ll feel the salt air as you cruise past Ferragudo’s castle toward Benagil Cave, then step inside its glowing grottoes by small boat before sharing a barbecue lunch on a quiet Algarve beach. Swim or just relax while locals grill fresh food — it’s all included with your day trip from Portimão.

What’s the experience like?

“Did you see that?” someone said as we drifted past Ferragudo — the castle just sat there above the sand, looking like it’s been watching fishermen forever. The sea air smelled kind of salty-sweet, mixed with sunscreen and grilled meat from somewhere I couldn’t see yet. Our guide, João, pointed out little caves in the cliffs as we cruised east from Portimão. I kept thinking I’d seen all the colors the Algarve could throw at me, but nope — every bend was different. There was this moment when the engine cut and it got quiet except for gulls and a bit of laughter from the front deck.

I honestly didn’t expect to get inside those grottoes at Benagil. They loaded us into these small boats — I was nervous, but João just winked and told me to “hold tight.” Inside, sunlight spilled through the hole in the cave roof, lighting up water that looked unreal. It felt cool and damp on my skin; my friend touched one of the rocks and said it was smoother than she thought it’d be. We snapped photos but mostly just stared. I tried to say “Benagil” like João did — he laughed (I’m pretty sure I butchered it).

Lunch happened right on a private stretch of sand. The crew set up this barbecue — bread still warm, Algarve salad with tomatoes that tasted like actual sun, grilled meats sizzling while someone poured wine into plastic cups. There was fruit too (melon? maybe), and orangeade if you wanted something sweet. Some people went swimming; I just lay back listening to waves and distant voices in Portuguese. On the way back we passed these tiny cove beaches near Carvoeiro — some so empty they almost felt secret. That last bit of sun on my face is still stuck in my head.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Coastal cruise and beach BBQ

• Depart from Portimão
• Pass fishing village of Ferragudo
• Pass historic castle overlooking beach
• Cruise east towards Benagil
• Visit Benagil grottoes by small boats
• Anchor and transfer to beach
• Relax and enjoy beach activities
• Enjoy barbecue lunch on beach
• Cruise back passing secluded coves near Carvoeiro

Top questions

Is lunch included on the Benagil cave cruise?

Yes, a barbecue lunch with bread, Algarve salad, grilled meats, seasonal fruit, wine, water, and orangeade is included.

Does this day trip to Benagil Cave include WiFi?

Yes, WiFi is available onboard during your cruise.

Are there restroom facilities on board?

Yes, there are restrooms available on board the catamaran.

Can infants join this catamaran cruise?

Yes, infants can join and may ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult’s lap.

Is there a bar for drinks during the tour?

Yes, there’s an onboard bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase by card.

Do we go inside Benagil Cave during this tour?

Yes, small boats take guests inside various grottoes at Benagil Cave as part of the experience.

Does this tour include stops at secluded beaches?

The tour includes anchoring at a private beach for lunch and passes secluded cove beaches near Carvoeiro on return.

Is public transportation nearby for getting to Portimão?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the departure point in Portimão.

What’s included

Your day includes cruising from Portimão with stops at Ferragudo village and Benagil Cave grottoes by small boat; anchoring at a private beach for a barbecue lunch with bread, Algarve salad, grilled meats, seasonal fruit plus wine or soft drinks; WiFi onboard; access to restrooms; an onboard bar for extra drinks; plus guidance from local crew throughout your journey.