Algarve Benagil Caves Catamaran Tour & Marinha Swim

Summary

Algarve coast by catamaran caves beaches villages & swim

You’ll cruise along Portugal’s Algarve coast by catamaran with a local guide, drift past Ferragudo village and Carvoeiro beach, marvel at Benagil Cave’s shifting light, and swim in front of Praia da Marinha if you’re feeling brave. The vibe is relaxed—just sea breeze, laughter, and unexpected quiet moments you might remember later.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the boat—literally. The taxi dropped me at the wrong pier and I had to jog (well, shuffle) down the boardwalk, clutching my hat like some confused tourist cliché. The crew didn’t seem to mind; Ana just grinned and waved me aboard, her sun-bleached hair everywhere in the wind. There was a mix of families and couples, plus one older guy who kept humming fado under his breath. We set off along the Algarve coast with that salty smell you only get near Portugal’s cliffs.

Our guide pointed out Ferragudo—a village that looked almost too perfect, like someone painted it for a postcard. The houses were whitewashed but not blinding in the late morning light. I tried to ask about the fishing boats bobbing near shore, but my Portuguese is… well, let’s say Ana laughed kindly and switched to English without missing a beat. The catamaran glided past Carvoeiro beach and then those wild rock formations started popping up—like giant honeycomb towers or something from another planet.

When we reached Benagil Cave, everyone got quiet for a second. The light coming through that hole in the roof hit the sand just right—it felt weirdly peaceful after all the chatter on deck. I snapped a photo but honestly, it didn’t really capture how echoey it sounded inside or how cool the air felt compared to outside. Later we stopped for swimming off Praia da Marinha (which I’d only ever seen in travel magazines). The water was colder than I expected—like waking up fast—but so clear you could see your toes wiggle around. Some folks stayed on board chatting with Ana about local legends; I just floated for a bit and tried to soak up as much of that blue as possible.

I still think about that moment under Benagil’s ceiling—the hush before everyone started taking selfies again. Not sure if it was the cave or just being out there with strangers who all seemed pretty happy to be exactly where they were.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour along Algarve coast

• View Benagil Caves
• See Carvoeiro beach and village
• Observe extraordinary rock formations
• Stop for swimming at Marinha Beach
• Pass traditional village of Ferragudo
• Pass Carvalho Beach
• Pass Alfanzina lighthouse and cave

Top questions

Is this Benagil Caves tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the catamaran tour is fully wheelchair accessible including restrooms and boarding areas.

Does this Algarve boat tour include swimming stops?

Yes, there’s a stop for swimming in front of Praia da Marinha during the tour.

Are guides available on board for this catamaran trip?

Yes, there is a guide on board throughout the trip who shares local insights and stories.

What villages or beaches do we see on this Benagil caves day trip?

You’ll see Ferragudo village, Carvoeiro beach and village, Carvalho Beach, and Marinha Beach from the boat.

How long does it take to reach Benagil Cave from departure?

The itinerary varies but you’ll reach Benagil Cave as part of several scenic stops along the Algarve coast.

Is lunch included on this Benagil caves catamaran tour?

No lunch is included; however there are restrooms onboard for comfort during the trip.

Can infants join this Algarve caves boat tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes guided commentary from a local expert as you cruise by famous Algarve beaches and villages like Ferragudo and Carvoeiro on a spacious catamaran with restroom access; there’s also time for swimming at Praia da Marinha before heading back—all fully wheelchair accessible so everyone can join in comfortably.