Algarve: Private Benagil Cave Boat Tour & Swimming Option

Summary

Benagil cave by boat private tour with swim stops and local stories

You’ll ride along the Algarve coast by private boat with a local skipper, exploring Benagil cave up close and stopping at beaches like Carvoeiro and Marinha. Swim if you want or just feel the sea air on your face — there’s room for laughter and quiet moments both. This is one of those days you’ll remember for the way it actually felt.

What’s the experience like?

We were already bouncing over the water when I realized how salty the breeze actually tastes — not just a cliché, it really gets on your lips. Our skipper, João, had this way of steering with one hand while pointing out little things with the other. He slowed down near Praia do Carvoeiro, which he called “the prettiest beach in Europe” (and honestly, I could see why). The cliffs looked almost painted, all orange and white against that weirdly blue sky. There was a group of kids waving from the sand — they shouted something in Portuguese and João just grinned.

I didn’t expect to get so close to the Benagil cave itself. You know those pictures you see online? It’s different when you’re inside, echo bouncing off the stone and sunlight pouring through that hole above. The sand felt cool under my feet even though it was warm out — maybe because we’d just splashed through some spray getting off the boat. João told us how old these caves are (millions of years, apparently) but mostly he joked about tourists trying to pronounce “Algar de Benagil.” I gave it a go; everyone laughed, including me.

We stopped at a few more places — Marinha Beach with its arches (I still think about that view), Vale de Covo where the water goes this deep green color for no reason I can explain. On warmer days you can jump in for a swim; today I just dipped my toes but one guy dove right in, shouting at how cold it was. There’s something about being out here with just your own group, away from crowds. The engine hums quietly when you’re drifting near a cave mouth and everything smells like salt and sunscreen.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private boat tour of Algarve caves

• Board private boat in Portimao
• Explore interior of Benagil cave
• Take photos and videos on sand area
• Visit Praia do Carvoeiro beach
• See Vale de Covo and Carvalho
• View Corredoura and Praia da Marinha
• Enjoy scenic coastline and rock formations

Top questions

Can you enter Benagil cave by boat on this tour?

Yes, if sea conditions allow, your private boat will take you inside Benagil cave.

Is swimming possible during the private caves tour?

Yes, swimming is offered on warmer days as part of the experience.

Are life jackets provided on this Algarve boat tour?

Yes, new generation automatic life jackets are included for everyone onboard.

What beaches do we visit on the Algarve caves tour?

You’ll see Praia do Carvoeiro, Vale de Covo, Carvalho, Benagil (Algar de Benagil), Corredoura, and Praia da Marinha.

Is this private caves tour suitable for kids or infants?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during the trip.

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

The exact time depends on sea conditions but visiting multiple caves is included in your private day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes a private boat tour along Algarve’s coast with a skilled local skipper guiding you into caves like Benagil; there’s time to swim if weather allows and everyone gets automatic life jackets for comfort and safety throughout.