Benagil Caves: Algarve Boat Tour with Swim & Guide

Summary

Algarve coastlines, sea caves, laughter echoing inside Benagil

You’ll ride along Algarve’s coast by boat with a local guide sharing stories as you pass Ferragudo village and dramatic cliffs. Drift inside Benagil Cave where sunlight spills through stone above you, then swim at Praia da Marinha before heading back salty and happy. That feeling lingers long after.

What’s the experience like?

We were still laughing about my attempt at Portuguese (“obrigado” came out more like “abrigo”—the skipper grinned anyway) when the boat pulled away from Portimão Marina. The sun was already sharp on the water, and you could smell salt and sunscreen mixing in the air. Our guide, João, pointed out Ferragudo’s white houses stacked up the hill—he said his grandmother used to fish there. I liked that detail for some reason. We slowed near the fort and João let us just drift for a minute. It was quieter than I expected; only gulls and the slap of waves against the hull.

After that, we hugged the cliffs, João rattling off beach names (I forgot half of them instantly—sorry, João) and spotting cormorants sunning themselves on rocks. He handed out stories with each stop—something about pirates here, a local legend there—and sometimes just let us take photos without saying anything at all. When we reached the Benagil Cave itself, it felt cooler inside, almost echoey. The light pouring through that round ceiling hole made everything golden for a second. Someone else on board whispered “wow” but honestly I was just trying to take it all in before we floated back out.

I didn’t expect to actually swim at Praia da Marinha but somehow everyone did—even me, after some hesitation (the water’s brisk). Sand stuck to my arms as I got back in the boat and I remember thinking how blue everything looked from that angle—like you’re seeing it for the first time. On the way back to Portimão Marina nobody talked much; maybe tired or just full of sun and salt air. I still think about that cave light sometimes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour to Benagil Caves and beach

• Start journey near Ferragudo village
• Stop to admire Ferragudo fort
• Guide explains beach names and birds
• Guide commentary and photo stop 1
• Guide commentary and photo stop 2
• Guide commentary and photo stop 3
• Guide commentary and photo stop 4
• Visit and photograph Benagil Cave
• Swim stop at Praia da Marinha beach
• Return to Portimão Marina

Top questions

How long is the Benagil Caves boat tour?

The tour lasts about 2 hours from Portimão Marina.

Is swimming included during this Algarve boat tour?

Yes, there’s a stop for swimming at Praia da Marinha beach.

Are guides included on the Benagil Caves tour?

Yes, a local guide/skipper is included throughout the trip.

Where does the Benagil Caves boat tour depart from?

The tour departs from Portimão Marina in the Algarve.

Is this day trip suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels except pregnant people or those with back problems.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Service animals are allowed on board; other animals are not permitted.

What should I bring for this Benagil Caves day trip?

You may want swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera for photos.

How early should I arrive before departure?

Please check in 30 minutes before your scheduled departure at the kiosk.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided boat trip along Algarve’s coastline with photo stops at beaches and caves—including entry into Benagil Cave—a chance to swim at Praia da Marinha, plus commentary from your local guide before returning to Portimão Marina.