Benagil Caves & Algarve Coast: Eco Catamaran Tour from Portimão

Summary

Algarve caves by solar boat, hidden forts, soft light on Benagil

You’ll board an eco-friendly catamaran in Portimão and sail along the Algarve coast past historic forts and nesting birds before entering Benagil Cave itself. With a local guide sharing stories and time for swimming if weather allows, expect soft cushions, peaceful water, and moments that linger long after you dock.

What’s the experience like?

Someone hands me a cold drink before I even find my spot on the catamaran—one of those little gestures that makes you relax right away. The cushions are softer than I expected (I always expect plastic benches), and there’s this gentle hum from the solar panels overhead. Our guide, Marta, waves us over to the side just as we slip past the old Fort of São João do Arade. She tells us about pirates and watchtowers—her eyes light up when she talks about how locals used to ring bells for danger. It’s funny how you can almost picture it when you see the crumbling stone against all that blue water.

The Algarve coast looks different from the water—more gold than yellow, with shadows under every arch and cliff. We drift by Carvoeiro and then slow near a tiny islet covered in white specks. Turns out they’re egrets nesting; Marta points out their calls, sharp and quick over the low engine noise (or lack of it). There’s a salty tang in the air, but not much else except sunscreen and maybe pine trees somewhere far off. I try to pronounce “Algar de Benagil” right—Li laughs at my accent—and then we’re gliding into that famous cave. Light pours through the top like someone left a door open in the sky. Everyone goes quiet for a second; I still think about that view sometimes when I close my eyes.

If it’s warm enough, they let you jump in for a swim—not on sunset trips though (someone asked). The water is colder than I thought but clear as glass, so yeah, bring your towel if you’re brave. There’s a bar on board but no loud music or party vibe—just people pointing at caves or swapping stories about where they’re from. On the way back toward Portimão Marina, Marta tells us about Torre da Lapa and how neighbors used to take turns watching for corsairs. Makes you wonder what kind of stories these cliffs would tell if they could talk.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Eco-friendly catamaran tour to Benagil

• Depart from Portimão Marina
• Pass by Fort of São João do Arade
• View Ponta do Altar Lighthouse
• Observe heron nesting islet
• Pass Torre da Lapa watchtower
• Explore deep coastal caves
• Enter and photograph Benagil Cave
• Optional swim if weather permits
• Return to Portimão Marina

Top questions

How long does the Benagil Caves & Coast tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from Portimão Marina.

Is swimming included on this eco-friendly catamaran tour?

Swimming is possible on warm days with calm seas but not on sunset trips.

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour departs from Pier M on the north side of Portimão Marina.

Are there restroom facilities onboard?

Yes, there is a restroom available on the catamaran.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Are pets allowed on board?

No, dogs or other pets are not allowed on this tour.

Can people with reduced mobility join this tour?

No, access to the boats is not suitable for people with reduced mobility or wheelchairs.

What should I bring for this day trip to Benagil Caves?

You should bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to swim; check-in 15 minutes before departure.

What’s included

Your day includes all fees and taxes covered up front; comfortable seating with access to an onboard bar and restroom; guidance from a local expert who shares stories along the route; plus time for swimming if conditions allow before returning to Portimão Marina.