Faro: Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour with Deserta & Farol Islands

Summary

Catamaran trip from Faro to Deserta and Farol islands with time for swimming and walking by the lighthouse

You’ll ride a catamaran from Faro into Ria Formosa, stopping first at quiet Deserta Island for swimming or snorkeling (gear included), then wander Farol Island by its lighthouse where lagoon meets ocean. Local skippers share stories as you spot wildlife or fishermen along shifting tides—there’s time to pause, breathe salty air, and feel small in all the best ways.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly missed the boat because I stopped for a pastel de nata — priorities, right? Anyway, we set off from Faro just as the sun started to get serious. The catamaran felt steady under my feet, not fancy but comfortable enough that I could lean back and watch the water break around us. Our skipper, João, pointed out some fishermen working the low tide flats — he waved at them like they were old friends. Maybe they were. There was this salty smell in the air mixed with something sweet from the marshes. It’s hard to describe unless you’ve been there.

The first stop was Deserta Island. I’d never seen sand so white — almost blinding in the late morning light. João handed out snorkeling masks (I’m not exactly a pro at that) but I gave it a shot anyway. The water was colder than I expected but clear, and I caught flashes of tiny fish darting around my toes. There weren’t many people around; just a couple walking their dog way down the beach and some birds poking at shells. It felt quiet in a way that stuck with me.

After drying off (sort of — sand everywhere), we headed to Farol Island. The lighthouse stands like it’s keeping an eye on everything, and João told us this is where the waters of Ria Formosa meet the open ocean at Cabo de Santa Maria. You can actually see where they mix — there’s a line in the water if you look close enough. We wandered through sandy paths lined with little houses painted in faded colors. Someone grilled fish nearby and it made me wish I’d brought lunch, honestly.

On the way back to Faro, everything looked different — tides had shifted and some sandbanks had vanished completely. João laughed when I asked if he ever gets bored of this route; he just shook his head and said every day is new out here. That stuck with me more than I thought it would.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ria Formosa Natural Park boat tour

• Cross Ria Formosa channels by catamaran
• Stop 1: Swim or snorkel at Deserta Island
• Stop 2: Walk near lighthouse on Farol Island
• See Cabo de Santa Maria water union
• Return to Faro with new park views

Top questions

How long does the catamaran tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but typically these tours last several hours including both island stops.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, free masks for snorkeling are included during your stop at Deserta Island.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you depart directly from Faro marina.

How many people are on each tour?

The maximum group size per booking is 12 people.

Are there any physical requirements?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for those with mobility difficulties.

What happens if sea conditions are bad?

The itinerary may change depending on sea conditions for safety reasons.

Can infants join the tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller onboard.

What’s included

Your day includes life jackets for everyone onboard, free snorkeling masks to use on Deserta Island, and a professional local skipper guiding you between Faro, Deserta Island, and Farol Island before returning along ever-changing tidal channels.