Lagos Catamaran Cruise: Praia dos Rebolos, Paddleboards & Lunch

Summary

Algarve coast by catamaran sea caves swim stops local lunch

You’ll ride a catamaran from Lagos along dramatic cliffs and beaches, pausing at sea caves like Ponta da Piedade before anchoring near Burgau for swimming or paddleboarding. Enjoy a relaxed lunch with drinks onboard as you listen to live commentary from your local guide. Expect salty air, warm sun, and those little moments that make travel feel real.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the cliffs around Lagos to look so gold in the morning light—almost unreal, like someone turned up the color just for us. We set off from the marina with a handful of other travelers (and honestly, I was relieved it wasn’t packed). Our guide, Rui, started pointing out names I’d never heard before—Ponta da Piedade, Praia Dona Ana—and I tried repeating them under my breath. The sea was calm but you could still smell that salty Atlantic air, sharp and fresh. When we passed the arches and caves near Ponta da Piedade, everyone went quiet for a second. It just felt bigger than I’d pictured.

We drifted past Praia da Luz and its black rocks—I thought volcanic rocks would feel rougher but they’re smooth if you run your hand along them. The boat anchored near Burgau where the water was clear enough to see your toes even after you jumped in (cold at first but then perfect). There was an inflatable balance track floating nearby; some kids went straight for it while a few of us tried paddleboarding. I wobbled so much I ended up sitting down most of the time—Rui laughed and said “everyone does that their first try.”

Lunch came out as we dried off—chicken pasta salad with a cold drink (they had veggie options too if you ask ahead). Sitting there in wet shorts with sun on my face and sand stuck between my toes from earlier, it just felt easy. On the way back to Lagos I kept hoping we’d spot dolphins (no luck this time) but honestly, just watching sunlight flicker on the water was enough. There’s something about being out there that sticks with you longer than you think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran cruise along Algarve coast

• Depart from Lagos harbor
• Admire Ponta da Piedade sea caves
• Pass Praia Dona Ana and Camilo Beach
• See Praia da Luz black volcanic rocks
• Anchor near Burgau bay
• Swim or paddleboard in calm sea
• Enjoy inflatable balance track
• Relax with lunch and drink on deck
• Return to Lagos watching for dolphins

Top questions

How long is the Lagos catamaran cruise?

The half-day cruise lasts approximately 3-4 hours round-trip from Lagos marina.

Is lunch included on the Lagos catamaran cruise?

Yes, a light lunch is included—typically chicken pasta salad or vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free options if pre-ordered.

Are paddleboards provided during the cruise?

Yes, use of stand-up paddleboards is included at no extra cost during swim stops.

Can children join this Lagos boat tour?

Yes, infants and small children are welcome; strollers are allowed and kids can use the inflatable waterpark.

What happens if weather is bad for this cruise?

If weather conditions are poor, you can choose another date or get a full refund.

Are drinks included on board?

A complimentary drink is served with lunch; bringing outside drinks except bottled water isn’t allowed.

Where does the cruise depart from?

The tour departs from Lagos marina in southwestern Algarve.

Is there live commentary during the trip?

Yes, your multilingual guide provides live commentary about landmarks along the route.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip cruising from Lagos to Praia dos Rebolos with stops at famous beaches and sea caves, use of paddleboards and an inflatable waterpark at anchor, live onboard commentary from your guide throughout the journey, plus a complimentary drink served with a light lunch (chicken pasta salad or pre-ordered vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free options). All equipment is provided—you just bring yourself (and maybe dry clothes).