Lagos & Ponta da Piedade: Coastal Boat Cruise with Lunch

Summary

Algarve’s wild cliffs, quiet coves and a salty breeze on board

You’ll float along Lagos’ coast past Ponta da Piedade’s cliffs, swim in sheltered blue bays, and share a Portuguese lunch (with drinks) on board. Friendly guides keep things easygoing—expect laughter, local flavors like chouriço and cheese, and time to soak up sun or silence. It’s less about sightseeing checklists and more about feeling part of this wild bit of Algarve for an afternoon.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever seen water this clear?” That’s what Marta, our guide, asked as we drifted past those honey-colored cliffs near Ponta da Piedade. I just shook my head — honestly, I was too busy watching the light flicker off the rocks and listening to the gulls. The boat wasn’t crowded at all (thank god), so we could actually hear each other talk without shouting. There was this faint smell of chouriço in the air already — someone in the back was getting hungry early.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much with strangers, but maybe that’s just what happens when you’re bobbing in a bay off Lagos with a cold beer in your hand. The crew kept pointing out these tiny beaches tucked between the cliffs — some of them barely big enough for two towels. We stopped for a swim and I swear the water was colder than it looked, but after a minute you stop caring. Sun on your face, salt on your lips, and then lunch appeared out of nowhere: roast chicken, cheese, more chouriço. I tried saying “obrigado” properly; Marta grinned but didn’t correct me.

It all felt slow in the best way. No rush to get anywhere — just drifting along that wild Algarve coastline while people swapped stories or stretched out under the sunshade. I still think about how quiet it got for a moment after lunch, everyone full and half-sleepy as we floated by those famous beaches of Lagos. Not sure if it was the food or just being out there together that made it feel different from other tours I’ve done.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half day cruise with lunch and swim

• Check in at Lagos Train Station office
• Board boat at Marina de Lagos
• Enjoy sights of Marina de Lagos
• View famous Lagos beach
• See one of the most beautiful beaches
• Spot Ponta da Piedade coastline
• Anchor near Ponta da Piedade
• Swim in sheltered bay
• Have lunch on board
• Return to Marina de Lagos

Top questions

How long is the Lagos & Ponta da Piedade boat cruise?

The cruise lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes from departure to return.

Is lunch included on this boat tour?

Yes, lunch is served onboard and includes roast chicken plus Portuguese cheese and chouriço.

Are drinks provided during the cruise?

Beer, wine, soft drinks, and bottled water are included during lunchtime.

Can you swim during the tour?

Yes, there’s time to swim in a sheltered bay near Ponta da Piedade if weather allows.

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour starts and ends at Marina de Lagos after check-in at their office inside Lagos Train Station.

Is this cruise suitable for families with small children?

Yes—infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers onboard.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?

Vegetarian options are available if you advise at booking time.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there’s a restroom available on the boat for guests’ use.

What’s included

Your day includes check-in at Lagos Train Station with easy boarding at Marina de Lagos; live commentary from local guides; beer, wine, soft drinks and bottled water during lunch; traditional Portuguese lunch featuring roast chicken with cheese and chouriço; plus plenty of time to swim or relax as you cruise past Ponta da Piedade’s dramatic coastline before returning to port.