Sesimbra: Clear Boat Tour with Swimming & Marine Views

Summary

See Sesimbra’s coast through a transparent boat floor as you float, swim, and watch the sea life glide by

You’ll step onto Portugal’s first clear boat in Sesimbra and watch marine life glide beneath your feet as you cruise past Praia do Ouro toward Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo. Swim in cold Atlantic waters, share stories with your small group and local guide, and let the wild coastline work its quiet magic on you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Clear Boat tour from Sesimbra

• Depart from Sesimbra Harbour
• Sail along Sesimbra coastline
• Stop for a dive near Praia Ribeiro do Cavalo

Top questions

Is there a minimum number of participants for the clear boat tour?

Yes, departures require at least 4 participants. If not reached, you'll be contacted to reschedule or get a full refund.

Where does the clear boat experience depart from?

The tour departs from Sesimbra's Harbour.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult's lap during the tour.

Can pregnant travelers join this experience?

No, it's not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to Sesimbra Harbour.

What should I bring for swimming?

You should bring your own swimwear and towel; bottled water and life vests are provided.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it's suitable for all physical fitness levels except those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water to keep you refreshed after swimming stops near Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo, plus life vests provided by your local guide throughout the clear boat experience departing from Sesimbra Harbour.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel slightly nervous stepping onto a completely clear boat — it’s like walking on water but with this weird thrill in your stomach. The harbor at Sesimbra was already busy, people shouting greetings and the smell of fish from the morning catch still hanging around. Our guide, João, grinned when he saw me hesitate and tapped the glassy floor with his sandal: “It’s stronger than it looks, promise.” He was right — after a minute I stopped thinking about it and just watched the blue-green waves sliding beneath my toes.

The coastline looked different from down here. You could see every ripple, every bit of seaweed waving below. When we got closer to Praia do Ouro, João slowed us down so we could look for fish — little silver flashes darting under us. Someone pointed out a jellyfish (I flinched), but João just laughed and said they’re harmless this time of year. The air tasted salty and sharp; I kept brushing hair out of my face because the wind was everywhere. At one point, I caught myself just staring at the shifting light on the rocks — not even thinking about photos for once.

We stopped near Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo for swimming. The water was cold enough to make you gasp but so clear you could see your own feet kicking below. There were only five of us on board — felt kind of intimate, like we’d lucked into something private. Bottled water appeared out of nowhere (João again), and he joked about how locals never get tired of this view. I’m not sure I would either. On the way back, everyone was quiet for a while — maybe just letting it all sink in or maybe tired from swimming, hard to say.