Vilamoura Sightseeing Cruise with Beach BBQ with Open Bar

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Portugal’s Algarve region, the Vilamoura Sightseeing Cruise with Beach BBQ offers a compelling mix of scenic views, delicious food, and relaxing drinks. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a well-rounded, value-packed experience perfect for those seeking both adventure and leisure.

What we love about this cruise? First, the stunning coastline with dramatic rock formations and sea caves is a major draw. Second, the beach BBQ lunch, complete with grilled meats, seafood, and seasonal fruit, sounds authentic and satisfying. Third, the open bar with local wines, sangria, and beer makes for a laid-back, fun atmosphere. However, it’s worth noting that the long duration—about 7.5 hours—requires good sun protection and patience. This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, crave unique seaside spots, and want a taste of local Algarve cuisine.

Good To Know

• Impressive coastal scenery with sea caves and rock formations
• Relaxing beach BBQ with quality grilled foods and seasonal fruits
• Open bar offering wine, sangria, beer, and soft drinks
• Visits to secluded beaches inaccessible by land
• Flexible itinerary with stops at famous caves and lesser-known beaches
• Long but rewarding day, suitable for those comfortable in the sun and on boats

What to Expect from the Vilamoura Cruise

This full-day catamaran trip is designed to show you the best parts of the Algarve’s coastline—far away from crowded land-based tourist spots. For roughly 7.5 hours, you’ll be sailing along cliffs, exploring caves, and relaxing at beaches accessible only by boat. The tour combines scenic sightseeing with opportunities for water-based fun, making it suitable for a variety of travelers—from families and couples to groups of friends.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point at Vilamoura Marina
The adventure begins at the AlgarExperience dock in Vilamoura Marina. Expect a friendly check-in process and a boat that can host up to 50 travelers, ensuring small enough groups for a more personal experience. The crew, praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, make a genuine effort to accommodate late arrivals and keep the atmosphere upbeat.

Coast and Sea Cave Exploration
Once underway, the boat heads along the coast, offering incredible views of the cliff-lined shoreline. You’ll pass notable formations like Praia da Galé, Praia dos Arrifes, and Praia da Ferragudo, each providing a different perspective on the Algarve’s rugged beauty. Reviewers mention that the crew was very accommodating—extending the ride to better conditions and ensuring everyone got a good look at the caves and coastlines.

Benagil Cave Visit
The highlight for many is a stop at the famous Benagil Cave, a true Algarvian icon. This sea cave, accessible exclusively by boat or kayak, amazes visitors with its natural beauty—an impressive dome, golden sands, and calm waters. Photographers and nature lovers will find this a memorable highlight.

Secluded Beach BBQ at Praia Grande
One of the most loved aspects of this tour is the beach barbecue at an isolated spot, such as Praia Grande, where no land access exists. Here, you’ll enjoy grilled meats, seafood, salads, and seasonal fruits in a relaxed setting with watersports like paddleboarding and snorkeling available. Reviewers frequently mention the delicious food and plentiful supplies, with one even noting the crew extended the ride to get better conditions for the beach visit.

Additional Beach & Water Activities
Water sports are key here—expect stand-up paddleboards, snorkeling, and just soaking up the sun. The emphasis on fun and leisure makes this a great escape from the busy land-based spots, with reviews praising the chance to enjoy sea and sand in relative seclusion.

The Value of the Experience

At $65.35 per person, this cruise offers a significant value considering the length, inclusions, and exclusive access to caves and beaches. The beach BBQ, with grilled meats, seafood, and fresh fruits, paired with an open bar, enhances the overall experience—many reviews highlight the quality and abundance of food and drinks.

What’s included?

• A hearty lunch BBQ with mixed meats, shrimp, fish, salads, and fruits
• An open bar serving water, soft drinks, red and white wine, sangria, and beer
• Visits to several key spots along the coast, including Benagil Cave and secluded beaches

What’s not included?

• Cocktails and spirits (which might be available for purchase onboard or at additional cost)
• Optional water sports equipment (though paddleboards and snorkeling gear are available at the beach stop)

How does it compare to other tours?

Based on similar experiences, this cruise stands out for its combination of scenic beauty and authentic local food. The reviews mention that the staff went above and beyond—rescheduling or extending the trip for better conditions, which shows a genuine dedication to customer experience.

The Review of the Journey: Authentic Insights

Many travelers highlight the beautiful views of the coastline, with some calling it “very beautiful,” and praising the boat ride for its leisurely pace and informative narration. The crew’s friendliness and helpfulness are consistently lauded, with nicknames like “superb” and “outstanding” used frequently.

One reviewer, Melanie, remarked that the trip was “worth the money,” with the added bonus of spotting a dolphin—a reminder that wildlife sightings can be part of the fun. The food at the beach is often described as “lovely,” with grilled seafood and meats that satisfy even the most discerning palates.

However, some mention the long duration—from around 9:40 am to nearly 5 pm—so packing sunscreen and hats is recommended. A few reviews note that beach time could be slightly shorter, but most agree that the overall experience is balanced and rewarding.

Challenges & Considerations

A handful of reviews point out minor issues, such as a sail ripping or a boat being fully booked at times, which can cause inconvenience. It’s wise to arrive prepared for the weather—sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses—and to be comfortable spending hours on a boat in the sun.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for those who appreciate scenic coastal views and unique sea caves, want to experience Algarve’s lesser-accessible beaches, and enjoy delicious, authentic BBQs. It’s a good fit if you’re comfortable with a longer day in the sun and on the water, and seek a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation.

It’s especially suited for families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a fun, all-in-one day trip that combines adventure, good food, and stunning scenery.

Final Thoughts

The Vilamoura Sightseeing Cruise with Beach BBQ offers a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty, culinary delights, and laid-back fun. With its scenic stops, friendly crew, and quality food and drinks, it delivers excellent value for a full-day adventure along Portugal’s Algarve coast.

While the longer duration may test your patience in the sun, the opportunity to explore caves, secluded beaches, and enjoy a beachside BBQ makes it worthwhile. It caters well to those who want a taste of the Algarve’s untouched charm with the comfort of a guided, organized trip.

If you’re after a memorable day on the water with authentic eats and spectacular views, this cruise is a solid choice—especially if you’re traveling in a group or family looking for both fun and relaxation.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a beach BBQ lunch with grilled meats, seafood, salads, and seasonal fruits, as well as an open bar with water, soft drinks, wine, sangria, and beer.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, from departure at Vilamoura Marina to returning.

Are water sports available during the trip?
Yes, at the beach stop, you’ll find options like stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling, allowing you to enjoy the water in a relaxed setting.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Absolutely. The trip has been praised for its friendly crew, scenic views, and activities suitable for all ages, making it a good choice for families and groups.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and perhaps a towel for water activities. Since it’s a long day in the sun, wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear for walking on the beach is advisable.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund, according to the policy.

To sum it up, this cruise offers a rewarding mix of Algarve scenery, authentic food, and relaxed fun. It’s best suited for those who enjoy spending extended hours on the water and want to explore hidden beaches and caves away from crowds. With friendly staff, delicious food, and stunning views, it’s a trip that makes a memorable addition to any Algarve itinerary.