Lisboa: Snorkeling experience in Marine Reserve with photos

If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure to your Lisbon trip, this snorkeling tour in the Arrabida Natural Park might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally tried it, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, scenic, and safe aquatic experience. From calm waters and knowledgeable guides to stunning vistas of the Arrabida landscape, there’s plenty to love. One thing to consider is that this activity is not suitable for pregnant women or young children under six, so plan accordingly. This tour is perfect for water lovers, curious explorers, and anyone eager to see Portugal’s marine life up close.

What really draws us in are the expert guides with in-depth local knowledge, the beautiful marine scenery and wildlife, and the inclusion of photos to capture your underwater moments. But a possible drawback is the meeting point, which isn’t directly on the main quay but near a parking lot—so a little extra time might be needed to find it. Still, for those wanting a memorable, hands-on aquatic experience, this trip offers a fantastic way to explore the Arrabida Marine Reserve without diving equipment or advanced skills.

This activity would suit travelers looking for a relaxing, nature-focused adventure, especially those unfamiliar with snorkeling but eager to try it in a safe, guided setting. It’s also a great option for families (excluding very young children), small groups, or solo travelers wanting to meet others in a friendly environment.

Good To Know

• Authentic Marine Experience: Snorkel in calm waters of a protected reserve with experienced, certified guides.
• Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy vistas of Arrabida Natural Park and spot regional wildlife.
• All-Inclusive Price: Equipment, boat trip, photos, and insurance included—great value for the $59 fee.
• Accessible & Safe: Activities are suitable for beginners, with guides providing thorough instructions and safety oversight.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Limited for Some: Not suitable for pregnant women, children under 6, or those with back problems.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Snorkeling Tour

The Setting: Arrabida Natural Park and Marine Reserve

The tour takes place in Prof. Luiz Saldanha Marine Reserve, a highlight for its steady, tranquil waters and exceptional marine biodiversity. Located near Sesimbra, this spot is renowned as one of Portugal’s best non-diving snorkeling locations. You can expect to float over reefs and rocks, observing marine life in a protected environment that’s teeming yet undisturbed.

Travelers rave about how “correu tudo bem” — everything went smoothly. The calm waters all year round make this location ideal for beginners or those wanting a leisurely paddle among the fish. The backdrop of lush greenery and rugged cliffs of Arrabida adds a natural grandeur to the experience, making the underwater views even more captivating.

The Meeting Point & Logistics

The tour begins near the Clube Naval de Sesimbra, at a modest parking lot beside a building marked with the company name, “Arrabida Experiences.” It’s not on the main kade but on a side area, so taking a moment to locate it ahead of time is wise. The meeting involves a brief briefing by guides who are friendly, professional, and clearly passionate about their work.

The Boat Trip & Equipment

Expect a short boat ride to reach the snorkeling zone, offering suitable views of the coastline and landscape. The boat is described as comfortable, and the journey lasts just long enough to get you to the best snorkeling spot without feeling rushed.

All necessary technical equipment—masks, fins, wetsuits—is provided, ensuring you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer your personal gear. The equipment is well-maintained, and guides are attentive to helping newbies get comfortable with their gear.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Guided Snorkel Experience

Under the guidance of certified instructors, you’ll receive a thorough safety briefing and instructions on how to use the equipment. The guides are praised for their patience and friendliness, making even nervous first-timers feel at ease. Their local expertise shines through as they point out interesting marine features and wildlife, which might include fish, crabs, or sea urchins.

Travelers have shared that the guides are “super friendly and knowledgeable,” with one mentioning Inez, who was “a terrific guide” that made the experience both safe and enjoyable. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, fostering a relaxed atmosphere.

The Underwater World & Photos

Once in the water, you’ll float over clear, calm waters and observe marine life in their natural habitat. The transparency of the water allows for good visibility, making it easier to spot fish and other sea creatures. The inclusion of photo service is a big plus—guides take photos of you snorkeling, which you can buy afterward to remember the experience.

Reviewers loved how the photos captured their smiles and underwater moments, adding a keepsake to their adventure. This is especially helpful for those who don’t own waterproof cameras but want to share their aquatic discoveries.

Duration & Flexibility

The entire tour lasts about three hours, which feels just right—long enough to enjoy the scenery and underwater sights without fatigue. Starting times are flexible, and you can check availability before booking. This makes the activity adaptable to various schedules, whether you’re in Lisbon for a short stay or part of a longer trip.

The Value of the Experience

At $59 per person, this snorkeling tour offers excellent value considering what’s included: boat transfer, top-quality equipment, professional instructors, insurance, and photographs. For a half-day adventure, it’s a cost-effective way to experience Portugal’s marine biodiversity without the need for extensive training or equipment purchases.

Many reviews emphasize how well-organized and safe the activity is. One reviewer from the US highlighted how “Inez was a terrific guide, super friendly and knowledgeable,” which reflects the high standard of guides. The safety measures and small groups make it accessible even for beginners, which is a crucial factor for those new to snorkeling.

What’s particularly attractive about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with educational insights, providing a genuine connection with the environment. The landscape views of Arrabida complement the underwater scenery, creating a well-rounded outdoor experience.

Accessibility & Considerations

While most travelers find the activity inclusive, it’s worth noting that not suitable for pregnant women or children under six. If you have back problems, check with your healthcare provider, as floating and wearing gear could be uncomfortable.

Since suncream isn’t included, bringing your own and applying it before the activity is wise, especially if you’re prone to sunburn. Remember to bring swimwear and a towel, and you may want to wear sunglasses or a hat during the boat ride.

Authentic Feedback & Practical Tips

Travelers consistently mention that guides are “sympathetic, available, and well-disposed,” which enhances the overall feel-good factor. The reviews also reveal that although some found the meeting point a bit tricky to find initially, the effort was worth it for the enjoyable experience.

Packing light and arriving a little early will help you start your adventure hassle-free. Also, since transportation isn’t included, plan how you’ll get to the meeting point—whether by public transit or a taxi.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This snorkeling experience is best suited for beginners and families (excluding very young children) looking for a safe, guided introduction to Portugal’s underwater world. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, wildlife, and the chance to try snorkeling without the commitment of a full dive course.

Adventure seekers interested in wildlife and natural beauty will find this trip particularly rewarding. If you’re a solo traveler or part of a small group wanting an authentic, engaging outdoor activity, this tour will check all your boxes.

The Sum Up

This Arrabida Marine Reserve snorkeling tour offers a compelling mix of stunning scenery, expert-guided safety, and fun underwater discoveries—all at a reasonable price. The inclusion of photos allows you to preserve memories of your marine adventure, and the calm waters make it accessible even for first-timers.

Travelers who value authentic natural experiences and knowledgeable guides will find this activity well worth their time. It’s a wonderful way to see Portugal from a different perspective and connect with its vibrant marine life in a protected environment.

While it might take a little extra effort to find the meeting point, the payoff is a relaxed, scenic, and educational aquatic experience. Ideal for those seeking a balanced mix of adventure, nature, and cultural discovery—this snorkeling tour is a true gem for Lisbon visitors.

FAQs

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the Clube Naval de Sesimbra, where the activity begins.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The activity provides all necessary snorkeling equipment and safety gear.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 6 years old. For older children, the activity can be suitable if they’re comfortable in the water and with snorkeling.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are the guides experienced and certified?
Absolutely. All guides are certified, experienced, and praised for their friendly, professional attitude.

What if I’ve never snorkeled before?
No worries! The guides are very patient and will provide thorough instructions to help you feel confident in the water.

This snorkeling experience in the Arrabida Natural Park provides a memorable, scenic escape from Lisbon’s bustling streets, making it a perfect day trip for nature lovers and curious explorers alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: