Sail the tranquil waters of Ria Formosa on a private boat tour. Explore stunning islands, swim in secluded spots & experience Algarve’s natural beauty.

Ria Formosa Private Yacht Cruise - Exclusive Algarve Island Tour

Set sail on a breathtaking journey through the Ria Formosa Natural Park, one of Portugal’s seven natural wonders. This private yacht cruise offers the perfect balance of relaxation, exploration, and luxury, allowing you to navigate through crystal-clear lagoons, secluded islands, and vibrant marine life. With cruise durations ranging from 5 to 10 hours, our recommended 7-hour cruise provides the ideal balance of discovery, swimming, and dining.

Why Choose the Ria Formosa Private Yacht Cruise?

A private yacht cruise to Ria Formosa is a truly unique experience, offering a chance to explore one of the most pristine natural reserves in Portugal in complete comfort and exclusivity. Unlike busy group tours, this cruise is designed just for your group, allowing you to customise your time on the water, whether it’s swimming in crystal-clear lagoons, exploring hidden islands, or simply relaxing on deck with a drink in hand.

The calm waters of the lagoon make for a smooth and relaxing cruise, perfect for families, couples, and small groups. The region is rich in wildlife, including rare birds, marine species, and one of the largest seahorse populations in the world.

For those who enjoy gourmet dining, the cruise also includes an optional stop at Estaminé, a renowned restaurant on Ilha Deserta that serves fresh seafood and regional specialities in an incredible beachfront setting. If you’d rather spend more time at sea, you can choose to stay onboard and enjoy additional swimming, sunbathing, or paddleboarding. With flexible durations from 5 to 10 hours, you can tailor the experience to fit your perfect day on the water.

The Beauty of Ria Formosa: A Natural Paradise

The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a protected lagoon system stretching across the Eastern Algarve, home to a dynamic landscape of barrier islands, sandbanks, and tidal inlets. It is a haven for birdwatchers, offering glimpses of migratory species travelling between Europe and Africa. The lagoon also boasts one of the world’s largest populations of seahorses and produces up to 80% of Portugal’s clam exports through its extensive shellfish farms.

Itinerary: Explore the Hidden Gems of Ria Formosa

Departing from Vilamoura Marina, we set course eastward towards the peaceful waters of Ria Formosa, passing golden beaches and stunning coastal landscapes. Key highlights of the cruise include:

Faro Island (Ilha de Faro) – A picturesque island with golden beaches and scenic dunes.
Ilha da Barreta (Ilha Deserta) – The "desert island" of Ria Formosa, featuring pristine beaches and zero development.
Ilha da Culatra – A charming fishing island known for its traditional Portuguese seafood culture.
Ilha do Farol – Home to the famous lighthouse and a peaceful island retreat.
Estaminé Restaurant (Optional Stop) – A renowned beachside restaurant on Ilha Deserta, serving fresh seafood and regional delicacies.

Your experienced captain will customise the itinerary based on the tides, weather, and your preferences, ensuring a tailor-made yacht experience.

Lunch Stop at Estaminé (Available on 7h+ Cruises)

For those choosing a 7-hour cruise or longer, we offer the option to stop at the famous Estaminé restaurant on Ilha Deserta. This secluded fine-dining spot is the only building on the island, offering an incredible setting to indulge in fresh seafood, regional dishes, and a selection of fine wines.

(Lunch is not included in the cruise price and must be reserved in advance.)

If you prefer to maximise your time on the water, you can choose to stay onboard and enjoy extra swimming, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on deck.

Swim, Explore & Enjoy the Serenity of Ria Formosa

Throughout the cruise, we will anchor in secluded lagoons and quiet beaches, allowing you to:

Swim in crystal-clear, shallow waters
Snorkel and explore the marine ecosystem (gear available upon request)
Use Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUPs) to discover hidden corners of the lagoon
Relax on the yacht’s sun deck while taking in the peaceful surroundings

What’s Included in Your Ria Formosa Yacht Charter?

Private yacht cruise through the Ria Formosa lagoon and islands.
Welcome Drink - Portuguese Bubbles
Unlimited Drinks and Snacks - White, green, and rosé wines, Portuguese beers, soft drinks and waters
Multiple swimming and snorkelling stops in breathtaking locations (weather permitting).
Use of Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUPs) to explore shallow waters and sandbanks.
Soft background music & Bluetooth sound system for a relaxing ambiance.
Onboard Wi-Fi to share your experience instantly.
Luxury yacht amenities for maximum comfort and enjoyment.
Professional crew & personalized service to ensure a seamless experience

Luxury, Comfort & Safety Guaranteed

Our fleet consists of high-end, professionally maintained luxury yachts, ensuring the highest standards of safety and comfort. Our experienced crew is dedicated to making your cruise an unforgettable experience, providing expert navigation and insider knowledge of the region.

What to Bring for Your Ria Formosa Cruise?

Sunscreen & sunhat to stay protected from the sun
Swimsuit & towel for swimming and paddleboarding
Comfortable clothing for a relaxed onboard experience
Camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking landscapes
Sunglasses for extra comfort under the sun

Book Your Exclusive Ria Formosa Yacht Cruise Today!

Escape the crowds and experience the calm, untouched beauty of the Ria Formosa with our private yacht charter. Whether you want to explore islands, enjoy fine dining, or relax in a secluded paradise, this cruise offers the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and serenity.