Passeio de Barco em Sesimbra (Publico/Compartilhado)

If you’re craving a taste of Portugal’s coastal charm, a shared boat tour along Sesimbra’s rugged shoreline offers just that. This 3-hour journey takes you past some of the most beautiful and hard-to-access beaches, with crystal-clear waters and intriguing caves. It’s a chance to step away from crowded tourist spots and enjoy a more intimate, authentic experience of this scenic stretch.

Two aspects that immediately stand out are the personalized touch—a private boat with a small group of no more than six—and the snorkeling gear provided, which makes exploring marine life effortless and fun. Plus, the boat, equipped with a bathroom, ensures your comfort during the trip.

One potential consideration is the weather dependence—bring suitable clothes for the day’s forecast, as the experience is entirely outdoors and weather can influence visibility and comfort. Also, while perfect for most, it’s not ideal for very young children, those over 75, or travelers with mobility or swimming limitations. Still, if you’re looking for a peaceful, guided outing with beautiful views, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Intimate Group Size: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Snorkeling Gear Included: Masks, tubes, and fins in various sizes allow you to explore underwater freely.
• Multiple Stop-offs at Hidden Beaches: Ribeiro do Cavalo, Cova da Mijona, Cramesines, and the mysterious Praia do Inferno.
• Private Boat with Comforts: The vessel comes with a bathroom, making the trip more comfortable than many open-deck options.
• Flexible Timing & Easy Cancellation: Operates in two shifts—10am-1pm or 2pm-5pm—and can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
• Authentic Experience: Guided by knowledgeable locals who share facts and point out caves, with reviews praising the effort made by guides like Maike’s experience with a guide who showed them a beautiful cave.

If you’re headed to Portugal and want to see a side of Sesimbra that most visitors miss, this public/shared boat trip offers a fantastic escape into nature’s quiet corners. The tour is operated by Black Flag Tours, known for small-group adventures that balance comfort with adventure.

What the Tour Looks Like: Itinerary Breakdown

The trip starts at the Clube Naval de Sesimbra, where you’ll meet your guide and hop aboard a boat with a bathroom—an uncommon luxury on small vessels. From there, the boat sets out along the coast, with the first major highlight being the breathtaking Ribeiro do Cavalo beach, famous among locals but less accessible by land. This beach is appreciated for its calm waters and golden sands, perfect for a quick swim or snorkeling.

Next, you’ll visit Cova da Mijona, another secluded spot with transparent waters and striking cliffs. The guide—possibly someone like Maike’s—will point out caves and interesting rock formations, sometimes even allowing you to enter them. The water’s calmness and clarity make snorkeling especially rewarding here.

Further stops include Cramesines, a quieter, less developed beach, and the legendary Praia do Inferno—literally “Hell’s Beach,” which has an air of mystery and drama. If weather permits, you might also visit Praia da Baleeira, known for its clean waters and scenic backdrop.

Each stop offers a unique perspective—some with more beach for relaxing, others with caves or underwater life. The boat’s small size ensures you can get close to these spots without the noise or crowding of larger tourist boats.

The Experience of Snorkeling and Marine Observation

One of the tour’s best features is the snorkeling kit provided for each guest—think of it as a free upgrade. You don’t need to bring your own gear, which can be a hassle with different sizes and quality. With masks, tubes, and fins in various sizes, you can float over the clear waters, observing marine life or just enjoying the sensation of weightlessness.

In the reviews, Maike highlights how the guide “showed us a beautiful cave” and made an effort to share interesting facts. That personal touch elevates the experience from just a boat ride to a memorable discovery.

The Comforts and Practicalities of the Tour

The boat itself has a bathroom, a feature that makes the trip more pleasant, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or need a quick break. The timing is flexible, with departures at either mid-morning or mid-afternoon, allowing you to choose what best fits your schedule.

This is a small group experience, limited to six people, which means you get more personalized attention and a quieter trip. The fee includes the boat, snorkeling gear, a water bottle, and the guide’s commentary—good value when you consider the private access to beaches and caves.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience is ideal for travelers who love nature, quiet beaches, and marine life. It’s perfect if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful, scenic cruise. Since it’s not suitable for children under two, over 75s, non-swimmers, or those with mobility issues, it’s better suited for adventurous, active travelers who are comfortable in the water and outdoors.

Price and Logistics: A Fair Deal

While not the cheapest option in the area, the price includes snorkeling equipment, a private boat, and the guide’s insights. For the limited group size and the personalized experience, many find it a good value—especially considering the exclusive access to beaches you can’t reach by land. The cancellation policy, allowing full refunds if cancelled 24 hours prior, adds a layer of flexibility often appreciated when planning outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re seeking a relaxed yet adventurous way to explore Portugal’s seaside, this boat tour delivers an authentic view of Sesimbra’s hidden treasures. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and inclusion of snorkeling gear mean you’re set up for a memorable, personalized outing. It’s particularly suited to those who want to see beautiful beaches without hordes of travelers, or who enjoy snorkeling in calm, clear waters.

This tour is perfect for those who value authentic experiences, scenic beauty, and the chance to learn from local guides. It’s an excellent choice if you want a half-day adventure that combines stunning views, marine exploration, and a bit of mystery with caves and secluded beaches.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years old, and the tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or people with mobility issues. If your kids are comfortable in the water and enjoy boat rides, they might enjoy it, but check with the provider first.

What should I bring for the trip?
Dress for the weather and bring sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a towel if you plan to swim. The snorkeling gear is provided, so no need to bring your own unless you prefer your personal equipment.

How flexible are the departure times?
Tours run in two shifts—10am to 1pm or 2pm to 5pm—so you can choose the one that fits your schedule. Remember to check availability in advance, as spots are limited.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat includes a bathroom, which is a real plus for comfort, especially during longer trips or on hot days.

How many people will be on the boat?
The tour is limited to a small group of six participants, ensuring you get a more intimate experience and personalized attention from your guide.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can influence the experience, particularly water visibility and comfort. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so keep an eye on the forecast.

In summary, this shared boat tour along Sesimbra offers a peaceful, scenic, and marine-rich adventure perfect for those looking to explore Portugal’s coastline beyond the usual tourist trails. With expert guides, cozy boat comforts, and the chance to snorkel in calm, clear waters, it’s a genuine way to connect with nature and discover hidden beaches.