Afternoon Sailing and Caves Tour from Portimao
4.5
Afternoon Sailing and Caves Tour from Portimao
By Santa Bernarda
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 60 per group
Duration: 3h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: German, Portuguese, English, French, Spanish
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Written guide: German, Portuguese, English, Italian, French, Spanish
Print or digital reading material such as a guide, map, brochure, etc.
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- Local taxes
- Boat tour
- Restroom on board
- WiFi on board
- Entry/Admission - Algar de Benagil
What's not included- Food and drinks
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Start:
- Rua Gonçalo Nascimento, R. Gonçalo Nascimento, 8500-607 Portimão, PortugalPier "Vasco da Gama", next to the "Clube Naval" and Portimão "Museum".
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Infant seats available
- Transportation is wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 18743P4- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship
- Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
- Most travelers can participate
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 60 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 18743P4
From
$39.18
per adult
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Itinerary
- R. Gonçalo Nascimento, 8500-607 Portimão, PortugalPier "Vasco da Gama", next to the "Clube Naval" and Portimão "Museum".
- 1We start our trip in Portimão. At the lighthouse of Ferragudo we set our sails and cruise south-east along the coast line to the lighthouse of Alfanzina. Here we drop anchor for swim and you board on smaller boats to visit the caves described in Program 1 following the beaches of Carvalho, Benagil to Praia da Marinha. Then we will return to Portimão by engine power, passing close to the rocks, caves and beaches.
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- 700anettb0 contributionsFantastic tour!It's a fantastic tour that takes to several caves! The views were breathtaking! The pirate boat was clean and stuff was well organized. I was afraid to get motion sick, but everything was fine. I didn't know how to dress for this tour properly, so I will share now. Once we arrived to the caves, we were transferred to smaller motor boats which go right inside the caves. We didn't get wet and our phones were dry too. Since we don't stop by the beach, no bathing suit is needed. I'd recommend wearing quick dry shorts and t-shirt. On the way back, it was cloudy and windy, so it was chilly. I brought long sleeve quick dry top with a zipper and it was enough for end of the August weather. We wore crock shoes. The total time was 2 hour and 15 minutes. Keep your cameras ready when inside caves, our pirate boat will be right there to take pictures.Written September 4, 2024
- B1876SEmollyb0 contributionsPerfect would 1000% do again.A group of 4, ages 20-57 and with limited mobility It was an amazing day the crew made sure that even with a mobility issues my mum was able to participate in the cave exploring on the smaller boats, unfortunately I go sea sick which has never happened before but the crew were A.M.A.Z.I.N.G every single crew member came to check on me I could not recommend this trip enough.Written October 20, 2023
- SWAdventures0 contributionsAwesome experienceFabulous time had on an amazing ship. She was so impressive as she sailed towards the pick-up point, it took my breath away knowing I would be boarding her. I've done the Benagil caves before on a small speedboat and thought it would be interesting to have an experience on the pirate ship. I wasn't disappointed at all. The tour guide was impressively knowledgeable and took special care of those who lost their sea legs during the journey. If you're looking for a tour which is distinctly unique, this is definitely the one for you, I absolutely loved it! Well done Santa Bernarda, you're a definite recommend from me.Written September 26, 2023
- K_Guernsey0 contributionsGreat fun, highly recommendWe had a great morning out on the Saint Bernarda. Beautiful caves and the tour guides/pirates were brilliant! Thanks for a fantastic morning.Written August 31, 2023
- KarenK50 contributionsHighly recommended for familiesWe loved the pirate ship to the Benagil caves!! It was me and my 7 yesr old. The sailing was smooth, the boat comfortable. You can move around easily, get a drink, go to the toilet. The people next to us had a 2 year old and they felt comfy too. After about an hour you get to the caves. You put your life jacket on and get off into smaller wooden boats (petrol engine type). I am slightly nervous of small boats but it was super chilled and comfy. The caves were amazing, busy with other boats but that didn't bother us as it was all very friendly - other boats waving to us etc. Spend about half an hour going in and out of the caves including the famous Benagil. The coastline is stunning and lots of interesting facts. Then back on the boat, wait for the other boats to return and back to Portimao (the port is very easy to find using sat nav by the way). The staff were fantastic! Lots of funny moments where the pirates were shooting water pistols and hanging off the boat edge pretending to be drunk! My only regret is that I didn't take some cash to tip the excellent staff. 10/10 - highly recommended.Written July 30, 2023
- K27KQrichards0 contributionsBrilliant family friendly tripWe thoroughly enjoyed our morning on the pirate ship, the crew were fantastic with our 4 year old from start to finish. They maintained a fun element to the whole experience but were very professional when it came to boarding the small boats etc. It's nice being able to wander around and even grab a drink. The caves themselves are beautiful, very crowded but often the case with such a beautiful attraction. Overall I'd say this is the best tour to do with a family. Ten out of ten for the crew!Written July 29, 2023
- kungoanem0 contributionsAwesome boat experienceGreat experience and the crew were extra careful and patient with us due to our limited mobility. they are friendly and provide great info on the history of PortugalWritten July 6, 2023
- michellegalavan0 contributionsBest boat trip in PortugalAbsolutely amazing trip. Crew are brilliant. Ship is beautiful. Cave tours just fantastic. Sea nice and calm. A must do trip.Written June 21, 2023
- denisemargf0 contributionsFabulous boatA fabulous experience enjoyed every minute I've watched this by sail for 6 years and finally did it today. Don't wait as long !Written June 16, 2023
- Rob S0 contributionsGreat Fun with Family Friendly CrewFantastic trip, extremely friendly crew who were great fun with our kids (2 & 4). I very rarely write reviews unless the experience is truly exceptional which this trip was. Brilliant views, beautiful boat but above all, the crew. In hospitality and tourism the service makes the experience and every single member of the crew was great fun and doing their jobs with a smile. A great day out with our kids!Written June 5, 2023
- Traveler481467939160 contributionsOne of the best, if not THE best, boat trip around the Algarve!One of the best, if not THE best, boat trip around the Algarve! The boat itself is amazing, the staff & crew are incredible, and the 3hour trip flies by as you sail along the beautiful coast. The crew are multilingual & provided narrative in multiple languages throughout the trip. Ricardo the pirate was such entertainment for the kids as well adding to a wonderful trip! We were free to explore the vessel & move seats, and there’s a bar too! Lots of kids on our journey, however also great for adults & couples (with a child free zone!) Could not have asked for a better morning. The trip is great, but the crew made it fabulous; they really seemed to care that you enjoyed yourself!Written May 31, 2023
- Marc940410 contributionsExcellent Benagil Caves TourExcellent Benagil caves tour on a large, old looking ship. Good guide with excellent commentary. Comfortable. Helpful, safety minded crew. Good amenities on board. Recommended!Written September 28, 2022
- OJW750 contributionsSunset SailWhat a fantastic experience for kids big and small! Wonderful boat trip of just over 2 1/2 hours with great commentary, and humour, from the crew who speak many languages so lots of nationalities catered for. We transferred onto smaller boats to visit the caves and there was an opportunity to swim, which I'm sorry i didn't bring my swimming gear for. Then back on ship to sail into the sunset, literally!! It was truly spectacular and the playlist had some really great music to add to the atmosphere. Crew and Captain are amazing and make sure everyone is safe; carefully helping babies and small children on and off the small boats. I can't speak highly enough of this trip. Very special way to end our holiday.Written August 22, 2022
- Setareh S0 contributionsReal Sturdy Wooden Boat. ExceptionalExceptional wooden boat, with two smaller boats attached at the back for the caves. 2h40 min of music, history, diving and caves. Boat has toilets, bar, and SHADE!!! No need to get grilled! Starting from Portimao up to the Bengali Caves, during which the incredibly friendly multilingual crew combine music and explanations. Once near caves, you change into small boat and visit Bengali and 2 other nearby caves. While waiting you can swim in the sea..so take your swimming clothes. Then back to Portimao. Crew and Capitan are very friendly and patient with crying infants who do not want to go to small boats. If you get seasick stay at the back, and think of skipping small boat. In comparison to smaller boats, here you do not get sunburnt, you chill with the music and small infants can do it too. MUST DOWritten August 20, 2022
- a10mcbride0 contributionsThree generations felt welcome and safe. Great experience! Wonderful guide and crew.Family of 16 ages 16-86; three generations. Nuno was our fantastic tour guide and the captain and crew were friendly, attentive, and welcoming hosts. Nuno shared many interesting tales of Portugal through the centuries linked to the sights along the Algarve cliffs in the languages of the guests. We heard English and French based on the passengers. Nuno also spent time with the individual groups of guests to personalize their expedience. The ride and crew were very attentive and safely loaded my 80’s year old parents into the skiffs for the cave tours. They loved it and felt safe. I highly recommend this tour. The ship is great fun and the Portuguese crew are some of the happiest, friendliest hosts we have seen in our travels. Also, great seafood close by at A Fabrica after the tour.Written June 8, 2022
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
101 reviews
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Emily M
2 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
This is a cool ship, but don’t go on this a day or two after a storm! The water was so choppy that more than half of the people on board ended up being sea sick for 2 hours straight. I wish they would’ve just refunded our boat tour or rescheduled it for a better day, as they also cancelled the cave exploration bit of our trip while we were out on the water for safety reasons (which is fair, but I think they would’ve known it wasn’t safe before leaving the port).
It felt like they didn’t want to cancel because they’d lose money. But saying that, the crew on board did everything they could to try to make the sick people feel better. They were handing out sick bags to everyone and took some people to lie down in the cabin. They also put cold water on people’s feet to cool them off as that apparently helps the sea sickness.
The ship itself is cool looking, but it wasn’t a very “piratey” experience either. My son is obsessed with pirates so I was expecting something a bit more on theme. But saying that, he still enjoyed it! And the views from the ship are stunning. It was just a shame that the water wasn’t calmer so we could go see the caves / people weren’t throwing up off the side of the ship! Maybe check the weather before booking this. I heard the smaller cave boats have less chance of getting sea sick!
It felt like they didn’t want to cancel because they’d lose money. But saying that, the crew on board did everything they could to try to make the sick people feel better. They were handing out sick bags to everyone and took some people to lie down in the cabin. They also put cold water on people’s feet to cool them off as that apparently helps the sea sickness.
The ship itself is cool looking, but it wasn’t a very “piratey” experience either. My son is obsessed with pirates so I was expecting something a bit more on theme. But saying that, he still enjoyed it! And the views from the ship are stunning. It was just a shame that the water wasn’t calmer so we could go see the caves / people weren’t throwing up off the side of the ship! Maybe check the weather before booking this. I heard the smaller cave boats have less chance of getting sea sick!
Written October 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LMWalker
6 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
Excellent time on Santa Bernarda ship yesterday evening. I have a fear of boats and getting sea sick, so I was nervous about going onto the boat. However, the staff were extremely friendly and helpful. The boat sailed very smoothly and I felt relaxed and safe. It was really cool to get onto a smaller boat to be able to see the caves, again I was nervous about this but the staff reassured me and helped you get on and off the small boats.
We were able to see the sunset and actually sail towards it, this was a beautiful experience and feel very lucky to experience this and share this moment with my family.
The tour guide was very knowledgeable and approachable. He could speak many languages and spoke very clearly. The facts were extremely interesting.
We were able to see the sunset and actually sail towards it, this was a beautiful experience and feel very lucky to experience this and share this moment with my family.
The tour guide was very knowledgeable and approachable. He could speak many languages and spoke very clearly. The facts were extremely interesting.
Written August 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Inese Ejugbo
21 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
The pirate ship experience was highly recommended by a lovely elderly Canadian couple we met on our first day in Ferragudo. They said kids will love it and they were right. My 11 yo son absolutely loved it. The crew was engaging and entertaining, views were stunning, transition from the big ship to small boats was exciting, guides on the small boats were knowledgeable and explained lots of things. We were lucky to experience stunning sunset on the way back. This trip was undoubtedly one of the top highlights during our trip to Portugal. Highly recommended experience!
Written August 25, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Compass23063870819
1 contribution
Aug 2023 • Couples
Highly recommend this excursion, it was very fun and beautiful. The company crew included a few members, which were very helpful and attentive to our needs. The tour guide spoke 4 languages and provided ample information as we sailed the sea. The tour guide also came around and provided a brief history lesson. His knowledge was quite interesting and informative. Algarve’s coastline was a breathtaking view. We saw a castle, got lucky by seeing dolphins and were given a chance to swim/jump/dive in the ocean for a short period of time. The pirate ship was a fun experience in general. There were two small speed boats that transported us the caves. The first few rounds to the caves included children and families. The next round included adults. The cave scenery was spectacular and simultaneously busy at some points. This trip was definitely worth it!! Thank you Santa Bernarda Pirate Ship 🏴☠️
Written August 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
misscannelle
Frouard5 contributions
May 2024 • Friends
As soon as we left the port we were told that we would probably not go to the caves due to lack of waves... very hot day but be careful it is very cold at sea (bring a vest)... the French guide version meh he speaks so quickly we understand nothing....
And so to top it off, when we arrive at the caves (far from these in addition) we are told that we have no authorization to go there!!! While lots of small boats were there in front!!!
So it's still expensive for a sea trip... especially since we paid for our Uber round trips and therefore a nice budget...
The landscapes nevertheless remain magnificent but that was not our objective, not even stopping at a creek..
And so to top it off, when we arrive at the caves (far from these in addition) we are told that we have no authorization to go there!!! While lots of small boats were there in front!!!
So it's still expensive for a sea trip... especially since we paid for our Uber round trips and therefore a nice budget...
The landscapes nevertheless remain magnificent but that was not our objective, not even stopping at a creek..
Written May 10, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Claire S
London, UK62 contributions
Sep 2020
The boat was novel and it was an enjoyable trip. However the crew were not very friendly (perhaps channelling their inner pirates) and although there was cursory information provided in English, the focus was far more on providing information in German (the German commentary lasted far longer than the English). The trip round the caves in the small boats was interesting although the boats didn't feel very safe at times and we ended up soaked through. Was glad we saw the caves but probably wouldn't join the Santa Bernarda again.
Written September 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kirill F
19 contributions
Nov 2021
It's a nice trip on the "piraten-ship" with a friendly crew. During the trip you change the boat for a smaller one to enter the caves. It was windy but I felt completely safe, these people are very expeienced! The best attraction in Portimao and surroundings.
Written November 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
suzansnijders
7 contributions
Beautiful boat that takes you to the caves. At the pond caves you transfer to smaller boats. The landscape you sail past is beautiful. Jackets and blankets are available on the boat in cold weather. A drink can also be purchased. Disadvantage: the captain tells all kinds of things about the area, but this cannot be understood due to the poor intercom.
Written May 5, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Emily G
3 contributions
Worst boat trip we have ever been on!
My son wanted to go on the pirate ship for his birthday and we thought that was a great idea…
We weren’t welcomed well on arrival in fact all they said is that it’s busy today and you might not find a seat!
We managed to find a seat big enough for 2 people (we were a group of 5)
Couldn’t tell a word they were saying as it was all in different languages.
Set sail and after 15 mins noticed people throwing up (it was extremely bumpy) we couldn’t believe they hadn’t cancelled as it was so windy.
We didn’t go to the caves because of the weather, we basically sailed for 2.5 hours, with no commentary, everyone throwing up, no exciting pirate theme eg. Music/costumes.
It was rubbish.
Don’t book this trip book a smaller boat that actually goes to the caves and gives you great information.
Avoid!
My son wanted to go on the pirate ship for his birthday and we thought that was a great idea…
We weren’t welcomed well on arrival in fact all they said is that it’s busy today and you might not find a seat!
We managed to find a seat big enough for 2 people (we were a group of 5)
Couldn’t tell a word they were saying as it was all in different languages.
Set sail and after 15 mins noticed people throwing up (it was extremely bumpy) we couldn’t believe they hadn’t cancelled as it was so windy.
We didn’t go to the caves because of the weather, we basically sailed for 2.5 hours, with no commentary, everyone throwing up, no exciting pirate theme eg. Music/costumes.
It was rubbish.
Don’t book this trip book a smaller boat that actually goes to the caves and gives you great information.
Avoid!
Written September 14, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helene M
4 contributions
Aug 2024 • Friends
Great experience aboard the Santa Bernada! The team was super welcoming! In addition to the tour on the caravel an experience in itself. We also board smaller boats in groups to visit different caves!
We were all amazed throughout the 3 hours of walks!
And a little more, a little stop is planned to throw yourself into the ocean if you feel like it!
We were all amazed throughout the 3 hours of walks!
And a little more, a little stop is planned to throw yourself into the ocean if you feel like it!
Automatically translated
Written September 1, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Is there a stop at the praia the marinha or can you just see it from the boat?
Written October 5, 2020
Mum has a walking aid is disabled can she walk straight on to boat not lifted etc. Thanks xx
Written May 10, 2019
Would this tour be possible with a wheelchair?
Written March 30, 2019
Un grupo de 10 personas sería posible? En casi afirmativo he leído q va por turnos el bajarse en las cuevas...sería posible todas juntas?
Written January 16, 2019
El tour es en inglés y portugués pero hablan otros idiomas e intentan explicar lo mejor que pueden en español, francés, alemán y otros idiomas. They speak several languages and do their best to try to explain in spanish, english, portuguese, french, german... Not perfect but good enough.
Written August 15, 2018
Hi
How long dies the tour take and is there shade for the little people ??
Cheers
Ginny
Written May 28, 2018
The tour takes from 2:30 hours to 3 hours. Yes, there's shade for the little people, but just to be sure about it, be on time to be one of the first ones. The families with children always enter first anyway.
Written August 15, 2018
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