Set sail from Portimão with Ophelia Catamaran on a 2-hour voyage designed to bring you face to face with wild dolphins and the stunning Benagil sea caves. This coastal adventure combines marine wildlife viewing with a close-up experience of Algarve’s iconic limestone formations.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required aboard the catamaran.
Wildlife
History
The Benagil caves have been shaped over millions of years as sea levels and erosion carved the soft limestone, becoming a significant cultural landmark recognized regionally.
Conservation
Local operators follow strict guidelines to minimize wildlife disturbance and promote sustainable marine tourism along the Algarve coastline.
Ophelia Catamaran
Set sail from Portimão with Ophelia Catamaran on a 2-hour voyage designed to bring you face to face with wild dolphins and the stunning Benagil sea caves. This coastal adventure combines marine wildlife viewing with a close-up experience of Algarve’s iconic limestone formations.
Ophelia Catamaran is a Portimão-based boat operator offering guided catamaran cruises and private charters along the Algarve coast near Faro. The company operates the spacious Catamaran Ophelia and a fleet of private boats, running experiences that range from short 2-hour tours to full 6-hour excursions. Trips include the Passeio de barco à Gruta de Benagil, dolphin-watching cruises with an advertised 95% sighting probability, private VIP boat rentals from two to four hours, a six-hour Benagil & BBQ catamaran journey, and dedicated sunset cruises. Crewed by experienced local skippers and guides, the operation leads visits to key coastal attractions such as Benagil cave, Algar Seco, Ferragudo and secluded beaches, and provides on-board amenities including barbecue lunches and an onboard bar on select departures. Ophelia Catamaran also hosts special event sailings, like DJ-led sunset parties aboard the catamaran. Departures are from Portimão with routes along the Atlantic coastline near Faro, and many itineraries include time for swimming in clear ocean waters. Booking options include open-group tours and fully private charters for families and groups seeking exclusive experiences. Safety procedures and experienced crew support on-water activities and swim stops. Ophelia Catamaran’s range of timed options — 2, 2.5, 4 and 6-hour trips — offers flexibility for travelers seeking sightseeing, wildlife viewing or social events on the water.
Reservations are available online and by phone, and multilingual staff assist guests in selecting suitable itineraries, times, and onboard options, including private charters and event bookings requested.
Departure
Portimão, Faro
Direct departures from Portimão marina
Trip Durations
2–6 hours
Short tours to full-day excursions
Private Options
VIP charters
Private boats for groups
Featured Trips
Benagil & Dolphin
Cave tours, BBQ and sunset
Reserve seats or a private catamaran from Portimão — limited availability for BBQ cruises, dolphin trips and sunset sailings.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Arrive at the departure point at least 15 minutes early to secure your spot and receive safety briefing.
Bring Sun Protection
The boat offers limited shade; sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat keep you comfortable during the cruise.
Motion Sickness Preparedness
Those prone to seasickness should consider medication or remedies before boarding as choppy water is possible.
Respect Wildlife Distance
Maintain respectful distance from dolphins and do not attempt to touch or feed them to ensure their safety.
Sunscreen
Protects skin during prolonged sun exposure on open water.
summer
Windbreaker Jacket
Keeps you warm against the sea breeze during cooler months.
spring
Binoculars
Enhances your ability to spot dolphins and distant coastal features.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the active boat trip.