Discover the beauty and tranquillity of the Arade River on a journey full of history between Portimão and the medieval city of Silves

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NEW: Wine Tasting option available

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Duration

3H30 to 4H

Highlights

• Experience a boat tour through up the river surrounded by nature
• Learn about the history of the Arade River and region from a multilingual guide
• Hop off at the medieval city of Silves and enjoy some free time at your leisure OR Go for a wine tasting experience at Arvad vineyard
• Discover the feeling of calm that the river conveys
• Appreciate the beauty of a picturesque landscape and take amazing photos
• Spot some amazing birds
• Small group and family-friendly environment

Description

Escape the crowds, discover the hidden treasures of the Algarve, and experience a unique and revitalizing experience. Departing from Portimão, we will go up the Arade River to the medieval city of Silves, the first capital of the Algarve. As we pass through verdant landscapes and picturesque farms, our experienced guide will share with you the history of the Arade River and the culture of the region, showing you famous places and historical landmarks.

The estuary of the river Arade is also an area of great interest for birdwatching, and we might spot incredible species such as: Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus), White Stork (Ciconia ciconia), Cormorant White-faced Egret (Phalacrocorax carbo), Little Egret (Egretta garzetta), Great Gray Heron (Ardea cinérea), Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), Black-winged Screech (Larus ridibundos), Stilt (Himantopus himantopus), Sandpiper (Calidris alpina).

As we approach Silves, we will sail with the tide, which allows us to go with a very quiet engine. As we glide along the calm waters, you will have the opportunity to discover the feeling of calm that the river conveys, as we leave the hustle and bustle of Portimão behind.

Upon arrival in Silves you will hop off and have about 1h30 to explore the city (subject to weather and tide conditions), where you can visit historical places and the castle or go for a meal at a local restaurant!

On the return to Portimão, relax in a serene atmosphere surrounded by the natural beauty of the riverbanks, while sipping on something refreshing. If you wish, we can even play your favourite playlist on our speaker.

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Sunset

If it is a sunset tour, you will have the privilege of seeing the sun setting several times as you turn another hill on the way to Portimão. Check out the calendar for a sunset time tour!

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Wine Tasting Option

1h30 guided visit to the vineyard and Arvad Winery and its history, followed by a tasting of Arvad 3 main wines and 1 premium wine of your choice, accompanied by regional bread, cheese and olive oil. Located on the banks of the Arade River, where wine was introduced into Portuguese territory by the Phoenicians, Arvad winery has a private pier just before Silves town, where we will drop you off. A buggy will then take you through the vineyards up to the winery where the tasting takes place, with a view of the Arade River in the horizon. For hike lovers, it is possible to do it in a 15 minutes walk. After the tasting, you will be taken back to the pier, where we will pick you up and return to Portimão.

Notes: 1 - Check out the calendar for the Wine Tasting Option. It is strictly dependent on the tide times and tidal coefficient, therefore its limited availability and subject to change. Any questions, please call us. 2 - If you chose Wine tasting option you will not go to Silves - You will disembark at Arvad vineyard halfway to Silves and we will pick you up on the way back to Portimão.

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Do you want to enjoy this experience in a more intimate setting?

Book the tour as PRIVATE. Limited to a maximum of 14 people. Includes a bottle of champagne and snacks.

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Know before you go

1. Tide restricted tour - That's why it can only be done at certain hours and days of the month. Please check our calendar or call to book.

2. The tour is conditioned by the state of the sea and, consequently, to the restrictions imposed by the Port Captain of Portimão on the same day, with no possibility of advance prediction.

• If the minimum safety conditions for navigation are NOT assured, the tour will be cancelled and rescheduled for another day, or a full refund will be provided.

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What's included?

• Tour Guide - English, Portuguese, Spanish and French speaking
• Experienced Captain
• Life jackets
• Insurance
• Bottled water
• Free car park

What to bring?

• Selfie-stick
• Binoculars
• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Jacket or Windbreaker
• Comfortable clothes
• Towel
• Swimwear (summer)
• Electronic equipment, such as mobile phones and cameras, must be protected against water as we are not responsible for them
• You can bring your own drinks and snacks

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Meeting Point

Capitão Nemo, Cais São Francisco, Ac. Porto Comercial de Portimão, 8500-512 Portimão, with free parking next to the boarding gate.

Check-in 15 minutes before departure time

You don't need to print your ticket - We just need your booking name and number.

WC available next to the boarding gate.

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Pet Friendly

Our mascot, Pipoca, comes on board on most tours. If you have any objections or you want to bring your furry friend, please contact us. Note: A fee may apply depending on the size of the dog.

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FULL REFUND – if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance