Discover Sesimbra’s dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches on a private boat tour aboard a classic 1943 vessel. Dive into crystal-clear waters, savor local snacks, and explore the stunning Arrábida Natural Park coastline like never before.
Discover Sesimbra’s dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches on a private boat tour aboard a classic 1943 vessel. Dive into crystal-clear waters, savor local snacks, and explore the stunning Arrábida Natural Park coastline like never before.
Book with Ahoy Portugal
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Ahoy Portugal · Sesimbra, Setúbal
Set along Portugal’s breathtaking Setúbal coast, the Encostas de Sesimbra private boat tour offers an immersive 3-hour trip that reveals the wild beauty of the Arrábida Natural Park from the water. Sesimbra, a charming fishing town south of Lisbon, is famed for its dramatic cliffs, secret coves, and untouched beaches — and this tour delivers a front-row seat to explore them all from a traditional 1943 wooden vessel specially restored to mingle old-world charm with modern comfort.
Your journey begins as your skipper navigates the jagged coastline, steering past towering limestone cliffs carved by millennia of Atlantic waves. The shimmering turquoise waters below beckon for a cooling swim at several stops along the way, each beach accessible only by boat. These quiet bays are usually free of crowds, making them perfect for peaceful moments immersed in nature. Snacking on fresh, locally sourced delicacies adds to the experience, grounding you in the rich flavors of the Setúbal region.
Besides its stunning scenery, the tour highlights the ecological importance of Arrábida Natural Park, a protected reserve established in 1976. The park’s flora includes aromatic wild thyme and resilient Mediterranean shrubs clinging to steep slopes, while seabirds like gulls and cormorants glide overhead. Discovering this blend of land and sea habitats is a reminder of how essential conservation efforts are to maintaining the park's fragile ecosystems.
More than just a sightseeing trip, this boat tour is a window into the region’s maritime heritage. Cruising on a vessel built during the mid-20th century connects travelers with Portugal’s seafaring past without sacrificing modern safety and comfort.
For visitors staying in Sesimbra, this adventure is an unparalleled way to experience the coast’s hidden gems beyond the usual beach destinations. Whether you’re a keen photographer, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking tranquility on the Atlantic, Encostas de Sesimbra offers a unique blend of exploration, relaxation, and local culture.
Perfect for sunny days and calm seas, the tour is suitable for participants of all ages looking to discover Portugal’s southern shores by sea. Early booking is recommended, as the private nature of the tour means limited availability. Plan your trip to arrive with swimwear, sunscreen, and a sense of curiosity — the magic of Sesimbra’s cliffs and bays awaits.
easy.
3 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated on the boat with optional swimming
Yes, the trip is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages, with supervision recommended during swimming stops.
Local snacks are provided, but guests may bring additional personal refreshments if desired.
Swimming opportunities depend on weather and sea conditions to ensure safety and comfort.
Yes, parking is available near the marina where the boat departs in Sesimbra.
The historic vessel is regularly maintained with safety equipment onboard; life jackets are provided for all passengers.
Booking at least one week ahead is recommended due to limited private spots and variable demand.
Arrábida Natural Park was established in 1976 to protect the unique Mediterranean ecosystems and dramatic limestone cliffs found here.
Tours follow strict guidelines to minimize ecological impact, promoting responsible tourism that helps preserve the region’s natural habitats.
Ahoy Portugal operates from Lisboa, Portugal, offering private and small-group boat experiences along the Lisbon coast, the Tagus (Tejo) River and the Arrábida Natural Park. Specializing in classic wooden vessels and a restored 1943 sailing boat, Ahoy Portugal curates day trips, half-day cruises and bespoke charters for families, couples and groups seeking coastal exploration, water sports and local gastronomy. Each listed itinerary includes clear durations, activity options and onboard catering choices so guests can choose snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming and scenic cruising according to preference. The company’s fleet features heritage vessels including a wooden boat built in 1949 and a restored 1943 craft used across multiple excursions such as Sesimbra, Cabo Espichel, Tróia, Setúbal and Arrábida. Trips range from short two hour Tejo cruises to full eight hour coastal journeys and include options for private bookings, flexible stopping points and regional snacks or meals. Safety briefings, snorkeling gear and paddleboards are provided as described in trip summaries. Ahoy Portugal highlights responsible touring within protected areas like the Arrábida Natural Park and emphasizes local suppliers for onboard food and wine. Their online listings present transparent itineraries and practical details to help prospective guests plan. For travelers seeking authentic maritime experiences from Lisboa with historic wooden boats, Ahoy Portugal provides clearly described options that combine sightseeing, swimming and regional cuisine in private or small-group formats. Booking information, cancellation policies and accessibility notes are available on the listings so guests can make informed decisions before confirming their departure or requesting custom itineraries online.
Book with Ahoy Portugal