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Boat Tour on Ria Formosa with Passeios Ria Formosa - Faro

Boat Tour on Ria Formosa with Passeios Ria Formosa

Cabanaseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1 hour

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; no physical strain involved.

Overview

Take a one-hour boat trip through Portugal’s Ria Formosa lagoon with Passeios Ria Formosa. Discover historic fishing villages, pristine islands, and rich cultural heritage along this unforgettable coastal journey.

Olhão, Faro

Salt Route - Cabanas De Tavira - 1 Hour Boat Trip

Boat Tour
Ferry
Fishing

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Adventure Photos

Salt Route - Cabanas De Tavira - 1 Hour Boat Trip photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating one-hour journey through the stunning Ria Formosa, guided by a knowledgeable skipper. Explore the historic fishing village of Cabanas, relax on the pristine beaches of Tavira Island, and discover the rich cultural heritage of Tavira, filled with archaeological treasures and vibrant local cuisine.

The skipper will be your guide, providing you with precious information about Ria. We will provide binoculars and a brochure with local images.

Duration

1 hour

About

Itinerary: Cabanas - Tavira Bay - Tavira Island - Quatro Águas - Cabanas Island (15min stop) - Cabanas

Cabanas: Cabanas is linked to tuna fishing since its origin. In 1734 began the tuna fishing with nets (armação), which led to the construction of the first huts to keep the fishing equipment and to be a shelter to the fishermen. For 20 years the huts were only seasonal residence. Only in 1757/58 some fishermen built permanent homes. Now Cabanas has 1181 permanent residents, a number that increases a lot in the summer with tourists. The community is still dedicated to fishing, contributing to the local cuisine enrichment. But the tourism is getting more importance year after year. The fishermen village with a rehabilitated waterfront with a new wooden walkway that goes through all the village, passing through numerous cafes, restaurants and craft shops.

A) Cabanas Island - SW side, deserted beach. One of the eastern Algarve beaches most crowded due to its location, opposite the city of Cabanas de Tavira and easy access via ferry boats or water taxis. B) Tavira Island - voted one of the best beaches in Europe, the route from ria to the beach is surrounded by the camping and several restaurants and bars. This is the only island with a camping park. Desert Beach- in Cabanas Island on the east side of Tavira bay, this beach is the getaway of crowds and one of the best beaches to relax or discover the Natural Park of Ria Formosa on a pleasant walk. C) Tavira - the city is divided by the Gilão river, which is surrounded by shops and restaurants, and a historic centre rich in archaeological marcs of the Phoenicians and Islamics, convents with brands of the periods Gothic and Manueline, Renaissance churches and Baroque chapels.

Adventure Tips

Bring Sun Protection

The boat trip exposes you to direct sunlight; sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential even on cloudy days.

Arrive Early

Plan to arrive 15 minutes before departure to secure a good spot on the boat and avoid last-minute rush.

Pack Light

Space on board is limited; bring only essentials like water, camera, and personal items to stay comfortable.

Keep Binoculars Handy

Use the binoculars provided to spot birds and distant landmarks within the lagoon for an enhanced experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Purple Gallinule – a colorful marsh bird frequently seen in the lagoon
  • Seahorses – the shallow seagrass beds around Tavira Island host small populations

History

Cabanas de Tavira originated as a seasonal fishing camp in the 18th century, evolving into the permanent village known today with a rich tuna fishing legacy.

Conservation

Ria Formosa is a protected natural park, where fishing practices balance tradition with sustainability to preserve biodiversity and habitat integrity.

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Adventure Hotspots in Faro

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin from intense sun exposure while on open water.

summer specific

Light Windbreaker

Essential

Useful during breezy mornings and cooler weather on the boat.

spring specific

Binoculars

Enhance your view of wildlife and distant landscapes during the tour.

Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during your journey through the lagoon and islands.

summer specific