In 1870 the ruler of Portugal, King Luis, went for a swim in the serene waters of a relatively unknown fishing village — making it the Royal family’s home away from home, and in so doing, changed its destiny forever. Today, that once sleepy town is Cascais, Lisbon’s favorite playground.

A boat trip in Cascais is one of the best ways for you to experience what this city is famous for — three shimmering bays where beachgoers sunbathe and brave the refreshing waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Whether you are looking to take in Cascais’ splendor from another angle, or simply looking to spend the day in style — a boat trip in Cascais will provide you with a truly unforgettable experience.

Here's all you need to know about boat tours, one of the most invigorating outdoor activities in Cascais.

What are the most popular boat tours in Cascais?

Travelers to Cascais are spoiled for choice when it comes to boat trips in this idyllic city with a variety of tours available. Finding the best one depends on what you want to experience during your day out on the water.

1.5-Hour small group boat tour in Cascais

A small group boat tour in Cascais provides the perfect outing for couples, families or groups of friends looking for a more private experience — without breaking the bank. During this hour-and-a-half expedition, you’ll be treated to the view of Cascais from the sea, with its famous landmarks shimmering against the Sintra Mountains.

Your skipper and tour leader will tell you more about Cascais’ history, like the role that the fortress played in protecting against marauding pirates — as well as how the famous Hotel Palacio Estoril inspired Ian Flemming to write James Bond.

Finally, you’ll head towards open waters to look back toward the iconic cliffs of Costa da Guia and the Portuguese Riviera — all while enjoying a crisp and refreshing glass of wine.

Cascais romantic 2-hour sunset boat tour

What can be a more fitting way to immortalize a special occasion — or just elevate a normal day out — than by sailing into the sunset with the ocean air blowing through your hair and your loved one by your side?

That’s exactly what's on offer during this 2-hour outing as your professional captain will take you to all of Cascais' most beautiful and romantic locations. Apart from the crew, you and your partner will be the only people on the boat — making it perfect for an intimate celebration.

To make the outing even more memorable, you’ll also enjoy a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, allowing you to celebrate the day in style.

Private 2-hour boat trip in Cascais with drinks

If you are a group of friends or a small family, then this private boat tour is absolutely perfect for some time on the water. This 2-hour tour can accommodate a group of up to 12 people, making it the perfect way to cap off a day in Cascais — or usher in an unforgettable night on the Portuguese Riviera.

Onboard, you’ll get to enjoy a selection of local beers and wines while visiting the fairy-tale-like sites that Cascais is famous for. To ensure that the boat trip is exactly what you and your party desire, you may even choose the time of day to set sail.

Private full-day all-inclusive boat tour in Cascais

When it comes to offshore adventures in the Portuguese Riviera, one experience towers above the rest, both in quality and duration — a private full-day boat tour with drinks and lunch. This trip can accommodate up to 12 revelers and you’ll enjoy an entire day out on the water — experiencing a side of Cascais that few people ever do.

Your captain and crew will wait on you hand and foot and you’ll enjoy an extensive selection of drinks and a delicious lunch while onboard.

How much do boat tours in Cascais cost?

Boat tours in Cascais range in cost depending on what type of tour you choose, meaning you can expect to pay anything between €40 and €600.

A 1.5-hour small group boat tour in Cascais costs €40 per person, making it the most inexpensive option available. However, this trip only covers the bare basics with no extras available onboard.

Cascais romantic 2-hour sunset boat tour costs €250 per couple, but this will ensure that you are the only people on board, apart from the crew. The price also includes a bottle of sparkling wine, making it the perfect romantic day out.

A 2-hour private boat trip in Cascais with drinks will cost approximately €300 for a group of up to 12 people. This means the larger the group, the less you pay per person, making it a real bargain with drinks included.

A Cascais’ private full-day all-inclusive boat tour will cost €600 per group of 12 people — but for this price your party will enjoy a day of luxury with drinks and lunch included.

Which places are seen?

Cascais

Cascais has been transformed from a small fishing community into a modern city that quickly became a favorite playground for the people of Lisbon. Today, the city toes a fine line between a modern bustling metropolis and a classically beautiful seaside city.

Cascais features a trio of beautiful bays that are usually packed with city-slickers and sunseekers over the weekend. The city can also claim to be the birthplace of James Bond — as it’s purported that Ian Flemming dreamed up the international man of mystery while stationed here during World War II.

Cabo da Roca

During your boat cruise, you might venture as far north as the famous shoreline of Cabo da Roca — the westernmost point of the European continent. Having the opportunity to see this iconic geographical location from the waters of the Atlantic Ocean is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience — and the perfect end to a boat tour in Cascais.

How long does a boat trip last?

A typical boat tour in Cascais will usually last around 2-hours, but there are a couple of longer trips available. As you can imagine, the longer the trip, the more expensive it will be, with the cost of crew and vessel maintenance increasing.

For most travelers, a 2-hour boat tour in Cascais is the perfect length, especially when combined with another activity — like a food tour, nightclubbing or wine-tasting experience.

Where do boat tours leave from?

Boat tours in Cascais almost always leave from the city’s marina, but you should confirm this when booking your tour. The marina is very easy to locate as it’s situated on the city’s most southern shore, nearby the Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Cascais?

The best time for a boat tour in Cascais is during the late spring to early autumn period (from April to October). The months of July and August are typically the warmest and busiest. If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, consider the shoulder months of May, June, September, and October.

Consider booking a sunset tour for the most picturesque scenery. If you want to do some wildlife watching, late spring and summer are good times to see dolphins.

Which other popular outdoor activities can be done in Cascais?

Travel tips

Popular tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. It's advisable to book your tour in advance to ensure you get a spot.
Even in the warm months, it can get chilly on the water, especially if you're on an early morning or late evening tour. Dress in layers, and don't forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Protect your belongings from potential splashes or spray. It's a good idea to bring a waterproof bag for items like your camera, phone, and wallet.
If you're prone to seasickness, don't forget to bring along remedies such as medication, wristbands, or even ginger candies.

Boat Tours in Cascais