2H Private Sailing Catamaran “Vertigo” Tour in Lisbon up to 18pax

Imagine gliding smoothly along Lisbon’s iconic river, the Tagus, on a sleek private catamaran, with nothing but the sound of water and the sight of historic landmarks passing by. That’s exactly what this 2-hour private sailing tour aboard “Vertigo” offers. While we haven’t taken the cruise ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a top-tier way to see Lisbon from a different perspective—minus the crowds and noise of busy tour buses.

What we love most about this experience is its private setting. You’ll be cruising just with your group, whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, making for a relaxed, intimate adventure. Plus, the chance to enjoy stunning views of Belém Tower, Saint George’s Castle, and the Alfama neighborhood from the calmness of the river sounds fantastic. One thing to keep in mind: since it’s a boat cruise, you might want to consider the weather, as cancellations are possible if it’s too stormy or rainy.

This tour is best suited for those who love a blend of sightseeing and leisure, especially if you prefer avoiding crowded tour spots. If a quick, scenic escape on the water sounds appealing, then this trip balances value, comfort, and memorable vistas perfectly.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Exclusively for your group, offering a relaxed and personalized atmosphere.
• Stunning Landmarks: See Lisbon’s iconic sights like Belém Tower and São Jorge Castle from the river.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Bottled water, snacks, crew, and fuel are included—no hidden costs.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Full refund if canceled 24 hours prior; weather-related cancellations are fully refunded or rescheduled.
• Ideal for Various Groups: Perfect for families, friends, or special celebrations like birthdays or hen parties.
• Limited Additional Costs: Food catering available if booked 48 hours in advance; sunset cruise has a small surcharge.

The Experience of the 2-Hour Private Catamaran Tour

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics

The tour kicks off at the Taguscruises Boat Tours & Yacht Charter spot at Doca do Bom Sucesso, in Lisbon’s trendy Alcântara district. The meeting point is convenient for many, located near public transportation, and the check-in process is smooth, with helpful staff ready to assist. From reviews, guests particularly appreciate the friendly crews, with some mentioning their guides like Bruno and Nuno by name for their attentive service.

The Itinerary: Landmarks from a New Angle

Belém Tower is the first sight you’ll see, and from the river, it’s even more captivating. The tower’s intricate stonework and historical significance are best appreciated from the water, with many reviews highlighting the stunning views and photo opportunities. Reviewers mention that the crew often points out interesting facts, making the experience educational as well as scenic.

Next up is the Discovery Monument, standing proud and majestic near the riverbank. Cruises offer a unique angle to appreciate the monument’s scale, and many guests have found this to be a highlight, with some noting the peaceful ambiance of cruising past such iconic symbols.

Crossing under the Ponte 25 de Abril, the bridge often steals the show with its impressive size—it’s often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate. The views of the bridge from the deck are unbeatable, with some reviewers mentioning that the photo ops are incredible. The guides generally keep guests informed about the bridge’s history, adding an educational touch.

Christ the King Statue is another stop, where guests enjoy panoramic vistas of Lisbon, the river, and the surrounding hills. The relaxed pace and calm waters make it ideal for photography and simply soaking in the scenery.

Finally, the cruise passes the Commerce Square, giving guests a chance to view Lisbon’s vibrant city life from afar. Many reviews note how the quietness of the boat contrasts sharply with the busy city streets, giving a sense of peaceful distance from the hustle and bustle.

Included Provisions and Comfort

Onboard, bottled water is provided—typically one drink per person—and light snacks like peanuts or crackers keep hunger at bay. The crew are praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, often going out of their way to ensure comfort. The boat itself is described as large, clean, and well-maintained, with enough space for everyone to relax and enjoy the ride.

Additional Options and Considerations

While this tour covers the main sights, some reviews mention that it’s not a full sailing experience—the boat mainly uses the engine. If you’re expecting a traditional sailing adventure, this might be a minor disappointment. But for most, the focus on sightseeing and comfort outweighs this.

Catering services are available if booked 48 hours before, making it a good option for celebrations. Sunset cruises are an additional option with a small surcharge (around $50), which many guests find worth the extra for the breathtaking views as the city lights start to glow.

Duration and Group Size

Two hours is a perfect length—long enough to see key sights without feeling rushed. The boat accommodates up to 18 guests, making it intimate but spacious enough for lively groups. The reviews highlight that the size of the boat keeps everyone comfortable, even when groups are large.

The Value of the 2-Hour Private Catamaran Experience

Priced at roughly $687.84 for a group of up to 15, the cost might seem high at first glance. But considering the private setting, all-inclusive provisions, and exclusive access to Lisbon’s scenic spots, many guests say it’s well worth the price. Compared to crowded city tours, this offers a more personalized, relaxed way to enjoy Lisbon’s best views.

The reviews consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable crew for making guests feel taken care of, which adds to the perceived value. Many mention their plans to repeat the experience—whether for a birthday, hen party, or just a special day—highlighting its appeal as a memorable celebration.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers seeking a comfortable, private experience with a focus on sightseeing and leisure. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples wanting a special way to see Lisbon without the crowds. It also caters well to celebrations like birthdays or hen parties, thanks to the catered options and customizable elements.

If you’re after a quick, scenic escape on the water with excellent views and good service, this tour hits the mark. However, if you’re looking for a true sailing adventure or a more active experience, this might not be the best fit, as the boat primarily operates on its engine.

Final Thoughts

In short, the “Vertigo” private catamaran tour offers a rare chance to enjoy Lisbon’s most famous sights in peace and comfort. The stunning river views, combined with attentive staff and a relaxed atmosphere, make it a standout choice for anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with a touch of luxury.

While the price reflects the exclusivity and inclusions, most guests agree it provides excellent value—especially when considering the private setting and the memorable vistas. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a different perspective on Lisbon, this experience has the potential to be a highlight of your trip.

FAQs

Is bottled water included in the tour?
Yes, each guest receives one bottle of water, soft drink, or beer, included in the price.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
While light snacks are provided, catering services are available if booked 48 hours in advance. Bringing additional food or drinks isn’t specified, so it’s best to check with the provider.

What stops does the cruise include?
The cruise stops at Belém Tower, the Discovery Monument, Ponte 25 de Abril, Christ the King Statue, and passes by Commerce Square.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, and service animals are allowed. The experience is generally appropriate for most ages, provided they enjoy being on the water.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or rescheduled. You need to cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How large is the boat?
The boat can hold up to 18 guests, ensuring everyone has ample space for comfort.

Is it a true sailing experience?
No, the boat mainly uses its engine for propulsion, so it’s more of a scenic cruise than a sailing adventure.

This private 2-hour catamaran tour in Lisbon offers an elegant, relaxed, and scenic way to experience the city’s riverfront landmarks. Perfect for groups wanting a memorable, hassle-free outing that combines sightseeing, comfort, and a touch of luxury.