Cascais: Open Water Swimming

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to swim in the open ocean with a guide by your side, this Cascais Open Water Swimming tour offers a fantastic introduction. Priced at $68 per person, this experience is more than just a dip in the sea; it’s a carefully curated session designed to boost your confidence, improve your technique, and give you a taste of Portugal’s stunning coastline.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines practical skills with breathtaking scenery. The professional guidance ensures safety and technique improvements, while the early morning sunrise views and calm waters make for a memorable experience.

A potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include wetsuit rentals, so if you prefer extra warmth or buoyancy, you’ll need to bring your own or plan to rent elsewhere. Plus, since the actual swim locations depend on weather and sea conditions, they can vary from day to day, which keeps things fresh but might affect your planned expectations.

This adventure is ideal for swimmers of various levels who want to enjoy the sea in a safe, guided environment. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or an experienced swimmer looking to get in some scenic laps, this tour promises a blend of relaxation and thrill.

Key Points

• Expert Guidance: A professional guide will help you improve your technique and manage anxiety in open water.
• Beautiful Scenery: Panoramic views of Cascais Bay and sunrise make each swim special.
• Safety and Skills: Includes safety briefings, breathing techniques, and weather condition tips.
• Flexible Experience: Tours last about an hour, with varying start times depending on availability.
• Inclusive Photos & Videos: Capture your swim from the guide’s footage, perfect for sharing or reviewing later.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups of up to 10 participants ensure personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.

A Deep Dive into the Cascais Open Water Swimming Tour

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting at Praia da Duquesa, the tour kicks off with a quick safety briefing and an introduction to the guide—an essential step that sets the tone for safety and enjoyment. The meeting point is well-organized, right next to the public car park and beach access stairs, making it easy to find.

You’ll then warm up briefly, which is crucial for getting your muscles ready and easing any pre-swim nerves. After that, it’s into the water for an acclimatization swim, giving you time to get comfortable with the sea’s temperature and currents. Once you’re ready, you’ll launch into a guided swim along the Cascais coast, with the guide providing real-time feedback on your technique and breathing.

The Scenic Swim

The highlight of the experience is swimming in calm, manageable waters with stunning views of the Cascais bay. Depending on sea conditions, the actual swim could vary in location and length, but most sessions will cover at least 1.5 kilometers—an impressive feat for most swimmers. The guide keeps a close eye on safety, making sure everyone stays comfortable and confident throughout.

Why the Photos Matter

One of the standout features is that your guide will take photos and videos during your swim. These can be both inspirational and instructive, providing you with visual references to improve your technique later. It’s a little touch that adds value, especially if you’re trying to document your swimming achievements or share your adventure.

Post-Swim Warm-Up

After the swim, you’ll be treated to a warm mug of tea—an appreciated touch to help your body recover and enjoy the post-swim relaxation. Plus, the small group setting means you’re not just another face in the crowd; you’ll get personalized attention, making this feel like a tailored experience rather than a generic tour.

The Itinerary and Experience Breakdown

Starting Point: Alameda Duquesa de Palmela 29 – a convenient meeting point right next to the beach, ensuring a stress-free start.

Swim Location: Baía de Cascais – famous for its calm waters and scenic beauty. The guide will choose the best spot based on weather conditions, but you can expect scenic views, gentle currents, and warm water temperatures ideal for open water swimming.

Duration: The whole experience is roughly an hour, but the actual swim can be up to an hour long. This makes it accessible for most fitness levels, especially with the warm-up and acclimatization phases.

Activities Included: Safety briefing, warm-up, guided swim, scenic views, photos, videos, and a hot drink.

Extras: Wetsuit rental isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you prefer additional buoyancy or warmth.

End Point: The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point, making logistics simple.

What Reviewers Say

One traveler described it as an “Ok!! Nice experience,” reflecting that while it may not be the most adrenaline-pumping activity, it’s enjoyable and peaceful. Another rated it as “Perfect,” highlighting the overall positive impression. These comments reinforce that while this experience isn’t overly intense, it offers genuine value—especially for those new to open water swimming or seeking a scenic, guided session.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This tour offers a wonderful balance of safety, skill development, and scenic enjoyment. It’s particularly suited for swimmers who want to gain confidence in open waters without feeling overwhelmed. The small group size ensures personalized guidance, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate swimmers alike.

The value is clear when you consider the professional guide, safety equipment, photos, and warm post-swim drink included in the price. For just $68, you get a memorable experience that combines learning with stunning coastal vistas—something you can’t easily replicate on your own.

On top of that, the timing at sunrise adds a magical quality, with calm seas and a peaceful atmosphere that makes for a truly memorable morning.

This experience might not be ideal for those who prefer wetsuits or have specific distance or timing requirements, but for most, it strikes a very good balance.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Experience

• Arrive early at the meeting point to get familiar with the surroundings and meet your guide.
• Bring your own wetsuit if you prefer extra warmth; note that rentals aren’t included.
• Wear a swim cap (provided), which helps with visibility and keeps hair out of your face.
• Prepare for changing weather — mornings can be cool, even in summer, so bring a light jacket for after the swim.
• Bring a towel and perhaps a change of clothes for after your swim.
• Capture the moment with your own waterproof camera or smartphone, but know that your guide will also take photos.
• Stay hydrated and consider bringing a small snack for afterward, especially if you’re doing multiple activities later.

FAQ

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to help swimmers improve their technique and confidence in open water, making it accessible for beginners who are comfortable with swimming.

Do I need my own wetsuit?
Wetsuit rental isn’t included in the price, so if you prefer one for warmth or buoyancy, you’ll need to bring your own or rent separately.

How long is the swim?
The tour includes at least 1.5 kilometers of swimming, with the total duration being about an hour, depending on conditions and the group’s pace.

What should I wear?
Swimmers should wear a swimsuit and bring a swim cap (which is provided). Consider bringing a towel, flip-flops, and a warm layer for after the swim.

Can I join if I’m not an experienced swimmer?
This tour is suitable for swimmers who are comfortable in the water and can handle a 1.5 km swim, but the guide’s coaching makes it friendly for those looking to improve their skills.

Are there any safety concerns?
Safety is prioritized with instructions, a guide on hand, a swim buoy, and insurance. However, participants should be aware of marine life and sea conditions.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the guide, safety equipment, photos and videos, swim cap, and accident insurance. Wetsuit rental is not included.

What’s the best time to do this?
Morning sessions are ideal, especially around sunrise, to enjoy calmer waters and cooler temperatures. Check availability for specific times.

Final Thoughts

The Cascais Open Water Swimming tour offers a well-rounded, memorable way to experience Portugal’s coastline from the water. It’s perfect for those seeking to build confidence in open water, enjoy scenic views, and learn from experienced guides. The small group setting, combined with personalized coaching and inspiring scenery, makes this tour a standout for adventurous swimmers of various skill levels.

While it may not suit those looking for a high-intensity workout or a wetsuit rental, it delivers excellent value for a gentle yet invigorating ocean experience. Plus, the chance to start your day with a sunrise swim in calm waters is a rare treat that many won’t soon forget.

If you’re after a safe, scenic, and educational sea swimming session in Cascais, this tour is unquestionably worth considering. It’s a straightforward way to connect with Portugal’s beautiful coast in an active, relaxed, and genuinely enjoyable manner.