Private Catamaran Tour: Lisbon coast cruise with barbecue and drinks

Exploring Lisbon’s coast on a private catamaran offers a unique way to soak up the sun, sea, and scenic beauty. This half-day cruise from Lisbon to Cascais combines the thrill of sailing with relaxing leisure, all topped off with a delicious barbecue and chilled drinks. Perfect for those looking for an intimate, flexible experience—whether you want to lounge on deck or take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic—this tour delivers a memorable coastal escape.

What really catches our eye about this experience is the private setting: up to 12 guests, a dedicated crew, and the chance to customize your time on the water. The inclusion of a barbecue with vegetarian options, coupled with a selection of beverages, makes it a fantastic value for a group celebrating or just wanting a taste of Portuguese seaside luxury.

On the flip side, potential travelers should consider that this is a weather-dependent activity—if the weather turns sour, the cruise might be canceled or rescheduled. Also, it doesn’t include hotel transfers or guided tours, so you’ll need to plan your transport separately. Still, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and exclusive day on the water, this cruise suits well for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to see Lisbon from a different perspective.

Key Points:

• Private, intimate experience for up to 12 guests, offering personalized service
• Scenic sailing along the Estoril Coast with options for swimming and sunbathing
• All-inclusive BBQ lunch with vegetarian options available upon request
• Chilled drinks including wine, sangria, sodas, and water—perfect for relaxing
• Stunning views of Lisbon, Cascais, and the Atlantic coastline from the water
• Weather flexibility means your trip is dependent on good conditions

An In-Depth Look at the Lisbon Coast Catamaran Experience

Setting sail from Doca de Alcântara near the Orient Museum, this tour kicks off with a relaxed meet-up. The private catamaran, described as large and comfortable, provides the perfect vessel for a group of up to 12 people. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll notice the well-kept, clean environment and the friendly, attentive crew ready to ensure your comfort. One review even highlighted the crew’s knowledgeable guides and good communication beforehand, which makes a difference when you’re navigating a new experience.

The Itinerary: From Lisbon to Cascais and Beyond

The cruise mainly follows the coastline south of Lisbon, including stretches of the Estoril coast. The route passes behind the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge, with stops along the way at notable spots such as MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology) and Belem, giving you a fresh perspective of Lisbon’s historic areas seen from the water.

While the primary focus is on the scenic sail, the highlight for many is the chance to stop for a swim near a beach—an opportunity to cool off in the Atlantic. Several reviewers mention how much they appreciated this, with one saying the “great swim” made the experience even more memorable. You can hop in and out of the water at your leisure, making it ideal for those who love a spontaneous splash or two.

What Makes the Sailing Special?

Many guests referenced the stunning views of Lisbon, Cascais, and Estoril, especially when basking on the deck. As one reviewer put it, the “extraordinary view” combined with the comfortable sunbathing space on the boat makes for a perfect sun-drenched day. The boat’s luxurious loungers and open deck mean you’ll often find yourself with a prime spot for photos or just relaxing with a drink in hand.

The Food and Drinks: A Feast on the Water

The inclusion of a barbecue lunch elevates this experience from just sightseeing to a true feast. The menu typically features cheese and chorizo boards, grilled meats, salads, bread, fresh fruit, and chocolate cake—a hearty spread that perfectly complements a day on the water. Vegetarian options are available if requested, ensuring everyone gets a satisfying meal.

Reviewers have raved about the quality of the food, with one describing the BBQ as “fantastic”. Paired with four drinks per guest—from white, green, and sparkling wine to sangria, sodas, and bottled water—the onboard dining experience is both indulgent and refreshing. Many mention how well the drinks selection was curated for a relaxing day.

The Value for Money

At around $1,897 for up to 12 people (roughly $158 per person), this cruise offers a luxurious, private experience that’s hard to beat in terms of personalized service and scenery. When you consider the all-inclusive BBQ, drinks, and the exclusivity of a private vessel, the price reflects good value, especially for special occasions or intimate gatherings.

Considerations Before Booking

While the cruise is weather-dependent – which can be a bit of a gamble – the flexibility of rescheduling or full refunds if canceled due to poor conditions offers peace of mind. It’s also worth noting that hotel transfers aren’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

The group size of 12 strikes a good balance: intimate enough to enjoy privacy but large enough to create a lively atmosphere. If you prefer a guided commentary on Lisbon’s landmarks, this isn’t included, but the crew’s friendly approach often involves sharing tidbits about the coastline and surrounding areas.

Why This Tour Is Perfect for You

If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water, with a touch of luxury, this cruise ticks all the boxes. It’s ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, small family groups, or friends wanting to enjoy Lisbon from a new angle. The private setting ensures a quiet, tailored experience, and the combination of sailing, swimming, and dining makes it a well-rounded day out.

Travelers who appreciate good food and drinks, combined with stunning coastal views, will find this cruise particularly appealing. It’s not about high-energy adventure but about savoring the moment in an authentic, laid-back environment.

FAQ

Is this tour private? Yes, it’s a private cruise for your group of up to 12 people, offering a personalized experience.

What’s included in the price? The cruise includes four hours on a private catamaran, four drinks per guest (choices of wine, sangria, sodas, and water), a BBQ lunch with various options including vegetarian, and stops for swimming.

Can I request vegetarian food? Absolutely. Vegetarian options are available upon request when you book.

Does the tour include hotel pickup? No, hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How long is the cruise? It lasts approximately four hours, giving ample time for sailing, swimming, and dining.

Where does the tour depart from? The meeting point is at Doca de Alcântara, near the Orient Museum, easily accessible by public transportation.

Are there guide explanations during the cruise? No guided commentary is included, but the crew is friendly and happy to share information about the coastline and landmarks.

Is there a recommended age limit? The tour is suitable for most travelers, but very young children should be evaluated based on their comfort with water and boat trips.

How many drinks are included? Each guest receives four drinks, with options to choose from a selection of wines, sangria, sodas, and water.

Final Thoughts

This private catamaran cruise offers an elegant way to enjoy Lisbon’s coast, blending scenic sailing with casual luxury. The stunning views, delicious BBQ, and relaxed atmosphere make it a standout choice for those wanting a special day out in Portugal. The personalized service and the chance to swim in the Atlantic add authentic touches that elevate this experience beyond typical sightseeing tours.

It’s especially suited for small groups, couples, or anyone celebrating a momentous occasion who values privacy, comfort, and gourmet food. With strong reviews praising the friendly crew, excellent wine, and beautiful scenery, this cruise promises a memorable and worthwhile outing—if the weather cooperates.

While it might not be the best choice for those needing guided commentary or hotel transfers, it’s a superb option for travelers seeking a luxurious, intimate escape along Portugal’s stunning coast. Prepare for a relaxed, scenic, and indulgent day that captures the essence of Lisbon’s seaside charm.