Sesimbra: Double Dive on a Marine reserve

When it comes to exploring Portugal’s coast, Sesimbra offers some of the most captivating underwater scenes. This double dive tour in the Parque Marinho Professor Luiz Saldanha, one of the country’s top marine reserves, promises a full morning of underwater discovery, boat rides along rugged cliffs, and chances to see dolphins if luck is on your side. Priced at $148 per person, this experience caters to a variety of certification levels, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner eager to dip your toes into the ocean.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines reliable guides, well-organized logistics, and a chance to see a stunning array of marine life, all wrapped into a manageable four-hour window. However, one aspect to consider is that it doesn’t include hotel pickups or meals, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. This tour suits those who love authentic, active experiences and don’t mind a bit of boat time, especially if you’re keen to explore one of Portugal’s most beautiful coastlines.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: The tour offers dives suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike.
• Stunning scenery: Expect impressive coastal cliffs, clear waters, and abundant marine life during both boat rides and underwater.
• Authentic marine reserve: You’ll explore one of Portugal’s most popular dive spots with over 2000 species to spot.
• Thorough organization: The itinerary is well-planned, including safety briefings, boat transfers, and snorkeling options.
• Guided by knowledgeable professionals: The guides and dive instructors are experienced, providing safety, insights, and assistance.
• Additional costs: Extra services like photos, dive computers, or surface buoys come at an extra fee, so budget accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This Sesimbra marine reserve tour is designed to offer a genuine taste of Portugal’s underwater magic, combined with scenic boat rides along the rugged coastline. Starting at Mega Dive’s center, the experience kicks off with a safety briefing—an essential step that ensures everyone feels confident, whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned diver. The guides seem well-versed and approachable, as reviewers mention, “they make safety and fun a priority,” which adds a reassuring touch for nervous first-timers.

The boat ride itself is a highlight, with 20-minute trips between stops. These rides don’t just serve as transportation; they’re an opportunity to admire the dramatic cliffs and perhaps catch a glimpse of dolphins playing nearby—something many guests hope for and some do indeed see. Several reviewers mention that the boat trip adds a memorable layer to the day, especially when combined with the chance to see the coastline from a different perspective.

The Diving and Snorkeling Stops

The two primary underwater stops are labeled as CV7Q+XV and CR6Q+WV, each lasting about an hour. These spots are located within the marine reserve, renowned for their diverse and thriving ecosystems. Expect to see over 2000 species of fish and flora, creating an underwater environment teeming with life. Guests describe the experience as “absolutely mesmerizing,” with fish following divers around and the landscape offering a variety of interesting formations.

What’s great is that the tour offers dives for all certification levels, making it inclusive. Whether you’re a certified diver or a snorkeler, you’ll get to enjoy the vibrant underwater world. Reviewers have mentioned that the guides are attentive, often pointing out specific species or features underwater. “They really know the area,” one guest said, “and helped us spot things we might have missed on our own.”

The Snorkeling Experience

If you’re not certified or prefer to stay at the surface, the snorkeling stops are equally rewarding. The designated spots—located at some of the most scenic parts of the marine reserve—offer opportunities to float above colorful reefs and observe the lively marine life in their natural habitat. The one-hour snorkeling sessions provide enough time to explore without feeling rushed, and the guides are happy to assist with gear or tips for observing marine creatures more effectively.

The Logistics and Inclusions

The tour’s organized approach is evident in its detailed itinerary, which balances boat rides, snorkeling, and diving while allowing ample time for each. The full gear, including wetsuits, masks, fins, and snorkels, is provided, removing the hassle of bringing your own equipment. After each session, guests enjoy a hot shower and towels, a thoughtful touch that helps you feel refreshed after a morning in the water.

Included in the price are water, a traditional Sesimbra sweet cookie, and the guidance of an experienced dive guide. These small but meaningful extras contribute to the overall feeling that this is a well-thought-out experience offering good value for money.

Extra Services and Tips

While the tour covers most essentials, a few extras are available at additional cost. For example, you can rent a dive computer, surface buoy, or torch, and there’s an optional photo service—a feature worth considering if you want to capture your marine adventures. Many reviewers suggest booking the photo service in advance, as the underwater moments are stunning and deserve to be remembered.

Guests should also remember that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so planning transportation to the dive center is necessary. The tour lasts around four hours, making it a perfect half-day activity—ideal for those on a tight schedule or looking to combine with other nearby experiences.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Mega Dive: This is where the adventure begins. The staff are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, which helps set a relaxed tone.

Safety briefing (30 minutes): Clear and comprehensive, this session prepares everyone—especially beginners—so they can enjoy the water without worries.

Boat transfer (20 minutes): The boat ride takes you along the coastline, offering spectacular views of high cliffs and rocky formations.

First snorkeling/marine viewing stop (1 hour): Here, you’ll see an abundance of marine life. Reviewers have mentioned spotting “a variety of colorful fish” and “some even caught a glimpse of octopus hiding in the rocks.”

Second transfer (20 minutes): The boat glides to the second snorkeling spot, often praised for its scenery and underwater diversity.

Second snorkeling/marine viewing stop (1 hour): This session is often highlighted as the most vibrant, with many guests remarking on the beautiful underwater landscapes and playful fish.

Return to Mega Dive: After a final boat ride, the tour concludes back at the center, leaving guests with plenty of memories and photos to cherish.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and are eager to see Portugal’s marine biodiversity up close. It’s particularly suited to those who want a safe, guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail, thanks to the well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides.

Beginners and snorkelers will appreciate that the tour offers accessible options, and certified divers will love the chance to explore a renowned marine reserve. However, it’s not ideal for children under 10 or pregnant women, given the physical activity involved.

Travelers on a budget will find the price reasonable considering all equipment, guidance, and boat rides are included, providing good value for such a comprehensive experience.

Final Thoughts

The Sesimbra double dive experience offers a delightful combination of scenic boat rides, vibrant underwater ecosystems, and professional guidance. It captures the essence of Portugal’s coast—rocky cliffs, clear waters, and lively marine life—making it an excellent choice for those looking to add an active, memorable adventure to their trip.

Whether you’re a certified diver eager to explore a protected marine environment or a snorkeler excited about the colorful fish and coral, this tour is designed to cater to a variety of skill levels. The well-organized schedule, friendly guides, and stunning scenery ensure that most guests leave with unforgettable stories—and plenty of photos.

If you’re after a balanced, authentic experience that combines nature, adventure, and scenic beauty, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who value safety, professionalism, and a taste of Portugal’s vibrant underwater world.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The tour offers dives for all certification levels, and guides are experienced in assisting newcomers. The safety briefing helps ensure new divers feel confident.

What should I bring?
You should bring your dive log, diving certification, and swimwear. Equipment like dive computers or torches are optional extras at additional cost.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the Mega Dive center.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about four hours, including briefings, boat rides, and water activities.

Can I see dolphins during the boat ride?
Sometimes, yes. Guests have reported seeing dolphins playing around during the boat trips, though it’s not guaranteed.

Are meals provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water or snacks if desired.

In summary, this double dive tour in Sesimbra offers a fantastic blend of scenic coastal views, vibrant marine life, and professional guidance. It’s a great pick for adventurous spirits and curious explorers alike, providing an authentic taste of Portugal’s underwater treasures without breaking the bank.