This boat trip turns Sesimbra’s shoreline into a short adventure, not a long wait in the sun. You cruise past coastal views you can’t easily reach on foot, then hop between four beach stops for snorkeling time and sea views.

I like that it’s built for an easy day: you get a snorkeling kit and a guide, plus a regional drink moment near the end. It’s also a small group setup, capped at 8 travelers, so questions don’t get swallowed by the crowd.

One consideration: the water can run chilly, especially in early September. If you feel cold fast, plan for that and consider renting a wetsuit before you go.

Key Highlights You’ll Actually Care About

• Four beach stops in about 2.5 hours, so you get variety without exhausting travel time
• Snorkeling kit included, plus safety gear listed in what’s provided
• Guide in English with help at the water for an easier start
• A regional drink at the end, with wine mentioned in guest experiences
• Small max group size (8 travelers) for a more relaxed pace
• Multiple short swims (30 minutes each), with one longer stop for more water time

Why This Sesimbra Boat Trip Feels Like More Than a Swim

I like trips that don’t force you into an all-day logistics puzzle. This one gives you a clear rhythm: you get boat time for views, then short, focused beach windows where snorkeling fits naturally. That timing matters because it keeps the day fun and manageable, even if you’re not the kind of traveler who wants hours of gear wrangling.

The best part is the blend of scenery and water access. From the boat, you’re seeing the coastline and remote bays from the right angle. Then, when you’re at each beach, you can shift from watching to doing—getting your face over the water and letting the seabed come to you.

Also, you’re not paying just for transportation. Your ticket includes fees and taxes, a snorkeling kit, a guide, and a regional drink moment. For a price that’s under $60, that combination is what makes it feel like a solid deal rather than a “pay and hope” excursion.

Getting There: Blue Coast Tours Sesimbra and a Smooth Start

The tour starts at Blue Coast Tours Sesimbra at Rua Clube Naval de Sesimbra, Porto de Abrigo, 2970-263 Sesimbra. The activity also ends back at that same meeting point, which is a big deal for a day trip—no extra “now where do I go?” stress.

You’ll use a mobile ticket, so you’re not hunting for printed confirmations. The tour language is English, and the group size stays small (maximum 8 travelers). That small cap usually means you’re more likely to get personal guidance at the water and clearer instructions about timing.

One practical note from real-life feedback: the meeting spot can be a little hard to recognize in person even if the map gets you close. My advice is simple: arrive a few minutes early and use the address as your anchor, not signage.

If you’re relying on public transport, you’ll be pleased it’s described as near public transportation—still, check your exact route the day of, because “near” can mean different distances in coastal towns.

The Boat Ride: Views, Timing, and Why It Works

The total duration is about 2 hours 30 minutes, so you’re not trapped on the water all day. Instead, the schedule balances cruising with actual time where you can swim and snorkel.

That balance is exactly why this trip works for most people. You’re getting the best of both worlds: the coastline looks impressive from the sea, but you’re also spending enough time at each stop to feel like you earned it. Short beach windows are easier to enjoy than long ones when the weather changes or the water is cool.

Guides Marco and Jorge are specifically called out as friendly and good with English. That matters because snorkeling is one of those activities where instructions can make or break your comfort level. When someone explains what to do, how long you have, and how to handle the water safely, you spend less time second-guessing and more time actually enjoying the bay.

Stop 1: Ribeira do Cavalo Beach for Snorkeling at Sea Level

Ribeira do Cavalo Beach is your first water stop, around 30 minutes. This is where you get your main snorkeling push for the day, with snorkeling equipment included.

What you’ll likely love here is the straightforward feel: you go from boat to beach, then into calm water time. The beach is described as offering crystal-clear waters, which is what you want for snorkeling—better visibility makes the seabed more rewarding.

The trade-off is that your comfort depends on the water temperature. A guest in early September flagged that the water was too cold for snorkeling without a wetsuit. That’s not rare along the coast, so if you run cold, treat this stop as the one where you’ll feel it first.

My practical tip: don’t assume you’ll power through. If you get cold quickly, plan for shorter snorts of snorkeling rather than forcing long sessions. The day still has plenty of scenery even if you take the time to warm up between swims.

Stop 2: Praia da Mijona for Calm-Water Swimming

Praia da Mijona gets about 30 minutes as well. This stop is framed as a refreshing swim in calm, crystal-clear waters.

This is a nice pacing change after the first snorkeling-focused beach. If you want a break from the more structured feel of gear and instructions, this kind of stop is where you can simply float, swim, and enjoy the water without feeling like you’re on a strict schedule.

You’ll also notice a pattern in the trip: the short stops help keep your energy up. Even if you don’t snorkel at every single location for long, the rhythm prevents you from feeling like you’ve committed to a full beach day.

The tour listing also notes an admission ticket that’s free for this stop, which generally means fewer extra costs on the ground—another small but real value point.

Stop 3: Inferno Beach and the Snorkeling Moment

Inferno beach is another 30-minute stop, and it’s positioned as a place to explore and enjoy snorkeling experiences. This is where the trip leans more adventurous again.

What makes this stop interesting is the variety in the coastline experience. You’re not just repeating the same beach vibe four times; you’re moving between different bays and water conditions. Even when snorkeling conditions aren’t perfect, switching locations can still pay off because one cove may feel clearer or calmer than another.

If you’re sensitive to cold water, keep your expectations realistic here too. A short snorkeling window can still be enjoyable even if you’re not staying underwater for long. Think of it as a few good passes over the seabed, then back to warmth.

Stop 4: Baleeira Beach for Longer Water Time and Regional Drinks

Baleeira Beach is your longest stop at about 1 hour. This is a bigger window for swimming and snorkeling, plus you get regional drinks for tasting on site.

This stop is where you can slow down. With a full hour, you have time to settle in, try snorkeling if you feel warmed up, and also enjoy the beach without rushing. It’s the most forgiving stop in the schedule—great if you want one place to feel like your main moment of the day.

On top of that, there’s a food-and-drink touch. Your tour includes a regional drink, and guest feedback also mentions a little wine at the end. That’s the kind of payoff that makes the day feel complete: you get activity, views, and then a relaxed finish rather than a quick “off you go” departure.

Practical note: snacks and soda/pop are not included, so if you want something to munch between stops, plan ahead. For many people, the drink and the time on the water are enough, but a small snack can keep energy steady if you’re out longer than you expected.

Snorkeling Reality Check: Cold Water and What to Do About It

Let’s talk honestly about snorkeling conditions. The tour does include a snorkeling kit, and there’s guided support. But water temperature is still the wild card.

One reviewer noted that in early September the water was too cold to snorkel comfortably without a wetsuit. I take that seriously because it points to a pattern: a included kit helps, but it doesn’t solve the temperature problem.

So here’s my balanced approach:

• If you’re usually comfortable in cool water, you’ll probably be fine for short snorkeling sessions.
• If you tend to get cold quickly, plan to rent a wetsuit locally or keep your snorkeling time shorter and focus more on swimming.

Also, wear sunscreen. A separate review specifically called out sunscreen, which tells me you’ll be exposed while cruising and while waiting on the boat between stops. Bring your own and apply before you start, not halfway through when you realize your shoulders are already cooking.

Price and Value: What You’re Really Paying For

At $59.91 per person, you’re paying for more than scenery. Here’s what that price covers: all fees and taxes, snorkeling kit, a guide, safety gear listed in the inclusions, and a regional drink.

You’re also getting a format that’s efficient: about 2.5 hours total, four beach stops, and time that’s long enough to matter—especially that 1-hour Baleeira slot. That makes the cost feel closer to what you’d expect for a guided coastal experience rather than a basic boat ride.

Where you might spend extra is on food. Snacks and soda/pop aren’t included. If you want to snack during the day, budget for it or bring simple items if allowed. (I can’t promise what’s permitted on board, so your best move is to ask when you confirm.)

The biggest value win is simplicity. Small group, English guide, snorkeling equipment provided, and a payoff at the end with regional drinks.

Who This Tour Is Best For (and Who Should Think Twice)

This is a great fit if you want:

• Coastal views plus real water time
• A small-group trip (max 8) where instructions are clear
• Included snorkeling gear, so you don’t have to figure out rental logistics
• A day that’s active but not overly long (2.5 hours)

It’s less ideal if:

• You know cold water shuts you down. If you’ll refuse snorkeling once you feel the temperature, you may still enjoy the views, but you’ll lose part of what makes the tour special.
• You need lots of snack time or soda available. Since those aren’t included, you’ll have to plan.

If you’re traveling in September or shoulder seasons and you’re from a warm-water climate, I’d plan like you’ll feel the chill. Bring sunscreen, consider wetsuit options, and treat each snorkeling window as a short chance—not a marathon.

Should You Book This Secret Bays Boat Trip?

I’d book it if you want a straightforward coastal adventure from Sesimbra with multiple stops and a clear payoff: views, snorkeling opportunities, and a regional drink finish. The small group size, included snorkeling kit, and guided support make it feel easy to jump into—no hunting gear, no long bus transfers.

I’d be cautious if you’re very temperature-sensitive or expect perfect snorkeling every minute. Water can be chilly, and the schedule is built around short stops. That doesn’t ruin the trip, but it does change what you should expect from snorkeling.

If you’re aiming for value and variety in one half-day style experience, this is a strong choice.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip?

It runs for about 2 hours 30 minutes.

How much does the tour cost?

The price is listed as $59.91 per person.

What language is the guide speaking?

The tour is offered in English.

Is a snorkeling kit included?

Yes. A snorkeling kit is included.

What stops are included during the trip?

You’ll visit Ribeira do Cavalo Beach (around 30 minutes), Praia da Mijona (around 30 minutes), Inferno beach (around 30 minutes), and Baleeira Beach (around 1 hour).

Are drinks included?

Yes. Regional drinks for tasting are included, and a little wine at the end is mentioned in guest experiences.

Are snacks or soda included?

No. Snacks and soda/pop are not included.

What happens if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

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