Things to do in
Arade River

Arade River: Our most recommended tours and activities

Portimão: Pirate Ship Cave Cruise

Portimão: Pirate Ship Cave Cruise

Feel like a pirate sailing the Atlantic on this unique cruise from Portimão that combines adventure and relaxation. Visit famous sites like the lighthouse of Alfanzina and the Benagil Cave.   After boarding, begin by receiving a full briefing on your safety and comfort for your cruise. From there, hit the open water and navigate the coast off of Rio Arade, the village of Ferragudo, medieval castles, and the Atlantic Ocean. Cruising east, pass Carvoeiro, which contains the famous rock formation of Algar Seco. Arriving to the lighthouse of Alfanzina, transfer to a small boat to visit the inside of the local caves which run from the lighthouse to Marinha Beach. These caves include the famous cathedral cave of Benagil. On your return journey, be on the lookout for dolphins, which are regularly spotted in this area.

From Portimão: Benagil Sea Caves Boat Tour at Sunrise

From Portimão: Benagil Sea Caves Boat Tour at Sunrise

Sunrise slot is the best overall to do a caves tour of the day, the caves are deserted and you will feel it and enjoy a special atmosphere with this tour. Don't miss out on a must-do Benagil Caves tour. Meet your skipper at the pier in Portimao and listen to a short safety briefing. Then, board the RIB speed boat to start the journey out to sea. On your way, the skipper will tell you stories about the Arade River and the Algarve region. Admire views of the Fort of Santa Catarina, the Ferragudo castle, and a quaint fishing village along the coast. See many dramatic caves and cliffs as you travel along the coast. Then, see the famous Benagil Caves, which are only reachable by boat. Marvel at the naturally-formed holes at the top, which let the sunlight filter down to the sandy beach below in a beautiful display. Listen to the echoes and the sound of the wind and let yourself be moved by these impressive natural surroundings. Allocation of reserves is automatic. If you make individual reservations but are part of a group, let us know which reservations belong to your group.

From Portimão: Algar de Benagil and Sea Caves Boat Tour

From Portimão: Algar de Benagil and Sea Caves Boat Tour

Starting from the Marina of Portimão, admire the views of centuries-old castles, such as the Fort of São João do Arade and the Fort of Santa Catarina. See the old fishing village of Ferragudo and the beautiful hills of Monchique, all from the river canal. Leave the river towards adventure and take in all the scenic views of the natural Algarve coastline, visiting many caves and beaches while learning about the rich history from our knowledgeable tour guides. Enjoy all sorts of local fauna and flora, take astonishing pictures, and gain knowledge about the local wildlife and geological formations with the help of our crew. Create unforgettable memories and capture amazing photos in the Algar of Benagil, one of the most coveted cave destinations in the whole country, all in the capable and safe hands of our experienced crew members. Take advantage of our short stop at Praia da Marinha, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, to go for a dive in the gorgeous turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. On the way back, our Captain will maneuver away from the cliffs to provide a broader view of the coastline.

Portimao: Luxury Sail-Yacht Cruise with Sunset Option

Portimao: Luxury Sail-Yacht Cruise with Sunset Option

Embark on a unique 2h30 hour adventure aboard an elegant sailing boat as you explore the stunning Algarve coastline. Departing from the picturesque Marina of Portimão, you will be welcomed by a friendly and professional crew ready to provide you with an unforgettable experience. As you sail through the crystal clear waters, you will have the opportunity to admire the golden cliffs, hidden beaches and fascinating rock formations that characterize this coastal region. The sailboat will make strategic stops at points of interest, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters or simply relax on board and enjoy the scenery. Keep an eye out for the local marine fauna, including the dolphins that often accompany boats in this region. Important Notices: We inform you that shoes with black soles are not permitted, as well as any type of shoe other than white soles or similar shoes. The safety of everyone is our highest and most important priority. The state of the sea may not allow all activities to be practiced, it is up to our experienced captains and the maritime authorities to assess them. In the event that weather conditions do not allow for some activities, we can guarantee that this will not affect your trip and that you will come and enjoy an enriching trip to discover the secrets of the Algarve coast. Snacks and Drinks: We have a menu available for pre-order and upon prepayment. Alternatively, you can bring your own drinks and snacks for just 10 euros per person (upon prepayment via link). Please note that dark-coloured drinks are not permitted on board. Come and enjoy a perfect day at sea, with the comfort and natural beauty that only the Algarve coast can offer. Book your place now and get ready for a memorable experience!

Durt & Dust Paradaise tour - Buggy tour 90 min

Durt & Dust Paradaise tour - Buggy tour 90 min

A 90 minutes tour with a lot of excitement, focused on the driving experience in an authentic off road buggy paradise through great trails, valleys, hills and streams. Let yourself be dazzled by a landscape of rare beauty. Points of interest: - Silves Castel (Exterior view) - Streams - Great trails - Arade´s Dam

Portimao: Half-Day Sailing Yacht Cruise to the Benagil Caves

Portimao: Half-Day Sailing Yacht Cruise to the Benagil Caves

Embark on a unique 3.5-hour adventure aboard an elegant sailing boat as you explore the stunning Algarve coastline. Departing from the picturesque Marina of Portimão, you will be welcomed by a friendly and professional crew ready to provide you with an unforgettable experience. As you sail through the crystal clear waters, you will have the opportunity to admire the golden cliffs, hidden beaches and fascinating rock formations that characterize this coastal region. The sailboat will make strategic stops at points of interest, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters or simply relax on board and enjoy the scenery. Keep an eye out for the local marine fauna, including the dolphins that often accompany boats in this region. Important Notices: We inform you that shoes with black soles are not permitted, as well as any type of shoe other than white soles or similar shoes. The safety of everyone is our highest and most important priority. The state of the sea may not allow all activities to be practiced, it is up to our experienced captains and the maritime authorities to assess them. In the event that weather conditions do not allow for some activities, we can guarantee that this will not affect your trip and that you will come and enjoy an enriching trip to discover the secrets of the Algarve coast. Snacks and Drinks: We have a menu available for purchase upon prepayment. Alternatively, you can bring your own drinks and snacks for just 10 euros per person (upon prepayment via link). Please note that dark-coloured drinks are not permitted on board. Come and enjoy a perfect day at sea, with the comfort and natural beauty that only the Algarve coast can offer. Book your place now and get ready for a memorable experience!

Portimão: Silves & Arade River History Tour on a Solar Boat

Portimão: Silves & Arade River History Tour on a Solar Boat

Come and explore the beautiful Arade River and experience a journey between Portimão and Silves, where the future meets the past. You will have about 1.5 hours to visit this wonderful medieval city (the wonderful moorish castle, the cathedral, the museum) or have a taste of its excellent gastronomy. Throughout your tour, you will enjoy an unforgettable and unique experience aboard a solar-powered boat. You will travel on a boat so silent that all you will be able to ear yourself glide though the water, with no noise, gas spills or exhaust fumes. Combining comfort and fun, this tour is great for couples, families, and groups. The Arade River has since ever been of great importance in connecting Silves (the Islamic capital of the Algarve between the 8th and 13th centuries) to the sea. For centuries, the Arade was the scenery of important merchant trades, and was sailed by many cultures including the Phoenicians, Romans, Vikings, and Moors, among others. Ships came to carry minerals, cork, wood, fruits (figs, oranges almonds, carob) fish, salt, among other various riches of this region.

From Portimao: Benagil Cave and Marinha Beach Boat Tour

From Portimao: Benagil Cave and Marinha Beach Boat Tour

Discover the beautiful coastline of the Algarve on a boat cruise from Portimao. Admire the views of rock formations as well as the beaches of Marinha, La Rocha, and Carvalho, with a stop for swimming during the tour. Start the tour from Clube Naval de Portimao located by the Arade River. Pass by the quaint fishing village of Ferragudo, St John´s Fortress situated by the river, the Marina of Portimao, and La Rocha Beach. Next, sail by the various rock formations, hidden beaches, and mysterious caves that dot the coastline between the city of Portimao and beautiful Praia da Marinha. Admire the sights of Carvalho Beach, Canairos Beach, Paradise Beach, and Carvoeiro village. Spot the rock formations of Algar Seco such as the Cathedral Cave, Cave of the Smugglers, Monster Cave, Cave of the Heart, Turtle Cave, and many more. Arrive at the famous Benagil Cave which you can snap photos from different perspectives from the boat. Afterwards head to Praia da Marinha (Navy Beach) and make a stop for swimming in the bay. Afterwards, speed along the coastline back to Portimao.

Algarve: Boat Trip to the Caves of Benagil

Algarve: Boat Trip to the Caves of Benagil

Discover the Benagil Caves on a guided boat tour from the Algarve. Take in the coastal views as you sail, look out for dolphins, and explore the interiors of several coastal caves, including Paraiso, Carvoeiro, and Benagil. Begin your trip to the caves of the Algarve Coast. Explore the coastal caves ranging from Portimao to Caneiros, Paraiso, Carvoeiro, Benagil and Praia da Marinha. The trip will start on the Arade River at Clube Naval Portimao, from where you can view the landscape, Ferragudo Castle, and numerous beaches. After setting out to the open sea you will become witness to various rock formations and more than 20 caves. You will be able to journey inside the caves during your tour, which will provide you with the opportunity to take plenty of unique photos. If you are lucky on the day, you will also have the chance to see dolphins. You will of course be welcome to stop for a swim in the sea if you wish, and your guide will be explaining your surroundings for the duration of your tour. Once your tour has concluded, you will disembark at Portimao.

Silves, Caldas and Monchique Wine Tasting: Full Day Tour

Silves, Caldas and Monchique Wine Tasting: Full Day Tour

After being collected from your hotel, you will head towards the historic village of Silves, where you will discover in detail the Algarve village. The castle is a must-see, and you will be able to explore this fantastic monument in detail. The tour then continues with the Silves Cathedral, a unique place with a stunning architecture. After you will head up to the mountains, where Monchique is waiting for you. Before reaching Monchique you will stop at Caldas de Monchique, a very picturesque place full of history and an unparalleled natural beauty. Here you will see some of the well-known thermal spring water sources. Then in Monchique you'll enjoy some free time to explore and get some food in the main square of these little village. You will then proceed onward to Fóia, the highest point in the Algarve region and one of the largest in Portugal. With 902 meters of height, you will be able to gain a breathtaking 360º view of the entire area. On the way back to Lagos we will stop at a local winery where you will enjoy a delicious Wine Tasting and relax.

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What people are saying about Arade River

Overall rating

4.7
(1,227 reviews)

We had a great time bounding across the sea taking in the amazing views of the coastline and caves specifically. Our guide was excellent and the captain was very experienced so it made for a great trip.

we loved this activity that we did as a family. The captain was very friendly and the guide was excellent and his touch of humor was appreciable. we highly recommend this activity

Incredible, fantastic staff, thank you for making it so enjoyable, we enjoyed it a lot and to top it off we went for a swim in the open sea, totally recommended.

The boat ride was wonderful and returning as the sun set was spectacular

It was a great experience, nice and relaxed but also very exciting.