Olhão: Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers – Tour Along the Islands

Exploring the picturesque Ria Formosa in Olhão, Portugal is an unforgettable adventure. The "Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers" tour offers an immersive 7-hour experience, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and local culinary delights. Visitors can look forward to a scenic boat trip, opportunities for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding, and a mouthwatering BBQ prepared onboard by an experienced crew. With accessibility features and activities catered to various interests, this tour promises to captivate all who embark on this journey through the stunning Algarve landscape. What more could one expect from a day spent amidst the serene islands of the Ria Formosa?

This experience made our list of the 15 Best Tours In Olhao.

Key Points

• 7-hour excursion from Marina de Olhão, wheelchair-accessible, and accommodates up to 15 people with activities like scenic boat trip, swimming, and on-board BBQ.
• Online booking available with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and meeting point at a shop next to the ferry tickets.
• Scenic boat trip through the captivating islands of Ria Formosa, with stops for swimming, sightseeing, and a highlight of on-board BBQ meal preparation.
• Mouthwatering BBQ meal with grilled meats, fish, and locally-sourced side dishes, complemented by an onboard bar for beverages.
• Positive traveler feedback on food quality, knowledgeable staff, and the overall value and memorable exploration experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers tour is a 7-hour excursion that departs from the Marina de Olhão.

This wheelchair-accessible tour accommodates up to 15 people and is offered in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Guests can enjoy a scenic boat trip through the stunning Ria Formosa’s islands, where they’ll stop for swimming, sightseeing, and a BBQ meal prepared on board.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is also included, and the boat is equipped with a bathroom and bar.

To ensure a memorable experience, travelers are advised to bring sunglasses, sun hats, towels, and sunscreen, and to avoid intoxication, alcohol, drugs, and explosive substances.

Booking Information

Travelers can book the Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers tour online and pay later, as no upfront payment is required.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Guests should arrive at the meeting point, a shop next to the ferry tickets, 20 minutes early.

The tour departs from the Marina de Olhão and can accommodate up to 15 people.

It’s available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, and is wheelchair accessible.

Exploring the Ria Formosa

A scenic boat trip through the Ria Formosa’s captivating islands kicks off the BBQ Explorers tour.

Gliding across the tranquil waters, guests are treated to breathtaking views of the natural reserve’s diverse ecosystem. Along the way, the tour makes stops for swimming and sightseeing, allowing participants to fully enjoy the beauty of the region.

The highlight of the excursion is the on-board BBQ, where a delicious meal is prepared fresh amidst the stunning backdrop. Complementing the culinary experience, the tour also includes stand-up paddleboarding, enabling guests to further explore the serene waterways.

With a maximum capacity of 15 people, the Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers tour offers an intimate and unforgettable adventure.

Onboard Dining Experience

Onboard, guests can expect a mouthwatering BBQ meal prepared fresh by the experienced crew. The delicious spread includes grilled meats, fish, and a variety of side dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients.

As the boat cruises through the Ria Formosa’s serene waterways, guests can savor the flavors while taking in the stunning natural surroundings. The onboard bar offers a selection of beverages to complement the meal.

During the dining experience, travelers can also enjoy other activities such as stand-up paddleboarding and swimming, making for a well-rounded and enjoyable outing.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Included Activities

Alongside the delectable BBQ feast, the Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers tour offers a variety of included activities that elevate the overall experience.

Passengers can enjoy a scenic boat trip through the stunning Ria Formosa’s islands, stopping for swimming and sightseeing.

The tour also includes stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), allowing guests to explore the serene waterways up close.

With a bathroom and bar available on board, the tour ensures comfort and convenience throughout the day.

These diverse activities provide visitors with a well-rounded and immersive exploration of the Algarve’s natural beauty and local culture.

Packing for the Tour

Packing the right gear is essential for enjoying the Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers tour to the fullest.

The tour organizers recommend bringing sunglasses, a sun hat, towel, and sunscreen to protect against the sun’s rays. Beachwear is a must, as the tour includes stops for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding.

Avoid packing any intoxicating substances, as the tour has a strict no-alcohol policy.

Traveler Feedback

Travelers have widely praised the Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers tour, with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 11 reviews.

Positive comments highlight the quality of the food, the knowledgeable staff, and the enjoyable overall experience.

Some reviewers suggested improved greeting and guidance to the boat, but overall, travelers recommend the tour for its great value and memorable time exploring the islands.

The combination of the scenic boat trip, the BBQ meal, and the included activities like stand-up paddleboarding have left customers satisfied with their choice to book this tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Do the Boats Depart During the Day?

The tour runs once per day, departing from the Marina de Olhão. The exact departure time is not specified, but passengers are advised to arrive 20 minutes early to the meeting point next to the ferry tickets.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, you cannot bring your own food and drinks. The tour includes a BBQ meal prepared on board and a bar is available, so outside food and alcohol are not permitted.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum age requirement. Children of all ages are welcome to join the Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers tour. However, parents are responsible for supervising their children throughout the entire experience.

Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Join the Tour?

While swimming skills are not mandatory, knowing how to swim is recommended for those who wish to participate in the stand-up paddleboarding activity during the tour. Life jackets are provided for all participants.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing any animals on board for safety and hygiene reasons. Passengers are advised to leave their pets at home for this excursion.

Recap

The "Ria Formosa BBQ Explorers" tour offers an unforgettable way to explore the Algarve’s natural wonders. Guests can enjoy a scenic boat ride, swim, stand-up paddleboard, and savor a delicious on-board BBQ, all while surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Ria Formosa islands. This wheelchair-accessible excursion promises breathtaking views and an immersive experience, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking to discover the region’s natural splendor.

You can check if your dates are available here: