Faro: Ria Formosa Faro Islands Boat Tour

Ilha do Farol, Algarve



Visit the Ria Formosa Natural Park on a comfortable boat that will take you on a route among the most magical islands in the region, with a experienced guide onboard.

Ria Formosa Natural Park Boat Tour from Faro

This small-group boat tour sails through Ria Formosa Natural Park channels, stopping at Farol and Deserta islands. Suitable for nature lovers and outdoor explorers.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a comfortable journey with a small group of up to 11 passengers
  • Sail through the scenic channels of Ria Formosa Natural Park
  • Visit the islands of Farol and Deserta with free time for exploration
  • See the Santa Maria Lighthouse on Farol Island
  • Opportunities for swimming at secluded beaches (spring and summer)

Description

Departing regularly from Faro, this boat tour follows the natural channels of Ria Formosa, with stops on Farol and Deserta islands. On Farol Island, admire the Santa Maria Lighthouse and explore local island cuisine during your free time.

Deserta Island offers unique landscapes with rolling dunes and distinctive flora and fauna. Enjoy guided commentary in multiple languages providing insight into the park's ecosystem. Swimming is available on both islands during spring and summer seasons from pristine, secluded beaches.

The tour operates with a modern, comfortable boat hosting a maximum of 11 passengers for an intimate experience.

Includes

  • Boat tour
  • Local guide
  • Safety briefing
  • Life jackets

Excludes

  • Pick-up service
  • Lunch

Important Information

  • Depending on conditions and boat availability, either a catamaran/pontoon or a speedboat will be used with the same service quality.
  • The boat roof may be closed off during bad weather.
  • Birdwatching is best from October to March; migration season is April to September; wildlife varies with tide levels.
  • During high season (Easter to mid-October), the morning tour lasts about 4 hours, allowing extended time on Farol Island to have lunch at local restaurants (lunch not included). Afternoon tours last about 3.5 hours.
  • Outside high season, tours last approximately 3 hours.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking Tip

Book in advance to secure your preferred departure time. Bring swimwear, sun protection, and comfortable footwear. The best time to visit for birdwatching is between October and March.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a small-group boat trip through Ria Formosa Natural Park, visits to Farol and Deserta islands, and free time for exploration and swimming during spring and summer.
The boat tour departs regularly from Faro in the Algarve region.
The tour is suitable for nature lovers and outdoor explorers of all ages, accommodating up to 11 passengers for a small-group experience.
Yes, there are opportunities to swim at secluded beaches on Farol and Deserta islands during spring and summer.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and provides a safe, comfortable experience for all ages in the Algarve's natural park.
You may see various bird species, marine life, and unique flora native to the Algarve's Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Tour durations can vary; check the website for current schedule and length details.
The tour stops at Farol Island, with its Santa Maria Lighthouse, and Deserta Island, both located within the Algarve's Ria Formosa Natural Park.
It's recommended to bring sun protection, swimwear for swimming stops, and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities in the Algarve.
The boat tour operates regularly, but availability and swimming opportunities vary by season; check the website for current details in the Algarve.

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 27.8M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again