SILVES BY BOAT
Arade River Tour
Explore the scenic Arade River on a historic boat tour from Portimão to Silves, with approximately 1h30m to explore this enchanting Medieval city.
On the way back, enjoy the views and a glass of wine!
SunSailer
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All year
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Adults / Children
4:30H
Portimão Marina
Arade River
Adults: 39€
Children (4/12): 25€
Not suitable for infants
Who says you can't blend eco-friendliness with pure indulgence? Hop aboard the SunBoat for a luxurious journey along the Arade River and Silves, where we sail and solar-power our way to an adventure that will become your favorite bragging story for years to come!
Enjoy a relaxing trip from Portimão to Silves aboard our sustainable eco-friendly boat on the historical waters of the Arade River, where the future meets the past.
Our ecological boat is quiet and perfect for those who look for a peacefull and relaxing boat trip. Picture yourself sinking into plush, cushioned seats, shaded like a VIP at a beach party, with tables ready to cradle your drinks and personal treasures.
As we sail, the captain turns into your very own river DJ, spinning cool facts and groovy tunes about the Arade River and its epic history. When we hit Silves, the land of historical wonders, you've got about 1h30m to explore. Unleash your inner explorer, conquer monuments, storm the castle, and dive into the cultural feast of the museum or delicious local cuisine.
On the way back to Portimão, get ready for the cinematic sequel with a glass of wine. The city unfolds before you like the grand finale, and the Arade River's mouth becomes the backstage pass to a view that's more refreshing than a sip of coconut water on a summer day.
Join us for an unforgettable, fun, and eco-conscious nautical escapade!
Important Info
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Boarding 15 minutes before
Be sure to check in at the pier at least 15 minutes before the tour starts. We want you on board and ready for the adventure!
Don't forget:
Don't forget the sunscreen, hat, cap or beanie, a jacket or windbreaker, comfortable footwear and a bottle of water (in case you get thirsty).
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Unique amenities
Our boat isn't just eco-friendly; it's a luxurious haven on the water.
With amenities like shaded lounge seating, we've crafted an experience that's truly one-of-a-kind.
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Live Local Guide
Our crew members, fluent in both Portuguese and English, will serve as your live guides, narrating interesting facts about the local history of the arade river, silves, portimão and the surroundings. It's like having your personal storyteller—educational and entertaining!
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Cancellations by Sun Boat
If the weather or ocean conditions aren't safe, or if we don't reach a minimum of 4 persons, we'll have to cancel the tour, but worry not! If the original plan needs a change, we'll sprinkle it with a dash of rescheduling magic, possibly on the same day or in the days that follow. And if all else fails, we'll whip out the refund solution faster than you can say "sea breeze".
Make sure to keep an eye on your email and phone, just in case we drop you a message or call.
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Private Boat Tour Available
Our boat tour is available for private rental, exclusively for your group. If you're ready to make a splash and have a fantastic day exploring the Silves & the Arade River with friends and family, contact us for a quote. Let's set sail on a personalized adventure that even the seagulls will envy!
FAQs
Where can I park my car?
You can park at Portimão Marina, with about a 5 minute walking distance until the pier entrance. The parking at Portimão Marina is free and easy most the year except during the Summer.
During the summer, the Portimão Marina park tends to get quite crowded, and it is paid during this time of the year. At the roundabout before entering the Portimão Marina park, next to the NH Hotel, there is a summer parking area where you'll pay an affordable price, with no time limit. You'll also have easier parking space and still be close to the boarding pier, approximately 7 minutes away. We recommend parking there during the summer instead of using the Portimão Marina parking lot.
Why do the times and dates of this tour vary so much?
This tour's schedule is intricately tied to the ebb and flow of tides. When the water completely disappears during the low tide in Silves and with the river also being silted, it makes it impossible to get there by boat anytime we want. We can only set sail on specific dates each month, carefully aligning with the tides. Our time in Silves is limited due to the changing water levels, and we want to ensure you experience the best of this adventure before the tide decides to play hide-and-seek
Can I bring my own drinks/food?
Feel free to bring your own water and light snacks on board. Just a heads up, kindly avoid bringing alcoholic drinks or large bags of food. No worries at all! With a generous 1:30 hour stop in Silves, you'll have plenty of time to explore and grab some snacks or even a meal. So, relax and enjoy the journey, knowing you'll have the perfect opportunity to refuel when we make our stop!
What should I bring to this tour?
Pack these essentials for an awesome time: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, a warm layer, comfortable clothes and shoes, and don't forget your phone or camera to capture amazing pics! Ready for an unforgettable adventure!
What languages are spoken by the tour guide?
Our tour captains are also the guides and they're fluent in both Portuguese and English, providing a bilingual experience to ensure everyone can enjoy the journey.
Is the SunSailer eco-friendly?
Absolutely! Our boat is designed with sustainability in mind, ensuring a low environmental impact. We use solar and electric power to enhance your cruising experience.
Can I bring children on the Historic Silves & Arade River Tour?
While our tour is indeed family-friendly, we highly recommend considering a private tour when bringing children along. Shared tours have restrictions, such as no infants allowed and a maximum of 2 children per tour. Why, you ask? Well, we want to ensure a serene experience for all travelers. The duration of shared tours might be a bit much for our younger guests, making it challenging for them to maintain a quiet atmosphere. Private tours offer the perfect solution, allowing for a more tailored experience, especially for families. Plus, if the weather permits, we're more than happy to make a stop for a refreshing swim, making it an even more memorable adventure!
Why can't I make a booking with children or infants for a certain date/time?
On the Historic Silves & Arade River Tour, there's a maximum number of 2 children and the tour isn't suitable for infants. When there are already other bookings that have reached the maximum number of children you won't be able to book. Please choose another date or time. It's possible to have more children/infants on-board on private tours.