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An aerial view of a coastal area with a sandy beach, a small settlement, and a large body of water with varying shades of blue. 1
An aerial view of a coastal town with a beach, clear blue waters, and a distant cityscape. 2
An aerial view of a marina with numerous boats docked in two parallel piers. 3
A boat named 'TOURS' on a sandy beach with calm water and other boats in the background. 4
A boat named 'MARES VIVAS' with a green stripe, docked in a harbor with wooden buildings and a clear blue sky. 5

Ria Formosa: Armona and Culatra Islands 3-Hour Boat Tour

By Odyssey Traditional Boat Tours
9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
Free cancellation available
Price is €35 per adult
See tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 3h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Multiple languages

Overview

  • Admire the spectacular natural beauty of the Ria Formosa Natural Park
  • Learn more about the culture and curiosities from your expert captain
  • Enjoy some time for swimming at Praia Deserta
  • Choose between a shared group or private boat cruise

Activity location

    • Faro
    • Faro, Faro, Portugal

Meeting/Redemption Point

    • Cais T, Av. 5 de Outubro s/n, 8700-302 Olhão, Portugal | We're near the Ferry Tickets office. Just look for the stand that says Odyssey Boat Tours. You can also search for Odyssey Boat Tours on Google Maps and you'll find photos and the location.
    • Olhão, Faro, Portugal

Multiple meeting/redemption points available, see location information for full list

Check availability

Shared Group Boat Cruise

  • Activity duration is 3 hours3h
    3h
  • English
Price details
€35.00 x 1 Adult€35.00
Total
Price is €35.00

What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's included
    Ria Formosa map
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Bird, species and mollusc identification guide
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Visit to 2 islands
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Small group tour with a local guide
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Life jacket provided
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Boat with shade
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Hotel pickup and drop-off

Know before you book

  • In accordance with EU regulations about consumer rights, activities services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. Supplier cancellation policy will apply.
  • This activity is provided by a professional trader (a party acting within their trade, business or profession).

What you can expect

Join us on this unique and unforgettable boat tour through Ria Formosa Natural Park , one of Portugal's most beautiful and protected natural areas.

Explore two stunning islands, each with its own charm and beauty. The trip includes stops at Culatra Island and Armona Island (or Deserta Beach in summer), offering a full immersion into the natural wonders of the region. Your guide will share insights about Ria Formosa and the islands throughout the journey. Since we navigate only inside the lagoon, there is no seasickness.

First Stop: Culatra Island (1 hour)
Discover a traditional and authentic fishing village where time seems to stand still. Wander through the charming dirt streets, visit the local church, and learn about the fishing traditions from your captain. You can also enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants — clams, shrimp, sardines and fresh fish — many with stunning sea views. Culatra is also home to the innovative “Culatra 2030” sustainable energy community project.

Second Stop: Armona Island or Deserta Beach (45 min to 1 hour)
In winter/autumn/spring, we stop at Armona Island with its fine sand beaches, crystal clear waters, dunes and natural trails. In summer, we stop at Deserta Beach — a secluded paradise of golden sand and calm, transparent water, perfect for swimming or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

What to bring:

  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Sun cream
  • Towel
  • Swimming costume (summer)

Good to know:

  • Stop order may change depending on weather and tides
  • Free time at each stop to explore at your own pace
  • Bring your own lunch or eat at a local restaurant
  • Arrive 15-20 minutes early at the meeting point

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    • Faro
    • Faro, Faro, Portugal

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    • Cais T, Av. 5 de Outubro s/n, 8700-302 Olhão, Portugal | We're near the Ferry Tickets office. Just look for the stand that says Odyssey Boat Tours. You can also search for Odyssey Boat Tours on Google Maps and you'll find photos and the location.
    • Olhão, Faro, Portugal
  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    • Cais T, Av. 5 de Outubro s/n, 8700-302 Olhão, Portugal | We're near the Ferry Tickets office. Just look for the stand that says Odyssey Boat Tours. You can also search for Odyssey Boat Tours on Google Maps and you'll find photos and the location.
    • Olhão, Faro, Portugal