Boat Tour to Deserta and Farol Islands in Ria Formosa

On this boat tour, we explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park on a comfortable catamaran, with visits to Deserta Island and Farol Island.

Departing from the Docks of Faro/Marina of Faro, we sail slowly through the channels of the Ria Formosa, taking in the beautiful landscapes. 

Along the way, we will see many bird species — including the Grey Heron and White Stork — that use this area as a feeding habitat. If you’d like to spend more time discovering the diverse bird life in Ria Formosa, we provide a dedicated bird watching tour in the Algarve.

As we approach the islands and beaches, we see the Culatra Island lighthouse in the distance. Looking around, you can observe the hard work of the people in the oyster and clam farms. 

Back on the mainland coastline, you can see the market of Olhão, an important fishing town. And further ahead, you will find one of the most important sea entrances of the Ria Formosa.

The first stop on this boat tour to Deserta and Farol Islands is the lighthouse on Farol Island. Here, you can enjoy a walk around the streets of this small but friendly community. 

When passing by the lighthouse, keep walking until the very end to admire an extensive beach of fine white sand washed by calm, warm waters. Here lies the most southern point of Portugal — the Santa Maria Cape.

We leave Farol Island and continue the boat tour to Deserta, our second stop. This island is also known as Barreta Island. You can take an easy walk and explore the fauna and flora of the island, or simply enjoy the sunshine and bathe in the clear waters washing over the beach.

And there’s one last treasure to enjoy on the trip back to Faro — the enchanting Ria Formosa, one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal.

If you have any questions about this boat tour to Deserta and Farol Islands, please feel free to get in touch. 

• A minimum of 2 adults per booking is required.
• A maximum of 11 people per booking.
• Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult.
• May be operated by a multi-lingual guide.
• Wheelchair accessible.
• Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.
• Safety comes first, please follow the instructions and recommendations of your skipper, especially those relating to safety issues.
• Trips may be amended due to weather conditions or the physical condition of the participants should our skippers deem this advisable.
• This is an activity subject to weather conditions. The decision to leave or return earlier than expected, due to unexpected weather conditions, is solely to the skipper.
• The schedules of departures and arrivals, the duration and itineraries of the activities are subject to change without previous notice due to security determined by the weather conditions, tides and/or other circumstances beyond our control.