Offers of Boat Rental Portugal

What better way to spend your vacation than sailing along the Portuguese coasts? The waters of the Atlantic Ocean are waiting for you, ready to offer you the best experience of the summer. The tourist attraction of Portugal reaches the seas in the form of a boat, don’t miss it.

Portugal is a popular destination for this kind of activities due to its incredible beaches and maritime landscapes. On board of a boat you will have the opportunity to discover practically unknown Portuguese coasts. Even if you don't have a license, you won't have any impediment to sail the almost 560 miles (900 km) of coastline that characterize Portugal, because boat rentals with skipper will guarantee you a great experience.

Portugal's calm seas coupled with its incredible climate and gentle breezes create the perfect setting for sailing on sunny days from April to October. Get ready to relax and forget about the world for as long as you need or have a great time with family and friends while feeling like real sailors.

If you don't want to miss such an incredible experience, we will tell you everything you need to know to rent a boat in Portugal and live it to the fullest:

What types of boat charter are there in Portugal?

Portugal is a coastal country that offers multiple boat rental options throughout its territory. If you are looking to rent a boat, we recommend you to read carefully about the different types of rentals you can find:

In Portugal you need to have a sailing license to rent a boat without a skipper, both for sailing and motor boats. But, don't worry, there is a basic sailing license very accessible for anyone without experience:

- Basic sailing license. You just need to apply to the DGRM (Direção-Geral de Recursos Naturais, Segurança e Serviços Marítimos). No exam or course is required to obtain it, so it is the most attractive option if you are a beginner. This license will allow you to pilot boats up to 5 meters in length, with a power not exceeding 4.5 kW and without going more than 1 mile away. Boats may be either sailing or motorized and only daytime navigation is allowed.

- Other licenses. With the title of 'Marinheiro', you can rent boats up to 7 meters in length or jet skis with no power limit. With the title of 'Patrão Local', you will be able to rent a boat without limits of power or length, and you will also be able to sail day and night. For sea lovers, the title of Patrão de Costa will allow you to do all of the above mentioned and, in addition, to sail up to 25 miles away. And if you are already an expert, you surely know that the title of Patrão de Alto Mar is the pinnacle of Portuguese licenses, with which you will be able to sail without limits of length or distance. Sailboats, yachts, catamarans... everything will be within your reach.

- With skipper. If you don’t have any of these licenses or simply prefer to relax and let yourself go, the best option is to rent the boat with skipper. His great experience steering boats and his local knowledge of the area will give you a unique experience without any worries. This option is ideal if you want to rent a big boat without the need of sailing licenses. Experience the comfort of a trip without comparison.

- Without skipper. If, on the other hand, what you are looking for is the freedom to sail at your own pace with maximum privacy, don’t hesitate to rent a boat without a skipper. Enjoy the seas and be the skipper of your own boat, there is no other feeling like it in the world.

If you have a sailing license from another European country, don't worry. Normally, these licenses are also valid in Portugal. Even so, it is recommended to check beforehand, as there are licenses such as the Spanish LN that are not recognized in the country.

What kind of boats can I rent in Portugal?

The wide range of boats in Portugal will allow you to choose the one that best suits your needs and expectations. From a small adventurous motorboat to an elegant catamaran sailing the seas, you will be able to choose what you like the most:

+ Catamarans. This is the most comfortable option if you are looking for a vacation on the high seas but with maximum safety. These boats are spacious and usually have toilets or bar, in addition to being able to accommodate between 10 and 100 passengers.

+ Yachts. If you think of luxury boats, you are sure to imagine a yacht. They provide comfort, relaxation and privacy, with a capacity of between 8 and 12 passengers. If you are looking for an exclusive experience with all kinds of luxuries, renting a yacht will be your best option.

+ Sailboats. Relax aboard a sailboat and enjoy a few days of escape from the real world. These boats allow you to reach the less accessible coves and beaches. Get ready for an adventure with friends discovering all the secrets of the Portuguese coasts. With a sailboat you will discover the charm of sailing.

+ Motorboats. If you are looking to spend a day on the coast living strong emotions and even practicing some water sports, we recommend renting a semi-rigid motorboat. Experience the speed with your friends while touring the beaches of Portugal, you can access caves that would be impossible with larger boats. Can you imagine the possibility of getting close to dolphins? On board of your boat, it could be possible.

Where to rent a boat in Portugal?

From the deck of a charter boat, you can discover the nature of the ports of the Algarve, but also the splendor of the big cities like Lisbon. Thanks to its perfect geographical location, Portugal has many ports where you can rent a boat and here, we recommend the best ones:

• Port of Lisbon. It is the main and busiest port in Portugal. This port is located in the estuary of the Tagus River. The mild climate of the Lisbon area and the multitude of tourist sites are a great attraction for boats from all over the world. This port has a long tradition in both the yachting and cruise market. Lisbon is not only the best place for yachtsmen, it is also a lively and fun place to spend the summer!

• Port of Setúbal. This was the most important fishing port in Portugal. But that's not why we are interested in it, but because of its proximity to the estuary of the Sado River, an amazing place that is definitely worth a visit. The Sado estuary is an important protected area of the country, since different species of birds such as flamingos or storks nest there.

• Port of Portimao. In the center of the Algarve, the port of Portimao is a luxurious and glamorous place. It is located on one side of the river and in front of Ferragudo, a small fishing village. Its proximity to the resort of Praia da Rocha is one of the reasons why the port is home to a large number of yachts. Numerous sporting and nautical events take place in this port, such as the Global Ocean Race of Portimão or the Audi Med Cup, among others. In summer, it is famous for its modern and crowded party nights. If you are looking to charter a yacht and experience the party in the south of Portugal, Portimao is your port.

What recommendations are there for boat rental in Portugal?

• Check yourself that the boat isn’t damaged before sailing. Inside, outside and even on the hull.


• Have all the insurances in order: both the skipper's and the crew's insurances.


• Make sure that papers and licenses are in order.


• Remember to check the weather forecast before deciding the route, check the tides!


• Don’t jump into the water during navigation or anchoring maneuvers.


• Don’t throw wipes or paper in the toilet, it could get clogged.


• Always follow the safety instructions.


• If you are not an expert, let yourself be advised by a professional skipper in all your doubts.


• Plan the route the boat will follow: destinations, stops... everything!


• Take into account the deposits and port taxes.

Renting a boat along the Portuguese coasts can turn a trip around the area into a unique experience. Don't wait to enjoy your holiday in your own style on the seas of the country, disconnect from the routine and come and have a great time!