Lagos: Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 Private Sailing Experience

Planning a day on the water along Portugal’s Algarve coast? This private sailing experience on the brand-new Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 offers a luxurious, personalized way to enjoy the scenery, swim in crystal-clear waters, and unwind in style. Perfect for couples, families, or small groups, this tour combines comfort, adventure, and authentic coastal views—all in one smooth package.

What we genuinely like about this experience? First, the luxury of sailing aboard a 2023 model that promises modern comfort and performance. Second, the personalized service with a dedicated crew that handles all the details, freeing you up to relax. And third, the chance to explore hidden coves and secluded beaches away from the crowds—something hard to beat in the Algarve.

One thing to keep in mind: this experience is not suited for children under 2, pregnant women, or those prone to seasickness. That said, if you’re seeking a flexible, upscale way to see the coast with tailored attention, this tour fits the bill beautifully.

It’s ideal for those who want a luxury sailing outing with a personal touch—whether celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a private escape on the water.

Key Points

• Luxury and comfort on a modern, new model sailboat
• Private crew service ensures a stress-free experience
• Explore Algarve’s hidden coves and enjoy scenic views
• Water activities like snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and waterscooters
• All-inclusive with drinks, towels, and equipment
• Flexible booking with pay later options and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Up-close Look at the Algarve Sailing Experience

This private sailing trip on the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 is designed to blend comfort, adventure, and exclusivity. From the moment you step aboard at the Southwest Boats Nautical Shop, you’ll feel the emphasis on a tailored, high-quality outing. The boat itself, built in 2024, is not just sleek but thoughtfully designed for both relaxation and performance.

What Makes the Yacht Special?

The Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 boasts generous deck space and modern aesthetics, making it inviting for lounging or active water fun. Its extended swim platform at the transom invites you to hop in for a swim whenever the mood strikes, and its ergonomic layout ensures you can move around easily without feeling cramped. Inside, the boat offers four spacious cabins and two elegant bathrooms, allowing for comfort whether you’re traveling as a couple or with a small group.

The Crew and Service

The dedicated crew are professionals who prioritize your experience. They handle all the navigation, safety, and equipment setup, giving you peace of mind. Guests have noted that the crew is attentive without being intrusive, offering welcome drinks as you set sail—a nice touch that immediately elevates the experience. During the trip, the crew will guide you to the best spots, whether it’s a secluded cove for swimming or a vantage point for sunset views.

Scenic Routes and Highlights

The Algarve coast is known for its stunning cliffs, hidden beaches, and rocky formations. This tour focuses on exploring the area’s lesser-known coves and scenic spots, away from the crowds. Travelers have said that the boat’s size and agility allow it to access these quiet areas comfortably.

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Water Activities and Equipment

If you’re into water-based fun, this experience includes snorkeling gear, SUP boards, and waterscooters. The availability of these equipment options means you can easily switch from relaxing on deck to a quick dip or a paddle around the boat. Reviewers mention that the snorkeling equipment was in excellent condition, and the waterscooters offered a playful way to cover more area without much effort.

Food and Drinks

While meals aren’t included, the soft drinks (including beers, sodas, and bottled water) are. Plus, you’ll enjoy welcome drinks at the start, setting a laid-back tone for the day. Bringing your own snacks or a picnic is straightforward since the boat has cold storage to keep everything fresh. The experience is designed more as a leisurely escape rather than a full culinary tour, so plan accordingly if you want a sit-down meal.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour typically begins at the Southwest Boats Nautical Shop, where you’ll meet your crew and board the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1. After a brief safety briefing and a glass of welcome drinks, you’ll set sail along the Algarve coast.

Your captain will navigate towards the coast’s scenic highlights, focusing on quieter coves and beaches only accessible by boat. Depending on weather conditions and your group’s interests, you might visit spots like Ponta da Piedade, known for its rugged cliffs and sea caves, or explore other secret beaches with crystal-clear waters.

Guests often find the timing perfect for swimming—the water is warm and inviting, with some reviewers noting that the boat’s extended swim platform makes jumping into the sea effortless.

Midday generally involves relaxing on deck, soaking up the sun, or trying out the supplied water toys. If you’re lucky, the crew might suggest a scenic spot for a quick snorkel session—reviewers love how clear the water is here, making underwater visibility excellent.

The trip usually lasts between 4-5 hours, providing enough time to explore, swim, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The return is smooth, with plenty of time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

The Practical Details and Value

At $992 for up to 10 guests, this experience offers a balanced mix of luxury and affordability, especially considering the inclusions. Having your own private crew and a modern yacht means a level of exclusivity you can’t get on larger group tours. Plus, the boat’s amenities—spacious cabins, water toys, and cold storage—add to the value, making it suitable for a variety of travelers, from families to small groups of friends.

The all-inclusive aspect—covering fuel, soft drinks, towels, and equipment—means fewer surprises or extra costs. There’s flexibility in booking, with options to reserve now and pay later, and a cancellable policy up to 24 hours in advance.

While some might wish for meals included, the opportunity to bring your own snacks or arrange a special picnic enhances the experience’s casual, laid-back vibe. Keep in mind, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or those prone to seasickness—so plan accordingly.

Transportation and Group Size

Meeting at the Southwest Boats Nautical Shop is straightforward, with easy access in Lagos. The boat comfortably hosts up to 10 guests, ensuring everyone has space to unwind or participate actively in water sports.

Timing and Duration

With a flexible duration of approximately 4 to 5 hours, this tour fits well into a day’s schedule without feeling overly long. It’s perfect for a relaxing morning or afternoon outing, especially if you want to explore other parts of Lagos or the Algarve afterward.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Reviews

Many reviewers appreciated the professionalism of the crew, describing them as attentive and friendly. One guest mentioned, “The crew handled everything seamlessly, from safety to drinks, so we could just relax and enjoy the scenery.” Others highlighted the crystal-clear waters and hidden coves, emphasizing how the boat’s small size allowed access to places larger vessels can’t reach.

Some noted the modern interior of the boat, which felt both luxurious and practical, with ample space for lounging and socializing. The snorkeling equipment was mentioned as being in good condition, allowing guests to explore the underwater world comfortably.

A few pointed out that the timing of the trip was ideal for catching the sunset or enjoying calmer waters in the late afternoon, adding a romantic touch to the experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This private sailing tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize personalized service, comfort, and scenic exploration. It’s great for couples seeking a romantic day on the water or small families wanting a safe, controlled environment to enjoy water activities.

While children over 2 are welcome, the experience isn’t designed for very young kids or pregnant women, particularly given the potential for seasickness. Adventure seekers will appreciate the water toys, while those looking for relaxation will enjoy the luxurious amenities and tranquil coves.

Final Thoughts

In the end, this Lagos Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 private sailing experience offers a wonderful way to see the Algarve coast in style. The combination of a modern yacht, attentive crew, and the freedom to explore is hard to beat. You’ll love the chance to unwind on deck with soft drinks, explore secluded spots, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Portugal’s southern coast.

For those craving a personalized, high-quality day on the water—whether celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself—this tour hits the right notes. It’s an investment in comfort, scenery, and unique memories that will last long after you return home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes sailboat rental, a dedicated crew service, cold storage, snorkeling gear, SUP boards, waterscooters, beach towels, fuel, and soft drinks like beers, sodas, and water.

Can I bring my own food?
Meals are not included, but you can bring your own snacks or picnic since cold storage is provided. Just plan to enjoy the drinks and water toys on board.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 2 years old are welcome, but the experience isn’t suitable for infants or very young children. Always check with the provider if unsure.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Avoid high heels, pets, smoking, red wine, and glass objects.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 4-5 hours, providing plenty of time to explore, swim, and relax without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Southwest Boats Nautical Shop and ends back at the same location.

What language is spoken?
The experience is offered in Portuguese, English, and Spanish.

Can I book now and pay later?
Yes, reservations can be made with the option to pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity.

Is the boat accessible?
The boat is designed for comfort and safety, with plenty of space for up to 10 guests, but specific accessibility accommodations are not detailed.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent, so if conditions are unsafe or unfavorable, you can cancel or reschedule with full refund if done 24 hours prior.

This private sailing experience in Lagos combines scenic beauty, luxury, and personalized service, making it a fantastic way to enjoy Portugal’s Algarve coastline. Whether you’re celebrating or simply seeking a memorable getaway, it delivers a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure in a stunning setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: