Algarve Sailing

Surely sailing around the beautiful shores of the sublime Algarve must be every 'leisure' mariner's dream. What could be better than to enjoy a favourite pastime in such gorgeous surroundings? And, whatever your requirements afloat, the Algarve has the facilities to satisfy them.

I suppose that this page is for those who take their sailing 'seriously'. Which means (in this landlubber's mind) those who have a boat too big to row.

If that's you, then you'll need to consider how and where you are going to 'park' your boat. Fortunately, those thoughtful people who build Algarve marinas have already sorted things out for you!

Then again, if you'd rather not use marinas, there are Algarve anchorages that might be more to your taste.

Whatever kind of Algarve moorings you would prefer, there's something on offer that will suit.

The Portuguese have long been a maritime nation, and the sea is 'in the blood' of the local Algarveans. It's such a compact area yet enjoys such an expanse of coastline. Scarcely any wonder, then, that sailing has played so large a part in the area's history.

If you're keen to sample sailing in the Algarve, first check out the information I've included on this page. Then, decide on what you're after and where you're going to heave-to (or whatever the correct term is). Finally, telephone to make the necessary arrangements.

Update...

Read about my great fun day out with friends and new acquaintances kayaking in the Ria Formosa nature reserve. Hobie kayaks can be powered by pedals or by sail - either way it's tremendously enjoyable!
 

So, without further ado, here are some details of what's available for those who wish to go sailing in the Algarve.
 

Marinas and Anchorages

Lagos Marina

Tel. 282 770 210
A recent addition to the Algarve marina 'stable', this one is already well-regarded and has gained awards in recognition of its excellence.

It has more than 400 moorings for vessels of up to 100 feet (30 metres) long. And if you need repairs or servicing, there are two shipyards that can oblige.

There's a footbridge over the access channel that needs to be raised for sizeable vessels to enter or leave.

You'll find lots of residential, commercial and leisure facilities (with family favourites such as pools, health clubs and adventure parks).

Portimão Marina

Tel. 282 400 680
Up until recently the newest Algarve marina, this facility can accommodate more than 600 vessels. It is also served by almost 300 apartments, plenty of shops, a reserved beach, boating facilities with a shipyard and a huge swimming complex.

Vilamoura Marina

Tel. 289 310 560
This, the longest-established Algarve marina, was the first to serve the needs of the region's sailing enthusiasts. It has more than 1000 moorings (up to 160 feet or 50 metres length) with more development underway. There is also a shipyard.

There are lots of shops and restaurants that lend it a bustling yet welcoming atmosphere.

Vila Real de Santo António Marina

The most recently-completed Algarve marina boasts 380 moorings (up to 20 metres or 65 feet in length) all serviced with water and electricity.

Alternatively, you could cruise upriver to Alcoutim which offers perhaps the prettiest Algarve moorings. But do note that, upstream of there, the channel is not so accommodating.

Tavira

Once you've navigated between the two islands that shield the river mouth, anchorage is available. But, you might prefer sailing further upriver, where the anchorages are more protected against wind and swell.

The town of Tavira is 'easy on the eye' with a good selection of restaurants and shops for when you step ashore.
 

Boat Hire etc...

Of course, if you don't own a boat, but would still like to try your hand at sailing in the Algarve, there's still plenty of scope. Simply hire a vessel at any of the major marinas and sail away yourself (brave soul)...

And if you aren't yet a competent sailor but would like to become one, there are sailing schools aplenty. Qualified personnel can lead you through exercises until you can fulfil that dream of sailing your own ship around the wondrous Algarve.

Or else join in a group sailing cruise. If this appeals, I've given more details on the Algarve Watersports page of this very web site.

Whatever else you do, don't miss the boat!

I'm not what you could describe a 'natural' at being afloat; when they were handing out the sea-legs, I must have been right at the back of the queue! My own experiences of sailing in the Algarve have been like trying to samba in 9-inch spike heels (and before you ask - no, I haven't tried either pastime that recently).

But, if you have salt water in your blood, and like the thought of riding the waves with the sun blessing your endeavours and the beautiful Algarve coastline off the port bow (or whatever), then Algarve sailing is for you!
 

So -- if any of those options has got you fired up to try some nautical fun in the Algarve, but you can't get over there as soon as you'd like...

...just subscribe to my monthly newsletter, Algarve Beach Life News, by clicking on the link below or on the button at top left ("Subscribe to ABLN") -- I'll keep you updated, every month, regarding the new information I have added about sailing and watersports in the wonderful Algarve).
 

For Lovers of Algarve Beach Life
 

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