Experienced eco-tourism company in Faro, offering tours with a specialized guide, or private boat or bike hire.
Formosamar, an experienced ecotourism company, offers many activities, boat trips in the Ria Formosa Natural Park and off the Algarve coast. For example, you can reach the Deserta or Farol islands by catamaran, observe spoonbills, flamingos and kingfishers in the lagoon with a specialized guide, admire the sunset in the Ria and even rent a boat or a bike to visit the salt flats. All of this accompanied by a professional and knowledgeable staff who know the area inside out.
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Opening time and information on FORMOSAMAR
Boat trip from 10 €. Dolphin and turtle watching. Boat and bike rental. Private excursion.
Owner's Message
Formosamar is an experienced ecotourism company offering a wide range of activities and boat trips in the Ria Formosa Natural Park and off the Algarve. For example, you can choose to reach the Deserta or Farol islands by catamaran or private transfer, watch spoonbills, flamingos and kingfishers in the lagoon with a specialized guide, admire the sunset in the Ria Formosa and watch dolphins and turtles off the coast of the Algarve and rent a boat privately or rent a bike or an electric bike to visit the salt flats and the beach All this with the expert support of a professional team, who knows the area inside out.
Our offers and services
Experiences
- Traditional boat trips in the Ria Formosa
- Catamaran trips with a visit to Deserta Island and Farol Island
- Observation of the marine life with the possibility to observe dolphins
- Kayak Tours in the Ria Formosa
- Guided tours
- Bird watching
- Bike rides
- Boat rental
- Bicycle and other equipment rental
- Events and Activities for Groups
DESERTA ISLAND AND FAROL ISLAND BOAT TRIPS
Ilha Deserta and Ilha do Farol: a boat trip in small groups on the Ria Formosa from Faro
This trip, in a very comfortable catamaran, goes to discover the Natural Park and visits the deserted island "Deserta" and the lighthouse island "Farol".
Starting from the Faro Marina (Doca de Recreio de Faro) and/or from the pier of the old town of Porta Nova - Portas do Mar, we sail calmly through the channels of the Ria Formosa while enjoying a magnificent landscape.
Along the way, you will be able to see some birds such as the Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea), the White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) as well as several others feeding in the marshes.
Towards the islands and beaches, we can see the big lighthouse of the island of "Culatra", our first stop. In these surroundings, it is possible to see the clam diggers working hard. In the distance, it is also possible to see the market of the city of Olhão, an important city of fishermen. In the direction of the sea, we can see the piers of the main entrance of the Ria Formosa.
We disembark at the lighthouse island "Farol", where you can walk through the small streets of this charming community. Passing by the lighthouse, you can continue to the jetty, the southernmost point of Portugal, forming the cape of "Santa Maria", from where you can see all the extent of the fine sandy beaches bathed by calm and warm waters.
After the Lighthouse Island we go back to the Deserted Island "Ilha Deserta", and we stop in this place also called "Ilha da Barreta". In this second stop, you can choose between observing the flora and fauna of the island along a walking tour or simply relaxing on the beach, enjoying the sun or swimming in the crystal clear water.
Back in Faro, let yourself be enchanted by one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal: the Ria Formosa.
BOAT TRIPS FOR BIRD WATCHING
A boat trip in the Algarve in the lagoon of the Ria Formosa with departures from Faro.
Discover the nature of the Ria Formosa.
With a nature guide, you will discover during this walk the reason why the Ria Formosa was elected one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal. Because birds are one of the ex-libris of this natural park, we give them special attention during the walk.
Considered as one of the most important wetlands for aquatic birds, we will observe, along the walk, birds such as the White Stork (Ciconia ciconia), the Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) and the Eurasian Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia).
Shorebirds are the most abundant, especially during winter. However, birds like the Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus), the Ruddy Turnstone (Arenaria interpres) and the Silver Plover (Pluvialis squatarola) are a constant presence.
The boat trip in the Ria Formosa continues towards one of the islands of the Natural Park, passing by the clam and oyster beds, where you can observe one of the most important economic activities of the Algarve as well as some birds such as the Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa), the Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus).
Then we will go to one of the exits of the lagoon, where the lagoon meets the sea, and we will take a break to enjoy this paradise, which is also an important area for the reproduction of the Little Tern (Sterna albifrons) and the Ring-necked Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus). In winter, the Sandwich Tern (Sterna sandvicensis) and the Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) are frequently observed.
On the way back, we will have the opportunity to see more birds while the boat sails quietly through the channels of this Natural Park of the Ria Formosa to the city of Faro.
SUNSET BOAT TRIP IN FARO
Sunset by boat in the Algarve through the beautiful Ria Formosa of FaroThe
sunsetover the Ria Formosa is something extraordinary. Admiring this spectacle on board a boat in the middle of Ria Formosa is an unforgettable experience that you will remember forever and want to share with someone special.
During this experience, you will enjoy a boat ride in a romantic atmosphere.
DOLPHIN WATCHING IN THE ALGARVE
Dolphin, Turtle and Sea Bird
WatchingMarine Life
Watching
of theAlgarve CoastNavigation
along the Algarve coast in the presence of a nature guide in order to know the marine life in its natural habitat.This is an
intense experience worth sharing with family or friends, on board the "Albacora III", a comfortable, fast and safe semi-rigid boat that allows the observation of dolphins, birds and sea turtles.
The trip lasts about 2 hours, starting from the calm waters of the lagoon of the Ria Formosa in direction of the blue Atlantic. The dolphin watching tour can go up to 5 miles from the coast. Along the way, we sail off the coast of the Algarve, passing through the barrier islands of the lagoon and passing by Cape "Santa Maria", the southernmost point of Portugal, in search of dolphins or any other marine life common to the Algarve.
We can observe several species of cetaceans, the most common of which are the Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis) and the Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus).
The observation of pelagic birds is constant, according to which the most common species are the Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus), the Great Auk (Puffinus mauretanicus), the Mediterranean Gull (Larus melanocephalus) as well as some species of the Oceanites. Gulls are also a constant presence, usually near fishing boats.
itis still possible to see other animals like sea turtles, sunfish (Mola mola), some sharks as well as other occasional species of cetaceans like the harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) and the minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) among others.
finally we leave the sea and return to the Ria Formosa where the walk ends.
Formosamar supports CIRCE for the conservation of cetaceans in the Algarve.
BOAT TRIPS IN LIGHTHOUSE IN ALGARVE
Algarve boat trip to the Ria Formosa lagoon from Faro and the walls of the Historical Center: 1 hour
This excursion is the ideal boat trip for those who are just passing through Faro but would like to get to know the Ria Formosa lagoon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal.
Departing from the Marina or from the Porta Nova pier on board a very comfortable catamaran, you will sail through the channels of the lagoon where you can see countless species of shorebirds feeding on small organisms living in the marshes.
The navigation continues through several canals of this natural park ending with a beautiful panoramic view of the old city walls.
CATAMARAN BOAT RENTAL IN ALGARVE
The catamaran, with departures from the city of Faro, is the ideal boat to rent and make a private excursion in the Algarve with family or friends to discover the channels, beaches and islands of the Ria Formosa.
With comfortable seats and cover, the catamaran is ideal for sailing along the canals of the Ria Formosa, diving in the clear waters of this place, relaxing and sunbathing or having lunch in one of the beautiful islands of this Natural Park.
Thisis the boat we recommend for business meetings, birthday parties or to celebrate a special moment in the
Ria
Formosa lagoon.
Boat trips at your will organized with the experience and high quality standards of our company.
BOAT CHARACTERISTICS-
Pontoon Sun Chaser Classic-
Length: 7,70 m-
Power: 60 Hp-
Capacity: 11 people-
Safety equipment-
Return ladder-
Total coverage-
Accessibility for people with reduced mobility and visually impaired-
These boats are only allowed to navigate in the waters of the lagoon of the Ria Formosa
RENTAL OF SEMI-RIGID BOAT IN ALGARVE
The Semi-Rigid boat, with departures from the city of Faro, is the ideal boat for those looking for an unforgettable sea trip on the southern coast of the Algarve.
This boat is fast and safe to take a boat ride to visit the hidden beaches of the islands of the Ria Formosa or sail along the coast of the Algarve, where, with a little luck, you can observe dolphins and other marine animals.
We guarantee excitement and adventure in complete safety. Share unique moments with your family and friends on board a boat that offers many possibilities.
The Albacora is a versatile, comfortable and very safe boat with an excellent performance comfort and safety. With this boat you can enjoy a great day at sea.
BOAT CHARACTERISTICS
- Valiant 750 V
- Length: 7,50 m
- Power: 200 Hp
- Capacity: 12 people
- Safety equipment
- Return ladder
- These boats are only authorized to navigate in the waters of the Ria Formosa lagoon.
BIKE RENTAL IN THE FARO ALGARVE
Bike rental service in the Algarve from FaroFor
those who love bike touring and are on vacation here, we have a bike rental service in the Algarve.
We have several models of bikes for rent for those who want to visit the cities and beaches of the Algarve, go for a bike ride in the countryside, along the Algarve Coastal Cycle Path - Ecovia Litoral or along the Grand Route of the Via Algarviana
.Plan your cycling vacation in the Algarve, rent a bike and come and discover the beautiful landscapes of this region.
If you want to rent a bike just for a day or less, we suggest a bike ride along the beautiful coast and towns of the Algarve, the beautiful landscapes in the countryside and in the Natural Park of Ria Formosa
Bicycles are available in Faro and for those who want to explore the Algarve on a bike, it is useful to know that bikes can travel free of charge on trains. You can take your bike on the train at no extra cost.
Bike Models
CUBE AIM Race
A comfortable bike. Ideal for a ride in the city, the countryside or BTT. Models for men or women
- Aluminum frame -
Adjustable front suspension -
Shimano 29 speed -
29 wheel -
Wide and comfortable seat -
Sizes: M, L and X - Bike rental service in the Algarve from Faro - For
thosewho love bike touring and are on vacation here, we have a bike rental service in the Algarve
.We have several models of bicycles for rent for those who want to visit the cities and beaches of the Algarve, go for a bike ride in the countryside, along the bike path of the Algarve coast - Ecovia Litoral or along the Grand Route of the Via Algarviana.
Plan your cycling vacation in the Algarve, rent a bike and come and discover the beautiful landscapes of this region.
If you want to rent a bike just for a day or less, we suggest a bike ride along the beautiful coast and towns of the Algarve, the beautiful landscapes in the countryside and in the Natural Park of Ria Formosa
Bicycles are available in Faro and for those who want to explore the Algarve on a bike, it is useful to know that bikes can travel free of charge on trains. You can take your bike on the train at no extra cost.
Bike Models
CUBE AIM Race
A comfortable bike. Ideal for a ride in the city, the countryside or BTT. Models for men or women
- Aluminum frame -
Adjustable front suspension -
Shimano 29 speed -
29 wheel -
Wide and comfortable seat -
Sizes: M, L and XL
ELECTRIC BIKE RENTAL IN THE ALGARVE FARO
E-Bike Rental Service in the Algarve from Faro
For those who love bike touring and are on vacation here, we have an electric bike (E-Bike) rental service in the Algarve.
We have a model of E-Bike for rent for those who want to visit the cities and beaches of the Algarve, go for a bike ride in the countryside, along the bike path of the Algarve coast - Ecovia Litoral or along the Grand Route of the Via Algarviana.
Plan your cycling vacation in the Algarve, rent a bike and come discover the beautiful landscapes of this region.
If you want to rent an E-Bike just for a day or less, we suggest an E-Bike ride along the beautiful coast and towns of the Algarve, the beautiful landscapes in the countryside and in the Natural Park of Ria Formosa.
E-Bikes are available in Faro and for those who want to explore the Algarve on an E-Bike, it is useful to know that E-Bikes can travel for free on trains. You can take your E-Bike on the train at no extra cost.
E-Bike model
CUBE 2019 Acid Hybrid ONE 400 Allroad 29
A comfortable bike. Ideal for a ride in the city, countryside or BTT. Models for men or women.
- Superlite aluminum frame
- Adjustable front suspension
- Shimano 9 speed
- 29" wheel
- Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes
- Bosch Power Pack 400 battery
- Sizes: 54, 56 (Men)
- Sizes: 50, 54 (Women)
BIKE RIDES IN THE RIA FORMOSA OF THE ALGARVE
Guided bike tour in the Ria Formosa from Faro, visit the salt marshes and the island of Faro
Discover the Ria Formosa in Faro on a bike tour with your guide.
You will start your visit in the city of Faro in the direction of the natural park of the Ria Formosa. You will follow your guide who will show you all the diversity of the landscapes of the Algarve region.
The nature reserve is made up of coastal lagoons and small islands. This protected area gathers a large number of species of birds, fish and plants and aims to favor their wintering, reproduction and migration.
You will pass by the wetlands and observe the different species of animals through binoculars. You will cycle along the beaches and you can relax or refresh yourself at one of the terraces.
Nature never ceases to impress us and this little tour to discover Ria Formosa will prove it to you.
KAYAK RENTAL IN THE ALGARVE FROM FARO
Rent a kayak in the Algarve from Faro to explore the Ria Formosa
For those who love canoeing, we have a kayak and canoe rental service in the Algarve to make kayak trips in the Ria Formosa lagoon with departures from Faro.
We have several models of kayaks for rent for those who want to make a kayak trip to know the lagoon of the Ria Formosa and visit the islands of this natural park.
In one of these beaches, you can make a stop to enjoy this place to the maximum. In this paradise of white sands and crystal clear waters, you can take a walk on the beach, sunbathe or swim in the clear water and marvel at the diversity of shells that dot the dune.
With family, friends, for the day or for several days, come and kayak in the Ria Formosa, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal and you will be delighted by its beauty.
Kayaks are available in Faro and we have single and double kayaks available. You can choose to rent a kayak for a day, half a day or 2.5 hours (depending on the option selected).
They are Rotomod double sit-on-top models, safe, comfortable and easy to maneuver. You don't need any experience to enjoy all the sensations you can experience on board a kayak.
KAYAKING IN RIA FORMOSA
Sail the calm waters of this Natural Park and explore the canals and ponds where wildlife abounds.
Discover the Ria Formosa by kayak, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal.
The ideal trip for those who like to interact with the aquatic environment.
Sail in silence without the sound of an engine through the winding channels of the Ria Formosa to the islands and beaches of this Natural Park, where you will finally be rewarded with a rest on beaches with fine white sands bathed by crystal clear waters dotted with various shells.
Starting from Faro, in the calm waters of the Ria Formosa, with little or no waves, this trip is pleasant even for those with little experience in kayaking.
The navigation goes towards deserted beaches and islands, passing by salt marshes and several islets, where you can stop to rest or simply enjoy the stunning landscape.
Kayaking in the Ria Formosa with an instructor is a fascinating experience because it allows you to fully appreciate all the richness of this Natural Park from up close while practicing a physical activity. You can also visit the fishermen and farmers who work in their clam and oyster beds. During this route, it is still possible to observe some aquatic birds such as the Pink Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus), the Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) and the White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) as well as countless fish, crabs and sea slugs.
As this is a fantastic experience, share it with your family and friends as it is probably one of the best ways to discover the wonders of this unique area.
The kayaks used on our trips are sit-on-top models. They are stable, safe and comfortable and glide easily over the water. All trips are accompanied by experienced instructors or nature guides, however, no previous experience is necessary to fully enjoy the thrill and scenery available to you in a kayak.
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Members' reviews on FORMOSAMAR
Alhough faced with harsh conditions, our skipper Miguel was highly skilled in navigating them. I would like to thank him for his professionalism, as well as his endearing sense of humour and passion for the area, all of which elevated the experience.
Date of experience: March 16, 2024
2 hour birding/boat tour
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