Boat tour in Cascais: from Lisbon along the coast, by catamaran

There are many ways to get from Lisbon to Cascais — but only one shows you the coast as it really is, with no traffic and from the water: a boat tour in Cascais that starts in Lisbon. The catamaran tour in Cascais sets off from Lisbon and follows the Tagus estuary all the way to the bay of Cascais — in itself, one of the best journeys you can make in Lisbon. Here’s what you see, how long it takes and why it’s so worth it.

The route, point by point

We set off from Doca de Alcântara, in the heart of Lisbon, and head west, towards the sea:

• Belém — the Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries, seen from the river, at water level.
• 25 de Abril Bridge — passing underneath, with the Cristo Rei on the other side.
• Oeiras coast — the Forte de São Julião da Barra, the Praia da Torre and the beaches of Oeiras.
• Carcavelos and Estoril — the liveliest seafront on the coast.
• Bay of Cascais — the arrival, with the town, the marina and the Sintra mountains in the background.

As the river opens out to the ocean, the landscape changes: from the docks of Lisbon to the beaches of the coast, with the light growing wider and wider.

How long it takes

It depends on the pace and the stops, but count on a few hours to do the route at a leisurely pace — time to take in the coast, stop for a swim and, who knows, catch dolphins on the Tagus along the way. It’s not a crossing to rush; it’s the cruise itself.

Why it’s better by boat

• No traffic or parking — the “road” is the river.
• The best view of the coast — monuments, forts and beaches parade in front of you.
• Stops tailored to you — a swim, photos, a drink in the sun.
• Private — the boat is just for your group, at your own pace.

How to do the route with us

At Lusitana we run private charters — we design the journey from Lisbon towards Cascais to suit you. You can add chef food on board, a swim stop or time the return with the sunset on the Tagus.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take by boat from Lisbon to Cascais? We don’t rush the journey — count on a few hours to take in the coast at a leisurely pace, stop for a swim and take photos. The route is the cruise itself, not a crossing.

Does the route pass by the Belém Tower? It does. Right after Doca de Alcântara you head along Belém, with the Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries seen from the river, before passing under the 25 de Abril Bridge.

Can we sail instead of motoring? When the wind helps, yes — we love to sail part of the way. The Lusitana catamaran runs under both sail and motor, so we adapt to the day’s conditions.

How many people can the boat hold? Up to 37 guests. It’s always a private charter — the Lusitana catamaran is just for your group, at your own pace.

Ready to see the coast from Lisbon to Cascais like never before? Plan your cruise or get in touch on WhatsApp and we’ll design the route with you.