Sea enthusiasts are demanding when it comes to spending a few hours on dry land. Nautical tourism means that rest and entertainment are as finely balanced as the vessel itself. The marinas and pleasure harbours all along the Algarve complement the region’s natural, geographical and climatic conditions with unrivalled leisure facilities and comfort.
Lagos, the capital of the Discoveries, has not stood still in time. Located in one of Europe’s biggest bays, which stretches for some four kilometres, Lagos Marina is the ideal place for an encounter with life in the Algarve.
Still in the barlavento, and beyond the golden sands of Meia Praia Beach, you will find Portimão Marina, which has hosted many top-level international competitions. When you moor here, you will also have the opportunity to discover the magnificent scenery of the mouth of the River Arade and the Ria de Alvor.
Farther eastwards along the coast, you come to Albufeira Marina. The central location of this marina, with one half of the Algarve at the prow and the other at the stern, make it the obvious choice for those who want lively nightlife, or to observe rock formations and marine life.
As for Vilamoura Marina, the largest in Portugal, what can we say? Where should we start? Perhaps by mentioning the twelve consecutive awards as Best Marina in Portugal. Or the TYHA 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022. Best International Marina award that sums up perfectly what sailors and boat owners said with their votes: this is the best of the best marinas in the world.
Attesting to the quality of the four Algarve marinas, all hoisted the Blue Flag in 2022. This quality certificate acknowledges compliance with the rules governing the environment, safety and comfort of users.
Apart from its marinas, the Algarve has 6 more nautical tourism support facilities, offering more than 3,960 moorings. Set sail for the pleasure harbours in Portimão, Olhão and Vila Real de Santo António, the pleasure docks in Portimão and Faro or the Bartolomeu Dias Quay in Portimão.