There is no better way to experience the beauty of the Ria Formosa Nature Park than from the water. This vast lagoon system stretches along the Algarve coast, characterised by channels, sandbanks, and barrier islands that are constantly shifting. During Formosamar’s boat tours from Faro, you get to see the best scenes of Ria Formosa, from its wildlife and sunsets to its iconic landmarks.
We’ve created this guide to all the top sights you will see by boat. Keep reading to learn more about the stunning Ria Formosa and our tours, and feel free to get in touch with us if you have any questions!
The Ever-Changing Ria Formosa Lagoon and Sandbanks
Spanning over 17,000 hectares, the Ria Formosa Nature Park never quite looks the same twice. The lagoon system is shaped by the winds, tides, and currents, causing sandbanks and channels to shift, disappear, and reappear. It’s an ever-changing ecosystem that is a wonder to behold! On our Short Boat Tour in Ria Formosa, you’ll get to explore the waters on a smaller vessel, navigating through the numerous channels.
To learn more about this spectacular ecosystem, make sure to read our Essential Guide to Ria Formosa Natural Park!
The Islands of Ria Formosa
One of the main highlights of Ria Formosa is its breathtaking islands. There are three main ones you will see and can even stop at on a tour with Formosamar: Ilha da Barreta, Ilha do Farol, and Ilha da Culatra. Each island has its own distinct characteristics and attractions, and makes for a worthy stop!
Ilha da Barreta is more commonly known as Desert Island, and for good reason — there are no permanent residents on the island. All you will see is rolling dunes backed by green vegetation and surrounded by clear waters. However, there is one striking building on the island. Ilha da Barreta offers a tranquil escape where visitors can enjoy pristine surroundings and the simple pleasure of fresh, locally inspired island cuisine.
Where Barreta feels wild and remote, Ilha do Farol offers a more vibrant island atmosphere. Approaching by boat, you’ll spot colourful houses, moored fishing boats, and the iconic Cabo de Santa Maria lighthouse, which has stood since the 19th century!
We visit these two islands during our Boat Tour to Deserta and Farol Islands, spotting oyster and clam farms along the way. On shore, you can enjoy relaxing seaside walks or a drink and a bite to eat, soaking up the natural beauty of the Ria Formosa.
Ilha da Culatra is not to be missed. Home to a long-established fishing community, Culatra feels authentic and lived-in, with narrow streets, colourful houses, and eateries serving up the island’s famous oysters. While not a stop on our boat tours, you can still visit Culatra by using our shuttle service. Or, you can arrange a private boat rental in Faro and include it as part of your customisable itinerary!
For even more inspiration, read our guide to Island-Hopping Ria Formosa: Deserta, Culatra & Farol Explored.
Ria Formosa’s Birdlife and Marine Life
Ria Formosa is a paradise for wildlife lovers, and being on a boat dramatically increases what you can see. This ecosystem is abundant in birdlife, so much so that we offer a special Ria Formosa Bird Watching Boat Tour! You’ll spot everything from flamingoes to storks and spoonbills, and waders such as turnstones and grey plovers.
As you cruise out towards the ocean, Ria Formosa becomes a prime location for seeing dolphins. On our Marine Life and Dolphin Watching Boat Trip from Faro, we can see both common and bottlenose dolphins, as well as other species like sunfish, sea turtles, and sharks. Our expert guides know the right places to go, giving the best possible chances of seeing these animals in the wild. Learn more about what you can see with our Guide to Faro’s Marine Life and the Best Wildlife Watching Activities.
A Ria Formosa Sunset on the Water
One of the most memorable experiences in the Algarve is seeing Ria Formosa at sunset. As the sun lowers, the lagoon transforms, as water turns to gold, sandbanks glow softly, and birdlife becomes more active.
From the deck of the boat, Faro’s skyline fades into the distance and the islands are silhouetted against the sky. It’s a peaceful, atmospheric way to end the day and a reminder of just how breathtaking this natural park is, which is why we offer both a small-group Sunset Boat Trip in Faro and a Private Sunset Boat Tour in Ria Formosa for those special occasions.
Experience Ria Formosa with Formosamar
Whether you’re sailing past an uninhabited island, spotting birds in the marshes, or gliding through the channels at sunset, a boat tour with Formosamar reveals the true character of Ria Formosa. Exploring this ecosystem from the water simply doesn’t get better! If you want to learn more about our tours or make your booking, don’t hesitate to contact us.
