The temperature was hot, scorching for the time of day. It was six o’clock in the afternoon, but it felt like it was noon. The destination: Bom Sucesso Dock, meeting-point for a boat trip in Lisbon to watch the sunset.

The TagusCruises team was preparing the sailboat that would take us from Belém to the Alfama hill, navigating through the waters of the Tagus River.

The boat was not long but spacious enough to take the group on a trip passing some of the main points of downtown Lisbon.

From the Discoveries Monument, passing under the 25 de Abril Bridge, following the coastline through the Cais do Sodré, Terreiro do Paço and Santa Apolónia, the view over the city of Lisbon has never been more beautiful.

Time to relax in a boat trip in Lisbon

The boat was smooth, cutting slowly the waves, and only swinging when it was hit by the wake of other vessels that crossed the path. And there are plenty going around there in the evening.

The skipper let loose the sails and began his dance with the pulleys and other instruments whose specifique names surpass me. Watching him maneuver the equipment, with such ability and with so little effort, was incredible.

“Doing a sailboat ride on the Tagus and then riding the motor doesn’t make any sense. Our guests hope to have the experience of what it’s like to ride a sailboat, and that’s what we give them,” he tells us, among the many stories he shares with the group.

And the sails were there, haughty, driven by the wind that runs the river, which, although not too strong at this time, was enough to sail.

I could have spent all day aboard, but this boat trip in Lisbon to see the sunset takes about two hours. The return to the quay is done along the south bank of the river, passing the Cristo Rei, so that all the attendees can watch the last minutes of sunshine falling on the city.

Between wine tastings, the sun was setting, and the lights turning on in the street arteries. The hot summer night air caressed our faces as we headed back to Bom Sucesso Dock.

It had been a unique experience, which showed a different and beautiful side of Lisbon.

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LEAD OF THE TRIP

What?

Sailing boat tour on the Tagus river, Lisbon

Who?

I did with TagusCruises, and it was fabulous! The staff is very knowledgeable, relaxed, and makes us feel at home.

When?

TagusCruises has several types of day tours, which work from morning until the end of the day, but I advise the sunset cruise. After all, who doesn’t want to see views of Lisbon during golden hour?…

Where?

TagusCruises sailing tours depart from the Bom Sucesso Dock in Belém. Next to this dock, you’ll find a TagusCruises van where you can get more information and schedule the tours.

How?

The sailboat ride to watch the sunset begins in Belém and goes up to the hill area of ​​Alfama. Take comfortable and sticky footwear, so you be able to walk on deck at ease. Although there are blankets on board, bring a jacket.

Why?

Because you will see an unforgettable sunset over the Portuguese capital!

❤︎

Spending some days in Lisbon? What do you think about this tour? Would you do it? Let me know in the comments below.

Discover Lisbon With Private Sailing

Editorial Note: I did this boat trip in Lisbon at the invitation of TagusCruises. However, as always, all the descriptions and opinions reported in this article are independent and the result of my own experience.