BoatRent.pt

BoatRent.pt puts you at the helm of your own private speedboat on the Ria Formosa: Faro's protected lagoon of barrier islands, hidden channels and sandbank beaches. Forget crowded group tours: the Sea Storm 17ft speedboat (60 HP, up to 6 passengers, Bimini sun canopy) is yours for the full day, 10:30 to 16:30, so you set the route and the pace. Three ways to spend it: cruise out to deserted beaches for a swim in calm, warm water; island-hop between Ilha Deserta, Culatra and Armona, each with its own character; or follow the tide with no plan at all and anchor wherever looks good, with a sunset run over the lagoon as the classic finish. A full day's charter is EUR 400, with extra hours at EUR 50; fuel is paid separately (roughly EUR 25 for a quarter tank) and a refundable damage deposit applies. You'll need a valid nautical licence to skipper the boat yourself. No licence, no problem: a skipper can be arranged on request. Optional finger-food or sushi packs turn the day into an on-water lunch. Based at the Pier de Faro on the city's waterfront, BoatRent.pt (RNAAT licence no. 79/2023, trading as Faro Boat Rent) operates year-round, seven days a week, 09:00-20:00. Booking requests go through a simple online form and are confirmed personally by phone or WhatsApp.

• Sea view