Ria Formosa - Casa Salá Olhão

DISCOVER PARADISE: RIA FORMOSA

One of the best things to do in Olhão is without a doubt to take a boat tour through Ria Formosa Natural Park to explore the islands and marine life.

Ria Formosa boat tours typically take you to one or two islands where you can have lunch at a restaurant, go for a walk, or chill at the beach. The most frequented islands are Culatra Island, Armona Island, and Tavira island, though the latter is a little further away.

During the summer months, you’ll most likely go for a swim from the boat too, and many offer snorkeling as part of the tour.

HOW TO GET TO THE ISLANDS?

Access to the islands is by boat only. The main connection is from Olhão dock. Small ferries operate the route every couple of hours on most days. Alternatively, you can hire a water taxi from Olhão. You can buy the tickets for the ferries at an office at the dock in Olhão.

If you’re arriving by one of the ferries, you need to make sure to check for the last sailing of the day. As it can be an expensive mistake to miss it. The water taxis are available but charge around €25-30 for a one-way trip.

Ferry times (all seasons)

About the Ferry Service

Visit the islands of Farol, Culatra and Armona with the public Ferry Boat from Olhão. It’s the most affordable way to explore the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, with frequent round trips throughout the year.

Important Information

You can buy ferry tickets only at the ticket stands near the Ferry in Olhão or on the islands. The schedules vary from season to season.

private water taxi

Need a faster trip or travel after regular ferry hours? Book a private water taxi.

Boat trips

Explore Olhão & Ria Formosa Discover amazing tours and activities in Olhão

Boat trips are offered by below companies:

Salt & Sea Riaformosa Tours
saltsea.pt

Rota Das Ilhas – Ria Formosa
rotadasilhas.com

ODYSSEY Boat Tours
Passeios de barco na Ria Formosa
odysseytours.pt

Animaris-Animação Turística
animaris.pt

Formosamar
formosamar.com