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Boat Rental and Yacht Charter in Portugal

Portugal's diverse coastline, from the bustling Lisbon to the tranquil Algarve, offers a unique blend of culture and natural beauty. Sail with a seasoned skipper to explore hidden coves, historic towns, and sublime seafood cuisine.
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Speedboat navigating around boats in marina
Motorboat cruising at speed
Catamaran at anchor in secluded island
Family kids catamaran
Old couple standing at bow of sailboat
Group friends celebrating
Cockpit view of heeling sailboat
Group of friends jumping from sailboat
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  • “The company offers personalized guidance for finding the best deals. Their assistance was crucial for my first self-skippered sailing vacation.”
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    Yeshekel S.

    Israel

  • “Being fairly new to boat rental, it was a good experience to go through this process with Rebecca's help. She gave me full support on finding the right boat within our budget. Well done!”
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    Carlos R.

    Portugal

  • “Super nice, dedicated, and friendly staff. Special requests were addressed immediately. Above all, the prompt response impressed me!”
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    Ann-Marie K.

    Switzerland

  • “Borrow A Boat's support made our Saronic Islands cruise exceptional, turning it into an annual tradition.”
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    James D.

    United Kingdom

  • “Giulia quickly found a good yacht at a fair price. The boat owner was responsive. I'll consider using Borrow A Boat again.”
    Henry

    Henry

    France

  • “I chartered a boat for the first time and I am thrilled with the service. I received personal advice from a very friendly and competent lady and was able to contact the same employee with my questions repeatedly, either in writing or by phone.”
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    Christian M.

    Germany

  • “I have to say that we had an excellent customer experience when dealing with Borrow A Boat. Our agent 'Luke' responded in a timely manner and offered us a very good deal. I can wholeheartedly recommend Borrow A Boat for anyone looking for a hassle-free experience when seeking a yacht charter.”
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    Eamonn. B.

    Ireland

  • “Booking our gulet trip with Eray was an absolute pleasure from start to finish. He was incredibly responsive, patient, and knowledgeable, answering all our questions and helping us find the perfect vessel for our needs.”
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    Malgoska C.

    Switzerland

  • “We had a great experience chartering a Hanse 575 in Turkey through Borrow A Boat. Prompt service and smooth payment process.”
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    Adrian

    Germany

  • “I was very satisfied with how the negotiation was conducted and the quick and transparent conclusion: in particular, the company representative, Mr. Nicolò, was very kind, professional, and helpful.”
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    Rossella di T.

    Italy

  • “Borrow A Boat provided excellent service from start to finish. I'll use them for future bookings.”
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  • “Tom provided excellent, responsive service on short notice. We'll use his company again and highly recommend him.”
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    United States

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Select Your Ideal Boat Type

Three Ways to Sail in Portugal

Explore Portugal with our yacht charters and boat rentals suited for all experience levels. From bareboat options for seasoned sailors to skippered and fully crewed experiences, plus license-free boats for beginners, we offer the perfect vessel to discover Portugal's beautiful waters your way.

Bareboat / Captain Optional

Ideal for experienced sailors seeking complete freedom and control for their Portugal yacht rental experience.

Ideal for experienced sailors seeking complete freedom and control for their Portugal yacht rental experience.

  • •Complete control over sailing itinerary around Portugal
  • •Privacy and intimacy for your group
  • •Opportunities to improve sailing skills in Portugal's waters
  • •Cost-effective boat rental option for larger groups
Show all bareboat rentals in Portugal

Skippered / Captain Mandatory

Perfect for those seeking a balance of freedom and expert guidance while enjoying a boat rental in Portugal.

Perfect for those seeking a balance of freedom and expert guidance while enjoying a boat rental in Portugal.

  • •Professional navigation and safety with local Portugal expertise
  • •Local knowledge and recommendations for hidden gems in Portugal
  • •Relaxed sailing experience in the beautiful waters of Portugal
  • •No license required for your Portugal yacht charter adventure
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Fully Crewed

The ultimate luxury yacht charter experience in Portugal with full professional service.

The ultimate luxury yacht charter experience in Portugal with full professional service.

  • •Complete relaxation and comfort throughout your Portugal boat journey
  • •Professional crew service tailored to your needs
  • •Gourmet dining experience featuring local Portugal cuisine
  • •Personalized itinerary planning to explore the best of Portugal
Show all crewed charters in Portugal

Discover the Magic of Portugal with a Boat Charter

Portugal's stunning coastline offers an unforgettable sailing experience, from the vibrant shores of the Algarve to the historic maritime cities of Porto and Lisbon. With crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and year-round mild temperatures, Portugal combines rich nautical heritage with modern sailing amenities, making it perfect for both seasoned sailors and first-time charterers.

  • Flexible Booking Options That Work for You

    Book your Portuguese sailing adventure with confidence using our flexible payment plans, including a convenient 3-installment option with just 15% down. Select boats offer free cancellation up to 30 days before departure, and early birds can enjoy exclusive discounts on specific dates and routes.

  • The Perfect Boat for Every Adventure

    Whether you're dreaming of a sleek sailboat to explore the Algarve's caves, a spacious catamaran for family fun around Madeira, or a luxurious motor yacht to cruise the Douro River, we've got you covered. Our fleet ranges from affordable day-sailors starting at €200/day to premium catamarans for extended voyages.

  • Year-Round Sailing Paradise

    Portugal's Mediterranean climate means great sailing conditions throughout the year. Summer brings reliable northerly winds perfect for coastal cruising, while spring and fall offer milder conditions ideal for exploring secluded beaches and historic ports. Popular routes include the Algarve's golden coast and the dramatic Berlengas archipelago.

  • Seamless Local Support

    Our partnerships with Portuguese charter bases ensure a smooth experience from start to finish. We offer reliable airport transfers, professional skipper services for those who need them, and comprehensive charter insurance through Sealogy. Plus, our local team can help arrange everything from provisioning to berth reservations.

  • Expert Guidance for Every Sailor

    Whether you're an experienced sailor or new to chartering, our team provides personalized support throughout your journey. We'll help you choose the right boat, plan your route, and ensure you have all necessary documentation. For those interested in licensing requirements, we offer detailed guidance through our online resources.

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Experience the ultimate yacht charter and boat rental in Portugal with our seamless booking platform. From luxury vessels to affordable options, discover the perfect boat for your Portugal adventure today.

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Choose from the largest selection of boat rentals in Portugal, with competitive prices and exclusive deals on everything from sailboats to luxury yachts.
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Portugal Yacht Charter Guide

Stunning Atlantic coastline with Mediterranean charm, offering diverse sailing from golden beaches to historic ports

Portugal scenic view
Perfect for:
Coastal Exploration
Island Hopping
Cultural Experience

Essential information

  • Information type
    High and low season
    Description
    Peak season runs July through August with highest prices and crowds. Shoulder season offers better value with mild conditions. Winter brings occasional storms but lower rates.
    Best months to book:
    May, June, September
  • Information type
    Marinas, ports and mooring
    Description
    Modern marinas dot the coastline with excellent facilities. Major ports include Cascais, Lagos, and Vilamoura offering full services and amenities.
    Best places to stay:
    Marina de Lagos, Cascais Marina, Vilamoura Marina
  • Information type
    Wind & weather
    Description
    Reliable northerly winds along coast with afternoon sea breezes. Atlantic influence brings moderate temperatures year-round.
    Temperature & Winds:
    55°F to 85°F, 8-20 knots, Beaufort 3-5
  • Information type
    Required licenses and certifications
    Description
    ICC or national sailing license required for bareboat charter. Radio operator's license needed for offshore sailing.
    Best license to hold:
    International Certificate of Competence (ICC), VHF Radio License
  • Currency:
    EUR
  • Season:
    April - October

Sailing Conditions in Portugal

Portugal offers exceptional sailing opportunities along its 576-mile (927 km) Atlantic coastline, combining historic maritime culture with diverse sailing conditions. The sailing season typically runs from April through October, with peak conditions during summer months. From the protected waters of the Algarve to the challenging Atlantic coast and the enchanting Madeira and Azores archipelagos, Portugal provides varied experiences for all sailing enthusiasts.

Wind Conditions

  • •Northern Coast (Porto to Viana do Castelo): Strong northerly winds prevailing at Beaufort 4-6, occasionally reaching 7 in summer afternoons. Winter conditions can be challenging with Atlantic storms
  • •Central Coast (Peniche to Lisbon): Reliable northwesterly winds averaging Beaufort 3-5, with afternoon thermal effects intensifying conditions to Beaufort 5-6
  • •Lisbon Area: Consistent northerly winds at Beaufort 3-4, with afternoon thermal breezes reaching Beaufort 5. The Tagus River creates unique wind patterns
  • •Algarve Coast: Moderate easterly winds at Beaufort 2-4, occasionally strengthening to 5 during summer afternoons. Winter brings variable conditions
  • •Madeira: Steady northeast trades at Beaufort 3-4, with occasional acceleration zones around the island reaching Beaufort 6
  • •Azores: Variable winds averaging Beaufort 3-5, with stronger conditions possible during Atlantic weather systems

Sea State

  • •Northern Waters: Ocean swell typically 6-13 ft (2-4 m), increasing during winter months with Atlantic systems
  • •Central Coast: Average swell heights of 3-10 ft (1-3 m), with calmer conditions during summer months
  • •Lisbon Region: Protected waters in the Tagus estuary, open coast experiences 3-8 ft (1-2.5 m) swells
  • •Algarve: Generally calm waters with swells averaging 2-6 ft (0.5-2 m), protected bays offer flat conditions
  • •Madeira and Azores: Open ocean swells typically 3-10 ft (1-3 m), varying significantly with weather systems

Temperature

  • •Summer air temperatures range from 75-85°F (24-29°C) in the south to 65-75°F (18-24°C) in the north
  • •Winter temperatures vary from 60-70°F (16-21°C) in the Algarve to 50-60°F (10-16°C) along the northern coast
  • •Water temperatures peak at 75°F (24°C) in the Algarve during summer, dropping to 59°F (15°C) in winter
  • •Northern waters remain cooler, ranging from 63-68°F (17-20°C) in summer to 54-59°F (12-15°C) in winter
  • •Madeira and Azores maintain more consistent temperatures year-round, averaging 68-73°F (20-23°C)

Tides and Currents

  • •Tidal ranges vary from 7-13 ft (2-4 m) along the Atlantic coast, with stronger effects in river mouths and estuaries
  • •The Portuguese Current flows southward along the coast at 1-2 knots, stronger during winter months
  • •Significant tidal streams occur around Cape St. Vincent and in the Tagus estuary, reaching up to 3 knots
  • •Madeira and Azores experience minimal tidal range of 3-6 ft (1-2 m)
  • •Local acceleration zones occur around headlands and between islands, creating stronger currents

Best Sailing Areas for Different Skill Levels

  • •Beginners: Algarve coast between Lagos and Faro, offering protected waters and easy navigation. The Tagus estuary near Lisbon provides sheltered conditions ideal for learning
  • •Intermediate: Central Portuguese coast from Peniche to Setúbal, including the Berlengas Islands. Madeira's southern coast offers good conditions for developing skills
  • •Advanced: Northern coast from Porto to Viana do Castelo, challenging Atlantic conditions. Open-ocean passages to the Azores and between islands test experienced sailors. Cape St. Vincent rounding requires advanced weather planning and seamanship

Best Time to Rent a Boat in Portugal

Portugal's 500-mile Atlantic coastline offers diverse sailing experiences, from the sheltered waters of the Algarve to the dramatic northern coast. With historic ports like Lagos and Cascais, consistent trade winds, and a blend of Mediterranean and Atlantic conditions, Portugal provides year-round sailing opportunities enhanced by rich maritime culture and modern marina infrastructure.

High Season (July and August)
Pros & advantages
•Reliable northerly winds of 15-20 knots along the coast provide perfect conditions for experienced sailors
•Warm water temperatures of 72°F (22°C) make swimming and water activities ideal around the Algarve
•All marinas and facilities are fully operational with frequent sailing events and regattas in major ports
Cons & disadvantages
•Marina fees increase by 30-50% in popular ports like Cascais and Lagos, requiring advance bookings
•Coastal passages can become crowded, especially near popular anchorages in the Algarve region
•Afternoon thermal winds can intensify to 25+ knots, challenging for novice sailors and families
Shoulder Season (May-June and September-October)
Pros & advantages
•Pleasant temperatures around 75°F (24°C) with moderate winds of 10-15 knots ideal for all skill levels
•Reduced marina rates and better availability in prime locations like Portimão and Sesimbra
•Perfect conditions for longer passages between Porto and Lisbon with stable weather patterns
Cons & disadvantages
•Morning fog can affect visibility along the northern coast, particularly near Porto until midday
•Occasional Atlantic swells of 6-8 feet can make coastal navigation challenging for smaller vessels
•Some seasonal restaurants and facilities in smaller ports may operate on reduced hours
Low Season (November through April)
Pros & advantages
•Significant discounts on long-term berths and winter storage in major marinas nationwide
•Excellent conditions for experienced sailors seeking challenging Atlantic weather experiences
•Uncrowded anchorages and easier access to historic ports like Nazaré and Peniche
Cons & disadvantages
•Winter storms can bring winds up to 35 knots and waves over 10 feet along the entire coast
•Limited facilities with many seasonal businesses closed, especially in smaller fishing ports
•Water temperatures drop to 59°F (15°C), requiring proper gear for any water activities

The shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) offer the best overall sailing conditions for most visitors, combining comfortable weather with reasonable prices and good facility availability. July and August provide optimal conditions for experienced sailors comfortable with stronger winds and higher costs, while winter sailing should be reserved for advanced sailors seeking challenging conditions. Families and novice sailors should strongly consider planning their trips during the shoulder season, particularly in protected areas like the Algarve.

Best Boat Deals in Portugal

Best Deals

Which Boat to Charter in Portugal?

When planning a yacht charter in Portugal, selecting the right type of boat is crucial to ensure your sailing experience aligns with your preferences, group size, and desired level of comfort. Here's a quick overview of the most popular boat types available for charter in Portugal:

Motor Yacht

Motor Yacht

Luxurious powered vessels combining speed, comfort, and high-end amenities for premium cruising experiences.

  • •Ideal for covering longer distances with speed and comfort
  • •Offers premium amenities and modern luxury features
  • •Perfect for exploring multiple destinations without wind dependence
View 41 available motorboats for rent in Portugal
Monohull Sailboat

Monohull Sailboat

Classic sailing vessels perfect for authentic maritime experiences, combining tradition with modern comfort.

  • •Ideal for traditional sailing enthusiasts and smaller groups
  • •Offers a more authentic sailing experience with excellent performance
  • •More affordable compared to catamarans and motor yachts
View 30 available sailboats for rent in Portugal
Catamaran

Catamaran

Spacious, stable multi-hull vessels offering comfort and luxury for larger groups and families.

  • •Perfect for families and larger groups seeking stability and space
  • •Features spacious living areas with multiple cabins and large deck spaces
  • •Excellent stability and easy maneuverability for comfortable sailing
View 17 available catamarans for rent in Portugal
Houseboat

Houseboat

Floating vacation homes offering a unique blend of comfort and water-based living.

  • •Perfect for those seeking a floating apartment experience
  • •Ideal for calm waters and peaceful harbor stays
  • •Offers home-like comfort with full living amenities
View 15 available houseboats for rent in Portugal
Speedboat

Speedboat

Agile, open boats designed for thrilling day trips and water sports activities.

  • •Ideal for exciting day trips and water sports
  • •Perfect for quick coastal exploration
  • •Easy to handle with great maneuverability
View 11 available speedboats for rent in Portugal
RIB

RIB

Rigid Inflatable Boats combining speed, safety, and versatility for dynamic water activities.

  • •Excellent for day trips and water sports
  • •Superior stability and safety in various conditions
  • •Perfect for coastal exploration and quick transfers
View 8 available RIBs for rent in Portugal
Power Catamaran

Power Catamaran

Twin-hulled motor vessels offering exceptional space and stability with powerful performance.

  • •Combines catamaran stability with motorboat speed
  • •Spacious layout with excellent fuel efficiency
  • •Perfect for comfortable long-distance cruising
View 3 available power catamarans for rent in Portugal
Gulet

Gulet

Traditional wooden sailing vessels offering unique charm with modern comfort, ideal for luxury charter experiences.

  • •Traditional wooden sailing vessels with timeless charm
  • •Spacious deck areas perfect for entertaining and relaxation
  • •Comes with professional crew for a premium charter experience
No gulets available in Portugal, view other locations

When planning your Portugal yacht charter, choose from our premium fleet of sailing yachts, motor yachts, and luxury catamarans. Whether you prefer a crewed or bareboat charter experience, our professionally maintained vessels offer ideal options for every group size and sailing expertise. Discover competitive charter rates and top-quality amenities for your perfect sailing vacation in Portugal.

Portugal Yacht Charter FAQ

  • What boating license do I need to charter in Portugal?
    For boats under 45 ft (13.7m), an ICC or equivalent national license is required. For larger yachts or professional charters, additional certifications may be needed. Check our detailed licensing guide for specific requirements.
  • When is the best time to sail in Portugal?
    Peak sailing season is June to September with temperatures around 82°F (28°C) and reliable northerly winds. Spring (April-May) and fall (October) offer pleasant conditions with fewer crowds and lower rates. The Algarve coast is particularly popular for its consistent conditions and stunning beaches.
  • How much does it cost to charter a boat in Portugal?
    Sailboat rentals range from $200-350/day in low season to $350-600/day in peak season. Catamarans cost $400-600/day off-peak and $600-1000/day in summer. Motor yachts start at $500/day off-season up to $1500+/day in high season. Many boats offer exclusive discounts and flexible payment plans.
  • What additional costs should I expect for a Portugal charter?
    Budget for mandatory end-cleaning ($110-550), security deposit (or insurance $110-385), marina fees (higher for catamarans), and local taxes. We offer comprehensive charter insurance and can arrange airport transfers through our transfer partner.
  • What booking flexibility do you offer?
    Select boats offer extended free cancellation periods. We provide a unique 3-installment payment plan with just 15% down payment. Many boats feature exclusive discounts, and we can source any professionally chartered boat worldwide, whether listed in our database or not.
  • Can you arrange a skippered charter if I don't have a license?
    Yes! We offer bareboat, skippered, and fully crewed options. Professional skippers are available through our partner networks, perfect for first-time sailors or those wanting a more relaxed experience while exploring Portugal's coastline.

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