Life in the shipyard
During the summer our job is to ensure that your holiday in Lagos is rich in unforgettable experiences, sailing on our yachts and collecting unique moments. In today’s text we talk about how we prepare the boats in winter, life in the boatyard, our holidays, kayaks in the coldest weather and, of course, the team’s rest.
And during the winter?
The truth is that during the winter we take our well-deserved holidays, we recover the batteries in our bodies, but we also do a very important job: recovering the boats.
The ‘trip’ to the boatyard is essential so that we can ensure that the boats are prepared for each wave, each trip, each bump on the quay and, of course, so that you can travel safely during your holidays in Lagos. The sailboats, for example, undergo a thorough overhaul of the hull timbers, analysing their condition and replacing those that have been most affected during the season. The engines undergo a thorough overhaul in an effort to get the best performance out of them. Finally, the boats are painted with figures related to our Algarve, our sea and our company.
The shipyard phase
The shipyard phase is also a quieter time in the business, as temperatures are lower and the Algarve suffers from a lack of tourists, allowing us to carry out these sailboat restorations and even organise the human resources for the next season.
‘But do they stop travelling?’
Of course not! The trips to the caves in the smaller boats continue, as long as the weather and the state of the sea are suitable for everyone’s navigation and safety. Our winter is our calmest period, a desired phase after consecutive months of high demand, offering a personalised and quality service during your holidays in Lagos.
‘And the Kayak trips are still running?’
Our auxiliary boat is also entering the shipyard and undergoing improvements to the engine. A break in perfect timing given the low water temperatures and the low demand for kayak trips.
‘When will the sailboats and kayaks return?’
Our team expects both sailboats to return at the same time in February, after both boats have fully recovered and in order to get the season off to a flying start. The kayaks open their ‘calendar’ in March, in the pre-Easter phase, so that you can have great experiences during your holidays in Lagos, especially during a warmer period.
In short, let’s get down to work and embrace the winter with the same dedication as we do the summer.
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Sailing at sunset with Prosecco
As the day ends there is no better way to toast life with a boat ride sailing at sunset. Imagine yourself in a traditional sailing boat, gliding through the calm waters as the sky transforms into a screen of vibrant colors. This 2-hour tour offers the perfect combination of relaxation and stunning views, making it an unforgettable experience.
A warm welcome on board
The adventure begins when you board our classic sailboat, welcomed by our friendly and experienced crew. To set the mood for this delightful journey, you will be welcomed with a chilled bottle of Prosecco. Whether you’re sharing this experience with a partner or enjoying some solitary relaxation, the complimentary 70cl bottle per couple or 20cl for single travelers ensures you start the tour in style.
Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery
As we sail the magnificent Golden Coast of Lagos, you will be captivated by the stunning scenery. Dramatic cliffs, golden beaches and hidden coves are bathed in the warm tones of the setting sun, offering perfect photographic opportunities and moments of serene beauty. This part of the Algarve is known for its picturesque landscapes and seeing it from the water adds a unique perspective.
Relax and unwind
No navigation skills are required to enjoy this tour. Simply sit back, relax and let the movement of the boat and the sound of the waves take over. Whether accompanied or alone, the onboard environment is designed to help you relax and embrace the beauty of the moment.
Enjoy your favourite drinks at
During the tour, our bar service remains available, allowing you to enjoy your favorite drinks while enjoying the evening. Our team is available to serve a variety of drinks, ensuring your glass never gets empty.
Comfort in the water
We understand the importance of comfort, especially when the night breeze increases. To keep you warm, we offer jackets, allowing you to feel cozy and comfortable while enjoying the outdoor experience.
Important details
- Alcohol Policy: We maintain a strict policy of not serving alcoholic beverages to minors.
- Bar Service: Available throughout the tour but not included in the starting price.
- Prosecco: A bottle of 70cl per couple and 20cl for solo travelers is provided.
End your day in Lagos with this unique sailing experience at sunset. Embrace the peaceful surroundings, savor a fresh Prosecco and soak up the golden hues of the setting sun. This tour promises to be a highlight of your visit to the Algarve, leaving you lasting memories of the stunning coast of Lagos.
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Nautical Voyages – Sotavento and Barlavento
When travelling by boat, the choice of destination can be crucial to the experience you want to have. The sotavento and barlavento regions offer different experiences. To help you decide which is the best option for your next nautical adventure, below we’ll outline a few differences.
Sotavento: Serenity in Calm Waters
The sotavento refers to the side of an island or coast. If you’re looking for a quiet nautical experience, with calm and less choppy waters, the sotavento is the ideal place.
Some characteristics that make the sotavento attractive include:
- Serene waters: Protection from strong winds creates a setting of calm waters, perfect for relaxing and peaceful sailing.
- Praias Isoladas: As praias no lado do sotavento proporcionam-lhe um ambiente discreto para ancorar e descontrair.
- Water Activities: The sotavento is perfect for diving, snorkelling and fishing, thanks to the calmer waters and improved visibility.
- Green Landscapes: The green landscapes that characterise the sotavento make it a stunning setting for nature lovers.
If you’re looking for serenity and a connection with the marine environment, the sotavento is the right choice for your next nautical adventure.
Barlavento: Adventure in the Waves and Wind
Unlike sotavento, barlavento is a region exposed to the prevailing winds, which provides a totally different nautical experience. In this area, the winds are stronger and the waves are bigger, making it a true paradise for sailors and water sports enthusiasts such as surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.
In addition, the barlavento waters are ideal for deep-sea fishing, attracting anglers from various regions in search of thrilling moments. And let’s not forget the characteristic landscape: often arid and rocky, creating a stunning and unusual setting.
The case of the Algarve
In the region where we are located, the Algarve, we make an important distinction between the Sotavento Algarvio and the Barlavento Algarvio. Let’s explore the characteristics of each:
The Sotavento Algarvio corresponds to the eastern part of the region. It includes the municipalities of Alcoutim, Castro Marim, Faro, Loulé, Olhão, São Brás de Alportel, Tavira and Vila Real de Santo António. This area is known for:
- Calm waters: Due to its closer proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, the waters of the Sotavento are serene and calm.
- High temperatures: The beaches in this region have higher temperatures, making them ideal for sunbathing and relaxing.
The Western Algarve covers the western part of the Algarve, including the municipalities of Albufeira, Aljezur, Lagoa, Lagos, Monchique, Portimão, Silves and Vila do Bispo. The area’s main characteristics are:
- Beaches with cliffs: The beaches of Barlavento have impressive cliffs, creating dramatic landscapes.
- Varied colours: The rock formations display shades ranging from yellow to red, providing unique scenery.
- Rough waters: Compared to the Sotavento, the waters in this region are slightly rougher, attracting surfers and water sports enthusiasts.
The Right Destination for a Nautical Journey
The choice between sotavento and barlavento depends entirely on your preferences and the type of nautical experience you’re looking for. If you want to get on your sailing boat, practise water sports and experience an adrenaline rush, the windward coast is the best option. On the other hand, if your idea is calm sailing, the sotavento is ideal.
Take into account the season and the weather conditions, check the wind and wave forecasts. If you have time to explore both sides, you can choose to experience the “best of both worlds”.
In short, whatever your preferences, both the sotavento and the barlavento offer unforgettable adventures for sea lovers. The beauty of sailing lies in the diversity of experiences you can have. Choose your side of paradise and get ready to explore the seas in a unique way.
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If you’d prefer to get to know Lagos, visit us and take one of our Kayak Tours trips.
The history of the city of Lagos
Welcome to Lagos, a charming city full of history, where the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean embrace the rich cultural heritage that characterizes its streets, beaches, and caves made up of rock formations. For history lovers, Lagos is a treasure trove full of fascinating narratives dating back centuries.
With stunning landscapes and a unique atmosphere, this coastal town in the Algarve offers an enriching experience of historical discovery.
The origins
The city of Lagos traces its origins back to the small streams that originated in the Espinhaço de Cão, forming lagoons bordered by sand dunes. These places were rich in fish and bivalves, and quickly became attractive ports that conquered various peoples, becoming an appealing trading point.
Over the years, Lagos witnessed the passage of Phoenicians, Greeks, and Carthaginians, and, later, Romans, Moors and Portuguese disputed its domain. Under Roman rule, the city was called Lacóbriga and was later called Zawiya (or Zawaia) by the Arabs. In 1249, during the reign of King D. Afonso III, Lagos was definitively integrated into Portuguese territory.
The most marked influence, however, came from the Arab civilization, which profoundly shaped the experience of future generations. To this day, we can see the linguistic, cultural, and architectural traces left by the influence of these people.
The Age of Discovery
During the Age of Discovery in the 15th century, Lagos gained notoriety as a starting point for some of the most daring expeditions in history. Under the command of figures such as Prince Henry the Navigator, Portuguese explorers set off from the shores of Lagos to explore distant lands and open up sea routes that would connect cultures all over the world. It was from this city that Gil Eanes, the hero of the Bojador, set sail, and here was the point of entry for Africa’s first riches, such as gold, silver and ivory.
The Elevation to City
In 1573, Lagos was elevated to the status of a city by order of King Sebastião, making it the seat of the Bishopric and the capital of the entire Kingdom of the Algarve.
However, the golden years ended with the earthquake of 1755, which ruthlessly destroyed the city, and the years that followed were marked by misery and decay. However, it slowly got back on its feet and with the help of its most valuable resource, the sea, it emerged from the ruins.
The Pointed Fortress
Over the centuries, Lagos has often been the target of invasions. However, enclosed within its walls, today Lagos is one of the most welcoming shelters on the Portuguese coast.
The walls (a national monument), built during the reigns of King Manuel I, King João II and King Filipe I, completely covered the city to defend it from possible invasions.
On the other hand, outside the walls, the Ponta da Bandeira Fortress was built, which has stood the test of time and offers visitors a fascinating view of the city’s defenses.
A Tourist Destination Rich in History
While Bom Dia Boat Trip explores the waters of Lagos on exciting sea trips, we can’t help but appreciate the rich history that this city has to offer. Today, Lagos is one of the most sought-after cities in the Algarve for its golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, the scenic beauty of its bay and its architectural legacy.
For adventurers looking for an experience that combines the picturesque with the historic, Lagos is the perfect destination. Embark on a sea tour with us and discover the stories that the waves of the Atlantic have hidden for centuries, entering a lively and exciting journey by the sea.
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If you prefer to discover the lakes and the natural wealth of our coastline, visit us and take our most complete trip, the Baía Lagos.
Celebrate Easter with us
Easter is a time for renewal, reflection and sharing moments with our loved ones. So we invite you to celebrate this unique and memorable festivity by embarking on a maritime journey with us in the stunning city of Lagos.
Coastal exploration
Start your Easter celebration with a coastal trip that reveals the unique natural beauty of the Lagos coast. Navigate the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic in our sailing boats or small motorised boats while soaking up the serenity and admiring the impressive rock formations that make this region such a special destination.
On-board catering service
In addition, you can enjoy our on-board food service, lovingly prepared by our team. Also, you can personalize this service with food to your taste and savor fresh delicacies while enjoying the panoramic views that the ocean provides. Combining good food, a fun atmosphere and the sea breeze, the perfect setting is created to celebrate this special season.
Nautical Activities
Come and discover a variety of secret caves that you can only access if you travel by boat! Our team is ready to provide you with experiences that will live long in your memory. While you enjoy the view, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the friendly dolphins that occasionally visit us on our tours.
Refinement and Comfort on Board
We equip our boats to provide maximum comfort and safety. With our experienced masters attentive to every detail, we guarantee that your experience on board will be truly relaxing and worry-free, providing entertainment that can’t be matched.
Sunset
Finally, end your day with a stunning sunset over the waters of Lagos, the perfect setting to end a day full of unforgettable moments.
We look forward to sharing this Easter with you, so book your place on board with Bom Dia Boat Trips and join us on a maritime journey. We commit to providing remarkable and unique experiences at our company. Allow us to take part in your Easter celebrations, transforming this season into a maritime experience that will remain in your memory forever.
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A Destination for All Seasons
The Algarve, the pearl of southern Portugal, is a tourist destination that shines in both summer and winter. With its stunning beaches, picturesque villages and rich cultural heritage, this region captivates travellers all year round. So let’s explore the unique experiences that the Algarve offers holidaymakers, whether in the heat of summer or the serenity of winter.
Summer in the Algarve: Sun, Beaches and Water Adventures
First of all, summer in the Algarve is synonymous with bright sunshine and warm temperatures, creating the perfect atmosphere for relaxing days at the beach. The long stretches of golden sand, such as Meia Praia and Praia do Camilo, attract tourists eager for sunbathing and refreshing dips in the Atlantic Ocean.
In addition, the Algarve is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. From surfing the waves of the Atlantic to boat trips to the caves of Ponta da Piedade, there are exciting activities to suit all tastes.
The vibrant nightlife is another attraction of the Algarve summer. Restaurants on the seafront offer fresh fish dishes, accompanied by live music and a relaxed atmosphere. The streets come alive with craft markets and local festivals, providing an immersion in Algarvian culture.
Winter in the Algarve: Tranquillity and Cultural Discoveries
Although the Algarve is often associated with sunny summers, winter also reveals a unique charm. The mild temperatures make the region an attractive refuge for those who like to escape the more intense cold of other parts of Europe and even the country.
During the colder months, tourists can explore the region’s charms, and the spectacular rock formations of Ponta da Piedade are a must-see attraction all year round. If you walk along the cliffs, you’ll see breathtaking views of the ocean and the rock formations sculpted by nature. The quieter atmosphere in winter allows you to connect more deeply with the landscape.
Even in winter, Lagos’ beaches offer unique beauty. Praia Dona Ana, for example, is an ideal place to walk and enjoy the coastal scenery. Although sunbathing activities may be less common, the tranquil atmosphere provides a relaxing setting.
Also, explore the narrow cobbled streets of Lagos’ historic center. Discover the city’s rich history by visiting points of interest such as Igreja de Santo António, Igreja de São Sebastião and Forte da Ponta da Bandeira. The absence of the summer crowds will allow for a more peaceful and contemplative experience.
Conclusion
All in all, the Algarve is a truly versatile tourist destination, capable of delighting visitors in both the heat of summer and the tranquillity of winter. Whether relaxing on the sunny beaches or exploring the cultural and natural riches during the colder months, the Algarve offers an unforgettable experience. Whatever the season, this piece of heaven in the south of Portugal is waiting to be discovered by tourists eager for new experiences. So don’t waste any more time and come and visit us in Lagos! Bom Dia Boat Trips will add value to your trip with its exceptional boat trips!
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An end to the year message from Bom Dia Boat Trips
A year of challenges and achievements
As another year draws to a close, Bom Dia Boat Trips takes stock and reflects on the challenges faced and the achievements made. It was a period that tested our team to the maximum, after a challenging season that demanded resilience and dedication.
Unforgettable journeys
During 2023, we stood out for organising private trips that will remain etched in the memory of everyone involved. From Erasmus student trips to exciting bachelor parties, romantic on-board wedding proposals and trips for small groups, each experience was unique and special.
The high season lasted longer than usual, requiring extra efforts from our team, who worked tirelessly until later than usual. Before we closed for the year, we dedicated time and effort to ensuring that Bom Dia Boat Trips fully recovered after long hours of work, leaving us ready and eager for the next season ahead.
Digital investment
In addition to on-board activities, this year has been marked by our company’s digital growth, as we have increased our online presence, providing our customers with a more engaging and interactive experience. Our commitment to quality content and constant interaction on social media has strengthened ties with our community and prepared us to face new challenges in the coming year.
Cheers to the future and the challenges we’ve overcome
All in all, 2023 was a period of growth, overcoming and connection. Unforgettable trips, the tireless dedication of our team and digital advancement are testimony to Bom Dia Boat Trips’ commitment to providing memorable, high-quality experiences. As we say goodbye to this year, we would like to express our gratitude to all our clients, partners and collaborators who have been part of this journey that 2024 brings to a close. We wish you all a Happy New Year, filled with new adventures, success and extraordinary moments, and may the coming year be as exciting and rewarding as this one! We can’t wait to share more special moments aboard Bom Dia Boat Trips. See you soon!
Algarve: what happens at the end of the season?
Tourists who visit us often ask this question. They ask us how we deal with the time when fewer foreigners and nationals visit the Algarve to relax or enjoy unique experiences.
The end of the season is the time to slow down the company, lower the sails of our boats and start taking stock of the summer that has passed and the days and days of work to guarantee the best experiences for those who visit us. The boats, most notably the Bom Dia and the Falcão Veloz, go up to the shipyard, and we begin to analyse “where to start”. There are always fundamental restorations to be made to the hull, the electrical parts, making sure the propellers are in the best condition, analysing the wear on the sails and, of course, touching up the paintwork that gives our boats so much charm.
This summer has been another huge and enjoyable test of our team’s ability to see each trip as a challenge where each holidaymaker has their own expectations, and we try to exceed them. The stalls have tried to attract the most curious tourists who visit our city, the office has managed the logistics of each trip and ensured the great relationship we have with our partners in the hotel industry and the Lagos marina, and each member of the boats has ensured the safety and experience of our trips.
A time to relax and strengthen team spirit
And because it’s necessary to relax after the high season, in November we brought the season to a close with a moment of leisure: we went kayaking with the company “Ponta da Piedade Tours” with all our team and their team. A way to decompress and celebrate the summer that has passed for these two companies from the same group.
In addition to this kayak trip, every year we celebrate the effort with an end-of-season lunch between the entire Bom Dia, Ponta da Piedade and SeaLife team, where we tell the stories of the summer, toast personal and professional achievements and share photos of our professional year.
Lagos Marina
Since 2000, Bom Dia Boat Trips has had the privilege of being part of Marina de Lagos, an inseparable association. Discover how this partnership enriches our nautical experiences and provides unique moments for our visitors.
The Marina is an integral part of our company, and it is impossible to disassociate one from the other. Strategically positioned for sailors on the European coast, this marina is the first stop for many who cross the Atlantic or the last for those who are about to. For boating enthusiasts, it is an unmissable reference point, and a nautical destination of excellence in the south of Portugal.
A Vital Point in Regional Navigation
Strategically located on the European coast, it is an obligatory stopping point for sailors crossing the Atlantic Ocean. Find out more about its vital role in regional boating and why it is loved by holidaymakers and sailors alike.
In addition to excellent nautical services, Lagos Marina offers a number of bars, restaurants and shops, making it an important tourist attraction in the region. Around the marina, the cultural and entertainment life is pulsating, providing unforgettable moments for those who visit.
Throughout the year, the Marina hosts various nautical events, such as boat races, fishing competitions and even festivals. It is also proud of its environmental certifications and protection measures, such as waste collection and the promotion of environmentally friendly practices. The preservation of the marine environment is a fundamental point for Marina de Lagos, which takes a leading role in the sustainability of the region.
If you’re on holiday in the Algarve, book your experience with us here. See you at Marina de Lagos!
Dolphins in the Algarve
In this article, we’ll explore one of the most popular tourist experiences: dolphin watching in the Algarve. This exciting journey offers close contact with these enchanting species that sail our seas.
In addition to the adorable dolphins, in the Algarve region is also an area of passage for other fascinating marine creatures, such as orcas – a topic we’ll cover in a future blog article.
Focusing again on our main journey, the resident dolphin species in this region are the bottlenose and common dolphins. These species live in a community and often perform acrobatics and jumps together. On some occasions, we may even spot rarer species, such as the striped dolphin. These appearances are possible due to the balanced temperature of our waters and the presence of shoals of smaller fish, including sardines, that pass close to our coast. These factors contribute to attracting and keeping these animals in our beautiful region.
How do dolphin watching trips work in the Algarve?
We emphasise that all dolphin watching trips are conducted in a responsible manner, respecting the daily lives of these creatures and the preservation of their natural habitats. We emphasise that direct contact with dolphins and feeding them is strictly forbidden.
Our dolphin watching trips last one and a half hours and are led by an experienced team of sailors and marine biologists, ensuring quality, safety and comfort during the experience.
“The boat was blue, with windows in every row of seats. Super fast. We had a long time with the dolphins. We met a group of about 9 animals, playful and curious. Our guide loved the tour and marvelled at the dolphins’ leaps. The price of 40 per person may not be low, but it’s definitely worth it. Information about the animals is available, all in English. We really enjoyed it.”
– Sven Cornelius
It’s important to note that although we make every effort to provide an incredible experience, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed on every trip.
For safety reasons, we do not recommend the trip for pregnant women or children under the age of two, due to the use of fast boats.
Interested in booking a dolphin watching trip during your holiday in the Algarve? Book now through our website!
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