Ria Formosa is home to one of the largest seahorse communities in the world. During this tour you will have the opportunity to observe this fantastic species in its natural habitat. The two species that reside in the Ria Formosa are: the long-snouted seahorse (hippocampus guttulatus) and the short-snouted seahorse (hippocampus hippocampus). 

You will also have the opportunity to observe other species such as octopus, cuttlefish and sea cucumbers. It is also possible to observe the traditional capture of seafood. 

The skipper, who will guide you throughout of the visit, will provide you with all the necessary information, helping you in all the seahorse identification activity. The activity takes place in the Ria Formosa lagoon system and the diving activity takes place without an oxygen cylinder, just goggles and a diving tube to breathe. 

The water depth will be 1.50m to 1.80m, so swimming experience is required. 

The tour will take place on a boat to the place where you can snorkel and watch the seahorses. 

Snorkeling equipment, goggles and snorkel tube will be provided. 

RECOMMENDATIONS: bring towel and bathing suit. 

Available from July to September

• Price/Adult: €40.00
• Price/Child (4-10 years old): €30.00
• Price/Child (up to 3 years old): €4.00

Minimum: : 4 adults

Points of interest

1. Oyster, cockle and clam ponds
2. Natural bar
3. Olhão 
4. Fauna of the Ria Formosa
5. Flora of the Ria Formosa
6. The navigation channels of the Ria

Clam tanks

One of the most important economic activities in the region can be seen during the tour. Around 80% of the seafood consumed in Portugal is produced here.

Armona Island

One of the most beautiful islands in the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Island of Culatra

Island with a small fishing village residing all year round, being the only one in Ria Formosa, with very particular cultural aspects.

Side channels

Wild area of the Ria Formosa Natural Park of great natural beauty that can be visited during the tour.

Birdwatching

Since the Ria Formosa Natural Park is an important place for birdwatching, you will have the opportunity to observe different types of birds that inhabit it.

Ria Formosa Natural Park

Complex lagoon system with rich fauna and flora, of great economic importance for the region and considered one of the seven wonders of nature in Portugal.

Farol island

With the largest water inlet of the entire Ria Formosa made by the Olhão-Faro bar and close to the cape of Santa Maria, the southernmost point of mainland Portugal, it is an island of great natural beauty marked by its imposing lighthouse 50 meters high.