Portugal

Portugal: Land of explorers and stunning coastlines

Located in the far west of Europe, Portugal is a country rich in history, culture and natural beauty. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Spain, Portugal offers a fascinating mix of historic cities, picturesque landscapes and some of the most beautiful coastline in Europe. From the golden beaches of the Algarve to the rugged cliffs of the Alentejo, Portugal offers a Mediterranean climate and warm hospitality.

Lisbon, the capital, is the country's beating heart. Cobbled streets, old neighbourhoods and landmarks such as the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery hark back to the glory days of Portuguese exploration. Just outside the city, the fashionable coastlines of Cascais and Estoril are renowned for their world-class sailing and boardwalks.

In the north of the country, Porto, the city of port wine, has a charming old quarter on the banks of the River Douro. The famous vineyard terraces along the Douro are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer breathtaking panoramic views.

Further south, the Algarve is renowned for its dramatic rock formations, coves and miles of beaches. The region is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and sun worshippers. In addition to the coast, the interior attracts visitors with sleepy villages, rolling hills and vineyards that complement the country's rich culinary tradition.

With centuries of history and unforgettable coastal charm, Portugal is a destination that offers both relaxation and adventure - a place that will capture the heart of any traveller.

Climate and Sailing Conditions in Portugal

Portugal offers excellent sailing conditions along the mainland coast and in the Azores, with a mild climate and varied coastal scenery. From the mainland to the Azores in the Atlantic Ocean, the different regions offer a variety of sailing adventures for all levels of experience.

Weather and climate

Portugal has a Mediterranean climate with strong Atlantic influences that vary from region to region.

Mainland (North): Porto and northern Portugal have a temperate climate with mild summers and rainy winters. The sailing season here starts in spring and lasts until early autumn, when the winds are strong and steady.

Mainland (Central Region - Lisbon and Surroundings): The Lisbon region has a warm Mediterranean climate. Summers are dry and hot, while winters are mild and wet. Sailing conditions are particularly good along the coast, for example in Cascais, between May and October.

Mainland (Algarve): The Algarve in the south is renowned for its sunny weather all year round. In summer, the winds are calm and the sailing conditions are ideal for leisure sailors who want to explore the sheltered coves and sparkling blue waters.

The Azores: Located about 1,500km west of the mainland in the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores have a temperate, humid climate all year round. Summers are warm but not too hot and winters are mild with higher humidity. The Azores are known for their changeable weather, with sailors often facing strong winds and a dynamic sea. The northeast trade wind blows regularly and the islands offer spectacular anchorages amidst volcanic landscapes and unspoilt nature.

Sailing conditions

Mainland (North): The stronger winds and rougher seas of the north are ideal for experienced sailors. Ports such as Porto and Viana do Castelo are popular bases for sailing adventures along the north coast.

Mainland (Central Region - Lisbon, Cascais): This region offers moderate winds and numerous sheltered coves, providing ideal sailing conditions. Lisbon is a central hub for yacht charters.

Mainland (Algarve): To the south, the sea is calmer and the winds milder. The Algarve is renowned for its relaxed sailing conditions, especially in the summer months when the coast offers breathtaking panoramas of rock formations and coves.

The Azores: The Azores are a dream destination for sailors looking for a challenge. The Atlantic offers rough but rewarding sailing with spectacular volcanic islands for anchorages. São Miguel and Faial are popular starting points and the Azores are an important stopover for transatlantic sailors.

Portugal, including the Azores, offers sailors a wealth of experiences - from relaxed sailing along the Algarve to adventurous transatlantic trips around the Azores.

Travel tips for yacht charter clients: How to get to Portugal

Portugal is a very popular destination for yacht charter and sailing adventures. Thanks to its location on the Atlantic Ocean and its beautiful coastline the country offers a wide range of opportunities, both on the mainland and in the Azores. Access is easy from both Europe and overseas and the infrastructure for yacht chartering is well developed.

Getting to the mainland

Portugal has several well-connected international airports, making it easy to get here:

Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS): the largest airport in the country and the main gateway for international flights. Lisbon is an ideal starting point for a yacht charter from Lisbon, Cascais or the Algarve coast.
Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO): Located in the north of the country, this airport is ideal for a yacht charter from Porto and along the northern Atlantic coast.
Faro International Airport (FAO): Located in the heart of the Algarve, this airport is ideal for yacht charters to the southern regions where the coastline is particularly picturesque and the sailing conditions are optimal. Taxis and hire cars are available from all airports to take you to the marinas. There are also frequent train services to cover the longer distances between towns.

Getting to the Azores

Located approximately 1,500 kilometres from mainland Portugal, the Azores are easily accessible by air:

Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL) on the island of São Miguel is the main airport in the Azores and is served by many international destinations, especially from Europe. Ponta Delgada is the starting point for many yacht charter trips in the Azores.
Other airports: The islands of Faial (Horta), Terceira and Pico also have their own airports with international connections.

Transfer to the marinas can be easily arranged by taxi or hire car. Tips for yacht charter clients Book yachts: There are many charter companies in Portugal offering sailing yachts, catamarans and motorboats. Booking early is recommended, especially in the high season (May to October).

Sailing certificates

Portugal accepts international sailing certificates such as the ICC (International Certificate of Competence) or the SKS (Sportküstenschifferschein). Make sure you have all the necessary documents with you.

Sailing season: The best time to sail in Portugal is from May to October, when the weather is warm and the winds mild. For experienced sailors, the Azores offer good sailing conditions all year round, although the weather can be changeable.

Local navigation: Be aware of tides and currents, especially along the coast. The waters around the Algarve are calmer, while sailing in the north and the Azores can be more challenging.

Portugal offers yacht charter customers an uncomplicated journey with an excellent infrastructure. The well-developed international airports and numerous marinas along the coast make it easy to use both the mainland and the Azores as a base for sailing adventures. Whether you are looking for quiet inlets or the rough and tumble of the Atlantic, Portugal has something for everyone.

Portugal's geographical location and coastline

Portugal is located in southwest Europe on the Iberian Peninsula and is the westernmost country on the European continent. It borders Spain to the east and north, while its entire west and south coasts are surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. This exposed location on the Atlantic has given Portugal a long maritime tradition and made it an important destination for sailors and yacht charter customers.

Portugal's coastline extends for approximately 1,794 kilometres and offers a diverse landscape, from rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to sheltered coves and lagoons. The coast can be divided into several regions, each with its own maritime characteristics and attractions.

The main coastal regions are:

The North Coast

Portugal's northern coast, stretching from the Minho region to Porto, is characterised by rough seas and dramatic rock formations.

The winds are often stronger and the water cooler.

Sailors will find a more challenging environment here, ideal for experienced water sports enthusiasts.

Ports such as Viana do Castelo and Porto are popular starting points for sailing adventures along the north coast.

Central Atlantic Coast

Portugal's Central Atlantic Coast includes regions such as Lisbon and Cascais.

This area is particularly popular with sailors due to its moderate winds and many sheltered coves.

The River Tagus, which flows through Lisbon, offers other interesting sailing routes.

The coastline in this region is characterised by wide beaches, rocky cliffs and historic towns that serve as anchorages.

Sailing along the Lisbon coast also provides access to the picturesque towns of Cascais and Estoril.

The Algarve

In the south of Portugal lies the Algarve, one of the country's most famous sailing destinations.

The Algarve coast is famous for its golden beaches, rugged cliffs and hidden coves.

The sheltered waters of the Algarve are ideal for sailors and families.

Cities such as Faro, Lagos and Portimão offer modern marinas and are popular bases for sailing and yacht chartering along this idyllic coastline.

The Azores

The Azores, an archipelago of nine volcanic islands, are located approximately 1,500 kilometres west of the mainland in the Atlantic Ocean. The coastline of the Azores is breathtaking, with green hills, steep cliffs and deep blue seas. Sailing conditions in the Azores are challenging as the weather can be unpredictable and winds are often strong. Nevertheless, the Azores are a paradise for sailors who appreciate unspoilt nature and challenging sailing routes. Ports such as Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) and Horta (Faial) are important maritime hubs.

The Portuguese coast offers a unique blend of tranquil coves, dramatic cliffs and historic coastal towns. Whether you want to sail along the lively Algarve, enjoy the calm waters near Lisbon or seek the rugged Atlantic adventure of the Azores, Portugal has a coast to suit every sailing style.

North (Minho and Porto)

The northern region of Portugal, which includes Minho and Porto, offers a rugged coastline with strong Atlantic winds and cool waters. Sailing conditions are more challenging, ideal for experienced sailors looking for adventure. The city of Porto, famous for its port wine and charming old town, is a popular base for sailing trips. The region has several ports, including Viana do Castelo, which play an important role in local sailing. The coastline is characterised by rocky cliffs and long sandy beaches, while the hinterland offers green hills and vineyards. For sailors wishing to explore the north of Portugal, these waters offer a challenge and a unique maritime experience.

Central Atlantic Coast (Lisbon and Surroundings)

The Central Atlantic Coast of Portugal, with the Lisbon and Cascais regions, offers some of the best sailing conditions in the country. With moderate winds and sheltered bays, this region is ideal for leisure and charter sailing. Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant centre of maritime activity and the Tagus River offers numerous sailing routes leading to the Atlantic Ocean. The coast is characterised by wide sandy beaches, historic towns such as Cascais and a picturesque backdrop of cliffs and small fishing villages. For sailors, this region offers both relaxed and varied sailing, combined with proximity to important cultural sites and gastronomic experiences.

The Algarve

The Algarve in southern Portugal is one of the most picturesque and popular sailing destinations in the country. With its mild climate, calm waters and golden sandy beaches, the Algarve offers ideal conditions for leisure sailors and families. The rugged rock formations and hidden coves make the Algarve an attractive destination for those wishing to explore the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. Cities such as Faro, Lagos and Portimão have modern marinas and offer everything a sailor needs. The Algarve is famous for its calm coastal waters, perfect for relaxed sailing, as well as its vibrant gastronomy, offering fresh seafood and regional wines.

The Azores

The Azores are an archipelago of nine volcanic islands located approximately 1,500 kilometres west of mainland Portugal in the Atlantic Ocean. These islands offer an unrivalled sailing destination for experienced sailors who love rough seas and challenging conditions.

The Azores are renowned for their dramatic cliffs, lush green landscapes and deep blue Atlantic waters. Ports such as Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) and Horta (Faial) are important hubs for transatlantic sailors.

Sailing around the Azores is challenging but also offers spectacular natural experiences such as whale and dolphin watching and the unspoilt beauty of the islands.

History, food and culture in Portugal

Historical

Portugal has a rich and proud history closely linked to the Age of Discovery. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal was one of the world's leading seafaring nations. Famous explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan were instrumental in discovering new trade routes and making Portugal a maritime superpower. Important historical buildings such as the Tower of Belém and the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon are reminders of this golden age. The country's architecture also reflects its eventful history, from medieval castles and fortresses to magnificent Renaissance and Baroque palaces.

Culinary delights

Portuguese cuisine is simple but incredibly tasty, often based on fresh, local ingredients. Seafood plays a central role, especially bacalhau (cod), which is considered the national dish and is prepared in many different ways.

The Algarve is famous for its grilled fish and seafood, while the Porto region is known for its famous francesinha sandwich. Portugal is also renowned for its wines, especially Port from the Douro region and Vinho Verde from the north. Sweet delicacies such as pastéis de nata, small custard tarts, are a must for any visitor.

Portuguese culture

Portugal's culture is deeply rooted in music, dance and art. The melancholy fado, the traditional Portuguese music style, tells of longing, love and farewell. The fado songs that can be heard in Lisbon's taverns are an integral part of the country's cultural heritage and have been recognised by UNESCO as part of the world's intangible cultural heritage. Portugal is also famous for its tile art, known as azulejos, which decorate many buildings and depict historical scenes or motifs. Festivals and celebrations are also an important part of cultural life, with colourful carnivals, religious processions and traditional markets that have a special significance in every region of the country.

As well as being a land of discovery, Portugal is also a fascinating destination for history, culture and food lovers.

Portugal offers a unique blend of history, culture, stunning scenery and culinary delights. From charming coastal cities like Porto and Lisbon to the unspoilt islands of the Azores, the country offers an impressive variety of experiences that attract travellers from all over the world. From the rugged Atlantic coast in the north to the sunny beaches of the Algarve, each region tells its own story and invites visitors to discover the country's beauty.

Portugal's historical importance, especially during the Age of Discovery, is reflected in its many cultural monuments. Magnificent buildings, picturesque streets and majestic castles bear witness to a long and proud past. At the same time, Portugal is firmly anchored in the present, offering modern amenities for travellers who wish to explore the country by boat or overland.

And let's not forget the warm hospitality of the Portuguese, whose culinary tradition of fresh seafood, fine wines and sweet temptations such as the famous pastéis de nata will make any stay unforgettable. From the gentle sounds of fado wafting through the streets of Lisbon to the festivals celebrated throughout the year, Portugal is a country to be experienced, not just travelled to.

Portugal remains a destination that welcomes everyone with open arms and will remain in your memory forever.