Yacht charter in Lagos

Where do I depart from when chartering in Lagos?

You depart from Marina de Lagos, located in the Bay of Lagos next to the Historic Center of the city. The marina has 462 berths with a maximum berth size of 30 meters and is easily accessible via a 282° course between the west harbour mole head and the Santo António church tower.

Check-in is at the waiting pontoon to starboard before the lifting bridge, where you must request bridge opening via VHF channel 09. The bridge operates from 08:00 to 22:00 in summer, ensuring convenient access for all vessels.

What are the best day-trip routes and anchorages near Lagos?

Top day-trip routes include Ponta da Piedade, Cape St. Vincent, and the Ria de Alvor, all within a short sail from Lagos. The Algarve coast offers pristine coves like Praia da Marinha and sheltered anchorages near Albufeira and Quarteira.

• Ponta da Piedade: Dramatic cliffs and hidden grottos
• Cape St. Vincent: The southwestern tip of Europe with strong currents
• Ria de Alvor: Calm waters ideal for families and beginners
• Praia da Marinha: Iconic beach with excellent snorkeling

When is the best sailing season in Lagos?

The sailing season in Lagos runs from April to October, with peak conditions in June, July, and August. Summer months offer calm seas, warm temperatures, and reliable winds, making them ideal for both sailing yachts and motoryachts.

Winter months (November to March) have shorter bridge hours (09:00–18:00/19:00) and more variable weather, but still provide opportunities for experienced sailors seeking solitude.

What licence or skipper rules apply in Portugal?

In Portugal, a valid sailing licence or skipper certification is required for chartering, and the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) is widely accepted. For motoryachts, a similar licence is needed, and all vessels must carry proper safety equipment.

Portugal does not require a local licence for foreign charters if you hold an ICC or equivalent, but you must register your vessel and comply with maritime regulations.

How do I get to Lagos for my charter?

The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), approximately 90 km from Lagos, with a transfer time of about 1 hour by car or shuttle. The route is straightforward, passing through the Algarve countryside and coastal towns.

Public transport options include buses from Faro to Lagos, taking around 1.5 hours, or taxis for a quicker, more direct journey. The marina is within walking distance of the Historic Center, making it easy to explore the city after arrival.