Sunset BBQ Cruise in Lisbon with Open Bar

As the boat sails past Terreiro do Paço (also known as Commerce Square), guests are treated to one of the most majestic riverfront views in Lisbon — especially stunning during golden hour. Here's what stands out: The grand arcaded buildings that frame the square in elegant 18th-century Pombaline architecture, glowing warmly in the setting sun. The striking Rua Augusta Arch, towering over the entrance to downtown Lisbon. The iconic yellow façades of historic government buildings surrounding the square. The famous Cais das Colunas (“Columns Pier”), with its twin marble pillars emerging from the river — once the ceremonial gateway for kings, ambassadors, and explorers arriving in Lisbon by sea. A unique riverfront perspective of the square, just as ships would have seen it centuries ago when arriving at the port of Lisbon. This moment offers a breathtaking panorama, perfect for photos and for connecting with the city’s rich maritime history — a highlight of the entire cruise.

As the boat glides along the Tagus near Alfama, look up toward the city’s highest hill to spot the majestic São Jorge Castle — one of Lisbon’s oldest and most iconic landmarks. From the river, the castle offers a dramatic view of Lisbon’s layered history: Perched atop a hill, the castle walls and towers dominate the skyline, especially beautiful in the soft light of sunset. Originally a Moorish fortress from the 11th century, it was later taken by Christian forces in 1147 and became the royal palace for Portugal’s first kings. The view from the water reveals the castle’s silhouette framed by cypress trees and red rooftops, evoking centuries of battles, coronations, and royal intrigue. It offers a symbolic presence throughout the cruise — a sentinel watching over the city and the river that shaped its destiny. São Jorge Castle connects the modern capital with its medieval past, and from the river, it’s a breathtaking reminder of Lisbon’s enduring strength and beauty.

As the boat glides past the 25th of April Bridge, one of the most iconic sights comes into view on the southern bank of the river — the towering statue of Cristo Rei. From the river, guests can enjoy a unique and dramatic perspective of this monumental figure: The Cristo Rei statue, inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer, stands over 100 meters high, including its pedestal, making it visible from all over Lisbon. The statue gazes over the city with open arms, symbolizing peace and protection — an emotional and striking sight at sunset. The panoramic views from the river give guests the best angle to truly appreciate the scale and setting of this spiritual and architectural landmark. This moment of the cruise offers a peaceful and awe-inspiring pause — perfect for reflection or capturing the beauty of Lisbon’s skyline from a new perspective.

Sailing westward, the boat reaches one of Lisbon’s most iconic monuments: the Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of Portugal’s maritime past. From the river, this historic fortress reveals its full architectural beauty: Built in the early 16th century, the tower once guarded the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor and served as a ceremonial gateway for explorers setting out during the Age of Discoveries. Its unique Manueline style — with carved ropes, shields, and watchtowers — is best appreciated from the water. As the sun sets, the tower’s limestone façade reflects golden tones, creating a dramatic and timeless silhouette. The riverside view allows guests to feel the same departure point that once launched fleets toward India, Africa, and the New World. A highlight of the cruise, the Belém Tower offers a powerful connection to the golden age of Portuguese exploration.

Just beyond the Belém Tower, the boat passes the striking Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) — a massive stone tribute to the Portuguese explorers who helped shape the world. From the river, the monument is seen in its full grandeur: Shaped like a caravel ready to set sail, it features a dramatic prow facing the Tagus, as if eternally launching into the unknown. Standing at 52 meters tall, it honors Prince Henry the Navigator at the front, followed by key figures of the Age of Discoveries, including Vasco da Gama, Pedro Álvares Cabral, and Fernão de Magalhães. The riverside perspective highlights the monument’s bold modernist lines and its powerful placement along the waterfront. At sunset, the light casts long shadows across the sculpted faces, giving the scene a sense of motion and historical gravity. This is one of the cruise’s most memorable stops — a visual reminder of Portugal’s adventurous spirit and its deep connection to the sea.

One of the most impressive moments of the cruise is sailing beneath the iconic 25th of April Bridge, Lisbon’s grand suspension bridge that connects the city to Almada. Seen from the deck of the boat, the bridge offers a stunning visual and acoustic experience: Often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate, the bridge stretches over 2.2 kilometers, with its striking red structure standing in bold contrast to the river and sky. Completed in 1966, it was originally named after dictator Salazar but renamed after the Revolution of April 25, 1974, which restored democracy in Portugal. As the boat passes directly beneath it, guests can hear the low, echoing hum of traffic and trains — a unique sensory moment that blends engineering and ambiance. The bridge offers spectacular views from below, especially as the sun sets behind its steel cables, creating dramatic silhouettes and shimmering reflections on the water.