Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Q. What should I take with me on the day trip?
A. We recommend swimsuits, sunglasses, sunscreen and sunhat. For hygiene reasons we also ask you to bring your own towels.
Q. How about footwear?
A. When you get on the boat, we ask you to remove all footwear for safety reasons because its easy to turn an ankle by slipping otherwise. In general, for the day its always better to come in casual flip flops or soft shoes for comfort and safety, we don’t recommend and shoes with heals and spacing between planks on the pontoon can lead to injury.
Q. Should I take something to calm my stomach if I get seasick easily?
A. The ocean is a force of nature and whilst we will do our best to make the most of the conditions on the day seasickness can still occur. If you have previous history of seasickness, we highly recommend taking a pill 30-60 minutes prior to the trip. We use “Vomidrine” and can arrange to have some at the office for you if you give us advance notice. If you have any doubts about pills, you should always consult your doctor prior to taking.
Q. Are the yachts safe?
A. All our yachts comply with safety standards and have all the safety equipment required by Portuguese legislation. We have life rafts, life jackets flares and a range of other safety equipment to ensure safety. We are inspected annually by the maritime authorities and have always passed with great credit.
Q. Do you have life jackets for small children and babies?
A. Yes, we have all the necessary life jackets for all ages but please let us know in advance the age of children and complete the online check in so that we can prepare.
Q. Can we bring food and drink on board in addition to what is included?
A Yes, it is ok, but to avoid disappointment please let us know what you wish to bring before the day so that we can advise you. Certain foods and drinks are not permitted on the boats such as crisps (Potato Chips), nuts, red wines and staining liquids. Oils and grease are also not permitted as they soak into the teak surfaces.
Q. Where is the departure point of the tours?
A. Prior to the day we will advise the meeting location which is not always the same as the embarkation point, this can also be accessed via the online check in.
Q. What time should I arrive?
A. Seasonal traffic can be heavy, and parking can be tricky in summer months, so we recommend arriving in your location about 30 minutes prior to cruise time to allow for variables. Its much better to arrive early and have a calm coffee in the marina than be hurried and late.
Q. Can we park inside Vilamoura Marina?
A. Unfortunately it is not possible as entry to the marina with vehicles is for owners only. We will send you the coordinates to a parking area near our office.
Q. Is it possible to see Dolphins?
A. There is a possibility to see dolphins on every tour but they are wild animals so it is unpredictable where they will appear, sometimes we are lucky, and they appear alongside us but there is never a guarantee.
Q. Do sea conditions affect the tour and in case of bad conditions it can be cancelled or rescheduled?
A. Sea conditions vary hour to hour and day to day, we can´t control that however we can interpret them using our experienced skippers and office team. The skippers have the ultimate authority to cancel the trip if sea conditions are deemed too bad. In some cases, the sea conditions are not at all dangerous but do cause us to alter the normal routes to ensure a more comfortable trip. If we can clearly see that conditions will be bad prior to the day we will give as much notice as possible and attempt a reschedule. In some cases, we do need to cancel at short notice as conditions can change quickly. In all cases where Timeless Moments cancel the trip due to sea conditions we will reschedule or credit the trip.
Q. What is the weather like in the Algarve during the summer?
A. In summer the days are usually bright and sunny with fairly high temperatures that can be high 30´s but there are exceptions, and some days can be overcast, cloudy or even with light showers. We are still able to operate trips even on overcast or showery days and remind you that the UV can still be very high on those days.
Q. Are pets allowed on board?
A. We are passionate about animals and normally pets are not allowed on board for health and safety reasons as sea travel can be extremely uncomfortable for animals. If you have an assistance animal, then of course we can make exceptions but we can’t provide lifejackets for animals and you will need to bring with you on the day.
Q. Is smoking allowed on board?
A. In general, smoking is not permitted inside most yachts, and is strictly forbidden in any cabins or staterooms. Normally yachts will have a designated smoking area on the aft deck but please ask your captain and crew before lighting up.
Q. Is it possible to listen to our own music?
A. All yachts include a sound system that you can connect your mobile phone to via Bluetooth or cable and listen to your favourite music.
Q. What is the policy for Tips or Gratuity in Portugal?
A. Tipping is not compulsory here in Portugal, it is completely optional, and we recommend you tip as and where you receive great service as you travel here or sample the local wonders.
Q. Are trips suitable for elderly or less abled guests?
A. As with any excursion this is a case-by-case issue. What we can say is that the sea can cause unexpected movements and people can incur loss of balance which is something to be aware of. We will endeavour to open our trips to the widest spectrum of abilities possible and what helps us to mutually decide and plan the trip is advanced information so that we can try to take care of your specific needs and make you as comfortable as possible. Safety is always our priority.
