Oceanário de Lisboa

Having come to the end of her life as a commercial fishing vessel, in 2010 she was rebuilt into a sail training vessel, and, in 2022, after a complete refurbishment, she is today amongst the most modern and comfortable tall sailing ships in the world.

Sailing aboard the SMM, a historic four-masted sailing schooner known as one of the tall ship world’s most elegant vessels, is a truly multisensory experience. The deck and rigging are authentically honest to her origins with the added inclusion of soft seating. Below deck, no cost has been spared during her 2022 renovation. Space for convivial dining and relaxation in comfort is complemented by modern accommodation with ensuite shower rooms in all cabins.

Aboard, the ship offers environmentally conscious hands-on sailing and diving voyages. No previous sailing experience is necessary, and guests, young and old, are invited to get involved in all aspects of sailing under the careful guidance of the professional crew. When not sailing, or immersed in an adventure overflowing with salt water, there’s plenty to do on deck, from climbing the mast, taking part in knot tying workshops, learning to helm or navigate under the stars, or simply enjoying a glass of wine in good company by the ship’s deck bar.

In the convivial company of our marine biologist, crew, and new-found shipmates, enjoy the delights of Portuguese cuisine and be enchanted by Fado, a song declared by UNESCO as the ‘intangible cultural heritage of humanity’ in 2011.

Travel in the wake of Portuguese forefathers and learn to sail the Santa Maria Manuela as we voyage along Lisbon’s historic city shoreline, under the famous 25 Abril suspension bridge, heading south towards the Arrábida National reserve.

Explore the coast of Sesimbra by kayak and discover the jagged landscape of cliffs, caves and beaches, all bathed by the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic.

Immerse yourself in the tranquil sea of Luiz Saldanha Marine Park and discover the unusually diverse ecosystem of this unique region. The dive or snorkel is enriched by an educational talk, by our resident marine biologist, on the conservation project, which is protecting this fragile ecosystem, making it one of Portugal’s most vibrant rocky reef systems.

Travel on the Sado Estuary and discover one of only three sedentary dolphin communities in Europe. The flotilla of about 30 bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) is frequently seen in the waters of Setúbal and Troia.

Meet local fisherman and learn how to choose, prepare, and cook the most traditional Portuguese fish dishes.

As the sunset sinks below the horizon with a glass of wine shared with shipmates on the deck of our historic four masted schooner, is there any better way to celebrate the end of this voyage of Portuguese discovery?