The experience, created by Portuguese company SEATRU in partnership with local operator ACUA, allows passengers to look straight through the floor of the boat to observe the marine life and sandy seabed below as they travel through the lagoon.

Departing from Faro, the two-hour tour takes visitors through the calm channels of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, passing its barrier islands and shallow waters before stopping at a secluded beach, where there is time for a swim or simply to enjoy one of the Algarve's quieter stretches of coastline.

Unlike a traditional sightseeing cruise, the transparent hull offers a completely different view of the lagoon. On days when the water is clear, passengers can spot fish and other marine life beneath the boat without getting into the water.

The Ria Formosa is one of Portugal's seven natural wonders and stretches for around 60 kilometres along the Algarve coast. Made up of lagoons, marshes, islands and winding channels, it is home to hundreds of bird species and an important habitat for marine wildlife, making it one of the region's most valuable protected areas.

The boat was first launched in Sesimbra and the Arrábida Natural Park last year. It has now arrived in the Algarve, where visitors can take the same transparent boat onto the waters of the Ria Formosa.

According to SEATRU, bringing the experience to the Ria Formosa was a natural next step because of the lagoon's calm waters and rich biodiversity. The company says the transparent boat is designed to give visitors a closer look at the underwater environment while keeping the experience accessible to those who may not wish to snorkel or dive.

Tours last around two hours, and prices start from €47 per person. Bookings can be made online through the operator.