From Búzios: Arraial do Cabo with Boat Tour and BBQ Lunch — A Detailed Review

If you’re staying in Búzios and craving a day of sun, sea, and spectacular scenery, the Arraial do Cabo boat tour might just be what you need. For around $120 per person, this 8-hour adventure takes you from Búzios into the heart of what’s often called the “Brazilian Caribbean.” You’ll hop aboard a schooner for a cruise through crystal-clear waters, explore breathtaking landmarks, enjoy a barbecue lunch, and get a taste of local history with a panoramic tour of Cabo Frio.

What makes this trip appealing are the stunning views and the chance to explore several iconic spots in a single day, all while relaxing on a comfortable boat. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering unobstructed views of Fenda de Nossa Senhora de Assunção, Pedra do Macaco, and the famous Gruta Azul. Plus, a stop at Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia provides a wonderful opportunity for photos and some downtime in nature.

However, there are some considerations. The transportation to and from Búzios can be lengthy and, according to some reviews, poorly organized. The lunch quality has also received mixed feedback, with some travelers mentioning it was underwhelming. But if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and looking for a visual feast with a touch of local culture, this trip could be well worth it.

This tour suits travelers who love scenic boat rides, natural beauty, and historical glimpses. It’s especially good for those who want a full day out exploring Cabo Frio’s landmarks and don’t mind the potential logistical hiccups or the busy nature of the trip.

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Key Points

Beautiful boat cruise through the waters of Arraial do Cabo, offering excellent photo opportunities.
Stops at iconic spots like Ilha do Farol, Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia, and Praia do Forno.
Includes a traditional Brazilian steakhouse lunch, giving a taste of local cuisine.
Covers both natural beauty and historical sights in Cabo Frio, adding depth to the experience.
Round-trip transportation from Búzios simplifies planning, though timing may vary.
Mixed reviews on logistics and lunch quality suggest you should manage expectations.

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In-Depth Review of the Experience

The Journey from Búzios to Arraial do Cabo

The day begins with hotel pickups in Búzios, which are included if you’re staying at most hotels (excluding Apa Pau Brasil). However, some reviews point out that the bus ride can be lengthy and not especially comfortable — around two hours of travel, with some travelers mentioning it feels like a poor-quality bus. If you’re prone to motion sickness or highly sensitive to bus conditions, this might be a consideration.

Once in Cabo Frio, you’ll board the schooner at Praia dos Anjos. The boat itself is a comfortable vessel, and the crew tends to be well-informed and friendly, making the ride enjoyable despite the early start and long wait times for some.

The Cruise and Landmarks

The cruise is where the magic happens. We loved the way the boat glided over crystal waters, with plenty of space to sit back and take in the stunning scenery. The boat’s itinerary is designed to maximize sightseeing, including stops at Ilha do Farol—a picturesque island with a lighthouse—and the famous Gruta Azul, which is known for its brilliant blue waters and photo opportunities.

The Fenda de Nossa Senhora de Assunção and Pedra do Macaco are natural formations visible from the boat, offering excellent chances for photos. The panoramic tour provides a broad view of the coastline, letting you appreciate the rugged beauty of the region.

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Stops at Key Beaches

The Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia stop is particularly popular, as it gives visitors around 30 minutes to step onto the sand, explore, and snap photos of the stunning cliffs and turquoise waters. This is one of the most appreciated parts of the tour, offering a good balance of scenic beauty and a chance to stretch your legs.

Next, a short 10-15 minute stop at Praia do Forno allows for a quick swim or a dip in the clear waters. Be prepared for a busy scene, as this spot is well-known but can get crowded with other tour groups.

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Lunch at a Brazilian Steakhouse

After a morning of sightseeing, the tour includes a lunch at a buffet steakhouse. It’s a chance to savor local flavors—think grilled meats, arroz, and traditional sides. However, some reviews express dissatisfaction, referencing a “terrible lunch” and poor service. It’s worth noting that the lunch is included, but not necessarily a culinary highlight.

Cabo Frio Tour & Return

Post-lunch, you’ll enjoy a panoramic drive through the historic city of Cabo Frio, passing landmarks like Forte São Mateus and the Praia do Forte. The guide provides insights into the city’s history, which adds an educational twist to the day.

The tour wraps up with return transportation to Búzios, typically in an air-conditioned vehicle. The entire day is quite full, and if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace, this may feel a bit rushed.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you love natural landscapes and scenic boat rides, you’ll enjoy the views. The stops at Prainhas and Ilha do Farol offer stunning scenery that’s well worth the trip. The knowledgeable guides help you navigate the day and provide context, which enriches the experience.

However, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or prefer gourmet dining, you might want to consider other options. The mixed reviews on lunch quality and transport logistics suggest this tour is best suited for travelers who are flexible and eager to see as much as possible in a day.

Finally, if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a lively atmosphere and don’t mind busy stops, this tour could be a great fit. Just be prepared for some crowds and remember that weather or sea conditions can alter the itinerary.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers stunning views, a variety of stops, and a chance to explore the beauty of southeast Brazil in one packed day. The schooner cruise stands out as the highlight, providing memorable scenery and photo opportunities. The inclusion of lunch and guided tours adds value, though some travelers may find the lunch quality and logistics not quite up to expectations.

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure with a mixture of nature, history, and local flavor, this experience will give you plenty to talk about afterward. Just keep in mind that the day can be busy and somewhat disorganized, so a flexible attitude will serve you well.

FAQs

How long is the total tour from Búzios?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, lunch, and the return trip.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the schooner cruise, round-trip transportation from Búzios hotels (except Apa Pau Brasil), a lunch at a buffet steakhouse, and a tour guide.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay a boarding tax of R$10 in cash at the Fishermen’s Marina. Drinks, desserts, and snorkeling gear are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children up to 4 years old are free if they don’t occupy a seat, but you’ll need to present their documents if under 5. Children over 5 are charged the full price.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for the tax, swimsuit and towel for swimming stops, sunscreen, and camera. Weather can vary, so a light jacket might be helpful.

How are the guides?
Reviews mention knowledgeable guides, especially during the panoramic city tour of Cabo Frio, which enhances the experience.

What about the boat ride?
The boat ride is generally considered the highlight, offering beautiful views and the chance to see famous landmarks. Be prepared for some crowdiness and sea spray.

Can I expect good food?
The included lunch is a Brazilian steakhouse buffet, but opinions vary. Some found it disappointing, so if food quality is a priority, consider eating before or after the trip.

This detailed guide aims to help you decide if this Arraial do Cabo tour from Búzios matches your travel style. It’s a day filled with breathtaking scenery and local flavor, perfect for those eager to see the best of southeastern Brazil in just one day.