Rio de Janeiro: Ilha Grande with Boat Tour & Optional Lunch
If you’re dreaming of escaping city noise and soaking up some Brazilian paradise, this tour from Rio de Janeiro offers an inviting blend of beautiful landscapes, calm waters, and charming beaches. For around $64, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring Ilha Grande in Angra dos Reis, including a 4-hour boat ride, several scenic stops, and a laid-back lunch at Japariz Beach.
What we love about this experience is how it balances beautiful scenery with relaxed swimming and snorkeling opportunities—imagine floating in turquoise waters surrounded by colorful fish and coral. The tour also visits Baleia’s Beach and Freguesia de Santana, giving a glimpse into the area’s history and natural beauty.
A potential drawback? The long travel time (about 4 hours each way by bus) might feel a bit tiring for some, especially if you’re expecting a quick getaway. Also, the quality of the boat experience varies depending on the provider—some reviews mention uncomfortable conditions and noisy music.
This trip suits travelers who enjoy scenic journeys, outdoor activities, and a laid-back vibe. It’s best for those who don’t mind a full day of travel and appreciate natural beauty over luxury amenities.
Key Points
- Stunning scenery: Expect beautiful views of Ilha Grande, the Blue Lagoon, and other beaches.
- Snorkeling opportunities: See colorful fish and coral in natural pools like the Blue Lagoon.
- Historical sites: Visit Freguesia de Santana, home to the first church of Angra dos Reis.
- Comfort considerations: Be prepared for a long bus ride and a boat that might be crowded or noisy.
- Inclusion: Hotel pickup, a guide, boat tour, swim stops, and a simple local lunch.
- Weather dependence: The trip relies on good weather, and routes may change based on maritime conditions.
Exploring the Experience in Detail
The Journey Begins
Your day starts early with a hotel pickup in Rio’s South Zone—think Copacabana, Ipanema, or Leblon. The ride to Costa Verde covers about 130 km, a scenic drive through lush landscapes that already hint at the natural beauty ahead. The road trip can take roughly 4 hours, depending on traffic, which is an important consideration for those eager to maximize their time on island. Reviewers note that this might be tiring: one reviewer called the bus journey “disgusting,” citing a lengthy, crowded ride with unplanned stops and uncomfortable conditions.
If you’re prone to travel fatigue, consider how this long transit might affect your overall enjoyment. Yet, the trade-off is that the journey itself offers glimpses of Brazil’s vibrant coastal greenery, setting the stage for the day’s natural wonders.
Boarding the Schooner
Once at the port, you’ll hop aboard a schooner or boat. The focus here is on relaxing and enjoying the views—you’ll cruise through calm waters with the sea breeze on your face. The boat is the main way to access Ilha Grande’s highlights, making this a true sea-based adventure.
First Stop: Baleia’s Beach
The boat pulls into Baleia’s Beach, a calm, inviting spot perfect for swimming. Its shallow waters and gentle tides make it ideal for everyone, whether you’re looking to splash around or just soak up the sun. You’ll love the way the quiet contrasts with the busy city life you’d left behind.
Blue Lagoon: Snorkeling Heaven
Next, the boat heads to the Blue Lagoon, a small natural pool renowned for its vibrant marine life. Here, you can snorkel amid colorful fish, corals, and starfish, which is a highlight for many travelers. The lagoon’s clear waters make for fantastic photos, and it’s a refreshing break from the boat. One review pointed out that the lagoon is “perfect for snorkeling and swimming,” emphasizing how accessible and stunning this spot is.
Freguesia de Santana
The tour then visits Freguesia de Santana, a tiny beach known for its historic church built in 1843. It’s a quiet, scenic spot where you can walk along the shore, take photos of the rustic church, and enjoy a slower pace—an authentic slice of local history amid natural beauty.
Lunch at Japariz Beach
After these aquatic adventures, you’ll stop at Japariz Beach, where a local restaurant serves a simple, traditional meal—often with vegetarian options if booked in advance. The setting is casual, with tables right on the sand, offering a relaxed atmosphere. You might find the meal modest but satisfying, and the chance to enjoy a refreshing dip after lunch. One reviewer mentioned that the lunch is “a simple meal prepared by the local community,” emphasizing its authenticity rather than luxury.
Return Journey
Post-lunch, you’ll have some free time to swim or just relax before the boat heads back to the mainland. The return trip follows the same scenic route, and then it’s a bus ride back to Rio. Expect to arrive late evening, making it a long day but packed with memorable moments.
What You Need to Know Before Booking
Included in the Price
The $64 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat tour, a guide (though not necessarily on the boat), swim stops, and lunch if you choose that option. Be aware that drinks, snacks, and snorkel gear are extra, so budget accordingly.
Potential Drawbacks
Reviews reveal some concerns that are worth considering. For example, one critic described the boat experience as “crowded, with music blaring like a nightclub,” which might not appeal to travelers seeking peace and quiet. The long bus ride and some uncomfortable boat conditions could detract from the experience if you’re not prepared.
Weather and Route Changes
This tour is weather-dependent, and routes may be altered due to maritime conditions or Brazilian Navy intervention. Flexibility is key—be ready for possible schedule shifts.
Who Should Consider This Tour
It’s best suited for outdoor enthusiasts and those wanting a taste of island life. If you’re after picturesque beaches, snorkeling, and a relaxed pace, this is a good fit. However, if you prefer luxury, comfort, or a shorter day, you might want to explore other options.
Authentic Feedback and Insights from Travelers
While many praise the scenery and swimming stops, some reviews highlight frustrations. Beatrice’s comment is stark: she called her experience “disgusting”, citing a long, uncomfortable bus journey and unhygienic beach conditions, with boats honking and engines polluting the waters. Her experience underscores that not all tours meet expectations, especially if the focus is more on logistics than quality.
On the other hand, many travelers enjoy the natural beauty and laid-back vibe. The stops at Baleia’s Beach and Blue Lagoon seem to deliver the peaceful, scenic escape many seek, and the local lunch adds an authentic touch.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour offers a wonderful mix of scenic boat rides, swimming, and cultural sights for those keen on experiencing Ilha Grande’s natural charm. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind a long day of transit and appreciate a relaxed, outdoor-oriented adventure. If you’re looking for luxury accommodations or a quiet, intimate experience, this might not be the best fit.
However, if your goal is to see stunning beaches, snorkel in clear waters, and get a taste of local life, then this tour provides good value and genuine experiences—just be prepared for the logistical realities.
More Great Tours NearbyFAQ
How long is the bus ride from Rio to Costa Verde?
Expect about 4 hours each way, including pickup and any delays. Some reviews mention this part of the trip can be quite tiring, especially if the bus is crowded.
What is included in the tour?
Your package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat tour with swim stops, a guide (ground transportation), and a simple local lunch at Japariz Beach.
Are snorkeling gear provided?
Not included but available for rent if you want to explore the Blue Lagoon’s underwater life more closely.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 4 and under are free if they don’t occupy a seat. However, the long bus ride and boat conditions might not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, towel, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen, and water. Quick-dry clothing is recommended.
Can I book the tour with or without lunch?
Yes, the lunch is optional. If you prefer a different meal or are on a tight schedule, you can skip it.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. Routes might be altered, and if conditions aren’t safe, the tour could be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be notified in advance if possible.
To sum it up, this Ilha Grande boat tour offers a charming day of scenic cruising, snorkeling, and relaxed beach visits. It’s best suited for those who value authentic natural experiences over luxury, and who don’t mind a full-day commitment. For travelers eager to see Brazil’s beautiful coast, enjoy snorkeling in crystal waters, and experience local charm, this tour presents a solid option—just keep in mind the potential discomforts and long travel times.
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