Buzios: Schooner Boat Tour

Imagine cruising along the coast of Buzios on a traditional schooner, feeling the warm breeze and hearing the gentle lapping of waves. For just $36 per person, you get to spend about 2.5 hours exploring some of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches and islands, guided by friendly, multilingual guides who know the area inside out. This tour departs from the iconic Orla Bardot street, where Brigitte Bardot once strolled, and takes you to several stunning spots like Armação, João Fernandes, Ilha Feia, and more.

Two features truly stand out for us: first, the chance to swim in crystal-clear, warm waters—a refreshing break from walking the town—and second, the chance to learn about the area’s geography and marine environments from guides who are both knowledgeable and personable. The well-stocked bar and lively atmosphere add to the fun, making the trip feel both relaxed and lively.

A possible consideration is that food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring your own refreshments or plan to buy something on board. Also, since the tour lasts just 2.5 hours, it offers a quick overview rather than a full-day experience. This trip is perfect if you’re someone who appreciates scenic boat rides with opportunities for swimming and sightseeing, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of Buzios’s coastal beauty.

This experience is well-suited for travelers looking for a fun, authentic sea adventure that combines sightseeing, swimming, and local culture. It’s ideal for those who enjoy relaxed, guided tours with plenty of photo opportunities, especially if you appreciate a lively atmosphere and stunning coastal views.

Key Points

• Affordable Experience: At around $36, this schooner tour offers fantastic value for a scenic adventure.
• Multiple Beach Stops: Explore several beaches and islands including João Fernandes, Azeda, and Ilha Feia, each with its own charm.
• Swimming Opportunities: Expect to swim in warm, clear waters at popular spots like João Fernandes and Praia das Virgens.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides speak multiple languages and are praised for their friendliness and insight.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The traditional schooner, lively music, and bar create a relaxed, festive vibe.
• Limited Included Amenities: Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own or purchase on board.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Buzios Schooner Tour

Buzios, a charming peninsula known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere, is best experienced from the water. This schooner boat tour offers just that — a chance to see the coast from a different perspective, with the added bonus of swimming in inviting waters and discovering hidden spots that are hard to access from land.

The Itinerary and Highlights

Departure Point and Atmosphere

Your journey begins on Orla Bardot, a street filled with cafes, shops, and a relaxed, artsy vibe—perfect for setting the tone of your trip. The schooner itself is a wooden vessel resembling the classic sailing ships of yesteryear, which adds a nostalgic charm. Upon boarding, you’re greeted with music and a bar, where you can enjoy a classic caipirinha or other beverages as you set sail.

Exploring Buzios Beaches

The tour’s core is visiting some of Buzios’s most attractive beaches and islands. You’ll pass by Armação and Praia dos Ossos, both known for their quiet beauty and historic fishing villages. The guide typically points out notable features, helping you understand what makes each spot unique.

João Fernandes and Azeda Beaches

One of the highlights is a stop at João Fernandes Beach, famed for its calm, transparent waters—perfect for swimming and relaxing. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, ideal for soaking up the sun and snapping photos. Similarly, Praia Azeda and Azedinha are small, intimate beaches with calm waters and lush surroundings, perfect for a quick dip.

Island Encounters: Ilha Branca and Ilha Feia

Sailing around islands like Ilha Branca and Ilha Feia reveals both natural beauty and intriguing marine life. Ilha Feia, in particular, is known for its underwater gardens and vibrant aquatic fauna—an attraction that appeals especially to snorkelers and marine life enthusiasts. Several reviewers mention the “submerged garden” as a natural spectacle worth exploring.

Swimming and Relaxation

The tour includes approximately 15 minutes at beaches like Praia da Tartaruga and Tartaruguinha, where you can swim in warm waters. Most travelers find this segment the most refreshing part of the trip, often commenting on the clarity of the water and the vivid marine life visible just below the surface.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The guides are often praised for their knowledgeability and friendliness. They provide context about the beaches, islands, and marine ecosystems, enhancing the experience beyond just a boat ride. Many mention the lively atmosphere, with music and drinks, which makes the trip feel more like a celebration of Buzios’s coastal charm.

Authenticity and Value

For only $36, this tour offers a lot: scenic views, cultural insights, swimming, and a lively social atmosphere. It’s a relaxed way to see the coast and get a glimpse of the natural beauty that makes Buzios so special.

Practical Details

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts 2.5 hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a shorter experience. The starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability when booking.

Transport and Convenience

Transfers from selected hotels are included, which simplifies logistics. The pickup is usually in central Buzios, saving you the hassle of navigating to a meeting point.

What to Bring

Since food and drinks are not included, travelers should bring passport or ID, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. Prepare for a fun, sun-filled excursion, and consider packing some snacks or extra beverages if desired.

Group Size and Experience

While not specified, tours like this typically have small to medium groups, ensuring a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

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What Travelers Say

Many reviews mention how beautiful the scenery is and the helpfulness of guides. One traveler appreciated the “captivating music and a well-stocked bar,” describing it as a very enjoyable experience. Others praised the warm, clear waters and the opportunity to swim in calm, protected beaches. A few noted that the tour is a quick overview rather than an all-day adventure, but most found it perfect for a relaxing half-day outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This schooner adventure is best suited for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed, scenic, and social experience. It’s ideal if you enjoy beach-hopping, swimming, and learning about local geography from friendly guides. If you prefer longer, more immersive trips or want meals included, this might not fit your needs, but for a taste of Buzios’s coastal beauty, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Buzios schooner boat tour offers a delightful window into the region’s natural beauty and laid-back charm. For just $36, you’ll get a lively, scenic cruise with stops at some of the most beautiful beaches and islands in the area. The combination of stunning views, warm waters, knowledgeable guides, and a fun atmosphere makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic experience on the water.

While it’s a brief outing, its affordability and the quality of the scenery make it an excellent introduction to Buzios’s coastal treasures. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to enjoy familiar sights, this tour provides a memorable snapshot of Brazil’s scenic coast and the warm hospitality that comes with it.

FAQs

What is the cost of the schooner boat tour?
It costs $36 per person, making it an affordable way to enjoy a scenic sea adventure in Buzios.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2.5 hours, perfect for a relaxed half-day outing.

Are hotel transfers included?
Yes, transfers from selected hotels in Buzios are included, simplifying your logistics.

What should I bring on the tour?
Be sure to bring your passport or ID, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Don’t forget to pack some drinks or snacks if you like.

Is food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there’s a well-stocked bar on board to enjoy during the cruise.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include beaches like João Fernandes, Azeda, and Tartaruguinha, as well as islands such as Ilha Feia, known for its marine gardens.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes swimming opportunities at several beaches with warm, clear water.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly mentioned, the relaxed nature and swimming opportunities suggest it could be enjoyed by families, but check with the provider for age restrictions or specific considerations.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby