A 3-Hour Boat Tour in Buzios: Sun, Scenic Views, and a Touch of Local Charm
If you’re visiting Buzios and craving a relaxed but memorable way to explore its coastal beauty, this boat tour offers a great option. For just $37 per person, you’ll spend approximately three hours sailing around some of the most iconic beaches and fishing villages. The tour departs from Cais do Mangue at 11:30 am, making it a perfect afternoon activity.
What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines swimming in pristine waters with spectacular panoramic views of the coastline — all in a comfortable schooner equipped with shaded areas, onboard bathrooms, and a bar for drinks. The second highlight is the chance to spot marine life and local wildlife that calls these waters home, adding an authentic touch to your trip.
One thing to consider is that food and drinks aren’t included, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to purchase refreshments on board. Also, this tour doesn’t offer hotel pickups, so you’ll need to get to the meeting point yourself. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic cruising, and a relaxed pace—especially those who want to experience Buzios without breaking the bank.
Key Points
- Affordable Price: At $37, this boat tour offers good value for a scenic, water-based experience.
- Three Iconic Beaches: Stops at Praia dos Ossos, Praia da Azeda, and Praia de João Fernandes showcase Buzios’s best coastal spots.
- Comfortable Setting: The schooner has shaded areas, onboard bathrooms, and a bar—making your trip comfortable and enjoyable.
- Wildlife & Snorkeling: Keep your eyes open for local marine life, and rent snorkeling equipment if you want to explore underwater.
- Flexible & Easy: The central meeting point makes for an uncomplicated start, and the tour’s short duration suits those with limited time.
- Authentic Experience: Visiting a historic fishing village and picture-perfect beaches offers a taste of the genuine Buzios charm.
A Deep Dive into the Buzios Boat Tour Experience
When planning a trip to Buzios, many travelers look for ways to enjoy its stunning coastline without spending an entire day or shelling out too much. This 3-hour boat trip hits the sweet spot by offering a relaxed yet comprehensive look at the area’s most picturesque spots. At $37, the price is competitive, especially considering the included stops and the comfort of the schooner. It’s an invitation to see Buzios from the water—something that truly makes the landscape come alive.
Starting Point and Departure: The tour departs from Cais do Mangue at 11:30 am, a location that’s easily accessible and close to public transportation, reducing the hassle of logistics. The central meeting point is convenient, and the group size, limited to about 120 travelers, ensures a lively but manageable atmosphere.
The Itinerary – What You’ll See and Do:
- Praia dos Ossos: This is more than just a beach; it’s a glimpse into Buzios’s fishing roots. Once a fishing village, Ossos retains its old-world charm, with small boats bobbing in the harbor and narrow streets nearby. One reviewer even called Buzios “a landscape with charm and glamour,” highlighting how the blend of rustic and upscale makes it a captivating stop.
- Praia da Azeda: Known for its perfect photo opportunities, Azeda’s calm, clear waters and scenic backdrop make it a favorite for snapping pictures or just relaxing with a drink in hand. Its size and beauty often leave visitors wanting more, but on this tour, it’s just enough time to soak in the views.
- Praia de João Fernandes: Famous for its crystal-clear waters, João Fernandes is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. If you rent snorkel gear on board, you might find yourself spotting colorful fish just beneath the surface. Travelers have appreciated the chance to swim in “pristine waters,” making this stop a highlight.
Onboard Comforts and Amenities: The schooner is well-equipped with shaded areas to stay cool in the sun, onboard bathrooms for convenience, and a stereo system to set a lively or relaxing mood. You can buy drinks and snacks from the onboard bar, which can be a nice way to unwind after swimming or simply enjoy the scenery.
Wildlife and Marine Life: While swimming and relaxing, keep your eyes peeled—you might spot marine creatures or even some of the local wildlife. A review notes the thrill of spotting animals, adding an authentic, natural dimension to the trip.
Snorkeling and Additional Activities: Snorkeling equipment can be rented easily on location, giving you a chance to explore underwater life at your own pace. This flexibility is a plus for travelers who love to get a little closer to nature.
What’s Not Included: Food and drinks aren’t included in the price, but there’s a bar where you can purchase refreshments. Also, there are no hotel pickups, so plan to meet the tour at the designated spot.
Considerations: The tour runs through most of the year but is unavailable on major holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, and during Carnival season. Weather can influence whether the trip goes ahead, but if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. For families, children under 3 are free but must be accompanied by an adult.
What Travelers Say
The reviews reveal a consistent appreciation for the stunning scenery and good value. One traveler called Buzios “a dream town,” noting the variety of beaches, restaurants, and nightlife that make it an ideal destination for both day trips and longer stays. Another reviewer felt that the boat trip was “much inferior to Arraial do Cabo,” but still worth doing for the experience, especially considering the cost.
A comment highlights the professionalism of the guide, César Castillo, and the quality of the photography, adding a positive note for those wanting to capture memories. Many find the stops at the beaches, especially Praia da Azeda and João Fernandes, to be the best parts of the trip—they offer the kind of ** postcard-perfect views** that make Buzios so special.
Analyzing the Value
At $37, this tour offers a relatively affordable way to see Buzios’s coastline, beaches, and wildlife. It’s a shorter, more relaxed alternative to full-day cruises, perfect for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a laid-back experience. The inclusion of several scenic stops, along with the comfortable schooner, makes for good value.
However, since food and drinks are extra, you might want to budget an additional R$ 4 per person for the city tax, and bring snacks or beverages if you prefer not to purchase onboard. The tour’s focus on scenic beauty and swimming, rather than gourmet dining or extensive sightseeing, aligns with travelers seeking a fun, scenic escape rather than a packed itinerary.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This boat trip is ideal for travelers who want to relax on the water, enjoy nature, and see iconic beaches without spending an entire day or a lot of money. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families (children under 3 are free). If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful scenery, wildlife sightings, and a laid-back vibe, you’ll particularly enjoy what this tour offers. It also suits those who like to combine a bit of swimming with sightseeing—just bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
It’s less suited for travelers looking for a gourmet experience or extensive sightseeing—you’ll find that here, the focus is on enjoying the natural beauty of Buzios’s coastline in a relaxed, friendly setting.
The Sum Up
For a budget-friendly, scenic, and comfortable way to explore Buzios’s waters, this boat tour offers a solid choice. Its stops showcase the town’s best beaches, with calm waters perfect for swimming and snapping photos. The onboard amenities and the scenic routes make it a relaxing way to spend a few hours in this charming seaside town.
The positive reviews and the included scenic stops suggest it’s a good fit for travelers craving authentic views, some wildlife spotting, and a fun, social atmosphere. While it’s not a full-day adventure, it complements any Buzios trip by adding a splash of water-based exploration.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic cruise that’s easy on the wallet and rich in picture-worthy moments, this tour will likely suit your needs. Just remember to come prepared with swimwear and a camera, and you’ll have a delightful time soaking up the coastal beauty of Buzios.
FAQ
- What is the duration of the tour? The boat tour lasts approximately three hours.
- What are the main stops on the tour? It includes sightseeing at Praia dos Ossos, Praia da Azeda, and Praia de João Fernandes.
- Are food and drinks included? No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase onboard.
- Is snorkeling equipment available? Yes, snorkeling gear can be rented on location.
- Where does the tour start? The tour departs from Cais do Mangue at Travessa dos Pescadores.
- Can children join? Yes, children under 3 are free but must be accompanied by an adult.
- What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, weather permitting.
This boat tour in Buzios delivers exactly what it promises: a relaxed, scenic, water-based snapshot of this lively coastal town. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, a photo enthusiast, or just looking to escape into the water for a few hours, it’s a well-priced way to enjoy Buzios’s coastline in style.