Angra dos Reis Boat Tour with Lunch

A Scenic Day on the Water: Angra dos Reis Boat Tour with Lunch

Picture yourself setting off from downtown Angra, aboard a comfortable schooner, with the sparkling waters of Angra dos Reis unfolding before you. For about 12 hours, this tour offers a mix of stunning scenery, lively marine life, and relaxing beach stops, all for around $81.42 per person. Guides are bilingual, making the experience accessible whether you speak English, Spanish, or Portuguese, and the tour is designed to cater to a broad range of travelers looking for an authentic taste of Rio’s maritime beauty.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this trip are the chance to visit Lagoa Azul, a natural aquarium, and the convenient inclusion of a lunch option that feels both authentic and flexible. The boat is spacious enough to avoid the cramped feeling some reviews mention, and the stops are carefully chosen to give a well-rounded experience of Ilha Grande’s renowned islands and beaches. One thing to consider is that this is a shared tour, which means you’ll be part of a larger group. For those who value personalized attention, this might be a slight drawback, but overall it offers great value considering the sights you’ll see.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full day on the water with a mixture of sightseeing, swimming, and culture. It suits those who enjoy guided experiences and are comfortable sharing space with others. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic cruise with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and enjoy the marine environment, this tour could be a great choice.

Key Points

• Stunning itinerary: Stops at Lagoa Azul, Cataguas Island, Freguesia de Santana Beach, Praia de Japariz, and Lagoa Verde.
• All-inclusive experience: Lunch, boat ride, bilingual guides, and transportation are included.
• Flexible timing: Starts around 11:30 am from Santa Luzia pier, with a return at 5 pm.
• Ideal for water lovers: Opportunities for diving, swimming, and exploring marine life.
• Group size: Max 45 travelers, offering a lively but manageable atmosphere.
• Weather: Tour runs rain or shine, so come prepared for all conditions.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

We begin around 11:30 am at the Santa Luzia pier in downtown Angra. The trip lasts roughly 5 hours on the water, which includes multiple stops for swimming, exploring, and relaxing. The return is scheduled for about 5 pm, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Lagoa Azul: A Natural Aquarium

The first stop, Lagoa Azul, is a standout. This natural pool resembles an enormous, shimmering aquarium with clear turquoise waters, hosting a variety of fish and starfish. It’s a favorite for many, thanks to its cinematic beauty and the opportunity to snorkel in a protected environment. This stop lasts about 40 minutes and is free of charge, giving you enough time to take photos and enjoy the marine life.

Cataguas Island: A Caribbean-Style Escape

Next, the boat heads to Cataguas Island, just a short ride from the mainland. With crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, it’s often compared to the Caribbean—minus the flight. According to reviews, this island offers a quick but memorable experience. It’s especially popular because of its proximity and ease of access, making it perfect for a laid-back swim or a walk along the shore.

Freguesia de Santana Beach: Calm Waters and Marine Life

Afterward, the boat stops at Freguesia de Santana Beach. This spot is known for calm waters and a safe pier where you can relax or snorkel. Despite the boat’s activity, the beach remains a peaceful area, ideal for families or those wanting a gentle break. Marine life is plentiful here, making it suitable for divers and snorkelers alike. The stop lasts about 40 minutes, providing enough time to soak up the sun or dip into the water.

Lunch at Praia de Japariz

Midday, the tour makes its most anticipated stop at Praia de Japariz. Here, you’ll find a local restaurant where the menu is passed around on the boat itself, allowing you to pick your meal—fried fish, chicken, salads, and pasta are on offer. The unique aspect? The food is served directly at the beach, making for a relaxed, beachside dining experience. This stop lasts about an hour, giving you time to enjoy your meal, relax on the sand, or take a quick swim.

Lagoa Verde: A Hidden Gem

The final stop is at Lagoa Verde, a tranquil inlet with shallow, green waters. Located on the northwest coast of Ilha Grande, this spot is perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. Its shallow waters are ideal for wading, and the green hue provides a beautiful contrast with the blue waters seen earlier in the trip.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the tour’s scenic beauty and the knowledgeable guides. Rafael, who called the staff “very nice,” appreciated the lunch and the crisp waters at Lagoa Azul. Others praised the stunning views and how well the boat and stops were organized.

However, some reviews raise concerns. One traveler reported a very packed boat, making seating difficult, and commented that bathrooms were dirty—a reminder that boat cleanliness can vary. Another review pointed out that the start time and pick-up logistics could be confusing, especially when coordinating with local traffic or hotel pickups. These are important considerations if you’re someone who values comfort and punctuality.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour begins around 7 am with a pickup from various neighborhoods in Rio, though pickups from Barra da Tijuca and Recreio are not included. Transportation is via an air-conditioned vehicle, and the group size is limited to 45 travelers, which helps keep the experience manageable. Once on board, you’ll be on a well-maintained schooner, with safety measures in place, including life vests and optional recreational vests for purchase.

The tour operates rain or shine, so bring appropriate clothing. During busy seasons, the tour company may adopt different meeting points to avoid traffic delays—something to keep in mind when planning your day.

Cost and Value

At just over $81, the tour includes boat rides, lunch, bilingual guides, and transportation. While some reviews mention that the boat can get crowded, the overall value for a full day exploring islands, beaches, and marine parks is quite reasonable. The environmental tax of R$10.50 is an additional fee, which supports local conservation efforts.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who love scenic boat rides combined with nature stops. It’s especially appealing if you want to see diverse islands, swim in clear waters, and enjoy authentic seaside meals. The presence of knowledgeable guides and beautiful vistas makes it ideal for those looking for a relaxed yet engaging day on the water.

If you prefer a more intimate or private experience, this shared tour might feel a bit crowded, but it’s perfect for those embracing a social atmosphere. Travel with a sense of adventure, and you’ll return with plenty of unforgettable images and stories.

Final Thoughts

The Angra dos Reis Boat Tour with Lunch offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, marine exploration, and cultural flavor. It’s a great way to escape the city’s hustle, learn about nature, and enjoy the warm hospitality of local guides. While it’s not perfect—some may find the boat crowded or the logistics challenging—the overall experience provides excellent value for those seeking a full day of water-based adventure.

This tour is best suited for water lovers, families, or groups of friends who enjoy guided outings and want to see some of Brazil’s most stunning islands without the hassle of planning each step. If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and well-organized day on the water, this trip can tick all those boxes.

FAQs

What is the starting point and time for the tour?
The tour begins around 11:30 am at Santa Luzia pier in downtown Angra, with a pickup time around 7 am from various neighborhoods in Rio.

Is transportation included?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle will pick you up from designated spots in Rio, though pickups from Barra da Tijuca and Recreio are not included.

What is the typical group size?
The tour limits the group to a maximum of 45 travelers, helping to keep the experience lively but manageable.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera. A small amount of cash for extras like rental vests or souvenirs might be helpful.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch is included in the tour, typically featuring fried fish, chicken, salads, and pasta. Drinks and desserts are not included.

What is the environmental fee?
There is a R$10.50 environmental tax payable during the tour, which supports local efforts to preserve the environment.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Portuguese or English?
Yes, the guides are bilingual, speaking English, Spanish, and Portuguese, making the trip accessible for most travelers.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than that are non-refundable.

Is the tour weather dependent?
The tour runs rain or shine, so pack accordingly. Bad weather might impact certain stops, but the trip will go ahead.

Whether you’re after stunning views, marine wildlife, or a relaxed day on the water, this boat tour around Angra dos Reis offers a good balance of adventure and comfort. It’s a practical way to explore some of Brazil’s most beautiful islands, especially if you value good guides, scenic stops, and a full-day experience.