Imagine cruising along the coastline of one of Brazil’s most charming seaside towns, with the wind gently guiding a spacious, stable catamaran. For around $25 per person, this three-hour tour offers an enjoyable way to see Búzios’ famous beaches and snorkel in clear waters, with the convenience of hotel pickup in downtown Búzios. Whether you’re craving a fun day on the water, scenic photos, or a taste of local marine life, this tour hits many sweet spots.
What we particularly love about this experience is the comfort and stability of the Premium vessel—it’s a boat designed for relaxation and safety. Plus, the multi-stop snorkeling sessions make it more than just a boat ride; it’s an opportunity to get close to Búzios’ underwater world, which is often overlooked by land-based visitors. On the downside, some travelers have noted delays at the start and end of the trip—a common hiccup in busy tourist spots—but the overall experience remains lively and enjoyable.
This tour is best suited for families, solo travelers, and groups who want a relaxed yet active day out. If you’re looking to explore the main beaches with ease, enjoy some swimming, and soak up the vibrant scenery, this is a solid choice. Just keep in mind the potential for delays and plan your arrivals accordingly.
Key Points
- Comfortable Premium Catamaran: Stable, spacious, and safe, ideal for a relaxed trip.
- Multiple snorkeling stops: Enjoy about 30 minutes at each spot, exploring marine life.
- Includes hotel pickup: Easy transfer from downtown Búzios, saving you transportation hassle.
- Scenic coastal views: Pass by iconic beaches and islands like João Fernandes, Azeda, and Ossos.
- Weather operates the tour: Rain or shine, so be prepared for any weather.
- Delays are common: Be patient if your start or return is a bit late.
An In-Depth Look at the Búzios Catamaran Experience
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Armacao Dos Buzios
Introduction to the Tour
This three-hour catamaran tour is a wonderfully relaxed way to explore Búzios’ coastline and waters. Starting around 11:30 am from the downtown pier, the journey takes you past some of the most celebrated beaches in this Brazilian paradise. For $25, you’re not just paying for transportation—you’re buying a chance to see and experience Búzios in a way that land-based visits just can’t match.
The boat itself is a Premium vessel, meaning it offers stability and comfort that make the ride smooth even if the sea isn’t perfectly calm. This is especially helpful when you’re planning to spend time in the water, as you’ll feel secure and relaxed on the deck. Boarding from the downtown pier is straightforward, and transportation from hotels in Búzios is included, which adds value and convenience.
What Makes This Tour Special?
Firstly, the scenic route along the coast is packed with memorable views. As you cruise past Caboclo Island, Armação, Ossos, Azeda, and João Fernandes Beaches, you’ll get a sense of the area’s diverse coastline. We loved how the boat’s large windows and open deck allow unobstructed views of this photogenic scenery—perfect for snapping pictures.
Secondly, the multiple snorkeling stops are a highlight. You get about 30 minutes at each stop to observe marine life and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. The tour includes visits to João Fernandes, Feia Island (Ugly Island), and Tartaruga (Turtle Beach), each offering something unique. The Coral Park (Parque dos Corais) is another special stop, where you can see vibrant underwater formations and marine creatures.
Detailed Itinerary and Stops
The tour begins at the downtown pier, where you’ll board a spacious catamaran. The first segment takes you past Ossos and Azeda Beaches, lesser-known areas that reveal the varied coastal scenery. As you cruise along, a professional guide (primarily speaking Portuguese and Spanish) shares interesting facts about the landmarks.
The first snorkeling stop is at João Fernandes, a well-loved beach for its calm waters and thriving marine life. Many reviews mention the quality of the snorkeling gear available for rent on board, which is important since you’ll want to maximize your time underwater. One traveler said, “The snorkeling spots were amazing,” highlighting how much they enjoyed the marine encounters.
Next, you’ll head to Feia Island (Ugly Island) and Tartaruga Beach, where you can swim and explore coral formations. The 30-minute stops are enough to relax and refresh before moving on. The second snorkeling session offers a chance to see more marine species and enjoy a break from sightseeing.
The final stops include Moças Beach, Enseada de Manguinhos, and Tartaruga Beach once again, giving you more chances to cool off. As the boat approaches the end of the tour, it passes Virgens, Amores, and Canto Beaches—each with their own charm. The trip concludes back at the pier, with plenty of time to grab a snack or explore more.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Snorkeling and Marine Environment
The tour’s focus on snorkeling offers a chance to see vibrant coral formations and marine life up close. The waters are famously crystalline, making for excellent visibility. While the tour doesn’t include a diving mask/snorkel (but offers rentals), we recommend bringing your own if you’re serious about exploring underwater. Many guests note that the snorkeling gear is available on the boat, and the marine reserve at Parque dos Corais is a must-see.
While you're exploring Armacao Dos Buzios, here are other experiences we've looked into
Practical Considerations
The price of $25 is quite reasonable for an experience that includes transportation, three snorkeling stops, and scenic cruising. Be aware that food and drinks are not included, but snacks and beverages are available for purchase on the boat. Also, cash is necessary for the boarding fee in certain departure situations, especially if boarding at Porto Veleiro Pier or during busy days.
One common complaint in reviews is the delays—some travelers experienced a 1.5-hour wait before departure and a 30-minute delay on return. If you’re sensitive to timing, it might be smarter to arrive via Uber rather than waiting for a pickup, as some found the schedule unpredictable.
The tour operates rain or shine, so check the weather forecast and bring sun protection—sunscreen, a towel, and a hat—especially since you’ll spend time in the open deck. Children 5 and younger are free if they don’t occupy a seat, making this a family-friendly outing.
Who Will Love This?
This trip is ideal for those wanting an easy, scenic way to explore Búzios’ beaches and marine environment. It’s perfect if you enjoy snorkeling, boat rides, and beautiful coastal views without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. The relaxed pace makes it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a fun, active day.
Final thoughts on value
At just $25, the tour offers a good mix of comfort, scenery, and marine adventure. It’s not a luxury experience, but it provides authentic, memorable moments—from snorkeling in crystal waters to passing iconic beaches. The included hotel pickup adds convenience, and the multiple stops ensure you get plenty of water and marine life exposure.
While delays can happen, most travelers agree that the fun, scenery, and friendly guides make this a worthwhile outing. It’s especially appealing if you cherish relaxed days on the water with chances to cool off and explore underwater.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re in Búzios and looking for a cost-effective, scenic, and relaxed way to see the coastline, this tour fits the bill. Families with children, groups of friends, or solo travelers keen on snorkeling and beach scenery will find plenty to enjoy.
In contrast, if you prefer perfectly punctual departures or luxury amenities, you might find this experience more casual than you desire. Still, the overall vibe is friendly, laid-back, and filled with chances for memorable photo ops and marine encounters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, transportation from hotels in downtown Búzios is included in the price, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about logistics.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, a towel, sunscreen, and cash for the boarding fee or snacks. Snorkeling gear is available for rent, but bringing your own can be more comfortable.
How long is the snorkeling?
You get about 30 minutes at each snorkeling spot, with three stops in total, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the marine environment.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 5 and under can join for free if they don’t occupy a seat. The relaxed pace and scenic stops make it family-friendly.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine. If weather conditions are unsafe, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be given the option for an alternative date.
Are there delays?
Some reviews report delays at the start and end—up to 1.5 hours. It’s best to arrive early and be patient if schedules shift.
What’s the duration of the tour?
The trip lasts about 3 hours, with departure typically around 11:30 am, but check availability for exact times.
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your planning.
Is food or drinks included?
No, but snacks and beverages are available for purchase onboard.
Where does the tour depart from?
Mainly from the downtown pier, but during busy days, it might depart from Porto Veleiro Pier, with an additional cash fee.
Final Words
This catamaran tour of Búzios offers a delightful blend of scenic cruising, marine exploration, and relaxed fun. It’s a fantastic way to get a different perspective on this seaside town, especially if you’re eager to snorkel and enjoy the coast without the hassle of land-based tours. The price point makes it accessible, and the scenic stops and marine encounters provide lasting memories.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Búzios, this experience promises a good mix of comfort, natural beauty, and casual adventure. Pack your sunblock, grab your snorkeling gear if you have it, and get ready for a day on the water that’s likely to be a highlight of your trip.
Happy sailing!
You can check availability for your dates here: