Buzios with Boat Tour and Lunch

Exploring Buzios with a Boat Tour and Lunch: A Practical Guide

If you’re craving a day trip that combines scenic boat rides, beautiful beaches, and a glimpse into Brazil’s charming fishing villages, this Buzios tour from Rio de Janeiro might catch your eye. For $70 per person, you’ll spend approximately 12 hours exploring the peninsular paradise of Buzios, including a classic schooner cruise, visits to iconic beaches like Joao Fernandes and Tartaruga, and a stroll along the Orla Bardot Boardwalk. The tour is offered in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, with pickup from key Rio hotels, making it quite convenient.

What we like about this experience is the chance to enjoy stunning coastal views from the deck of a schooner, and the opportunity to walk through Buzios’s lively streets—Rua das Pedras—to get a feel for local life. Plus, the included lunch adds practicality for a full day out. However, some travelers have expressed concerns about long bus rides and uneven guides, so it’s worth considering whether this fits your travel style.

This trip works best for those who appreciate a combination of boat-based sightseeing and leisurely exploring, and who are okay with a full day of activity—sometimes involving a lengthy bus transfer. If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to swim or walk around, this tour could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Scenic schooner cruise offers relaxing views and stops for swimming among beaches and islands.
• Includes lunch and transport, providing good value for a full-day adventure.
• Visit iconic spots like Joao Fernandes, Tartaruga Beach, and the Orla Bardot promenade.
• Guided commentary in multiple languages enhances understanding of the region.
• Some reviews highlight issues with long bus rides and uneven guide communication.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of boat, beach, and walking activities in Buzios.

A Detailed Look at the Buzios Experience

This tour promises a comprehensive day exploring the peninsula of Buzios, starting with a pickup early in the morning from Rio hotels like Copacabana, Ipanema, or Barra da Tijuca. The drive takes around four hours, which some travelers find a bit lengthy—yet, it’s a small price for the scenic coastline and anticipation of the day ahead. Once in Buzios, the itinerary is packed with stops, each offering unique sights.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Armação dos Buzios
You’ll begin with a drive into this former fishing village turned chic resort. The town’s cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and vibrant atmosphere set the tone for the day. Although the drive is long, it’s an opportunity to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Stop 2: Praia João Fernandes
This is one of the most popular beaches, known for its calm waters and scenic backdrop. It’s a good spot for a quick walk or a swim. Expect about 30 minutes here, which is enough to soak in the views or take some photos.

Stop 3: Ilha Feia (Ugly Island)
Despite its name, Ilha Feia is an interesting stop. It offers a close-up view of the island’s rugged coastline. The short 20-minute visit allows for some quick photos or a brief look at the island’s natural beauty.

Stop 4: Praia da Tartaruga
Named for its turtle-shaped shoreline, this beach is famed for its clear waters and abundant sea turtles. The 30-minute visit is ideal for a quick swim or simply relaxing by the water.

Stop 5: Orla Bardot Boardwalk
A walk along this lively promenade is a highlight. Named after the famous actress Brigitte Bardot, who vacationed here, it’s lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. About 20 minutes here gives you a taste of the local vibe.

Stop 6: Rua das Pedras
This charming street is packed with shops, bars, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to wander, shop for souvenirs, or grab a snack before heading back to Rio.

The Boat (Schooner) Tour

The boat ride is the tour’s centerpiece. You’ll cruise among gorgeous beaches and hidden coves, with stops for swimming. Travelers mention helpful guides who try to speak multiple languages, though some found the communication uneven. The experience offers stunning coastal views and the chance to swim among turtles at Tartaruga Beach—an experience many cherish.

Lunch and Additional Details

Lunch at a local restaurant is included, making the day comfortable and convenient. However, some reviews note that the restaurant can be overcrowded, and the meal may not be extraordinary. Drinks are available for purchase, and there’s an option to rent snorkeling gear, but these aren’t included.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

Many travelers praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, especially when they speak English or Spanish. Views from the coast are described as breathtaking, and the boat cruise is considered a good value, especially given the included lunch and transport.

On the flip side, some reviews highlight issues such as long bus rides (up to 4 hours each way), which can make the day feel more tiring than relaxing. One review even mentioned that the boat was old and uncomfortable, and the overcrowding at the restaurant was less than ideal. Plus, communication on the boat was inconsistent—some felt the guides could do better with bilingual commentary.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: Around 12 hours, including travel time. Be prepared for a full day.
• Cost: $70 per person, which includes transportation, boat ride, and lunch—good value if you’re keen on seeing Buzios without organizing every detail yourself.
• Group Size: Up to 50 travelers, so expect a lively group but not overwhelming.
• Booking: Usually booked 38 days in advance, indicating its popularity.
• What to Bring: Sun protection, swimwear, towel, and some cash for extras or drinks.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy scenic boat rides and want to see multiple beaches in a single day. It suits travelers who don’t mind a bit of a long bus trip and value guided commentary and a mix of beach and street exploration. If you’re after a relaxing day with good views and don’t mind some crowds, this tour can be a practical and enjoyable choice.

However, if you’re sensitive to long travel times or prefer more personalized or less crowded experiences, you might find this less appealing. It’s also worth noting that the tour’s structure is quite scheduled, leaving limited time at each stop, which may feel rushed for some.

Final Thoughts on the Buzios Tour

At a glance, this full-day tour offers a solid introduction to Buzios’ beaches and streets. The highlight is undoubtedly the schooner cruise, transporting you among stunning scenery and giving you a chance to swim and relax. The included lunch and transportation add to the value, especially for travelers who want convenience without fuss.

That said, the lengthy bus ride and some issues with communication could be drawbacks for certain travelers. It’s best suited for those who prioritize scenic views, beach time, and exploring lively streets, and are prepared for a full, sometimes tiring day.

If you love the idea of cruising along the coast, enjoying the sun, and soaking in the laid-back vibe of Buzios, this tour can be a worthwhile choice—just keep expectations in check and arrive ready for a lively, well-organized, if somewhat busy, adventure.

FAQ about the Buzios with Boat Tour and Lunch

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from key Rio de Janeiro hotels and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long is the bus ride?
The drive from Rio to Buzios takes approximately four hours each way, which some travelers find quite lengthy.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides provide commentary in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

What’s included in the price?
You get transportation, a schooner boat tour with swimming stops, lunch, and a guide. Drinks and snorkeling gear are extra.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is possible during stops at beaches such as Tartaruga Beach.

Are there any additional fees?
There is a pier boarding fee not included in the price. Also, drinks and snorkeling equipment are extra.

What if I don’t speak Portuguese or Spanish?
Guides speak English and Spanish, so communication should be manageable, but some reviews note inconsistent bilingual commentary.

If you’re after a well-rounded day of coastal scenery, beach visits, and exploring Buzios’ streets, this tour offers a good slice of both. Just remember the long travel time and check how important guided commentary is to you before booking.