Full Day in Búzios with Catamaran Tour and Lunch

A Full Day of Beauty and Leisure in Búzios: Catamaran Tour and Lunch

If you’re visiting Rio de Janeiro and craving a taste of Brazil’s famous coastal charm, this day-trip to Búzios offers a fantastic combination of crystal-clear waters, scenic views, and relaxed exploration. For $69 per person, you get a 14-hour adventure starting early in the morning, with a three-hour catamaran cruise, multiple swimming stops, and ample free time to enjoy the town’s vibrant streets.

What we love most is how this tour balances spectacular natural scenery with opportunities to cool off in the water—especially the 30-minute swims in Coral Park waters and at Tartaruga Beach. Plus, the visit to the Bardot Promenade to see Brigitte Bardot’s iconic statue, followed by some free time on Rua das Pedras, makes for a well-rounded day.

A possible consideration is the long duration of about 14 hours—not necessarily tiring, but it does demand a good amount of your day. Also, some might find the third swimming stop a bit excessive, according to a review suggesting it could be trimmed to improve pacing.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, beach time, and exploring lively local streets. It’s perfect for those looking for a value-packed day that combines guided highlights with free time for personal discovery.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenic views of Búzios’ beaches and islands from the catamaran.
• Multiple swimming stops allow for refreshing breaks in clear waters.
• Includes a buffet lunch and free time in Búzios’ iconic promenade and shopping streets.
• Round-trip transportation from Rio’s South Zone hotels simplifies logistics.
• Guided commentary in multiple languages enhances understanding of the sights.
• Flexibility with free cancellation and options for rainy days.

Exploring Búzios: What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour takes you on an immersive journey through one of Brazil’s most beloved seaside towns, known for its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere. Starting early from Rio’s South Zone, the comfortable transportation ensures you arrive relaxed and ready for the day ahead.

The Catamaran Cruise: A Highlight

Once aboard the modern, spacious catamaran, you’ll cruise for about three hours along the coast, soaking in breathtaking panoramic views. Expect to pass Ilha do Caboclo, with its rugged coastline, and several other notable beaches like Praia da Armação, Praia dos Ossos, Azeda, Azedinha, and João Fernandes—each offering a different vibe and scenery.

The swimming stops are carefully timed to give you a chance to cool off while soaking in the scenery. The first stop is at Praia João Fernandes, where you can enjoy 30 minutes of swimming in Parque dos Corais, a spot renowned for its calm, clear waters. A review mentions that Camila, the tour guide, was outstanding, adding valuable commentary while making sure everyone felt comfortable during these breaks.

The tour continues to Ilha Feia, where you get a quick 15-minute swim, and then onwards to Praia da Tartaruga and Praia das Moças, both offering 30-minute stops for swimming. These are perfect chances to drift in the tranquil waters, often cited as a highlight by past travelers, who appreciate the opportunity to relax in natural pools.

Exploring the Beaches and Landscapes

After the water activities, you’ll get a peek at the unique landscapes of beaches like Virgens, Amores, and Canto, which are often praised in reviews for their photogenic qualities. While these are more about viewing than stopping, they give a sense of the diversity of Búzios’ coastline.

Lunch and Free Time in Búzios

Disembarking from the boat, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at the Orla Bardot, a lively promenade famous for its statue of Brigitte Bardot—a symbol of Búzios’ Hollywood history. The lunch is all-you-can-eat, with drinks and desserts not included, but it offers a tasty, straightforward meal to recharge.

Next, you’ll have about 45 minutes to explore Rua das Pedras, a lively street filled with shops, bars, and restaurants. Past visitors often mention enjoying the chance to shop for souvenirs or just soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Returning to Rio: A Comfortable Finish

The day wraps up with a relaxing bus ride back to Rio, arriving around evening time. The transportation is round-trip, making the entire experience convenient and hassle-free.

What the Reviews Say

A reviewer highlights Camila, the guide, as being exceptional, praising her for providing live commentary in multiple languages and making everyone feel welcome and informed. Others have mentioned the breathtaking views as the real star of this trip, emphasizing how the scenery alone justifies the cost.

One reviewer noted the longer duration—about 14 hours—was well worth it, especially for those who enjoy day trips packed with activity. However, some suggest that eliminating one swimming stop could make the experience even more enjoyable, preventing the day from feeling overly cluttered.

The Value of This Tour

At $69, this experience offers great value, especially when considering the comprehensive itinerary: boat cruise, multiple swim stops, lunch, and free time. The professional guide and included transportation make it especially appealing for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see Búzios.

It’s also flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for those wary of weather changes or schedule conflicts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy scenic boat rides, relaxing in beautiful waters, and want a full day of exploration without the hassle of planning — this tour is a terrific choice. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value balanced free time and guided highlights. However, those who prefer more leisurely mornings or shorter days might find the 14-hour schedule a bit long.

The Sum Up

This full-day Búzios adventure combines natural beauty, lively town exploration, and comfortable logistics into one package. You’ll love the stunning views from the boat, the refreshing swims, and the chance to stroll through Búzios’ vibrant streets. The tour offers excellent value for money, especially if you’re seeking a busy, activity-filled day that showcases some of Brazil’s most picturesque coastlines.

While the itinerary is packed, it balances guided sightseeing with ample free time—perfect for travelers wanting both structure and flexibility. The scenic cruise and swimming stops bring the coast to life, making this a memorable experience for anyone eager to see Búzios beyond its beaches.

If you’re visiting Rio and craving a day of sun, surf, and stunning scenery, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially ideal for beach lovers, photography enthusiasts, and curious explorers eager to discover Brazil’s scenic coastline with ease and comfort.

FAQ

How long is this tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 14 hours, including transportation, the cruise, and free time in Búzios.

What’s included in the price?
You get round-trip transportation from Rio’s South Zone, a 3-hour catamaran cruise, live guide commentary, and a buffet lunch.

Are there swimming stops?
Yes, there are multiple swimming stops—about four in total—at spots like Praia João Fernandes, Ilha Feia, Praia da Tartaruga, and Tartaruga Beach, each offering around 30 minutes of swimming.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a good option for families or seniors comfortable with a long day and outdoor activities.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and water. If you want to rent snorkeling gear, it’s available, but it’s not included.

Is alcohol available during the trip?
Drinks and desserts are not included with lunch, and alcohol cannot be purchased on the boat, so plan accordingly if you want to enjoy a drink.

This tour blends the best of Búzios’ scenic coastlines with the ease of guided logistics, making it ideal for those who want a full, memorable day without the fuss. Whether you’re a water lover or a curious explorer, you’ll find plenty to enjoy on this lively, scenic adventure.