Ilha Grande with Speedboat Tour – From Rio de Janeiro

A Full-Day Adventure from Rio to the Paradise Islands of Angra dos Reis

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Rio de Janeiro and discover some of Brazil’s most beautiful coastal scenery, this Ilha Grande with Speedboat Tour offers a compelling option. For around $93 per person, you’ll spend approximately 12 hours exploring the Costa Verde region, traveling from Rio in an air-conditioned vehicle to Angra dos Reis. The core of the experience is a 5-hour speedboat ride that whisks you across calm, inviting waters to visit several spectacular islands and beaches.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are the stunning scenery at each stop — from crystal-clear snorkeling waters at Botinas Islands to the picture-perfect sands of Praia do Dentista — and the opportunity to enjoy locally operated beaches and eateries. However, a word of caution: the tour’s reviews highlight that English-speaking guides may not be available, which could pose a challenge for non-Portuguese speakers.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value breathtaking natural beauty and don’t mind a busy schedule that involves quite a bit of boat time and walking. If you’re comfortable with group tours and want to see some of the most photogenic spots of Angra dos Reis, this trip could be a great fit. However, if you prefer more personalized or private experiences, exploring other options might be worth considering.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery throughout the islands and beaches.
• Snorkeling opportunities at Botinas Islands with transparent waters.
• Multiple stops at beaches with calm, shallow waters ideal for families.
• Long day trip, with around 5 hours on a speedboat.
• No lunch included, so plan to bring snacks or buy at stops.
• Limited English guidance, best for Portuguese speakers or adaptable travelers.

What You Can Expect from This Day Trip

This tour provides a comprehensive taste of Brazil’s Costa Verde, combining a scenic drive with a lively speedboat cruise that covers some of the most photogenic spots near Rio. Once you meet your guide in Rio’s South Zone, you’ll set out on a roughly 165 km drive to Angra dos Reis, a region famed for its lush islands and tranquil waters. The drive itself takes about 3 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy Brazil’s scenic coastal landscape and perhaps catch a glimpse of local life along the coast.

First Stop: Botinas Islands

The highlight here? The almost twin islands with their calm, translucent waters that are perfect for snorkeling. The water visibility is praised for marine life watching, and it offers a fantastic chance to see underwater life without a complicated dive gear setup. As one reviewer put it, the tranquil sea makes this stop a real highlight. You’ll spend about 1 hour 30 minutes here — enough for a quick snorkel adventure and some photos.

Second Stop: Praia de Jurubaíba (Praia do Dentista)

This beach is renowned for its finest white sands and vibrant waters that change color with the sky. The guide describes it as “considered one of the most beautiful in the region,” and it’s easy to see why. Expect around 1 hour 30 minutes at this spot, giving you time to relax on the sand or dip into the warm waters. Its nickname, “Dentist’s Beach,” hints at its small size and pristine condition, making it a favorite among visitors.

Third Stop: Piedade Beach

Next, you’ll visit a divided beach with calm, shallow waters — perfect for families or those who prefer gentle swimming. The bucolic scenery and peaceful surroundings invite you to unwind for about 1 hour 30 minutes. Here, the natural setting is unspoiled and offers some great photo opportunities.

Fourth Stop: Flechas Beach & Local Cuisine

On Ilha da Gipóia, you’ll find Flechas Beach, which boasts a few kiosks and restaurants for you to enjoy local cuisine. While lunch isn’t included, this stop offers a chance to sample fresh fish or snacks from local vendors, adding a taste of authentic Brazilian seaside life. Expect about 1 hour 30 minutes to relax, eat, and soak in the views.

Disembarkation & Return

Finally, you’ll return to Santa Luzia Station in Angra, where your bus picks you up for the three-hour ride back to Rio. The return trip provides a comfortable, air-conditioned environment after a day of sun, sea, and sightseeing.

What the Tour Includes and What to Consider

This tour is priced at $93 per person, which covers transportation, the boat ride, guide service, and all taxes and fees. It’s a good value considering the full-day itinerary, especially when you factor in the boat portion and multiple scenic stops.

The guide offers live commentary in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, but some reviewers note that English-speaking guidance may be limited or unavailable. This could be an important consideration if you speak only English — you might find the experience less informative or engaging. Communication issues aside, the stunning scenery is a universal language, and most travelers appreciate the visual beauty.

Snorkel masks are available for rent, but are not included in the price. Many travelers prefer bringing their own gear, especially if they’re keen snorkelers. Since lunch isn’t included, packing snacks or planning to purchase food at Flechas Beach is advisable. Drinks are also extra, so consider bringing water or purchasing beverages along the way.

The tour starts early at 7:30 am and ends back at your hotel, making for a long but rewarding day. Group size is limited to 18 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate enough to enjoy but still lively.

The Authentic Experience and the Value

What makes this tour stand out is the array of different islands and beaches you visit in just one day. From snorkeling at Botinas Islands to relaxing at Praia do Dentista, the variety of scenery is impressive. The calm, clear waters and natural beauty are what many travelers rave about, and they are well worth the price.

However, the duration means you’ll spend several hours on transportation and boats, which could be tiring for some. The lack of included lunch might be a downside if you prefer all-inclusive experiences, but it allows you to explore local eateries and enjoy authentic flavors.

The limited English guidance, as noted in the reviews, might make some travelers feel less engaged or informed. If you’re comfortable with Portuguese or independent in navigating language barriers, this might not be a problem. Otherwise, it’s worth considering whether you prefer a tour with guaranteed English-speaking guides.

This tour offers an excellent snapshot of the region’s natural splendor for those who don’t mind a busy schedule and are eager to see several islands in one day. It’s especially suited for photo enthusiasts, snorkelers, and beach lovers eager to experience Brazil’s coast beyond Rio.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who wants to see the most beautiful islands and beaches with minimal fuss, this is a solid choice. It’s perfect if you enjoy organized group outings and are comfortable spending a good chunk of your day on the water.

This tour is less ideal for travelers seeking a luxury, private experience or those who prefer guides fluent in English. Families with children might find the long boat rides and multiple stops manageable, but the busy schedule could be tiring for small kids.

Travelers who love picturesque landscapes, snorkeling, and authentic seaside towns will find this trip rewarding. Just remember, the experience relies heavily on weather conditions, and the tour may be canceled or rescheduled in case of poor weather.

FAQs

Is transportation included from Rio de Janeiro?
Yes, the tour includes roundtrip transportation from most hotels in Rio’s South Zone, such as Copacabana, Leme, Ipanema, and Leblon.

What is the duration of the entire trip?
The full day lasts about 12 hours, including the drive, boat ride, stops, and return.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You can bring snacks or buy food at Flechas Beach, where there are kiosks and local restaurants.

What about snorkeling gear?
Snorkel masks are available for rent, but not included in the price. Bringing your own gear might enhance your experience.

Is English-guided commentary guaranteed?
Not necessarily. The guide offers live commentary in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, but some reviews suggest that English guidance might be limited.

Can children participate?
Yes, children can enjoy the calm waters at Piedade Beach, but keep in mind the overall long day and boat rides.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, hats, water, a towel, and your snorkeling gear if you have it. Consider packing some cash for extras.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Ilha Grande with Speedboat Tour from Rio offers an exciting way to explore some of Brazil’s most stunning coastal islands in a single day. Its combination of breathtaking views, snorkeling opportunities, and beach relaxation makes it a tempting choice for those eager to experience the natural beauty of the Costa Verde. Though the English-speaking guidance may be limited and the schedule packed, most travelers find the visual rewards worth the effort.

It’s best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with group tours, who want a comprehensive and visually stunning snapshot of the region. For those craving a more personalized or relaxed experience, alternative options might better suit your style. Still, if your priority is capturing gorgeous photos, cooling off in clear waters, and ticking off a few must-see beaches, this tour is a worthwhile adventure.

Enjoy your trip and don’t forget your camera and sunscreen!