Schooner Cruise with Caipirinha Drinks by the Blue Lagoon
Imagine sailing along the glowing coast of Ilha Grande, Brazil, on a charming schooner, with the wind in your hair and the promise of tropical beaches ahead. For about $56, you’ll spend roughly five hours exploring some of the island’s most iconic spots—Blue Lagoon, Praia de Fora, Saco do Céu, and Praia do Amor—with plenty of time to relax and soak in the scenery.
This tour is a solid choice if you’re looking to combine the joy of being on the water with the chance to see both popular and secluded beaches. We love the way this experience balances leisure and adventure, especially the opportunity to snorkel in the clear waters of Lagoa Azul and the laid-back vibe of Saco do Céu. Plus, the inclusion of caipirinhas, tropical fruits, and safety gear makes it feel like a true taste of Brazil’s relaxed beach culture.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that the timing depends on the tide, so the departure can vary. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to get to the meeting point on your own. This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy boat rides, scenic stops, and a lively, social atmosphere—ideal for those wanting fun, casual exploration, and a bit of local flavor.
Key Points

- Beautiful Beaches: Visit both famous spots like Lagoa Azul and hidden treasures like Praia do Amor.
- Relaxed Pace: With 40-50 minutes at each stop, you get enough time to explore without feeling rushed.
- Inclusive Drinks and Snacks: Caipirinhas, tropical fruits, and water are included, enhancing the laid-back vibe.
- Safety and Comfort: Noodle buoys and safety equipment are provided, making swimming and snorkeling accessible.
- Flexible Experience: The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 60 participants and safety instructions included.
- Authentic Brazilian Atmosphere: The lively on-board environment, with music and colorful guides, creates a truly festive feel.
A Deep Dive Into the Experience

When you arrive at Getúlio Vargas Street near Vila do Abraão port before 11:30 a.m., the anticipation begins. The group assembles on the schooner—an inviting vessel that’s just the right size to foster a social atmosphere without feeling crowded. We loved the informality of this setup, which encourages mingling and relaxation from the start.
The first stop is the famous Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon), which deserves its reputation. Known as one of the island’s most visited and adored sites, Lagoa Azul’s crystal-clear waters make it a snorkeling paradise. The calm, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and watching fish dart around. As one reviewer put it, “a snorkeling trip becomes unmissable in the turquoise and crystal clear waters.” If you’re into underwater sights, this is a highlight.
Next, the schooner glides to Praia de Fora, a charming fishing village framed by native vegetation. Here, you’ll have around 45 minutes to explore the rustic setting, enjoy the scenery, or simply relax on the sand. The quiet, bucolic vibe offers a stark contrast to the busy Blue Lagoon, giving you a well-rounded experience of Ilha Grande’s diversity.
The third stop is Saco do Céu, described as an ecological sanctuary teeming with biodiversity. Its peaceful, lake-like waters and starry nights, as one review mentions, make it a magical spot to unwind. Here, you’ll also get the chance to sip a Caipirinha, Brazil’s signature cocktail, while soaking in the natural beauty—a true taste of local leisure.
The final destination is Praia do Amor, a beach often praised for its natural charm and relative seclusion. After spending about 45 minutes here, you’ll return to the port around 4:30 p.m., ending a day packed with scenic beauty and casual fun.
Throughout the cruise, the on-board environment is lively—guided by a professional guide who speaks English or Portuguese. From a guy dressed as Jack Sparrow to a talented saxophonist, the atmosphere is cheerful and engaging, making the journey more than just a sightseeing trip.
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What This Tour Means for You

The value of this experience lies in the combination of scenic beauty, culture, and social atmosphere. For a modest price, you’re transported to some of Ilha Grande’s most breathtaking spots, with enough free time to really experience each location. The inclusion of drinks and tropical snacks enhances the laid-back, tropical vibe—making this feel like a true Brazilian holiday.
The safety measures, like noodles and safety gear, mean that even less confident swimmers can enjoy the water. Plus, the small group size and casual pace make it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a fun, relaxed day out.
While it lacks some of the premium amenities of a private boat, the shared nature keeps costs reasonable—and the lively onboard environment ensures that it remains a memorable adventure. For those who enjoy socializing, scenic beaches, and tropical flavors, this tour hits the spot.
Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a light, scenic day with a lively atmosphere. If you enjoy snorkeling and exploring beaches without the hassle of planning each stop, you’ll appreciate how smoothly the day unfolds. Also, if you’re a fan of Caipirinhas and tropical snacks, you’ll find the onboard treats a highlight.
It’s perfect for those who prefer group adventures rather than private tours, and for anyone looking to get a taste of Ilha Grande’s natural beauty without a full-day commitment. The relaxed pace and fun environment make it especially suitable for couples, friends, or solo travelers seeking a lively, authentic experience.
Final Thoughts

For a reasonable price, this schooner cruise offers a nice slice of Ilha Grande’s best beaches and natural scenery. You’ll enjoy the freedom of exploring multiple sites with plenty of time to relax, swim, and take photos. The inclusion of caipirinhas and tropical fruits adds a festive touch that captures the spirit of Brazil’s beach culture.
Though you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the departure point, the organized nature of the cruise and engaging onboard atmosphere make it worth considering. The tour strikes a good balance between guided sightseeing and free time, making it a flexible option for travelers who want to enjoy the coast without feeling rushed.
If you’re someone who appreciates fun, social boat trips with scenic stops and a taste of local flavors, this tour could become a favorite part of your Ilha Grande visit. It’s especially suited for those who want a lively, laid-back outdoor experience with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to mingle.
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $56 per person, which includes the schooner ride, safety equipment, noodles, caipirinhas, water, and tropical fruits.
Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at Getúlio Vargas Street near Vila do Abraão port, prior to the 11:30 a.m. departure.
How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, with each of the four stops lasting around 40-50 minutes.
Are drinks included?
Yes, caipirinhas, water, and tropical fruits are included in the price.
Is there any included food besides snacks?
No, food is not included besides snacks and tropical fruits, so you might want to bring additional provisions if desired.
Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkeling is possible at Lagoa Azul, which is known for its clear waters and fish. The safety gear and noodles are provided to help you enjoy the water comfortably.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the minimum drinking age is 18, so children will not be able to partake in the caipirinhas.
Does the tour operate regardless of weather?
The departure time varies with the tide, and safety instructions are provided at departure. It’s best to check the weather forecast beforehand, as rough conditions could impact the trip.
Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point on your own.
To sum it up, this schooner cruise offers a lively, scenic way to experience some of Ilha Grande’s most beautiful beaches. Its combination of natural beauty, fun atmosphere, and inclusive drinks makes it a great option for travelers wanting a relaxed, social day on the water. Whether you’re snorkeling in Lagoa Azul or enjoying a caipirinha at Saco do Céu, this tour promises a delightful taste of Brazil’s coastal charm—perfect for those seeking a balance of adventure and leisure.
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- Half-Day Ilha Grande Schooner Tour
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- Bebel Ilha Grande – Receptive
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