A private full-day boat tour from Rio to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande that combines island swimming, snorkeling, and short visits to fishing islets. Expect 10–12 hours including transfers and stops at three crystal-clear coves.
A private full-day boat tour from Rio to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande that combines island swimming, snorkeling, and short visits to fishing islets. Expect 10–12 hours including transfers and stops at three crystal-clear coves.
You step out of the air-conditioned vehicle with the Atlantic salt pressing at the edges of your shirt — a busy Angra harbor framed by granite outcrops and green-shouldered islands. The boat slips away from the quay, cutting through a scatter of islets; water so clear you can see the reef shapes beneath the hull.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Rio Carioca Tour Ltda · Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro
You step out of the air-conditioned vehicle with the Atlantic salt pressing at the edges of your shirt — a busy Angra harbor framed by granite outcrops and green-shouldered islands. The boat slips away from the quay, cutting through a scatter of islets; water so clear you can see the reef shapes beneath the hull.
This coastline reflects Brazil's layered history: early Portuguese settlers used these sheltered bays as stops on colonial trade routes, and the archipelago sits within the Atlantic Forest biome—one of the world's most biodiverse and threatened forests. Geologically the islands are granite outcrops worn by sea and rain, their steep rock faces giving way to narrow beaches and dense, humid forest.
Culture here is maritime and local: small fishing communities still run family restaurants, serving the day's catch. On Ilha Grande, remnants of old settlements and the island's past as a penal colony offer context to the landscape you’re skimming past.
Practically, expect a full day—roughly 10–12 hours including roundtrip transfer from Rio. The boat stops at three different points for swimming and snorkeling in calm, turquoise coves; guides may point out turtles or colorful reef fish. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and a lightweight dry bag for electronics. If you want a more private experience, upgraded private boat and transfer options are available.
Timing matters: leave early to avoid traffic and crowds. On return, the inland road back to Rio retraces a green coast that feels quieter after a day at sea, the memories of glassy bays and small island restaurants lingering like salt on your lips.
easy.
10–12 hours.
Suitable for most travelers; ability to climb aboard small boats and short swims recommended
The transfer is approximately 2.5 hours each way, depending on traffic; factor that into your full-day timing.
Snorkeling equipment is not always included but can usually be rented on location; check your booking option or bring your own for the best fit.
Yes — options include a private transfer with a shared boat tour or a VIP fully private transfer and private boat tour for an exclusive experience.
Yes, the tour accepts children; infants may need to sit on a lap and strollers are possible for short transfers, but check age policies and safety for boat activities.
Ilha Grande and the Angra archipelago have colonial-era settlements and were later the site of a notorious island prison; today much of the island is protected as parkland within the Atlantic Forest.
Parts of Ilha Grande fall under protected park status to preserve Atlantic Forest and marine habitats—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid single-use plastics, and follow local guidance to minimize impact.
Rio Carioca Tour Ltda operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




You step out of the air-conditioned vehicle with the Atlantic salt pressing at the edges of your shirt — a busy Angra harbor framed by granite outcrops and green-shouldered islands. The boat slips away from the quay, cutting through a scatter of islets; water so clear you can see the reef shapes beneath the hull.
You step out of the air-conditioned vehicle with the Atlantic salt pressing at the edges of your shirt — a busy Angra harbor framed by granite outcrops and green-shouldered islands. The boat slips away from the quay, cutting through a scatter of islets; water so clear you can see the reef shapes beneath the hull.
This coastline reflects Brazil's layered history: early Portuguese settlers used these sheltered bays as stops on colonial trade routes, and the archipelago sits within the Atlantic Forest biome—one of the world's most biodiverse and threatened forests. Geologically the islands are granite outcrops worn by sea and rain, their steep rock faces giving way to narrow beaches and dense, humid forest.
Culture here is maritime and local: small fishing communities still run family restaurants, serving the day's catch. On Ilha Grande, remnants of old settlements and the island's past as a penal colony offer context to the landscape you’re skimming past.
Practically, expect a full day—roughly 10–12 hours including roundtrip transfer from Rio. The boat stops at three different points for swimming and snorkeling in calm, turquoise coves; guides may point out turtles or colorful reef fish. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and a lightweight dry bag for electronics. If you want a more private experience, upgraded private boat and transfer options are available.
Timing matters: leave early to avoid traffic and crowds. On return, the inland road back to Rio retraces a green coast that feels quieter after a day at sea, the memories of glassy bays and small island restaurants lingering like salt on your lips.