Maracajaú Parrachos: Full-Day Catamaran Diving & Snorkeling from Natal
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours (full day)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect short swims and repeated water entries—basic comfort in the sea required.
Overview
A full-day catamaran tour from Natal to the Parrachos de Maracajaú delivers easy-access coral reefs, clear snorkel lanes, and approachable dive sites. Tide-timed departures, included transfers, and onboard equipment make it a practical choice for first-time divers and seasoned snorkelers alike.
Maracajaú Parrachos: Full-Day Catamaran Diving & Snorkeling from Natal
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Salt spray tastes like a promise as the catamaran slips away from Natal's shipping lanes and the shoreline drops into a wash of blue. After an hour and a half of open water, the ocean changes—turquoise shallows ring a darker green where coral heads rise like submerged lanterns. These are the Parrachos de Maracajaú: shallow coral gardens that pull divers and snorkelers from across Brazil for easy drift dives, pop-up wildlife, and water clarity that seems to test your camera's resolution.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Check the tide schedule
Tours are tide-dependent—confirm exact departure time the day before and expect some flexibility based on sea conditions.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The reef is sensitive; use sunscreen labeled reef-safe to protect coral and marine life.
Wear water shoes
Exposed sandbanks and reef walk-outs can be sharp—water shoes protect feet during shallow entries and exits.
Carry a personal mask
Equipment is provided, but a well-fitting personal mask improves visibility and comfort for snorkelers.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtles
- Tropical reef fish such as parrotfish and sergeant majors
History
Maracajaú grew as a fishing community; the parrachos (coral heads) have long been a local source of food and now a focus for sustainable tourism.
Conservation
The coral formations are delicate—guides enforce no-touch rules and encourage reef-safe products to limit sunscreen and physical damage.
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Adventure Hotspots in Natal
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal snorkel mask
Better fit and fog control than rental masks for clearer underwater viewing.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the coral—required in many reef areas.
summer specific
Water shoes or reef booties
Protects feet on reef flats and rocky entries at low tide.
summer specific
Dry bag & quick-dry towel
Keeps valuables dry on the catamaran and helps you change comfortably after water time.