Board at Urca and sail a three-hour loop around Sugarloaf and Corcovado as the sun falls: snorkeling stops, close passes of colonial forts, and caipirinhas served on deck. A practical, scenic way to see Rio from the water.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The keel slips away from the Urca pier and the city exhales — concrete and traffic fall behind while Sugarloaf and Corcovado grow in scale, sun striking their faces like a slow burn. Salted wind pushes the boat along Fort São João, past Ilha da Laje and the curved beaches of Adão and Eva, and the horizon opens where the bay dares you to look farther.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; ability to step on/off a small dock and move on deck recommended
Wildlife
History
The route passes colonial-era forts that protected Guanabara Bay; Sugarloaf is a granite monolith formed by ancient magma intrusions uplifted along the coast.
Conservation
Guanabara Bay has ongoing cleanup and conservation efforts; minimize single-use plastics and respect crew guidance for waste disposal to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Sailboat Tour in Rio de Janeiro today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive Early to Board
Plan to be at the Urca departure point 20–30 minutes before departure to complete check-in and secure a good spot on deck.
Sun Protection Is Critical
The sun hits hard on open water; use broad-spectrum sunscreen and a wide-brim hat even for evening sails.
Wear Non-Slip Shoes
Decks can be wet and sloped—rubber-soled shoes help you stay steady while moving around.
Bring Motion-Sickness Remedies
The bay is usually calm but choppy conditions can happen; bring medication or acupressure bands if you’re prone to seasickness.
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Protects against strong UV reflected off the water during the sail.
summer
Light Windbreaker
Blocks evening breezes and keeps you comfortable as temperatures drop after sunset.
fall
Non-Slip Deck Shoes
Provides traction on wet or sloped surfaces while moving around the boat.
Motion-Sickness Medication or Bands
Useful for those prone to seasickness in choppy conditions.