Boat tours around Ilha Grande deliver both value and stunning coastal views. The most practical option is the scenic beach tour starting at $25, offering a budget-friendly taste of the island’s pristine waters. For a worthwhile splurge, the full-day cruise from Rio combines wildlife spotting with swim breaks – perfect for nature lovers. My favorite pick is the 5-hour schooner cruise, hitting four beaches while serving traditional caipirinhas and fresh fruit – it’s relaxed, scenic, and authentically Brazilian.
I especially love the private Lopes Mendes tour, which smartly pairs hiking with boat transportation, letting you experience both land and sea perspectives of this tropical paradise.
Let’s explore the best boat tours around Ilha Grande:
Key Points
- Tangol offers picturesque boat tours to Ilha Grande beaches, starting at $25 per person with a maximum capacity of 180 travelers.
- Angra Dos Reis Cruise provides a full-day coastal exploration from Rio, with opportunities to spot wildlife and swim in secluded spots.
- Private hiking experiences in Lopes Mendes, Ilha Grande, offer flexibility for all fitness levels and a chance to observe native flora and fauna.
- Ilha Grande Day Trip from Rio includes a sightseeing cruise with panoramic views of the UNESCO site, snorkeling, and hiking activities.
- Schooner Cruise Experience offers a 5-hour journey visiting four beautiful beaches, with refreshments, an intimate group size, and professional guides.
Boat Tour to the Beaches of Angra Dos Reis
For those seeking a picturesque boat tour along the beaches of Angra dos Reis, the Boat Tour to the Beaches of Angra Dos Reis offers a delightful experience.
Operated by Tangol, this tour takes travelers to the stunning beaches of Ilha Grande, Brazil. Priced from $25 per person, the tour includes a boat ticket, lunch, drinks, and transportation to the meeting point.
With a maximum capacity of 180 travelers, the tour departs at 11:30 am and returns to the original meeting point.
Boasting a 4.5-star rating based on 6 reviews, the tour is sure to provide a memorable day on the water.
Read our full review: Boat Tour to the Beaches of Angra Dos Reis Review
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From Rio: Full-Day Angra Dos Reis Cruise & Island Tour
Departing from Rio, the Full-Day Angra Dos Reis Cruise & Island Tour provides an immersive experience exploring the stunning coastal region.
Priced from €62.21 per person, the 10-hour tour includes round-trip hotel transfers, a guided schooner cruise, a delicious lunch, and the chance to spot diverse wildlife.
Guests can swim in secluded spots and relax on a Brazilian island beach before returning to Rio.
While some reviewers noted issues with pick-up and communication, the overall experience is rated 3.4/5, with high marks for safety and service.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a convenient way to discover the natural beauty of Angra dos Reis from Rio.
Read our full review: From Rio: Full-Day Angra Dos Reis Cruise & Island Tour Review
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Lopes Mendes Private Hiking in Ilha Grande With Return by Boat
This private hiking experience in Lopes Mendes, Ilha Grande, Brazil, offers a chance to explore the island’s natural beauty at your own pace.
Suitable for all fitness levels, the guides adjust the pace accordingly. You’ll have the opportunity to observe wildlife and native flora and fauna, then enjoy the famous white sand at Lopes Mendes beach.
Before and after the hike, you can explore Vila do Abraao. The tour includes a licensed local bilingual guide and a boat ticket for the return to Vila do Abraao.
The meeting point is at the Igreja de São Sebastião, and the tour starts at 9:00 am.
This private tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.
Read our full review: Lopes Mendes Private Hiking in Ilha Grande With Return by Boat Review
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Rio De Janeiro: Ilha Grande Day Trip With Sightseeing Cruise
Travelers seeking an immersive experience can embark on an Ilha Grande day trip from Rio de Janeiro, complete with a sightseeing cruise. Priced at $67.90 per person, the 12-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, a guided cruise, and a provided lunch.
Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the UNESCO World Heritage site and partake in activities like snorkeling and hiking. While the overall tour rating is a modest 2/5, feedback highlights issues with transportation comfort and delayed lunch service.
Prospective travelers should consider their physical limitations, as the tour isn’t recommended for those over 80, pregnant women, or wheelchair users.
Read our full review: Rio De Janeiro: Ilha Grande Day Trip With Sightseeing Cruise Review
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Rio De Janeiro: Ilha Grande With Boat Tour & Optional Lunch
The Rio de Janeiro: Ilha Grande With Boat Tour & Optional Lunch offers an immersive day trip to the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site.
For $64.44 per person, this 10-hour tour includes hotel pickup, a boat cruise through paradisiacal landscapes, and swim stops at Baleias Beach and Blue Lagoon.
Travelers can also visit Freguesia de Santana and enjoy an optional lunch at Japariz Beach.
The tour is suitable for most, though not for those with mobility issues.
Pickup is from Rio’s South Zone hotels, with flexible meeting arrangements.
Guests should bring appropriate attire, sun protection, and any desired snacks or beverages not included in the tour.
Read our full review: Rio De Janeiro: Ilha Grande With Boat Tour & Optional Lunch Review
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Schooner Cruise With Caipirinha Drinks by the Blue Lagoon
For those seeking a more immersive experience on the waters surrounding Ilha Grande, the Schooner Cruise With Caipirinha Drinks by the Blue Lagoon offers a delightful 5-hour journey.
Travelers will visit four beautiful beaches, with 40-50 minutes of free time at each stop. Along the way, they’ll enjoy scenic views from the schooner and refreshing caipirinha drinks, water, and tropical fruits.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and safety equipment. With a maximum of 60 travelers, this cruise provides an intimate and enjoyable experience.
Reviewers highlight the fun atmosphere and memorable encounters with Ilha Grande’s stunning landscapes.
Read our full review: Schooner Cruise With Caipirinha Drinks by the Blue Lagoon Review
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Recap
Ilha Grande offers a variety of boat tours and cruises for visitors to explore its stunning beaches and natural beauty. These tours provide opportunities to witness the region’s landscapes, visit remote areas, and even enjoy drinks along the way. Whether it’s a full-day cruise or a private hike with a boat ride, there’s an option to suit different interests and budgets when exploring this picturesque Brazilian island.