The full-day tour to Frades Islands and Itaparica from Salvador da Bahia promises an enriching island exploration. Departing at 8:00 AM, travelers can expect to spend 3 hours on Ilha dos Frades and 2 hours on Itaparica, accompanied by live samba music and a comfortable boat with padded seats. While the tour has received mixed reviews, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a vibrant day trip in Brazil, offering beautiful views and engaging interactions. However, the true allure of this excursion lies in the unique experiences that await those who decide to embark on this journey.
This experience made our list of the 9 Best Full-Day Tours in Salvador Da Bahia.
Key Points
- This full-day excursion from Salvador da Bahia provides guided tours of the Frades Islands and Itaparica, with a mix of sightseeing, music, and optional dining.
- The tour includes transportation, with a total travel time of approximately 3 hours, allowing for 3 hours of exploration on Ilha dos Frades and 2 hours on Itaparica.
- Fees include a boarding fee, preservation fee, and potential additional charges for amenities, though admission tickets are not included in the tour price.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible, with significant walking involved, and may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.
- The tour has an average rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback on the crew, views, and atmosphere, but criticism on the dining experience and maintenance issues.
Tour Overview
The Frades Islands Tour is a full-day excursion that takes visitors from Salvador da Bahia to the picturesque Frades Islands and the neighboring island of Itaparica.
The tour departs at 8:00 AM from the Nautical Tourist Terminal, with check-in at 7:30 AM.
The journey includes travel time of 1 hour and 30 minutes to Ilha dos Frades, 40 minutes to Itaparica, and 1 hour and 10 minutes back to Salvador.
Visitors will have 3 hours to explore Ilha dos Frades and 2 hours on Itaparica, with a return to Salvador by 5:20 PM.
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Key Features
Guided by qualified multilingual professionals, the Frades Islands Tour offers a unique, interactive experience. Travelers can sit back and relax in the tour’s comfortable, padded seats while enjoying excellent bar service. Adding to the ambiance, live samba music sets the mood throughout the journey.
Key Features |
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Guided Experience |
Comfortable Amenities |
Entertainment |
Dining Options |
Preservation Fees |
Lunch at the best restaurant in Ponta de Areia is an optional culinary highlight. While the tour generally receives positive feedback, some reports mention maintenance issues and an underwhelming dining experience on Itaparica Island.
Fees and Charges
Travelers on the Frades Islands Tour will encounter several fees and charges throughout their journey.
They’ll need to pay a R$20.00 boarding fee at the Nautical Terminal in Salvador.
Once on the Ilha dos Frades, there’s a R$25.00 preservation fee.
Additional charges may apply for using tables and cork oaks on the beaches.
It’s important to note that admission tickets aren’t included in the tour price.
While the tour provides a comprehensive experience, these extra fees can add up, so travelers should factor them into their budget.
Meeting and Pickup
Participants of the Frades Islands Tour will meet at the Tourist Terminal Náutico da Bahia, located at Av. da França, s/n – Comercio, Salvador – BA, 40010-000, Brazil.
Travelers should arrive by 07:40 and head to Guicher 4, which is behind the Model Market. The tour will depart at 08:00 sharp from the meeting point.
Punctuality is essential, as the boat won’t wait for latecomers.
The meeting point is conveniently situated, making it easy for participants to find and access the tour. Guests are advised to arrive with ample time to ensure a smooth start to their adventure.
Reviews and Feedback
The tour has received a total of 61 reviews, with an average rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Positive feedback from travelers highlights the interactive crew, beautiful views, and lively atmosphere. However, some criticism has been directed at the dining experience in Itaparica and reported maintenance issues.
Despite these mixed reviews, the tour remains a popular option for those seeking a guided experience with comfortable amenities and entertainment, such as live samba music.
Potential travelers should weigh the pros and cons to decide if this tour aligns with their expectations and preferences.
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Accessibility
The tour’s accessibility is somewhat limited. The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Infants must sit on laps during the boat rides.
The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, as there’s a significant amount of walking involved on the islands. The boats have padded seats, providing a comfortable ride, but there are no special accommodations for passengers with disabilities.
While the tour aims to cater to a wide range of travelers, individuals with specific accessibility needs should consider their abilities before booking this experience.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour’s departure. Guests can easily cancel their booking if their plans change, allowing for greater flexibility. The cancellation policy is straightforward, and refunds are provided promptly. This ensures a stress-free booking experience for all travelers.
Cancellation Policy | |
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Timeframe | Refund |
Up to 24 hours | 100% |
24 hours or less | 0% |
Rescheduling | Allowed |
No-shows | 0% |
Partial Refunds | N/A |
Maximum Participants
The Frades Islands Tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers per departure. This ensures an intimate and personalized experience for all participants.
The small group size allows the knowledgeable guides to provide more attentive service and facilitate deeper engagement with the local culture and environment.
With comfortable seating and excellent on-board amenities, the tour experience is designed to be enjoyable for the entire group.
Whether you’re traveling solo or with a small group, the Frades Islands Tour offers an opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region in a manageable and comfortable setting.
The maximum participant limit helps maintain the quality and exclusivity of the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there are dining options available on the islands, and the tour provides an excellent bar service onboard the vessel for beverages.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable, casual clothing is recommended. Swimwear and beach attire are appropriate for the island visits, and footwear suitable for walking is advised.
Do I Need to Purchase Tickets Separately?
Admission tickets are not included in the tour price. Travelers will need to purchase tickets separately to access the Ilha dos Frades and Itaparica islands. The tour operator provides transportation and a guided experience, but entry fees are an additional cost.
Are There Any Discounts or Offers Available?
The tour does not mention any discounts or offers. However, travelers can save on fees by booking the tour in advance and bringing their own food and beverages instead of purchasing optional dining options.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
While the tour’s itinerary is pre-set, customers can customize their experience by adding optional activities or dining options. The tour provider offers some flexibility to accommodate individual preferences within the overall tour structure.
Recap
The full-day tour to Frades Islands and Itaparica offers a vibrant and scenic day trip from Salvador da Bahia. Featuring guided excursions, live samba music, and comfortable boat transportation, the tour provides an enriching experience exploring the stunning islands. While reviews have been mixed, the tour’s popular appeal lies in its promise of beautiful views and engaging interactions, making it a tempting option for those seeking a dynamic day in Brazil.
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