Salvador’s boat tours deliver refreshingly straightforward experiences on Brazil’s coast. The Tropical Island excursion to Itaparica and Frades stands out for its efficient route and authentic coastal views. We love the Islands Boat Trip with lunch – it’s well-organized and serves excellent local dishes right on board. For cruise passengers, the Private Tour option makes perfect sense, hitting Salvador’s main sites without wasting precious port time. The Catamaran service to Morro de São Paulo is reliably punctual and comfortable – a practical choice for beach-bound travelers.
Check out our favorite Salvador boat experiences below.
Key Points
- The Tropical Island Boat Trip to Itaparica and Frades offers a scenic boat ride with a local guide and hotel transfer, starting at $65 per person.
- The Islands Boat Trip Including Lunch is a personalized tour priced at €115.56 per person, with hotel pickup, lunch, and drinks included.
- The Cruise Ship Special Private Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Salvador’s historic highlights for cruise ship passengers, with transportation to and from the cruise terminal.
- The Catamaran Direct Boat to/from Morro de São Paulo is a convenient travel option between Salvador and Morro de São Paulo, with a tour package including the catamaran ticket, dinner, and drinks.
- The Mangue Seco Day Trip and Private Transfers offer a boat ride across the Real River and an optional dune buggy tour, with hotel pickup and a professional guide.
Tropical Island Boat Trip to Itaparica and Frades
For a relaxing day on the water, travelers can embark on the Tropical Island Boat Trip to Itaparica and Frades.
Operated by Your Tour Brazil, this tour offers a scenic boat ride to the tropical islands of Itaparica and Frades, located near Salvador da Bahia.
Priced from $65 per person, the tour includes a local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entrance fees.
While the tour has received generally positive reviews for the beautiful beaches and boat ride experience, some travelers have criticized the high pricing and language barriers.
The tour provides an opportunity to explore the stunning islands and enjoy the live music entertainment on board.
Read our full review: Tropical Island Boat Trip to Itaparica and Frades Review
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Islands Boat Trip to Itaparica and Frades Including Lunch
The Islands Boat Trip to Itaparica and Frades Including Lunch provides travelers with a comprehensive experience to explore the stunning tropical islands near Salvador da Bahia.
Operated by Your Tour Brazil, this €115.56 per person tour includes a boat trip, lunch, drinks, and all fees and taxes. Pickup is available from hotels and Airbnbs in Salvador, and the tour accommodates a maximum of 2 travelers per booking.
With positive reviews highlighting the food, drinks, and overall experience, this boat trip offers an excellent way to discover the natural beauty of Itaparica and Frades islands.
Travelers can enjoy the convenience of air-conditioned transportation and the flexibility of free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the tour.
Read our full review: Islands Boat Trip to Itaparica and Frades Including Lunch Review
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Cruise Ship Special Private Tour Salvador Da Bahia Historic Old Town Bonfim and Barra
This private tour, designed specifically for cruise ship passengers in Salvador da Bahia, Brazil, offers a compact yet comprehensive exploration of the city’s historic highlights.
Visitors will discover the Pelorinho historic center, the Itapagipe Peninsula, Fort Monte Serrat, and the iconic Lacerda Elevator, all while accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide.
Transportation to and from the cruise terminal is provided, ensuring a seamless experience. With a minimum of 2 people required for booking, this tour maximizes limited time in port and includes personalized recommendations for lunch.
The tour’s positive reviews and 5-star rating attest to its excellent value, making it an ideal choice for cruise ship passengers.
Read our full review: Cruise Ship Special Private Tour Salvador Da Bahia Historic Old Town Bonfim and Barra Review
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Catamaran Direct Boat To/From Morro De São Paulo
Although the Catamaran Direct Boat to/from Morro de São Paulo offers a convenient option for traveling between Salvador da Bahia and the picturesque island of Morro de São Paulo, it’s important for travelers to weigh the pros and cons before booking.
The tour includes a catamaran ticket, dinner, coffee/tea, and drinks, with pickup available from the Terminal Nautico da Bahia or Cais de Morro de SP.
While the service is wheelchair and stroller accessible, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those prone to seasickness.
Reviews are mixed, with some noting the tickets are more expensive than buying on-site.
Ultimately, the Catamaran Direct Boat provides a convenient way to reach Morro de São Paulo, but travelers should consider their personal needs and budget.
Read our full review: Catamaran Direct Boat To/From Morro De São Paulo Review
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Mangue Seco Day Trip: Boat Ride, Sand Dunes and Swimming
For travelers seeking a unique day trip from Salvador da Bahia, the Mangue Seco Day Trip offers a chance to explore the region’s natural wonders.
This 5-hour excursion includes a boat ride across the Real River and an optional dune buggy tour through the sand dunes. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes each way, with a maximum of 40 travelers.
Inclusions cover hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat ride, and a professional guide. While the dune buggy tour is an additional cost, the experience provides an opportunity to enjoy the stunning natural landscapes.
Travelers should come prepared with recommended items like towels and sunscreen.
Read our full review: Mangue Seco Day Trip: Boat Ride, Sand Dunes and Swimming Review
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Private Transfer From Salvador to Salvador De Bahia Cruise Port
Travelers visiting Salvador da Bahia can arrange for a private transfer to conveniently reach the Salvador de Bahia Cruise Port.
The private transfer service includes an air-conditioned vehicle and covers all fees and taxes. Pickup can be arranged from any hotel or address, and travelers can choose to head directly to the meeting point.
The 24/7 transfer operation allows flexibility in specifying the preferred pickup time and luggage count. The drop-off is at the cruise terminal, and the service is stroller accessible, with infant seats available.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation and unlimited reschedule policy up to 24 hours before the experience. This private transfer service provides a hassle-free and comfortable way to get to the cruise port.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From Salvador to Salvador De Bahia Cruise Port Review
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Ivan Bahia, Salvador, for Cruise Ship Travelers, Cultural and Historic Discovery
Cruise ship travelers exploring Salvador da Bahia can embark on a cultural and historic discovery with Ivan Bahia. This private tour focuses on showcasing the vibrant heritage of the region.
Travelers are transported by a private, air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi and receive drinks and lunch. The meeting point is at the exit of the harbor docks, where the guide will greet them with an “IVAN BAHIA GUIDE” panel.
The tour is available on select dates between February 2024 and December 2025. Priced from $164.61 per person, this non-refundable experience is designed for most travelers, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Ivan Bahia, Salvador, for Cruise Ship Travelers, Cultural and Historic Discovery Review
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Full Day Private Shore Tour in Salvador From Salvador Cruise Port
This full-day private shore tour allows visitors to enjoy the rich cultural and historical heritage of Salvador da Bahia.
Departing from the Salvador Cruise Port, guests will enjoy modern, air-conditioned transportation and the expertise of a professional local guide.
The flexible itinerary can be tailored to the ship’s docking times and traffic conditions, ensuring a seamless experience.
Highlights include 3 hours of free time for shopping and dining, with all fees and taxes included.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, and a full refund is available if the ship can’t dock.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Shore Tour in Salvador From Salvador Cruise Port Review
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Common Questions
What Safety Measures Are in Place for the Boat Tours?
Boat tour operators ensure passengers’ safety by providing life jackets, adhering to safety regulations, and having experienced crew members on board. Regular maintenance and inspections of vessels are also conducted to prevent accidents.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Passengers are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on boat tours, though some operators may have restrictions or offer on-board refreshments for purchase. It’s best to check with the tour company beforehand to understand their policies.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair accessible, with most boats and vessels equipped to accommodate passengers with mobility issues. Passengers should check with the tour operator in advance to ensure their specific needs can be accommodated.
How Do I Book and Pay for the Boat Tours?
You can book and pay for the boat tours online or directly with the tour operators. Many offer online booking and payment options, making it easy to secure your spot and pay in advance.
Can I Customize the Itinerary of the Private Tours?
Yes, you can typically customize the itinerary of private boat tours. Many tour operators allow you to work with them to design a personalized itinerary that meets your specific interests and preferences.
The Sum Up
Salvador da Bahia offers a wide range of boat tours and cruises, from trips to nearby islands to private tours of the historic old town. Visitors can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage, admire the scenic coastline, and enjoy activities like swimming and sand dunes. Whether you’re a cruise ship traveler or planning an independent trip, there are many options to discover Salvador’s unique charm by boat.