The pristine waters around Ilha Grande are perfect for exploring by boat. Several excellent tour options stand out for budget-conscious travelers: The Angra dos Reis beach tour is a smart choice, including a filling lunch and all transportation. For a more upscale experience, the private boat excursion with its onboard barbecue lets you set your own pace. I especially love the traditional schooner cruise – nothing beats sipping Caipirinhas while gliding past the Blue Lagoon. If you’re short on time, the speedy 360-degree boat tour packs major sights into a few thrilling hours.
These top boat tours deserve a closer look:
Key Points
- Guided hike to Lopes Mendes beach, offering wildlife observation and boat return to Vila do Abraão for village exploration.
- Boat tour to Angra dos Reis beaches, including lunch, drinks, and transportation, with free cancellation available.
- Exclusive private boat tour with barbecue and drinks for up to 6 participants, with flexible pickup and drop-off.
- Schooner cruise experience from Vila do Abraão to Blue Lagoon, Praia de Fora, and Saco do Céu, with Caipirinha drinks and tropical fruits.
- 360-degree speed boat tour around Ilha Grande, accommodating up to 15 travelers with a cooler of drinks, lunch, and snorkeling equipment.
Lopes Mendes Private Hiking in Ilha Grande With Return by Boat
For an unforgettable experience, travelers can embark on a private hiking adventure to the renowned Lopes Mendes beach in Ilha Grande.
Suitable for all fitness levels, the guided hike allows participants to observe the island’s wildlife and native flora and fauna at their own pace.
The tour includes a boat return to Vila do Abraao, providing ample time to explore the charming village before and after the hike.
Each break along the way features a new beach for relaxation under the sun on the famous white sands of Lopes Mendes.
With a licensed bilingual guide and boat ticket included, this private hiking excursion offers an exceptional way to discover the beauty of Ilha Grande.
Read our full review: Lopes Mendes Private Hiking in Ilha Grande With Return by Boat Review
Book now: Check availability
Boat Tour To The Beaches Of Angra Dos Reis
Travelers seeking to explore the beautiful beaches of Angra dos Reis can embark on a boat tour that offers a unique perspective of this stunning region.
Operated by Tangol, the tour takes visitors to Ilha Grande, Brazil, where they’ll enjoy a range of inclusions, such as a boat ticket, lunch, drinks, and transportation to the meeting point.
The tour starts at 11:30 am from the Estação Santa Luzia, and the group size can accommodate up to 180 people, with a minimum of 2 participants.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and the tour has received an average rating of 4.5 from 6 total reviews.
Read our full review: Boat Tour To The Beaches Of Angra Dos Reis Review
Book now: Check availability
Exclusive Boat Tour: Barbecue and Drinks Included
This exclusive Angra & Ilha Grande private boat tour offers a premium excursion with a delightful barbecue and a wide selection of refreshing drinks.
Accommodating up to 6 participants, the tour features comfortable boats, a professional bilingual guide, and a private crew.
Enjoy a variety of beers, spirits, mixers, and snacks, including a cold cuts board and a barbecue with sirloin cap, sausage, and more.
The tour provides flexible pickup and drop-off within Angra, and all taxes and fees are included in the $1,850 per group price.
With a 5.0 rating from 2 reviews, this private boat tour promises an unforgettable experience exploring the stunning landscapes of Ilha Grande.
Read our full review: Exclusive Boat Tour: Barbecue and Drinks Included Review
Book now: Check availability
Schooner Cruise With Caipirinha Drinks by the Blue Lagoon
Depart from Vila do Abraão port and embark on a captivating schooner cruise to explore the stunning Blue Lagoon, Praia de Fora, and Saco do Céu in Ilha Grande.
This 5-hour adventure includes Caipirinha drinks, water, and tropical fruits as you swim, snorkel, and soak up the breathtaking scenery. The schooner accommodates up to 60 travelers and costs from $56 per person.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, safety equipment, and an English or Portuguese-speaking guide are included. While food and additional drinks aren’t provided, the lively atmosphere, music, and availability of Caipirinhas ensure an unforgettable experience.
Minimum drinking age is 18, and infants must sit on laps. Not wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Schooner Cruise With Caipirinha Drinks by the Blue Lagoon Review
Book now: Check availability
360 Tour of Ilha Grande – Speed Boat Tour
For those seeking a more exhilarating way to explore the stunning landscapes of Ilha Grande, the 360 Tour of Ilha Grande – Speed Boat Tour offers an unforgettable experience.
Operated by Ilha Grande Hiking, this tour accommodates up to 15 travelers and departs from the Agência Como Uma Onda Tour in Vila do Abraão. Participants will enjoy a cooler of drinks, bottled water, and a provided lunch, as well as snorkeling equipment.
While not suitable for those with heart conditions or seasickness, the tour is accessible for most travelers. After 15 minutes of check-in, the speed boat tour will return to the original meeting point, providing a thrilling 360-degree perspective of the island’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: 360 Tour of Ilha Grande – Speed Boat Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
You can usually bring your own food and drinks on boat tours and cruises. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or offer catering services you can purchase.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tours?
Most boat tour companies on Ilha Grande don’t have age restrictions, but some may require children under a certain age to be accompanied by an adult. It’s best to check with the specific tour operator beforehand.
What Is the Cancellation Policy in Case of Bad Weather?
The cancellation policy varies by tour operator, but most offer free rescheduling or refunds if the tour is cancelled due to inclement weather. Customers should check the specific policy before booking to understand their options in case of bad conditions.
Do the Boats Have Restrooms and Facilities Available?
The boats typically have restrooms and basic facilities available for passengers. This allows for a comfortable and convenient experience during the tour or cruise. Passengers can expect access to these amenities throughout the duration of the excursion.
Can I Request Special Dietary Needs or Accommodations?
Yes, many boat tour and cruise companies offer accommodations for special dietary needs. Guests can typically request vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary options when booking their tour. Passengers should inform the company of any requirements in advance.
The Sum Up
Ilha Grande offers an array of captivating boat tours and cruises. From private hikes with boat returns to exclusive schooner rides with caipirinha drinks, visitors can experience the island’s stunning beaches, lagoons, and landscapes from the water. These immersive boat excursions provide a unique and memorable way to explore the natural beauty of this picturesque Brazilian destination.