Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

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Cagarras Islands Speedboat Tour — Rio de Janeiro by Sea with Beer Included

Cagarras Islands Speedboat Tour — Rio de Janeiro by Sea with Beer Included

Skip the beach bustle and see Rio from the water: a three-hour shared speedboat to the Cagarras Islands with snorkeling, inflatable floats and a cold beer included. Fast-moving, social, and ideal for anyone who wants the city’s skyline framed by open ocean.

Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro
3 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Bring a waterproof bag

Protect your phone, keys and a light jacket; boarding can be wet and anchors mean splashes when entering/exiting the boat.

Use reef-safe sunscreen

The islets are ecologically sensitive—choose mineral or reef-safe formulas to reduce impact on marine life.

Wear grippy footwear

Slip-resistant sandals or water shoes make boarding easier on wet gunwales and ladders.

Time for light winds

Morning or late-afternoon departures usually offer calmer seas and softer light for photos.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Paddle around quieter coves on the sheltered side of the main islet for small rocky beaches
  • Grab a post-trip snack at a nearby beach kiosk—acarajé or cold coconut water are local favorites

Wildlife

  • Brown booby and other seabirds
  • Small reef fish visible while snorkeling

Conservation Note

The islands are ecologically sensitive; operators encourage no-touch policies for wildlife and the use of reef-safe sun protection to reduce impact.

The Cagarras Islands have long been a navigational landmark for Rio’s coastal communities and have been periodically studied for seabird populations and coastal ecology.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Morning light, Late afternoon/Golden hour, Overcast for even water tones
Key viewpoints:
  • Bow of the boat looking back at the Rio skyline
  • Close to the main islet’s clear-water swim spots
  • Aerial-line shots of the islands against the beaches
Subjects to capture:City skyline with sea foreground, Seabirds in flight, Snorkeling glimpses of reef life

What to Bring

Waterproof phone caseEssential

Keeps photos and documents dry while you snap seascapes and jump from the boat.

Reef-safe sunscreenEssential

Protects skin and minimizes damage to marine habitats during swims.

Water shoes or grippy sandalsEssential

Aids safe boarding and movement on wet surfaces.

Light windbreaker or quick-dry towel

Useful for cooler mornings or breezy returns to shore.

Common Questions

How long is the tour?

The shared speedboat tour lasts about three hours from the departure point to return.

Is food or drink provided?

The tour includes cold beer, water, soda and inflatable floats; bring snacks if you’re hungry afterward.

Can I snorkel at the islands?

Yes—there are stops for swimming and snorkeling in calm coves; bring your own mask/snorkel if you prefer.

What happens in bad weather?

Operators may cancel for rough seas; the cancellation policy allows a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours prior or if the trip is canceled.

Is it suitable for children or pregnant travelers?

The activity is family-friendly for children able to swim, but it is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Where does the boat depart from?

The meeting point is a pier in front of a local bar near the departure beach—follow the operator’s meeting instructions and arrive early to check in.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

3 hours

Location

Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels—basic mobility for boarding and short swims recommended

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Rio de Janeiro?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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