Half-Day Swim & Fun Speedboat Tour in Rio de Janeiro — Guanabara Bay, Copacabana & Ilhas Cagarras
Cut loose from Copacabana and spend half a day speeding around Guanabara Bay—swimming off beaches, circling Sugarloaf’s waterfront, and skimming past Ilhas Cagarras. This social speedboat tour mixes sightseeing with multiple swim stops and included hotel pickup.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The boat makes several swim stops—use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and avoid skin irritation after long sun exposure.
Secure a waterproof bag
Keep passports, phones and cash dry in a waterproof pouch or zip-lock; waves and spray are constant on a speedboat.
Know your swimming comfort
Life jackets are provided but you should be comfortable entering open water and treading for short periods in case of current.
Arrive early for pickup
Contact the operator 24 hours in advance to confirm pickup; meeting point at Avenida Atlântica 3264 if not using hotel transfer.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Swim near Arpoador rock where locals jump from shallow ledges
- •View Copacabana from the boat’s bow at low tide for a different beachfront perspective
Wildlife
- •Brown booby and other seabirds around Ilhas Cagarras
- •Occasional pods of bottlenose dolphins in Guanabara Bay
Conservation Note
Ilhas Cagarras are part of a marine protected area—avoid littering, keep distance from nesting birds, and use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize impact.
Ilha Fiscal’s palace is famous for a lavish 1889 ball held weeks before the end of Brazil’s empire; São João Fort has guarded the bay’s entrance since colonial times.
Photographer's Notes
- • Ahead of Sugarloaf for panoramic skyline shots
- • Off Copacabana to capture the curve of the beach from the water
- • Near Ilhas Cagarras for wildlife and island silhouettes
What to Bring
Swimwear and quick-dry towelEssential
You’ll stop to swim—bring a swimsuit and a towel that dries fast.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the marine environment during prolonged sun exposure.
Waterproof phone case or cameraEssential
Essential for photos and protecting electronics from spray and splashes.
Light windbreaker
Morning and late-season winds can be cool on the bay—bring a thin wind layer.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour runs approximately 3–4 hours with multiple short stops for swimming and sightseeing.
Is transportation included?
Roundtrip hotel transfer is included for selected hotels in Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Flamengo and Centro; otherwise meet at Avenida Atlântica 3264.
Are beverages provided?
Yes — beer, soft drinks and mineral water are provided by the crew as part of the tour.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You should be comfortable in open water; life jackets are available but basic swimming ability is recommended.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure; no refund within 24 hours and trips may be rescheduled for bad weather.
Can children join this tour?
Children can join but infants must sit on an adult’s lap and the activity is not recommended for very young infants or pregnant guests.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; be able to get in and out of the water and climb back onto a boat without assistance.
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