Rio de Janeiro Boat Tours

Sail beneath Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer on the Marvelous City's most scenic waters

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3 to 14 hours
1 Languages
Small groups & private options
Free Cancellation
Everything You Need to Know

Complete Experience Guide

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Experience

Experience Rio from the Water

Seeing Rio de Janeiro from Guanabara Bay offers a perspective unlike any other. While the city streets buzz with energy, the water provides a front-row seat to the dramatic meeting of mountains, city, and sea that earned Rio its UNESCO World Heritage status. Whether you choose a relaxing sunset sail with caipirinhas in hand, a lively party boat with a DJ, or a full-day excursion to the turquoise waters of Arraial do Cabo, getting out on the water is essential to the Carioca experience. You'll glide past architectural marvels like the Museum of Tomorrow, see the historic fortresses guarding the harbor, and witness the sun dipping behind the iconic silhouette of Christ the Redeemer.

4.8/5
Average Rating
20+
Daily Departures
3-14 Hrs
Duration Range
Instant
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Change of plans? Most tours offer full refunds when canceled 24 hours in advance

Guanabara Bay views
Museum of Tomorrow
Ilha Fiscal landmark
Morning light photography
Santos Dumont Airport views

Essential Information

Know Before You Go

What to Expect
Stunning coastal views
Music and social vibes on many boats
Swimming stops (weather permitting)
Weather & Sea
Sun protection essential
Tropical showers possible in summer
Calm waters in the bay
Logistics
Arrive 30 mins early
Marina da Glória departure
Digital vouchers accepted
Onboard
Restrooms available
Bar service (cash/card)
Safety briefings included

Not Allowed

Large bags or luggage
Pets (except service animals)
Food and drinks
Essential Information

Booking Tips

  • Book sunset tours at least 3 days in advance
  • Choose morning tours for calmer water
  • Verify if your hotel is in the pickup zone
  • Check the weather forecast for clear visibility

What to Bring

  • Swimwear
  • Towel
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat
  • Camera
  • Light Jacket
  • Cash for extras

Best Seasons to Visit

Year-round destination|Best weather: April-May & September-October|Peak season: December-March (Summer)

What to Wear

Swimwear (wear underneath)|Light, breathable clothing|Non-slip deck shoes or sandals|Light windbreaker or sweater for evening tours|Hat and sunglasses

Planning

Historical Context

The bay was the strategic heart of Rio for centuries, guarded by the fortresses of Santa Cruz and São João. It witnessed pirate attacks, colonial battles, and the flight of the Portuguese Royal Family. Seeing these forts from the water gives a unique glimpse into Brazil's military history.

Photography Tips

  • Use a polarizing filter to cut water glare
  • Golden hour (sunset) offers the most flattering light
  • Wide-angle lens captures the vast landscape best
  • Use a fast shutter speed on speedboats

Insider Tips

  • Sit on the bow (front) for the best photos
  • Bring a waterproof phone case
  • Arrive at the marina early to enjoy the cafe views
  • Sunset tours offer the best lighting for Sugarloaf photos

Our Partners

  • In partnership with Viator, TripAdvisor, and select local operators

Fun Facts

  • Guanabara Bay contains over 130 islands
  • The bay is the second largest in Brazil
  • Sugarloaf Mountain is actually a monolith of granite and quartz

Cancellation Policy

Enjoy peace of mind with our flexible cancellation policy. Most tours offer a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. Weather-related cancellations made by the operator are always fully refundable.

Social Media

Share your experience: #RioBoatTour #GuanabaraBay #RioSunset #VisitRio #RioDeJaneiro #SailingRio #TravelBrazil

Explore More

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Customer Reviews

What Our Guests Say

Real experiences from real travelers

S
Sarah Jenkins
UK • 2024-11-15

Magical Sunset Experience

The sunset sailing tour was the highlight of our trip! Seeing Sugarloaf and Christ the Redeemer turn golden as the sun went down was unforgettable. The crew was fantastic and kept the caipirinhas flowing. Highly recommended!

C
Carlos Mendez
Argentina • 2024-10-22

Excellent Day Trip

We booked the Arraial do Cabo day trip. It's a long day (3 hours drive each way) but absolutely worth it. The water is Caribbean-blue and the boat crew made the trip so fun. Lunch was delicious too.

M
Michael Chen
USA • 2024-12-05

Fun Party Boat

Great vibes on the boat party! The DJ was good and the views were amazing. It got a bit crowded near the bar, but everyone was friendly. A great way to meet people in Rio.

I
Isabella Rossi
Italy • 2024-09-30

Private Boat Perfection

We rented a private boat for our family. The skipper took us to quiet spots for swimming away from the crowds. It was worth every penny for the privacy and flexibility.

L
Lars Jensen
Denmark • 2025-01-10

Good Value

We did the morning bay cruise. Very relaxing and informative. The guide spoke good English and explained the history of the forts and buildings we passed. Good value for money.

S
Sophie Dubois
France • 2024-11-28

Unforgettable Views

You haven't seen Rio until you see it from the water. The Museum of Tomorrow looks incredible from the bay. The boat was clean and comfortable.

J
John Doe
Australia • 2024-12-15

Cloudy but still fun

Unfortunately it was cloudy so no sunset, but the crew tried their best to make it fun with music and drinks. Check the weather forecast before booking!

F
Fernanda Silva
Brazil • 2025-02-02

Wonderful Experience

Even as a Brazilian, I loved this tour. The perspective of Rio is unique. The service on board was impeccable and the snacks were fresh.

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4.9/5
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