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Spend a full day from Rio exploring Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande by schooner—swim in glass-blue coves, snorkel over reefs, and eat local seafood at a fishermen’s islet. This practical guide covers what to expect, travel logistics, and packing tips for a long, rewarding day on the Green Coast.
Spend a full day from Rio exploring Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande by schooner—swim in glass-blue coves, snorkel over reefs, and eat local seafood at a fishermen’s islet. This practical guide covers what to expect, travel logistics, and packing tips for a long, rewarding day on the Green Coast.
The morning starts before the city wakes: you leave Rio by air-conditioned van and watch the coastline blur into the green-forested hills that guard the Green Coast. After roughly 2½ hours you arrive at Angra dos Reis harbor and step onto a schooner; the sea seems to breathe, urging the boat toward the granite isles of Ilha Grande.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Rio Carioca Tour Ltda · Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro
The morning starts before the city wakes: you leave Rio by air-conditioned van and watch the coastline blur into the green-forested hills that guard the Green Coast. After roughly 2½ hours you arrive at Angra dos Reis harbor and step onto a schooner; the sea seems to breathe, urging the boat toward the granite isles of Ilha Grande.
The archipelago is a product of Precambrian granite and later coastal processes, its reef-fringed bays carved into clear, warm water. Indigenous Tupinambá and later caiçara fishing communities shaped the island culture—small family restaurants and simple docks remain in spots where first settlers landed. Guides will often point out how the Atlantic Forest reaches right to the shoreline, a living edge between jungle and reef.
Expect three main stops: glass-blue lagoons and calm swim coves where snorkeling reveals parrotfish and branching coral, a small fishermen’s islet with family-run kitchens, and a sheltered bay ideal for a relaxed lunch. The boat ride itself is part of the day—salt on your skin, wind pushing you toward each cove.
Practical notes: the whole excursion is long (about 14 hours door-to-door) so bring water and a light daypack. Snorkel gear can be rented locally but packing your own mask improves comfort. Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and water shoes matter—some landing spots are rocky. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious heart conditions; check pickup time with your operator and carry some cash for small island purchases.
The transfer is approximately 2½ to 3 hours each way depending on traffic, making the full excursion a roughly 14-hour day.
Yes—there are snorkeling stops; basic equipment is usually available to rent on location but bringing your own mask improves comfort.
Children can join (under-4s sit on laps for free), but the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or people with serious heart conditions.
A buffet lunch is included; drinks and desserts are typically not included so bring cash if you want extras.
Rio Carioca Tour Ltda operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The morning starts before the city wakes: you leave Rio by air-conditioned van and watch the coastline blur into the green-forested hills that guard the Green Coast. After roughly 2½ hours you arrive at Angra dos Reis harbor and step onto a schooner; the sea seems to breathe, urging the boat toward the granite isles of Ilha Grande.
The morning starts before the city wakes: you leave Rio by air-conditioned van and watch the coastline blur into the green-forested hills that guard the Green Coast. After roughly 2½ hours you arrive at Angra dos Reis harbor and step onto a schooner; the sea seems to breathe, urging the boat toward the granite isles of Ilha Grande.
The archipelago is a product of Precambrian granite and later coastal processes, its reef-fringed bays carved into clear, warm water. Indigenous Tupinambá and later caiçara fishing communities shaped the island culture—small family restaurants and simple docks remain in spots where first settlers landed. Guides will often point out how the Atlantic Forest reaches right to the shoreline, a living edge between jungle and reef.
Expect three main stops: glass-blue lagoons and calm swim coves where snorkeling reveals parrotfish and branching coral, a small fishermen’s islet with family-run kitchens, and a sheltered bay ideal for a relaxed lunch. The boat ride itself is part of the day—salt on your skin, wind pushing you toward each cove.
Practical notes: the whole excursion is long (about 14 hours door-to-door) so bring water and a light daypack. Snorkel gear can be rented locally but packing your own mask improves comfort. Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and water shoes matter—some landing spots are rocky. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious heart conditions; check pickup time with your operator and carry some cash for small island purchases.