Schooner Cruise with Caipirinha drinks by the Blue Lagoon

A schooner cruise around Ilha Grande is a great way to see more coast in one half day, and this one pairs the sailing with included caipirinhas plus several beach breaks. The route is built around swimming spots like Lagoa Azul, then slows down just enough at each stop to actually enjoy the water and the views.

I especially like the 40-50 minutes ashore at four different beaches, because it gives you time to cool off, take a dip, and still get back to the boat without rushing all afternoon. I also like that caipirinha, water, and tropical fruits are part of the deal, and safety gear plus noodle buoys are included.

One consideration: the cruise is timed and stop-and-go, and you must be back on the schooner when the horn signals the end of each swim period. If you want a long, quiet beach day with zero schedule pressure, this may feel a bit active.

Key points before you go

• Lagoa Azul first, with clear water and fish-friendly swimming time
• Four beach stops with about 40-50 minutes each to explore and swim
• Included caipirinhas made with cachaça, plus water and tropical fruits
• Safety equipment and noodle buoys included for extra peace of mind
• Group stays under 60 people, so it does not turn into a mass event
• Departure timing can shift with the tide, even though start time is listed as 11:30 am

Schooner Life Out of Vila do Abraão, With Drinks Built In

This cruise starts in Vila do Abraão, at R. Getúlio Vargas, 440 near the port. You meet before the 11:30 am departure, then you’re off across Ilha Grande’s bays and beaches, with sailing time between stops.

What makes it feel fun rather than purely scenic is that the day is structured like a relaxed island outing, not a rigid bus tour. You get time on the water, snacks and drinks are included, and the onboard vibe can get animated, including performances like a Jack Sparrow-style character, a DJ, and live saxophone music (when available on that day).

The Real Value of $56 on This Half-Day Sea Day

At $56 per person, you’re paying for a full half day on a schooner with multiple beach stops, guided direction, and real extras included. In practice, that matters because boat time and guide time cost money in Ilha Grande, and most “cheap” boat options often charge separately for snacks or limit what you can do once you reach the beach.

Here’s what you’re getting in the core package:

• Schooner ride plus a professional guide (English or Portuguese-speaking)
• Safety equipment and noodle buoys
• Caipirinha drinks, water, and tropical fruits
• Beach admissions are listed as free for the stop points

If you’d otherwise spend on boat transport, then pay for drinks and snacks once you arrive, the included package helps this feel like decent value. Still, it’s worth knowing the tour is not set up as a full meal guarantee in the formal inclusions list, even though a lunch option may be available on board.

Timing and Tide Notes, So You Don’t Get Burned by the Schedule

The cruise is listed at about 5 hours, and it typically returns to the meeting point around 4:30 pm. The key detail is that the departure time can vary according to the tide, even though you’ll meet near 11:30 am.

That tide variability is not just trivia. It affects how the whole rhythm of the day lands, including when each swim stop starts and ends. Your best move is to arrive a little early at R. Getúlio Vargas, 440, so you’re not scrambling when they’re ready to load.

Also pay attention to the on-water rule that keeps everything running: each stop gives you 40 to 50 minutes, and the schooner horn marks the end. When you hear it, you return to the boat. If you’re a fast sprinter back into the water, you’ll feel totally fine. If you tend to linger, plan to reset your pace.

How the 5-Hour Flow Works, Stop to Stop

This is a four-stop cruise with sailing time in between. The pattern is simple: you sail, you get a beach break, you enjoy the water, then you regroup and head to the next spot.

That short time window is the whole concept. Lagoa Azul is famous, Praia de Fora is charming, Saco do Céu is calmer and more natural, and Praia do Amor gives you another chance to enjoy the coastline. You’re not trying to “see everything.” You’re trying to get multiple swims and viewpoints in one day.

Between stops, you’ll be on the schooner, so you can also use that time to relax, dry off, and sip your drink. If you’re someone who hates packing and unpacking, this style is pretty efficient.

Stop 1: Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon), Where Clear Water Makes It a Standout

Your first swim stop is Lagoa Azul, one of Ilha Grande’s most famous coastal scenes. The water here is described as clear and fish-friendly, and this is the stop where snorkeling becomes a major reason people book.

You’ll have about 45 minutes at this stop. That means you can take a proper dip and still make it back before the horn. If you’re planning to swim seriously, this is your best bet, because other stops may feel more like a swim-and-stroll beach break.

One small practical note: the stop is listed with admission as free, so you’re not paying extra to enjoy the water. What you do need to be ready for is the classic beach time reality, limited hours on shore. Go in thinking, swim first, then explore if there’s time.

Stop 2: Praia de Fora, Fishing-Village Views With a Slower Feel

After Lagoa Azul, you head to Praia de Fora. This beach is framed by native vegetation, and it sits near a fishing village vibe. The result is that it feels more local than a pure postcard strip.

You get another 45 minutes here, which is enough time to soak up the character of the area and maybe stretch your legs beyond just floating in the water. If you’re hoping to see a bit of real coastline life instead of only busy viewpoints, this stop helps balance the day.

The possible drawback is that Praia de Fora is not positioned as the main swimming headline like Lagoa Azul. If you’re laser-focused on water time, you may feel like this stop is more about atmosphere than an all-out swim session. The good news is the overall day still keeps swimming as a core activity.

Stop 3: Saco do Céu, Calm Water and an Ecology Focus

Next up is Saco do Céu, described as an ecological sanctuary with lots of biodiversity. The sea is noted as being as calm as a lake, which matters because calm water is easier on most people, especially if you’re not comfortable in rougher surf.

You’re there for about 45 minutes, and this is another strong stop for relaxing. The description also highlights that on nights with starry skies, you might see stars reflected on the water, which is a cool mental image, even if your day trip is daylight heavy.

There’s also a vibe shift here: you’ll be tasting the tour’s included caipirinha in a calmer setting. If your goal is to slow down a notch after Lagoa Azul, this stop plays that role well.

Stop 4: Praia do Amor, Your Fourth Beach Break for More Swimming Time

The cruise route includes Praia do Amor as a fourth stop, giving you that extra beach chance before heading back. While details on what makes this stop unique are not spelled out in the same depth as Lagoa Azul and Saco do Céu, you can still count on the cruise rhythm: you’ll get another 40 to 50 minutes to enjoy water and scenery.

Think of Praia do Amor as your “second wind” stop. If your first swim at Lagoa Azul leaves you wanting one more time in the water, this is where it can happen. If you prefer to rest and just enjoy the coast, the fourth stop is still built for that exact purpose.

Onboard Energy: DJ, Sax, and That Jack Sparrow-Style Moment

One of the most praised parts of the experience is the onboard fun factor. On at least some departures, the atmosphere includes a performer dressed as Jack Sparrow, a DJ, and a saxophone player who is described as quite good.

So yes, this is a boat trip with drinks and scenery, but it can also feel like a floating party. That does not mean it’s chaotic. With a max group size of 60 travelers, it still has room to feel social without feeling like a nightclub brawl.

If you want quiet meditation waves and no music, I’d consider this an “upbeat” choice. If you want your half day on the water to feel memorable and not just pretty, you’ll likely like the energy.

What’s Included: Caipirinha, Water, Tropical Fruit, and Safety Gear

The included food and drink are part of what makes this cruise feel complete. You’ll get caipirinha (Brazil’s national cocktail made with cachaça), plus water and tropical fruits.

There’s also safety equipment and noodle buoys included. In my book, that’s not just a checkbox. When you’re out on open water with limited control over how the sea feels, it helps to know the cruise provides buoy support for casual swimmers.

One more practical detail: the minimum drinking age is 18, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with teens or younger kids. Even if you personally skip alcohol, you may still enjoy the fruit and the onboard social vibe.

Beach Time Tips That Make a Short Stop Work

You only get about 40 to 50 minutes at each beach, so the order matters. I’d treat each stop like this:

• Go in for swimming early, before you start chatting or taking photos.
• Keep an eye on the time, because you’ll hear the horn and need to be back.
• Use your boat time between stops to cool down, dry off, and reset your sunscreen.

If you’re snorkeling at Lagoa Azul, it’s smart to be ready quickly so you don’t lose your best water window. If you’re just floating and relaxing, aim to get in, enjoy the water, then spend the remainder of the stop at a calm pace.

Also, dress for sun and salt. Even if the day is partly breezy, you can still get sunburn fast when you’re outside on water.

Who This Cruise Fits Best (And Who Might Want Something Else)

This schooner cruise is a strong fit if you want:

• multiple beach stops without ferry-hopping on your own
• included drinks and fruit as part of the day
• a social, fun atmosphere, not a silent sightseeing mission
• a manageable group size (up to 60 travelers)

It might be less ideal if you want:

• long standalone beach time at one location
• a quiet, low-energy outing
• a trip that feels totally free-form, since the horn rule controls the schedule

The good middle ground is that you still get real water time at Lagoa Azul and calm-relax time at Saco do Céu, with the other beaches filling in the variety.

Bottom Line: Should You Book This Schooner Cruise?

Book it if you want a half-day that mixes scenery, swimming, and included caipirinhas without extra planning. The route makes sense, and the short beach windows keep the day moving while still giving you time to enjoy each stop.

Skip it or look for a calmer alternative if you hate time limits, don’t like onboard music or performances, or you want a beach day with hours at a single location. For most people who like active sightseeing and a fun social boat ride, this one is a solid pick in Ilha Grande.

FAQ

How long is the schooner cruise?

It lasts about 5 hours (approx.).

Where do I meet for the tour?

You meet at R. Getúlio Vargas, 440 – Vila do Abraão, Angra dos Reis – RJ, Brazil.

What time does the tour depart?

The start time is 11:30 am, and the departure time can vary according to the tide.

How long do the beach stops last?

Each stop lasts about 40 to 50 minutes.

Which beaches are included?

The cruise includes Lagoa Azul, Praia de Fora, Saco do Céu, and Praia do Amor.

Are caipirinhas included, and is there an age limit?

Yes. Caipirinha drinks are included, and the minimum drinking age is 18.

Is snorkeling available at Lagoa Azul?

Lagoa Azul is described as a snorkeling destination with clear water and fish, and you can take a dip during the stop. Snorkel gear is not mentioned as included.

What is included in the price?

Included are the schooner ride, safety equipment, noodle buoys, caipirinhas, water, tropical fruits, and a professional guide (English or Portuguese-speaking).

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.