Set sail across Guanabara Bay towards the protected Cagarras Archipelago on a four-hour shared sailing experience from Rio de Janeiro. This is a sociable, sea-focused outing combining coastal navigation, island views and time at anchor in one of the city’s most important marine reserves.
Duration: 4 hours
Group Size: Up to 20 guests
Tour Type: Shared sailing experience
Departure Point: Marina da Glória, Rio de Janeiro
Weather Dependency: Subject to sea and weather conditions
Your experience begins at Marina da Glória, where you’ll board a fully equipped ocean-going sailboat and meet your skipper and fellow guests. After a short safety briefing, the yacht heads out into Guanabara Bay, passing Rio’s iconic coastline before turning towards the open Atlantic. Depending on wind conditions, sails are hoisted for a true sailing experience rather than simply motoring.
As you cross the waters off Copacabana and Ipanema, the Cagarras Archipelago comes into view. This group of islands has been protected as a Biological Reserve since 2010, meaning access is carefully managed and wildlife is abundant. You’ll sail around the rocky formations and, where conditions allow, anchor in a sheltered area for swimming in clear Atlantic water. Expect time to relax on deck, enjoy onboard refreshments and take in uninterrupted views of Rio from offshore.
Throughout the trip, the crew manage navigation and safety while keeping the atmosphere informal and welcoming. Music can be played onboard, and shared groups often create an easy, social setting. The return sail offers another perspective of Rio’s coastline before heading back into the marina after approximately four hours at sea.
Departure is from Marina da Glória, centrally located between the city centre and the South Zone beaches. The marina sits inside Guanabara Bay, offering sheltered departure before heading into more open water. It is easily accessible by taxi or rideshare from Copacabana, Ipanema, Flamengo and Lapa.
The destination lies directly offshore from Copacabana and Ipanema. The Cagarras Archipelago consists of several granite islands rising sharply from the Atlantic, forming a designated Biological Reserve. The area is known for seabirds, clear water and exposed rock formations, providing a distinct contrast to the busy city shoreline.
This experience is rated moderate due to sea exposure and potential swell once outside Guanabara Bay. Participants should be comfortable on a moving boat and prepared for wind and sun exposure. Good weather and safe sea conditions are required for departure.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum drinking age onboard is 18. The activity is not wheelchair accessible. A minimum number of participants is required for shared departures; if this is not met, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Operating sailing tours in Rio since 2012, this team combines professional seamanship with a personal, family-led approach. What began as a single sailboat and a desire to stay connected to the sea has grown into a well-established nautical operation welcoming thousands of guests from Brazil and abroad.
Continuous investment in the fleet, crew training and onboard comfort ensures a reliable and well-managed experience. The addition of a larger, more spacious yacht in recent years reflects a long-term commitment to safety, service standards and authentic sailing rather than mass tourism.
No prior sailing experience is required. This is a fully crewed experience where the skipper and team handle all navigation, sail handling and safety procedures. You can simply relax and enjoy the journey.
If you are curious about sailing, you’re welcome to observe and ask questions. Depending on conditions, the crew may explain how the sails are trimmed and how the yacht is managed offshore, but participation is optional.
Swimming is planned when sea and weather conditions allow safe anchoring near the islands. The skipper makes the final decision based on swell, wind direction and safety considerations on the day.
When conditions are suitable, there is time to enter the water directly from the boat. The Atlantic can be refreshing, so being comfortable in open-water environments is recommended.
A light jacket is advisable, as wind offshore can feel cooler than on land. Sun protection is essential, including a hat and high-factor sun lotion, as reflection from the water increases exposure.
Flat, non-slip footwear is recommended for moving safely on deck. You may also wish to bring swimwear, a towel and a waterproof pouch for personal items.
Once outside Guanabara Bay, the yacht is exposed to Atlantic conditions. Sea state varies depending on wind strength and swell. The experience is rated moderate due to this potential movement.
If you are prone to seasickness, it is sensible to take preventative medication in advance and eat lightly beforehand. The crew are experienced in managing comfort and adjusting speed where possible.
Yes. The islands have been designated a Biological Reserve since 2010. This means landing on the islands is restricted and the area is managed to protect wildlife and marine ecosystems.
The tour respects all environmental regulations. Anchoring and swimming are conducted responsibly to avoid impact on the reserve.
This shared departure requires a minimum number of guests to operate. If the minimum is not reached, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
You will be notified in advance if rescheduling is necessary, allowing you to adjust your plans accordingly.
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Parents or guardians remain responsible for supervision throughout the sailing experience.
Due to open water conditions and moving decks, children should be comfortable in marine environments. Lifejackets are available onboard.
Food and beverages are included. The minimum drinking age onboard is 18 years old in accordance with local regulations.
Responsible consumption is expected, especially given the marine setting and movement of the vessel.
This experience is not wheelchair accessible. Access involves boarding from a marina dock and moving around a sailing yacht with steps and narrow companionways.
If you have mobility concerns, it is best to contact in advance to discuss suitability before booking.
Bookings can be made up to one hour before departure, subject to availability. However, weekend and high-season departures often fill quickly.
To secure your preferred date, booking at least a few days in advance is recommended, particularly during peak travel periods in Rio de Janeiro.
About the centre
Av. Infante Dom Henrique, S/N
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
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Operated by Sail in Rio, a partner of adventuro.
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