Arraial do Cabo: Two-Deck Boat Tour with Waterslide & Beach Stops

Summary

Atlantic waterslides, Ilha do Farol swim stops and photo moments in Arraial

You’ll feel the Atlantic wind as you cruise past Arraial do Cabo’s blue coves on a two-deck boat tour with waterslide fun, fruit snacks, Wi-Fi, and friendly guides who know every story behind these beaches. Swim at Ilha do Farol if the Navy allows it that day — sometimes unpredictability is part of the magic.

What’s the experience like?

It’s funny how the first thing I remember isn’t the view but the sound — that splashy, echoing laughter when someone tried the toboágua for the first time. We’d just left Porto do Forno, sun already sharp on my neck, and our guide (I think her name was Ana?) pointed out some dolphins off to the left. Everyone rushed over so fast I nearly dropped my phone. The boat felt solid underfoot, all bright paint and chatter, with this salty breeze that kept blowing my hair into my mouth. There was a couple from São Paulo taking selfies by the heart-shaped swing — they let me try it after, but honestly I looked awkward as hell.

Ilha do Farol cove is where it got quiet for a second. The Navy guys waved us in (they watch this beach like hawks), and we slid off into water so clear you could see your toes wiggling. Someone handed me a floating macaron — those big foam things — and I just drifted for a bit. The guide told us about the island being protected 24/7; apparently you can’t always land here, depends on who’s on duty. I liked that unpredictability. And then back onboard, fruit slices appeared (pineapple mostly) and there was this faint smell of sunscreen mixed with sea air. It’s weirdly comforting.

We passed Meteorite Impact Point — not much to see except wild cliffs and stories about rocks from space (the guide got really into it). Then Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia came up, all white sand and those famous stairs zig-zagging down. Some folks went wild on photos at Grotto do Amor; Li laughed when I tried to say it in Portuguese — probably butchered it. Last stop was Praia do Forno cove for another swim or slide run if you wanted. By then everyone was a little sunburnt but happy-tired, scrolling through photos or just staring out at that turquoise water like they couldn’t believe it was real.

I still think about that moment floating off Ilha do Farol — not doing anything special really, just letting go for a minute. Sometimes you need that more than any big adventure.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour with beach stops and views

• Board at Porto do Forno
• Depart and begin tour
• Stop at Ilha do Farol for diving and waterslide
• Pass by scenic spots with explanations
• Pass by another scenic spot with explanations
• Pass by Meteorite Impact for photos
• Pass by Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia
• Stop at Praia do Forno for diving and waterslide
• Return to Porto do Forno for disembarkation

Top questions

Is pickup included in this Arraial do Cabo boat tour?

No, hotel pickup is not included; boarding starts at Porto do Forno.

Does the boat have bathrooms onboard?

Yes, there are two restrooms available on board during the tour.

Are food or drinks provided during the tour?

The tour includes water and a round of fruit; other drinks can be purchased at the bar onboard.

Can I bring my own cooler or food?

No, boarding with coolers is prohibited on this boat tour.

Is swimming allowed at every stop?

You can swim at Ilha do Farol cove and Praia do Forno cove; access depends on Navy authorization at Ilha do Farol.

Is this boat tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

Are there activities for kids during the trip?

Yes, kids can enjoy the waterslide (toboágua) and floating macarons; infants can ride in prams or strollers.

How long does each stop last?

The length of stay at Ilha do Farol depends on Navy authorization; other stops are brief for swimming or photos.

Is there Wi-Fi available during the cruise?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided onboard throughout the day trip.

Can I book professional photos during this tour?

A photo service is available onboard for an extra fee payable on the day of your trip.

What’s included

Your day includes boarding at Porto do Forno with a local crew guiding you between coves and beaches around Arraial do Cabo. There’s free Wi-Fi onboard to share your moments right away, two restrooms for comfort, fresh water plus fruit served during cruising breaks, floating macarons for relaxing swims, use of a waterslide if you’re feeling bold—and support staff helping everyone safely onto sandy shores by small transfer boat.