Ilha Grande: Blue Lagoon Motorboat Tour & Snorkeling Stops

Summary

Snorkel clear waters see fish relax at Cataguases & Blue Lagoon

You’ll swim through crystal-clear waters at Cataguases Island, snorkel among colorful fish in Ilha Grande’s Blue Lagoon, wander past Santana Parish’s old whitewashed walls, and share lunch with your group right on the sand. Expect laughter, salty air, and moments that linger longer than you think.

What’s the experience like?

The water around Ilha Grande really does look unreal—like someone dialed up the color just for us. Our motorboat cut across the bay early, salt spray in my hair, and then we slowed near Cataguases Island. The sand was so white it almost hurt to look at. I remember a kid from Rio jumping off the side before the anchor even hit bottom—his dad just shook his head and laughed. We drifted in, toes sinking into that cool powdery sand, and for a minute nobody said much.

Our guide, Rafael, handed out snorkels at the Blue Lagoon stop. He told me to keep an eye out for “estrela-do-mar”—starfish—which I definitely mispronounced (he grinned but didn’t correct me). I’d never seen so many bright fish up close; they darted around my legs like confetti. The water was warm enough that I lost track of time floating there, watching sunlight ripple over the rocks below. It smelled faintly of seaweed and sunscreen—summer in Brazil, basically.

We stopped at Santana Parish later on—tiny old church with peeling paint and a sleepy dog stretched out in the doorway. Rafael said it’s one of the oldest spots on Ilha Grande; he seemed proud showing us around. Lunch happened on Praia das Flechas: menus passed around right on the boat (I panicked and picked grilled fish). By the time we reached Araçá Beach, I was sunburned and a little drowsy from all that swimming. There’s something about those green hills crowding right up to the shore that makes you feel small—in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Shared motorboat tour around Ilha Grande

• Stop at Cataguases Island
• Snorkel at Blue Lagoon
• Visit Parish of Santana
• Lunch at Beach of the Arrows
• Relax at Araçá Beach

Top questions

How long is the motorboat tour around Ilha Grande?

The exact duration isn’t specified but includes multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, sightseeing, and lunch.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, snorkels are handed out by the guide during the Blue Lagoon stop.

Are there stops for lunch included?

Yes, there is a break for lunch at Praia das Flechas where meals are served after choosing from menus passed around on the boat.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, infants can ride in prams or strollers and must sit on an adult’s lap; suitable for all fitness levels.

What are some highlights of this tour?

Snorkeling in Blue Lagoon, relaxing at Cataguases Island beach, visiting Santana Parish church, and enjoying Araçá Beach.

Are pregnant travelers recommended to join?

No, this tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Does this include hotel pickup?

No specific mention of hotel pickup; parking for private vehicles is included and public transport options are nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes parking for private vehicles if you’re driving yourself; infants can ride safely with adults or in strollers; all main stops—Cataguases Island beach time, snorkeling gear at Blue Lagoon with your local guide Rafael (or whoever’s leading), a relaxed lunch ordered from menus passed onboard before reaching Praia das Flechas—and plenty of time to soak up each spot before heading back home salty and happy.