Ilha Grande lagoons speedboat tour with snorkeling & guide

Summary

Snorkeling lagoons and local flavors on Ilha Grande’s north coast

You’ll swim through crystal-clear waters at Blue Lagoon and Green Lagoon on Ilha Grande’s northern coast, spot colorful sargentinhos while snorkeling with gear provided, taste local Caiçara dishes at Saco do Céu (lunch not included), and hear stories from your guide as you zip between stops by speedboat. Expect laughter, salt on your skin, and memories that linger longer than expected.

What’s the experience like?

“That’s a sargentinhos,” our guide grinned, pointing at the little striped fish darting around my toes. I’d just slipped off the side of the speedboat into the Blue Lagoon, and honestly, I was still catching my breath from how clear the water was — you could see every ripple on the sand below. The sun was already hot even though it wasn’t much past ten, and someone behind me laughed when I tried to adjust my mask (I think I got half my hair stuck in it). There were maybe ten of us, all a bit shy at first, but that faded after the first swim.

The ride from Vila do Abraão port was quick — maybe twenty minutes? — but it felt longer because of all the salty wind and bouncing over little waves. Our guide, Lucas, kept up a steady stream of stories about Ilha Grande’s north coast. He pointed out tiny beaches tucked between green hills and told us how the tides decide where we stop first. At Lagoa Verde, he handed out snorkels and masks (included in the tour), and I swear I spent half an hour just floating there watching schools of fish flicker past. It smelled faintly like seaweed and sunscreen — not unpleasant, just real.

Lunch was at Saco do Céu, which means “Sky Bay” or something close to that. We had about an hour to wander or eat; most people went for the local Caiçara food. I tried this fish-with-banana dish that Lucas recommended — honestly, sounds weird but tasted sweet and savory at once. Li laughed when I tried to say “obrigado” with a mouth full of rice (probably butchered it). The place was busy with locals too, not just tourists, which made it feel less like a packaged day trip machu picchu cusco kind of thing and more like you’re actually part of somewhere for a bit.

By late afternoon we were all sun-tired and salty-skinned on the boat back to Abraão. Someone had brought cookies to share; everyone was quieter now except for one kid who kept asking if we could go back to Lagoa Azul again tomorrow. Honestly? I still think about that view underwater — all blue-green light and those curious little fish everywhere. If you want a day that feels both easygoing and kind of magical in its own messy way… well, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore northern coast of Ilha Grande

• Depart from Vila do Abraão port
• Visit Blue Lagoon (Lagoa Azul)
• Snorkel in clear waters
• Visit Green Lagoon (Lagoa Verde)
• Explore Enseada das Estrelas (Cove of Stars)
• Stop at Saco do Céu for lunch
• Relax and enjoy local scenery
• Return to Vila do Abraão port

Top questions

How long is the Ilha Grande speedboat tour?

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours total.

Does the tour include snorkeling equipment?

Yes, diving masks and snorkels are provided for guests.

Where does the tour depart from?

The departure point is Vila do Abraão port on Ilha Grande.

Is lunch included in this day trip?

No, lunch is not included but you have time to buy food at Saco do Céu.

Are guides included on this tour?

Yes, a professional local guide accompanies your group throughout the day.

What are some stops on this northern coast tour?

The main stops are Blue Lagoon (Lagoa Azul), Green Lagoon (Lagoa Verde), and Saco do Céu.

Is this suitable for families or children?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels including families with children.

What’s included

Your day includes a speedboat ride along Ilha Grande’s northern coast with all necessary snorkeling equipment provided (mask and snorkel), bottled water onboard to keep you refreshed between swims, plus guidance from a knowledgeable local guide who shares stories along each stop before returning to Vila do Abraão port in the afternoon.