Paraty Bay: Schooner Tour with Swim Stops & Lunch

Summary

Schooner sailing in Paraty Bay with island swims and local food

You’ll sail across Paraty Bay on a classic schooner with stops for swimming and snorkeling at four islands or beaches. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian lunch on board, taste fresh tropical fruits, sip coffee as you return, and share laughs with locals—all with gear included for your day out on the water.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember is the smell—salt and sunscreen mixing as we stepped onto the schooner in Paraty. The wood was warm under my feet, and our guide, João, grinned like he’d already seen us try to pronounce “cachaça” later (he had a point). We set off into Paraty Bay just as the sun started climbing, light bouncing off the water so bright I kept squinting. There were maybe twenty of us, but it never felt crowded—just people quietly excited for what was next.

The first stop was an island with water so clear you could see every flick of a fish’s tail. I hesitated before jumping in—cold at first, then perfect. Someone handed me a snorkel mask (included in the tour), and suddenly I was floating above rocks and little flashes of color. João pointed out a starfish; I tried to say its name in Portuguese and got it wrong, which made everyone laugh. After that we drifted to another beach where some folks stayed on board for caipirinhas (extra cost) while others swam again or just lay back in the sun.

Lunch came out around midday—rice, grilled fish, those fried plantains that stick to your fingers. It tasted better than it looked, honestly; maybe because we’d been swimming or maybe because everything tastes different when you’re barefoot on a boat. I watched one of the crew slice tropical fruit for later while music played quietly from someone’s phone. The wind picked up a bit after lunch and there was this moment when everyone went quiet—just water slapping against the hull and gulls overhead.

We stopped four times total during this day trip through Paraty Bay, each place different but all somehow peaceful. On the way back they poured tiny coffees and passed around more fruit. My skin felt salty and my hair was everywhere from the wind—I loved it. Can’t say I expected to remember how that wooden deck felt under my feet or how João winked when he said “Paraty cachaça” again at the end, but here I am thinking about it anyway.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Schooner tour with island stops

• Board schooner in Paraty Bay
• Explore four islands and beaches
• Swim and snorkel in clear waters
• Relax on board and enjoy scenery
• Eat Brazilian snacks and lunch
• Try cachaça cocktails (extra cost)

Top questions

How long is the Paraty Bay schooner tour?

The tour lasts about 5 hours from departure to return.

Is lunch included on the Paraty Bay boat trip?

Yes, a traditional Brazilian lunch is included onboard during the tour.

Are drinks like cocktails available?

Cocktails are available for purchase separately; caipirinhas made with local Paraty cachaça are offered.

Can children join this schooner tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are allowed and infants sit on an adult’s lap.

How many stops does this day trip make?

The schooner makes four stops at different islands or beaches in Paraty Bay.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes, snorkel masks are included as part of your tour package.

What happens if weather changes suddenly?

The itinerary may change due to weather or unforeseen factors to ensure safety.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch?

The specific menu isn’t detailed but fresh options are served; check ahead for dietary needs.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup at Paraty’s pier, use of snorkel masks and floaters for swimming stops at four islands or beaches around Paraty Bay, a traditional Brazilian lunch served onboard along with tropical fruits and coffee before heading back in the afternoon.