You’ll step onto a private boat in Paraty Bay with your own group and local crew, choosing your route as you go. Swim or snorkel off quiet beaches only boats can reach, snack on fresh fruit between stops, and relax however you want — grill on board or try a seaside restaurant. This day is yours to shape alongside people who know these waters by heart.
We climbed onto the Barco Atlântico just after noon, shoes off and salt in the air — you could already hear laughter from the crew before we even left the dock in Paraty. Our guide, Rafael, asked what music we wanted (I panicked and said “anything Brazilian,” which got a big grin). The boat felt spotless but lived-in, like someone actually cared for it. We drifted out into Paraty Bay, past green islands that looked almost fake against the blue water. I didn’t expect how quiet it would get once we cut the engine near an empty beach — just birds and that soft slap of water on wood.
I tried snorkeling for the first time here (mask slightly too big for my face, so water kept sneaking in — Rafael showed me how to fix it without making me feel dumb). Underwater, everything slowed down: little silver fish darting around my toes, sunlight flickering through. We brought our own drinks and snacks (next time I’d pack more), but they handed out sweet pineapple slices and cold water from a cooler. There’s something about eating fruit on a boat that makes it taste better — maybe it’s just being away from everything else.
We could’ve stopped at one of those floating restaurants for lunch but ended up grilling on board instead; someone else’s speaker played samba somewhere nearby. The breeze picked up around three, and I wrapped myself in a towel just watching clouds roll over Mamanguá in the distance. It’s funny — you come thinking you’ll take a million photos, but after a while you just want to sit there and let it all soak in. The crew joked with us about our Portuguese (I butchered “obrigado” at least twice), but honestly that made me feel more welcome than anything else.
Each boat fits up to 30 people per group plus crew.
Yes, snorkeling gear is included for guests to use during stops.
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks or drinks for the tour.
Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed.
You’ll get fresh fruit tasting, mineral water, use of snorkeling gear, and crew support.
The itinerary and soundtrack are flexible; discuss preferences with your guide when boarding.
Yes, there’s an additional R$250 charge payable onboard if you choose that route.
No meal is included; you can bring food to grill or stop at sea-access restaurants (own expense).
Your day includes exclusive use of one of Barcos em Paraty’s boats with local crew support throughout, tasting of seasonal fruit and mineral water onboard, plus use of snorkeling equipment whenever you stop at beaches or islands along your chosen route. You’re free to bring your own food or drinks to enjoy as you sail through Paraty Bay together.
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