Rio Speedboat Sunset Tour: Sugarloaf, Urca & Red Beach Beer

Summary

Sunset Boat Ride in Rio: Guanabara Bay & Hidden Beaches

If you want to see Rio from a different angle—far from crowded beaches—this speedboat tour is it. You’ll catch sunset views of Sugarloaf Mountain, swim at Red Beach, sip cold beer with locals and travelers alike, and leave with photos (and memories) most tourists miss.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping onto the speedboat was the salty breeze—just enough to cool you off after a hot Rio afternoon. Our guide, Felipe, handed out ice-cold beers as we pulled away from the dock near Urca. The city’s noise faded fast, replaced by the slap of water against the hull and distant samba music drifting from a bar on shore. We cruised past old fishing boats and kids jumping off the pier, heading straight into Guanabara Bay where the views open up wide. From here, you get that postcard shot: Sugarloaf Mountain on one side, Christ the Redeemer peeking over the skyline behind you.

We slowed down near Praia Vermelha—Red Beach. The sand really does have this reddish tint, not super fine but soft underfoot if you hop in for a swim (which I did; water was warm even as the sun started dipping). Locals paddled by in bright canoes, waving as they passed. It’s quieter here than Copacabana or Ipanema—no vendors shouting, just the sound of paddles and seabirds overhead. Felipe pointed out a little kiosk selling grilled cheese on sticks (queijo coalho), but honestly, I was too busy floating with a cold drink to bother getting out.

As we circled back toward Urca, Sugarloaf looked almost golden in the late light. You can spot the cable cars crawling up its side if you look close—Felipe told us they’ve been running since 1912! He shared stories about old movies filmed here and how locals sometimes hike up to catch sunrise before work. We lingered just offshore while everyone snapped photos—the kind you’ll actually want to show people back home. On our way back, someone played Tom Jobim on their phone and it just fit perfectly with that last bit of sun lighting up the bay.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rio de Janeiro Speedboat Tour

• View Sugar Loaf and Corcovado
• Part of Nautico Tour
• Visit Sugarloaf Mountain (Pao de Açúcar)
• Explore Red Beach (Praia Vermelha)
• Quick stop and diving opportunity

Top questions

Is swimming at Red Beach included?

Yes! There’s a stop at Praia Vermelha where you can swim or just float with provided inflatables.

Are drinks included in the price?

Absolutely—cold beer, water, and soda are all included during your time on board.

What should I bring for this tour?

I’d suggest sunscreen, sunglasses, maybe a towel if you plan to swim—and your phone or camera for photos!

Is this tour suitable for kids or older adults?

The ride is pretty smooth and suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Just note it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.

What’s included

You’ll get cold beer (or water/soda if you prefer), inflatable floats for swimming stops, and an easygoing local guide who knows all the best photo spots around Guanabara Bay.