Rio de Janeiro in 1 Days - Private 5-hour catamaran cruise around Guanabara Bay
In Collaboration with Velas do Rio. Updated on February 20, 2026.
Explore Guanabara Bay with exclusivity and comfort aboard a sailing catamaran. New, spacious catamaran with nets, bean bags, freshwater and saltwater showers, restroom on board and an experienced crew. When conditions allow, sails are set for a true sailing experience. Includes snacks, open bar (beer, caipirinha, rosé and white wine), bottled water and a BBQ of mature picanha, alcatra, pork picanh
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Velas do Rio, inspired by the tour Private Tour: 5 hrs in Catamaran Sailboat with BBQ and Open Bar- Velas do Rio. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Private 5-hour catamaran cruise around Guanabara Bay
- Anchorage and swim at Praia Vermelha (option)
- On-board BBQ and open bar (snacks, beer, caipirinha, wine, soft drinks)
- Panoramic views of Sugarloaf (Pão de Açúcar), Christ the Redeemer and Pedra da Gávea
- Pass by Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Niterói (MAC)
More than 31 itineraries in Rio de Janeiro.
Itinerary
Day 1
Private 5-hour catamaran departure from Marina da Glória. Route follows the supplier's agenda: sail past Flamengo and Botafogo, stop for views around Urca and Pão de Açúcar, optional anchorage at Praia Vermelha for swim/BBQ, continue along Copacabana, optional visit toward Praia do Forte (Niterói) and Museu de Arte Contemporânea (MAC), then return to Marina da Glória.
Meet & Board — Marina da Glória
Meet at Marina da Glória for boarding, safety briefing, and stowing belongings. Crew will explain safety procedures, restroom and shower locations, and the planned route for the 5-hour cruise.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10–15 minutes before the start time to allow boarding and brief paperwork.
- Bring a small waterproof bag for phone, wallet and sunscreen — valuables are best left on shore.
- Wear non-marking shoes or go barefoot on deck; slippery surfaces can be present after showers.
Sail past Flamengo, Botafogo and Urca (photo stops)
Cruise along the northern edge of Guanabara Bay, passing Flamengo and Botafogo beaches and approaching Urca. Enjoy panoramic views of Corcovado (Christ the Redeemer) and Pedra da Gávea while the crew points out landmarks and manages sail when conditions allow.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep a camera ready—morning light is good for photos of Corcovado and the bay.
- Hold on to railings when moving on deck; the boat will shift while underway.
- Ask the crew for suggested photo angles; they know where to position the boat for the best shots.
Observation at Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf)
The boat will remain near the base of Sugarloaf Mountain so guests can observe and photograph the iconic rock and its cable car. Crew will use this stop for commentary about the landmark and local history.
Tips from local experts:
- If you plan to use zoom on your camera, set it up before approach to capture clear shots.
- Be mindful of other boats; remain seated when crew indicates to keep balance.
- Morning cruises can avoid harsh midday sun—use sunglasses and sunscreen.
Anchor at Praia Vermelha — swim and BBQ option (OPÇÃO 1)
Enter the bay between the forts of São João and Laje and anchor at Praia Vermelha. This stop is ideal for a swim, snorkeling from the boat or a beachside barbecue prepared on board. Guests may relax on nets and bean bags or use freshwater showers after swimming.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring swimwear and a quick-dry towel; freshwater showers are available on board after swimming.
- Use the provided dive masks for snorkeling and avoid stepping on rock or coral when entering the water.
- If you have dietary restrictions, inform the crew before boarding so they can advise on the BBQ menu.
Sail along Leme and Copacabana (viewing)
Continue sailing south along the coastline to view Leme and the famous Copacabana beach from the water. This is a relaxed transit with time to enjoy the shoreline panorama and open bar service.
Tips from local experts:
- If you prefer shade, sit near the cabin or under any available canopy during this transit.
- Keep a reusable cup or glass near you — the crew will serve drinks during the transit.
- Watch for local boats and swimmers near the shore; follow crew instructions when on deck.
Optional approach toward Praia do Forte, Niterói (OPÇÃO 2)
If the route and sea conditions permit, the boat will head toward Praia do Forte in Niterói for views of the calmer waters and surrounding nature. This is an alternative option to staying longer near Rio’s coastline.
Tips from local experts:
- This stop is weather-dependent; the crew will confirm the option during the cruise.
- Seas can be choppier when crossing the bay—those prone to motion sickness should take precautions beforehand.
- Keep a lightweight jacket handy; winds can be stronger in open-water crossings.
Pass by Museu de Arte Contemporânea (MAC) and Ilha de Boa Viagem
Continue further into Guanabara Bay to approach the Museu de Arte Contemporânea (MAC) in Niterói and the Boa Viagem viewpoint. The boat will pause near the museum for views and photos from the water.
Tips from local experts:
- The MAC is best photographed from the water—stay seated for the clearest views.
- Follow crew guidance if the boat anchors near rocky shallows; do not attempt to swim near museum rocks.
- If you plan to visit MAC ashore after the cruise, coordinate with the crew in advance for timing and disembark plan.
Return crossing past Santos Dumont and disembark at Marina da Glória
Head back across the bay passing the Santos Dumont Airport waterfront, then arrive at Marina da Glória for disembarkation. Crew will assist with luggage and final checks before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Collect all personal items before disembarking; check net and deck areas where items can be left.
- Plan short onward transfers from the marina — taxis and ride apps operate nearby but may take a few minutes to arrive.
- If you left clothing to dry on deck, retrieve them while the boat is approaching the marina.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 8 |
| Activities Types | Experience, Outdoor, Attraction, Break, Culture, Transfer |
Why this experience
Five hours on a private catamaran in Guanabara Bay is five hours where Sugarloaf and Cristo sit on the horizon, the Atlantic breeze cools your skin, and the city dissolves into pure scenery. You'll sail from Urca, guided by a crew that knows every anchorage in the bay. Midway through, you'll drop anchor in calm water, jump in for a swim, and reset on deck with a BBQ spread and an open bar—whatever you want, whenever you want it. The catamaran is yours; there's no schedule but the rhythm of wind and water.
The intimacy of a private catamaran matters. You're not competing for deck space or making small talk with strangers. You can lounge, read, talk, or be silent. The crew handles the sailing; your only job is to receive the experience. The food cooked on board has a taste that comes only from salt air and Atlantic views. The open bar means your drink of choice appears without asking. By the time you sail back to Urca as the day winds down, you'll have existed in a pocket of peace that only water provides—and you'll understand why Rio's sailors keep coming back.
Before you go
- Best time: Late spring through early autumn (September to April) offers the warmest water for swimming and most consistent sailing conditions. Winter has occasional rougher swells but is less crowded.
- Budget: Check the booking widget for current tour pricing. Private catamaran experiences with food and open bar typically fall in the mid-range to premium range.
- Difficulty: Easy — sailing experience not required; sea conditions are typically calm in Guanabara Bay. Swimming is optional.
- What to bring: Swimsuit and towel, sunscreen, light casual clothes, hat or cap, water shoes or sandals, camera, any personal medications
- Getting there: Meet at Marina da Glória or Urca marina point; operator will confirm exact launch location after booking. Accessible by taxi, Uber, or local transport from central Rio
- Accessibility: Confirm with operator about boat access and mobility on deck. Catamaran boarding involves steps; consult in advance if mobility is a concern.
Frequently asked questions
What if I'm not a strong swimmer? Swimming is optional. Many guests lounge on deck during the swimming stop. Your crew will brief you on water conditions and safety; you can participate or relax on board.
Will the boat be crowded? No—this is a private charter for your group only. You'll have the catamaran, crew, and bay experience entirely to yourselves.
What kind of food is served at the BBQ? Typical options include grilled meats, fresh fish, salads, and bread. Let your operator know about dietary restrictions in advance, and they'll accommodate.
What's included in this itinerary? This itinerary on TheNextGuide is free to read and follow at your own pace. Your booking includes private catamaran charter for five hours, crew and sailing, one swimming stop, BBQ meal prepared on board, open bar with all beverages, and departure/return transportation between Urca and the bay.
Complete your trip in Rio de Janeiro
Pair your sailing experience with other water and coastal moments:
- Private Sunset Sailing Aboard Makani Maikai: Romantic Rio Experience — Intimate evening sailing for couples seeking romance
- Coastal Bike Ride: Copacabana to Leblon — Daytime activity along the same waterfront you'll see from the boat
- Rio in a Day: Lagoon Run, Ipanema Beach, Live Samba in Lapa, and Dinner in Santa Teresa — Blend daytime sailing with evening cultural experiences
Browse all Rio de Janeiro itineraries at TheNextGuide.
*Last updated: April 2026*
