Blog · Morro de São Paulo
Boat tours in Morro de São Paulo: the Volta à Ilha and other trips
Updated: October 27, 2026
Short answer: The most complete boat tour from Morro is the Volta à Ilha: about 7 to 8 hours around Tinharé Island, stopping at the natural pools of Garapuá and Moreré, Boipeba, Canavieiras and Cairu, from R$ 350 per person. For something shorter or quieter there's Gamboa, the Moreré pools and Bainema beach, a transparent boat or a private speedboat. Whichever you pick, the tide decides the best day.
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Here we compare the boat trips. For a detailed look at the Volta à Ilha, see our dedicated article.
The Volta à Ilha, the classic
It leaves from Third Beach around 9:30–9:50 and returns between 5 and 6 pm. Usual stops:
| Stop | What you do |
|---|---|
| Garapuá natural pools | Swimming and snorkeling offshore, at low tide |
| Moreré natural pools (Boipeba) | Swimming among coral and fish, at low tide |
| Boipeba (Cueira or Boca da Barra) | Swim and lunch |
| Canavieiras | Waterside break |
| Cairu | Historic center and the Santo Antônio convent |
The order and stops can change with the tide and sea conditions. See the Volta à Ilha.
Other boat trips
| Trip | Best if… | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Boat to Moreré & Bainema | You want more time in the water in Boipeba without the full loop | From R$ 490 per person |
| Gamboa by boat | You want a relaxed morning or afternoon in the neighboring village | From R$ 100 per person |
| Transparent boat | You want to see coral and fish without necessarily getting in | From R$ 280 |
| Private speedboat | You're a group and want to choose the route and pace | From R$ 5,000 per group |
| Private boat with barbecue | You want a private day at sea with the grill going on board | From R$ 8,000 per group |
| Whale watching | You're visiting between July and October | On request |
Why the tide changes everything
The natural pools at Garapuá and Moreré are reefs that only really show at low tide. The ideal day has a morning low tide, preferably around the new or full moon, when the sea drops the most. There are two low tides a day, and they shift by about 50 minutes from one day to the next. Before booking, check the tide table and ask what time you'll reach the pools. More in best time and tides.
Seasickness, kids, weather
- The Volta à Ilha is a long day on a boat. If you get seasick easily or travel with a baby, pick a shorter trip.
- When the sea is rough, the Port Authority can ban departures, and trips are rescheduled.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, water shoes, a light top against the wind and cash for lunch and drinks.
FAQ
What's the best boat tour in Morro de São Paulo? For a first visit, the Volta à Ilha: it shows the best of the archipelago in a single day.
How long is the Volta à Ilha? About 7 to 8 hours, leaving Third Beach in the morning and returning late afternoon.
When should I go to see the natural pools? On a day with a morning low tide, ideally around the new or full moon.
Are there shorter trips? Yes: Gamboa by boat, the transparent boat, or a private speedboat where you set the route.
How much is a private speedboat? From R$ 5,000 per group, or from R$ 8,000 with barbecue on board.
Choose your trip
Keep reading: The Volta à Ilha in detail · Best time and tides · Things to do in Morro · Boipeba from Morro · All the answers: Morro de São Paulo FAQ
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Questions, or want us to plan the whole trip? We reply on WhatsApp, in English or French.
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