Blog · Morro de São Paulo
Is the Volta à Ilha boat tour in Morro de São Paulo worth it? Route, price and tides
Updated: October 2026
Short answer: The Volta à Ilha is a full day by boat around Tinharé Island, stopping at the natural pools of Garapuá and Moreré, Boipeba, the Inferno/Canavieiras river and Cairu. It's worth it if the day has a morning low tide; at high tide the pools lose much of their magic. With us it costs R$350 per person.
What is it, and why is it the best-selling tour?
Every agency in Morro sells it, because in one day it shows the best of the archipelago: natural pools, one of Boipeba's most beautiful beaches, mangroves and a colonial town. It leaves around 9:50 from Third Beach and returns to Morro around 17:00: about 8 hours and 96 km of sailing.
What are the stops?
| Stop | What you do | Ideal tide |
|---|---|---|
| Garapuá pools | Swimming and snorkelling offshore | Low |
| Moreré pools | Swimming among coral and fish | Low |
| Boipeba (Praia da Cueira / Boca da Barra) | Swim and lunch | Any |
| Inferno / Canavieiras river | Floating bars, oysters | Any |
| Cairu | A walk through the historic centre and Franciscan convent | Any |
The order changes with the day's tide: a good operator adjusts it to reach the pools at the right moment.
How much is it and what's included?
With us: R$350 per person (book). Included: boat, bilingual guide (Portuguese/Spanish), coolers for your drinks and music. Not included: lunch and drinks (paid at the stops), the guide's tip and the TUPA. Before buying from any operator, ask what's included.
Why do the tides change everything?
The Garapuá and Moreré pools are reefs that are almost exposed at low tide; at high tide the water covers everything, there's less to see and visibility drops. So before you buy:
- Check the day's tide table.
- Ask what time you'll reach the pools.
- If low tide falls in the afternoon, change the day or ask for the reverse order.
Is it worth it? An honest review
Pros: it's the best way to see Boipeba and the pools in one day, the scenery is spectacular and the logistics are sorted.
Cons: it's a long day (8 hours or more between boat and stops), not every stop always happens, and in high season the pools get crowded.
Our advice: it's worth it on a day with an early low tide and calm sea. If you get very seasick or travel with babies, pick something shorter.
What to ask the operator before paying?
- Do you adjust the order to the tide?
- How many people on the boat?
- What does the price include?
- Are there life jackets for everyone?
- What happens if the Navy doesn't allow departures? Rescheduling or refund?
What to bring?
Sunscreen, hat, swimsuit, towel, shoes that can get wet, cash for lunch and drinks, and a light T-shirt for the wind.
What are the alternatives?
| If you want… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Just the pools, more time in the water | Boat to Moreré and Bainema (R$490 pp) |
| Garapuá overland, half a day | Garapuá by 4x4 (R$130 pp) |
| To stay in Boipeba | Transport to Boipeba (R$370 pp) |
| Everything at your pace, private | Private boat (R$5,000 per group) |
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Volta à Ilha? About 8 hours: it leaves around 9:50 from Third Beach and returns around 17:00.
How much is it? R$350 per person with us; bilingual guide included, lunch not included.
Is the TUPA included? No.
Do all the stops happen? It depends on the tide and the sea; a good operator adjusts the order.
Is it suitable for kids? Yes for kids who can handle a long day on a boat; not recommended with babies.
What if it rains or it's windy? If the Navy doesn't allow it, the trip is rescheduled.
Book with the right tide
We pick the day by the tide table so you reach the pools at their best. Check Volta à Ilha availability.
Keep reading: Best time and tides · Morro's beaches · Things to do in Morro
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