Armacao Dos Buzios Schooner Ride: Your Review and Guide

So, you’re thinking of taking a schooner trip around Armacao Dos Buzios? You are certainly not alone! Very popular for very good reason, this boat trip tends to be the go-to activity for many who visit this Brazilian paradise. Is that claim accurate, you might ask? Well, this guide will give you the scoop on everything from what to expect, what to bring, and is it really that much fun? Let’s take a look and get started.

What to Expect on Your Buzios Schooner Adventure

Typically, these tours clock in around 2-3 hours, so it’s almost a delightful chunk of your day spent drifting on dazzlingly blue waters. You’ll hop aboard a traditional schooner and set sail, with the wind (very slightly!) in your hair. Expect stunning scenery, because there’s seriously something postcard-worthy around pretty much every corner. The tour usually stops at a couple of spots, and you’ll generally have the chance to jump off for a swim, so remember your swimsuit! Is that easy to forget, you wonder? Perhaps, and yet packing swimwear would likely be near the very top of a pre-holiday to-do list.

Oh, and don’t worry about getting bored; most boats come with music, so it is often a lively atmosphere. Some even offer drinks and snacks (though you’ll usually pay extra for those). The vibe tends to be cheerful, a little touristy, and perfect for taking some cool snapshots. And there tends to be sun – lots of it. In the worst case, sunscreen becomes really crucial here.

The Typical Stops: Beaches and Islands

The ‘3-stop’ title isn’t chosen randomly: tours are meant to highlight three distinct locales for everyone. While the actual stops can depend a little on the weather and the specific tour operator, that part makes it very difficult to claim definitive insight, some common highlights typically pop up. Azeda and Azedinha Beaches are classics; gorgeous little slices of heaven with crystal-clear water are, of course, the stuff of travel dreams. João Fernandes Beach tends to be another frequent stop, is that really worth mentioning? The point being that it tends to be known for its calm waters, it might be the kind of place where you can see colorful fish swimming around.

Sometimes, tours include a stop at Ilha Feia (Ugly Island – though it’s certainly not ugly at all!), so that makes a beautiful spot for snorkeling. Keep in mind that the amount of time you get at each stop can be quite limited, in a way that lets you swim and take some pictures before getting back on board. But that makes it perfect for seeing several spots in one go!

Making the Most of Your Schooner Experience

Ok, you’re all set and that might even include a ticket purchased in advance! The way it normally happens is to book this popular trip in advance, and doing so does mean that you’ll make things a bit easier on yourself. There is almost no downside to advanced planning! Very many kiosks around Buzios offer these tours. You’ll find that prices vary a bit, but they tend to be competitive. Consider what’s included – does the price include drinks, snacks, or snorkeling gear?

Cash can also be really handy for buying stuff on board or tipping the crew. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes (or flip-flops) since you’ll be on and off the boat, yet also consider bringing an extra layer as the sea breeze can occasionally pick up and you will get cool if your skin is already damp after a refreshing swim. Above all, it means you may as well keep your day pack ready to accommodate a towel for when you get back on board after diving off the back of the schooner. Just maybe, keep your tech gear protected because the splash back might be unexpected.

Sunscreen is Your Best Friend

Ok, that sounds a little cliched and yet it rings so, so true: Brazil’s sun is pretty intense, and it’s easy to get burned when you are out on the water. This warning is important, I would say! Be sure to apply a high SPF sunscreen liberally and reapply often, even when it’s cloudy, just a little. Bring a hat and sunglasses for extra protection. You know, taking good care of your skin means that you can fully enjoy the scenery rather than that sunburn! I do think the message here is obvious.

Don’t Forget the Camera (But Be Careful!)

The photo ops on these schooner trips can be unreal, so of course you might consider bringing a camera. Even the photos from your phone camera will be amazing – almost automatically! Very good quality shots are all but guaranteed here, as you’ll capture the bright waters, green hills, and colorful boats. That said, the very nature of a schooner might mean there’s water involved! So be mindful when handling your device and it would certainly pay off if you protected your phone by using a waterproof bag (easily obtainable for just a few bucks). Bringing that sort of bag also makes the process easier should you wish to capture some underwater images from any snorkelling opportunities.

Is the Armacao Dos Buzios Schooner Ride Worth It?

Right, let’s get down to it: should you spend your hard-earned money on this boat tour? From my point of view, the very short answer tends to be “yes,” with a few caveats. Basically, if you are looking for a relaxing way to see the highlights of Buzios from a really unique angle, while you also have the opportunity to get a swim, this tour tends to deliver. It’s reasonably priced, the vibe’s cheerful, and the views are simply wonderful. Do be advised, and please do keep in mind, that if you hate touristy things or overcrowded boats, so it might not be your cup of tea. In general, those who like things quiet or are on a very tight budget could have second thoughts about the schooner.

Potential Downsides

Schooner trips during the high season can get pretty crowded, just a little. This may affect the sense of freedom for some people. A more authentic vibe may be something more valued than cramming yourself and your partner into the smallest corner of the boat (where your shot of the view also manages to include strangers at way too close quarters! Another possible “downside” can be a lack of in-depth information. Most tours focus on the scenery, and that might be it. The crew doesn’t generally provide much historical or cultural info, very often.

There’s also that the stops may sometimes feel rushed, if only a little, so this might give the experience something of an incomplete impression. If you are wanting more time to explore each location, taking a private boat may turn out to be the right thing to do. You might consider that possibility anyway, but be ready for the private charter to stretch your budget.

Alternative Boat Trip Experiences in Buzios

Happily, the Buzios region provides options and you are unlikely to get stuck because every tour seems to be booked. Another choice tends to be a smaller catamaran tour. They’re often a little pricier but that tends to equate to a less-crowded experience. The experience also could be more focused and intimate.

Another route could involve hiring a private boat. These offer a highly customizable way of seeing things around there, for you, your group, and in terms of the itinerary (to best meet all your requirements), just a little. It comes with a substantially bigger price tag, however, it could still represent greater overall value from a cost per head perspective if your family can form a large enough tour party and go splitting the overall bill.

A Few Last Nuggets of Advice

Keep your eyes open for special deals. Sometimes you are in a great spot to profit! Particularly outside the high season (that typically being in and around January/February, and again in July/August), a better rate might materialize when it comes to the established asking prices. Also, it can almost be worthwhile trying to negotiate a little if there’s several of you in your group.

If seasickness is a potential problem, it could well pay off for you to buy motion sickness pills. These are available from virtually any pharmacist at low cost, yet that might make your life a whole lot better out there on the waves! Remember what you’re planning to bring (swimsuit, towel, sunscreen) as has already been covered. Keep those suggestions on board – as it were.

• Highlights: Scenic views, swimming, good value.
• Things to bring: Sunscreen, towel, swimsuit, cash.
• Potential Downsides: Can be crowded, stops might be rushed.
• Alternative Boat Trips: Catamarans, private boat hire.

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