Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch
Traveler rating
3.9/5
Based on 88 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch worth booking?
Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch is a 4-hour experience in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from $78 per person. It scores 56 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 3.9/5 rating across 88 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 56 / 100
- Rating
- 3.9/5 (88)
- Duration
- 4 hours
- From
- $78 per person
Spend half a day sailing on Guanabara Bay, for the most beautiful views of Rio de Janeiro with Sugar Loaf Mountain towering in the distance. Pass the bay's islands and forts as you cruise the idylic waters. From the water you can see Rio’s downtown, cruise just below planes landing in Santos Dumont Airport, see the Museum of Tomorrow, go under the Niterói Bridge and see the lovely beaches from Rio’s siter city, as well as seeing the famous Oscar Niemeyer Museum. The Guanabara Bay Cruise includes roundtrip transportation from your Rio de Janeiro hotel. An optional all you can eat barbecue lunch is also available on your return, in a local Rio restaurant.
What you get
About this experience
Spend half a day sailing on Guanabara Bay, for the most beautiful views of Rio de Janeiro with Sugar Loaf Mountain towering in the distance. Pass the bay's islands and forts as you cruise the idylic waters. From the water you can see Rio’s downtown, cruise just below planes landing in Santos Dumont Airport, see the Museum of Tomorrow, go under the Niterói Bridge and see the lovely beaches from Rio’s siter city, as well as seeing the famous Oscar Niemeyer Museum. The Guanabara Bay Cruise includes roundtrip transportation from your Rio de Janeiro hotel. An optional all you can eat barbecue lunch is also available on your return, in a local Rio restaurant.
What's included
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop off to Most Hotels in São Conrado, Leblon, Ipanema and Copacabana (South Zone)
- Lunch at Barbecue House - all you can eat style (if option selected)
- 2-hour Guanabara Bay cruise
- Professional Tour Guide
Not included
- Gratuities
- Beverages
- Food (if option selected)
What you'll see and do
Marina da Gloria
After the pick up at your hotel, you get to Marina da Gloria Pier, where the boat leaves at 9:30m or so.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Guanabara Bay
Get a nice perspective from the sea and check the surroundings from a different view.
Pass by without stopping
Check out the Rio's airport for home destinations and have the chance to see airplanes landing or departing. See how big they are!
Pass by without stopping
Ilha Fiscal
Originally named by Europeans as Ilha dos Ratos (Rat Island), its current name comes from the fact there have worked since the Guarda Fiscal, serving the port of the then capital of the Empire in the nineteenth century. The island became famous for having housed the famous Baile da Ilha Fiscal, the last big party of the Empire before the coup d'état that proclaimed the Republic in November 1889. Ilha Fiscal now houses a museum of cultural history that is maintained by the Navy of Brazil.
Pass by without stopping
Downtown RJ
You will get a nice perspective of the huge buildings and avenues from Downtown Rio. Be enchanted with urban area, without transit and noise!
Pass by without stopping
Church of Our Lady of the Candelaria
Get a nice perspective of an important historical Roman Catholic church in the city. It was built and decorated during a long period, from 1775 to the late 19th century. The church combines a Portuguese colonial Baroque façade with later Neoclassical and Neo-Renaissance interior elements.
Pass by without stopping
Museu do Amanha
The Museum of Tomorrow is a science museum designed by Spanish neofuturistic architect Santiago Calatrava, and built next to the waterfront at Pier Maua. Check out the beauty and modernism of this exquisite structure.
Pass by without stopping
Ponte Rio–Niteroi
Pass right underneath the President Costa e Silva Bridge, commonly known as the Rio–Niterói Bridge. It connects the cities of Rio de Janeiro and Niterói.
Pass by without stopping
Museu de Arte Contemporanea de Niteroi
Get a nice perspective of the iconic Museum projected by the famous brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. Completed in 1996, the Niterói Contemporary Art Museum is one of the city’s main landmarks.
Pass by without stopping
Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra
View the beautiful and historical Fort located in Niterói
Pass by without stopping
Urca
See the beautiful neighborhood that hosts one of the major Rio's sights: The Sugar Loaf Mountain
Pass by without stopping
Sugarloaf Mountain
Get a wonderful perspective of the Sugar Loaf from the sea. Sugar Loaf Mountain is a peak situated in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, at the mouth of Guanabara Bay on a peninsula that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean. Rising 396 m above the harbor, its name is said to refer to its resemblance to the traditional shape of concentrated refined loaf sugar.
Pass by without stopping
Botafogo Bay
See the Boafogo Bay, that links the South Zone to downtown Rio.
Pass by without stopping
Flamengo district
Get a nice perspective of Aterro do Flamengo and its parks, designed by Burle Marx
Pass by without stopping
Copacabana Beach
Check the Copacabana Beach, the most famous beach in the city (maybe even in the country, or in the world) and is about 4 km long. Among the trademarks is its boardwalk with waves drawn in Portuguese stone, designed by famous brazilian landscaper Burle Max.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Private: Cruise Only
Private Tour: Private guide and vehicle. 2-hour shared cruise along Guanabara Bay. Sedan: Up to 02 people. Or Van: from 03 to 13 people Live Guide in: English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, French or Italian. Pickup included
Shared - Cruise Only
Shared with other guests: Cruise Only - Without lunch: 1.5-hour cruise along Guanabara Bay. Live Guide in: English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, French or Italian. Pickup included
Shared Cruise & Lunch
Shared with other guests: Cruise and Lunch included: 1.5-hour cruise along Guanabara Bay. Barbecue Lunch included: Delicious all-you- can-eat barbecue with multiple sides and Ice-cream for dessert Live Guide in: English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, French or Italian. Pickup included
Private: Cruise & Lunch
Private Tour: Private guide and vehicle. Shared Cruise and Lunch included: 2-hour shared cruise along Guanabara Bay. Barbecue Lunch included: Delicious all-you- can-eat barbecue with multiple sides and Ice-cream for dessert Sedan: Up to 02 people. Or Van: from 03 to 13 people Live Guide in: English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, French or Italian. Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, pt, en, it, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 13 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Gray Line Brazil
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Pick-up at selected hotels in Barra da Tijuca available on request ($10.00 per person). Please contact the local provider to arrange this service
- The bay ride is made by Schooner and takes around 2 hours.
- In private options, only guide and hotel transfer are private. Schooner Cruise is still shared
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 88 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Food and drink
5 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
88 verified traveler reviews for Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
No one showed up. When I...
No one showed up. When I called, no one cared. I was stranded at the dock and had to find my own way back. AVOID AT ALL COSTS!!!
via Viator
Alex the wonderful
Alex from the Windsor California in Rio de Janiero went out of his way to make our stay great and easier. He stored our bags prior to our check-in, got us a ride, and had a lunch packed for us since we were leaving prior to breakfast hours. What an asset! Kudos for hiring such a wonderful employee.
via Tripadvisor
Great way to spend a half day
Very nice tour friendly host really looked after us and very good English speaker. Boat trip very enjoyable and finished with a lovely meal . Would recommend
Response from the operator: Dear Customer. Thanks a lot for the review. We are glad that you liked the tour. Please count on us on future trips. Thanks.
via Viator
Great two hour boat trip.
Louis was a great guide. He turned up at the hotel exactly on time to accompany us on the boat trip which is highly recommended. Angela was the boat guide and spoke English very well.
Response from the operator: Dear Customer. Thanks a lot for the review. We are glad that you liked the tour. Please count on us on future trips. Thanks
via Viator
Poor tour worst lunch
Tour guide too touchy and meal at lunch had two hairs in my food. Would not recommend. Cruise was very slow with basically no explaination.
Response from the operator: Dear Tracy. Good morning. Cruise must always respect sea conditions. Sorry about the guide. We will resolve this internally so it doesn happen anyore as this tour has a lot of historical informations to share, besides the views and all the attractions. Thank you for bringing this to our attention. If you need anything, please contact us at reservations@grayline.com.br We will do our possible to help. KInd regards.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $78 to $1,529
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 31
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Gray Line Brazil, who run 56 experiences we rank across 5 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 53.4.
See everything Gray Line Brazil runsWhy this scores 56
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Rio de Janeiro.
How much does Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch cost?
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Prices start at $78 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Rio de Janeiro usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch take?
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Plan for about 4 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Rio de Janeiro is not rushed.
Is Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 56 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (3.9/5 across 88 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Rio de Janeiro, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch?
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Around 31 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Rio de Janeiro can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Rio de Janeiro and add a light layer if any part of the 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Rio de Janeiro within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro?
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On Outty we rank every Rio de Janeiro experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Pedra da Gávea hike, your best experience in Rio, Favela Tour Rio de Janeiro - Vidigal Walking Tour by Russo Guide, Rio's Full Day: Selarón Steps, Christ & Sugarloaf – Tickets & Lunch Included. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Rio de Janeiro?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch?
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Included: Hotel pickup and drop off to Most Hotels in São Conrado, Leblon, Ipanema and Copacabana (S; Lunch at Barbecue House - all you can eat style (if option selected); 2-hour Guanabara Bay cruise; and Professional Tour Guide. Not included: Gratuities; Beverages; and Food (if option selected). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 80 listed pickup locations in and around Rio de Janeiro. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch offered in?
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It is offered in German, Portuguese, English, Italian, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch?
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Across 88 reviews averaging 3.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Rio From the Sea: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Optional Barbecue Lunch?
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There are 4 options to choose from, including Private: Cruise Only, Shared - Cruise Only, Shared Cruise & Lunch, Private: Cruise & Lunch. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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