The bay of Paraty is a sheltered arm of the Atlantic dotted with small islands, forested headlands and beaches that are reachable only by boat, and the classic way to see it is aboard a schooner, known locally as an escuna. These broad wooden vessels leave from the town's small harbour in the morning and cruise out among the islands at an easy pace, anchoring for swimming and snorkeling before returning in the afternoon. For many visitors this is the highlight of a stay, and it is often the first thing worth booking after the historic center. This product is the Paraty Schooner Cruise and Snorkeling Tour, a shared trip of around five hours. The route typically visits several of the best-known stops in the bay, with time in the water at each. The sea inside the bay is calm and warm for much of the year, and visibility varies with recent rain and tides, so the snorkeling is pleasant for beginners rather than world-class. You see small tropical fish around the rocks and, with luck, a turtle or ray. Most people spend at least as much time floating, sunbathing on deck and swimming off the beaches as snorkeling. Details differ between operators and seasons, so check the product for what is included. Some schooners sell lunch and drinks on board, and some operate a bar and a simple restaurant; others expect you to bring your own snacks. The vessels are social and relaxed, often with music, and groups can be fairly large. The boats carry life jackets and snorkel gear, though many visitors prefer to bring their own mask. The product on offer has a high rating from a small number of reviews, so treat it as promising rather than proven.
What the day is like
You board at the harbour in the morning, find a seat on the shaded or open deck and cruise for a short time before the first stop. The skipper anchors off an island or beach, there is time to swim or snorkel, and the schooner moves on to the next bay.
A typical outing includes three or four stops. Expect friendly crews, some music, and a lot of sea air. The pace is leisurely, with plenty of time to relax, and boats return to the harbour in mid-afternoon in time for a late lunch or a stroll in the old town.
How to do it well
Choose a clear, calm morning, because the water colours are best in sun, and book ahead in the peak summer months and on weekends. Wear swimwear under your clothes, apply reef-friendly sunscreen, and bring a hat, a towel, a dry bag for your phone and a little cash for drinks or snacks. If you get seasick easily, take medication beforehand and sit near the middle of the boat. If you want a quieter experience, ask about smaller boats or private charters, or choose a weekday.
Who it suits
Families with swimmers, couples, groups of friends and anyone who wants a classic Paraty day without effort. It is less suitable for people who dislike crowds or who need step-free access, since boarding involves a gangway and a deck. Combine it with a slow dinner of fresh fish in town, and you have a perfect summer day.
Good to know before you go
Schooners in the bay are shared, so the mood depends on the group and the crew, and weekends are livelier than weekdays. If you want calm, pick a weekday and the earliest departure. Children should wear a life jacket whenever the boat is moving, and everyone should keep hands inside the rails when the boat docks or manoeuvres.
Ask whether there is a toilet on board, whether towels are supplied and whether card payment works for drinks. Keep your phone in a sealed bag, and put a spare set of dry clothes in your daypack for the ride back, because the breeze can be cool once you are wet.
What to expect
The experience
A shared schooner cruise around Paraty Bay with several swimming and snorkeling stops at islands and beaches.
Best time
A calm, sunny morning in the warmer months, when the bay is at its clearest.
How long
About five hours, including the cruise and time in the water.
Tips
Wear swimwear under your clothes, bring sunscreen, a towel and a dry bag, and check what is included before you board.
Quick picks
- Best for
- A classic first day on the water with swimming and island views.
- Families
- Good for children who swim confidently; life jackets are on board.
- Couples
- Sun, sea and a relaxed cruise rather than a secluded escape.
- Pair with
- The historic center in the evening, or a visit to a cachaca distillery the next day.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How long is the schooner cruise?+
Around five hours in total, including the cruise between islands and the time spent swimming and snorkeling.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?+
Not necessarily; life jackets are available and the water in the bay is calm. Non-swimmers can stay on deck or paddle at the shore.
Is lunch included?+
This depends on the boat and the product, so check what is included when you book. Many schooners sell food and drinks on board.
Is the snorkeling good?+
It is pleasant for beginners, with small tropical fish near the rocks. Visibility changes with rain and tides, so expect relaxed rather than spectacular snorkeling.
What if the weather is bad?+
Boats may change the route or cancel in heavy rain or rough seas. Ask the operator about rebooking or refunds when you book.
