Private Yacht & Sailing Charter

Your group only, up to 8 people, captain included. Standard Guanabara Bay circuit: Sugarloaf approach, Cotunduba Island swim stop, Niterói crossing and return. Best value for groups of 4+.

Faster, nimbler and less formal than a sailing yacht. Open bar, snacks, swim stops. Best for groups of 2–6 who want speed and spontaneity over the sailing experience.

Join a shared sailing in Guanabara Bay at golden hour. Sugarloaf glowing, Christ above, city lights coming on as you return. The most affordable shared boat experience in Rio.

Wider, more stable, bigger sundeck. Full BBQ on board, open bar of caipirinhas and beer, swim platform. Perfect for birthday parties, bachelorettes and groups of 8–15.

Drive 2 hrs to Angra dos Reis — Rio state's most beautiful coastal water. Private speedboat to Lagoa Azul, multiple island swim stops, beach BBQ. The upgrade if you can spare a day.

How much does it cost to charter a private yacht in Rio de Janeiro?

Sailing yachts start around R$2,200 for a 4-hour half day (up to 8 people, captain included). Mid-size motor yachts run R$3,500–6,500 per half day. Luxury 60+ ft yachts are R$8,000–18,000. Full days roughly double the half-day rate. Fuel surcharge sometimes added on motor yachts. Split between 6–10 friends and a private charter usually beats per-seat tour pricing.

Where do private charters depart from?

Marina da Glória is the main hub — central, secure, easy Uber drop-off, restrooms and a café on site. Smaller departures from Urca (near Sugarloaf) and Botafogo are also possible. Angra dos Reis and Búzios marinas are the choice for overnight Costa Verde charters.

What's the typical route from Marina da Glória?

The standard 'Rio bay circuit' loops past Sugarloaf, around Cotunduba Island, swim stop at Praia de Fora, then Niterói side with Fortaleza de Santa Cruz, before returning along Flamengo and Glória. Half-day = circuit + 1 swim stop. Full day = adds Cagarras Islands or Tagomago/Redonda for serious snorkeling.

Is food, drink and crew included?

Captain is always included. Most charters include water, soft drinks and ice. Beer/caipirinha packages are R$80–150 per person. Catered lunch (sushi platter, prawn moqueca, charcuterie) is R$120–250 per person. Bringing your own food is allowed on most boats — confirm at booking.

What's the cancellation policy and weather rule?

Reputable operators refund 100% if the captain cancels for sea conditions or rain. Client-initiated cancellation is usually 100% refund 48+ hours out, 50% inside 48 hours, no refund inside 24 hours. Always book with a free-cancellation window the day before if possible — Rio weather flips fast.

Sailing yacht or motor yacht — which is better?

Sailing yacht = quieter, cooler, more romantic, cheaper. Better for couples and small groups who want the actual sailing experience. Motor yacht = faster, more deck space, easier swim platform, can reach Cagarras and back in a half day. Better for groups of 8+ and bachelor/bachelorette parties.

Can I do a sunset charter?

Yes — and it's the best version. 4–8 PM departure catches Sugarloaf in golden light, Christ on the hilltop, then city lights coming on as you return. Prices match a regular half-day. Book 1–2 weeks ahead for weekends.