Boat Tour Guide: Which Paraty Schooner Trip Is Right for You?

The bay of Paraty is dotted with over 65 islands and hundreds of beaches, most of which are inaccessible by road. This means that a boat tour is an essential part of any Paraty itinerary. But when you arrive at the harbor, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. Do you join the 100-person party boat or hire a private captain? Here is how to choose.

Traditional Schooners (Escunas)

These are the large, colorful wooden boats that line the pier. They typically run on a fixed schedule (usually 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM) and follow standard routes. Pros: Very affordable (typically R$ 100-150 per person), often includes live samba music, and has a full bar and kitchen on board. Cons: Can be very crowded, music can be loud if you're seeking peace, and the routes are very standardized, meaning you'll be at the same beaches as several other large boats.

Private Speedboats (Lanchas)

If your budget allows, hiring a private 'lancha' is the gold standard of Paraty experiences. Pros: Complete flexibility. You choose the start time, the duration, and most importantly, the route. A good captain can take you to beaches where you won't see a single other soul. You can reach further destinations like Saco do Mamanguá in a fraction of the time a schooner takes. Cons: Significantly more expensive (prices typically start at R$ 1,000 and go up based on the size of the boat and fuel used).

Our Recommendation

If it is your first time and you are on a budget, join a schooner—it is a classic Paraty rite of passage. If you are traveling as a group of 4 or more, splitting a private speedboat often ends up being only slightly more expensive per person than a schooner, while offering a vastly superior experience.