Small Boat Charters in Rio de Janeiro
A small boat charter in Rio de Janeiro is a private rental of a 19 to 26 foot boat for 2 to 6 guests. Most rentals last 4 hours and cost under $200 (R$1,000) per hour with the captain.
Boats available in Rio de Janeiro
Three to start with: the 53ft Ferretti 530 Flybridge "Lexotan" (53 ft, up to 14 guests), the 36ft "Oceanic 40" (36 ft, up to 13 guests) and the 37ft NX Boats NX 370 HT Sport "Bibiuflu" (37 ft, up to 12 guests).
Private Boats for Small Groups
A 60 foot yacht is more than many groups need. Feeling Yachty arranges small private boats for 2 to 6 guests at a fraction of that cost. The category includes center consoles, bowriders and deck boats. The typical rental lasts 4 hours and comes in under $200 (R$1,000) per hour, captain included. People book them for a date day, a snorkel trip or a short island hop.
About Small Boats
In Rio, small boats measure 19 to 26 feet. A center console is suited to fishing and snorkel runs. A bowrider has seating on the front deck for sunbathing. A deck boat sits between those two and has a bigger usable deck. Each has a bimini top for shade, and a captain when you book one.
Rent a Small Boat in Rio de Janeiro
A small boat is an affordable way to spend a day on the water in Rio de Janeiro. Couples and small groups like the flexible routes and the views.
Boat Types Under $200 (R$1,000) per Hour
These small private boats keep the trip private and the budget under control.
| Boat type | Guests | Good for | Price per hour |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19 ft bowrider | 4 | Sunbathing on the front-deck seating | $90 (R$460) |
| 22 ft deck boat | 6 | Groups that want a large usable deck | $125 (R$630) |
| 24 ft center console | 6 | Fishing and snorkel runs | $150 (R$760) |
| 26 ft bowrider | 6 | Longer trips, with more cabin and comfort | $175 (R$890) |
Itineraries That Fit a 4-Hour Trip
The bay and the nearby islands are well suited to a half-day on a small boat:
- Date day to Ilha Fiscal and back (3 to 4 hours)
- Family snorkel trip at the Cagarras Islands (4 hours)
- Sunset cruise along the Urca shoreline with Sugarloaf views (2 to 3 hours)
- Lunch dock-and-dine at Marina da Glória (4 hours)
Self-Drive vs Captained
A captain is what most groups choose, for peace of mind. Self-drive is permitted on a few small boats.
- Captained: This is the simplest route. Brazil expects self-drive renters to hold an Arrais Amador license, so the majority of groups leave the boat to a licensed captain. A captain adds roughly $40 (R$200) to $60 (R$300) per hour to the boat rate.
- Self-drive: Permitted on a few small boats for holders of the Arrais Amador license issued by the Brazilian Navy. There is no captain fee, but parking, docking and the tide become your responsibility.
Fuel Cost Estimator
This is roughly what a 4-hour trip uses in fuel, so you know before booking:
- Boats of 19 to 22 ft: $25 (R$130) to $50 (R$250) in fuel for a 4-hour trip
- Boats of 24 to 26 ft: $50 (R$250) to $100 (R$510) in fuel for a 4-hour trip
- In most listings, fuel is part of the base rate
- On long-range trips to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande, fuel is charged separately
How It Works
- Browse and choose: Look through the boats listed and select the one that suits your group.
- Plan your trip: Settle on the date, the departure dock and the route.
- Book and board: Pay the deposit, and the captain will be waiting for you at the marina.
Why Rent with Feeling Yachty
- Inspected boats: Each small boat we list is checked for safety, cleanliness and reliability before we offer it, so you know what you are booking.
- Licensed captains and crews: Every small boat can go out with a licensed captain who knows Rio's waters and puts your safety first.
- Deposit and balance: a 50% deposit paid online by card reserves the boat, and the remaining 50% is paid in person on the day of the charter, by cash or Pix. The deposit is non-refundable.
- Add-ons on request: Snorkel gear, fishing packages and more can be added to the trip. Each detail can be tailored to your plans.
- 24/7 concierge support: The team can be reached at any hour for questions, suggestions and anything that needs sorting out.
Small Boat Charters in Rio de Janeiro: questions
How much is a small boat rental?
The usual range for a small boat is $90 (R$460) to $175 (R$890) per hour. With a captain, add $40 (R$200) to $60 (R$300) per hour. Fuel is frequently part of the price. A 4-hour minimum is standard for boats of this size.
How many people fit on a small boat?
Capacity is 4 to 6 guests, and 8 on some 26 footers. Every listing shows the capacity limit set by the Brazilian Navy. Exceeding it is not permitted.
Is a captain required?
Not always. Certain owners accept self-drive from holders of an Arrais Amador license. Even so, most groups book a captain so they can relax and leave the parking and docking to someone else. A captained rental is the simplest option.
What can we do in 4 hours?
In 4 hours you can go to Ilha Fiscal and back, do a snorkel run, or take a sunset cruise. On a small boat, a trip to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande takes a minimum of 8 hours. The bay and the nearby islands are where most groups stay.
Is there a bathroom on a small boat?
At 19 to 22 feet, usually not. A small enclosed head is sometimes fitted on 24 to 26 footers. On a longer trip, schedule a marina stop in case someone needs a restroom.
Can we fish from a small boat?
Yes. Fishing is what center consoles are designed for, and most carry rod holders, a livewell and a cooler. Rods, bait and tackle are available as a separate package.
Is this safe for kids?
Yes. Under Brazilian rules, young children must have a life jacket on while the boat is underway, and jackets are supplied. The captain chooses the calmest route according to the wind.
When should I book?
For weekends, small boats are reserved 1 to 2 weeks ahead. In peak season (December through March), allow 3 to 4 weeks. A weekday trip can often be found in the same week.
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