Traditional Boat Tour
Sail around the island, see spinner dolphins and snorkel at Baía do Sancho
One of the most beloved tours in Fernando de Noronha, the traditional boat tour takes you to see spinner dolphins up close, sails around the island passing iconic landmarks such as Morro Dois Irmãos and Pedra do Urro do Leão, and includes a stop for snorkeling at Baía do Sancho, voted the world's best beach by TripAdvisor.
Destination
- Fernando de Noronha
Typical duration
- 3 min
About this tour
The traditional boat tour is one of the most sought-after experiences in Fernando de Noronha, offering the unique opportunity to spot spinner dolphins in their natural habitat — one of the island's most iconic spectacles.
The adventure begins at Praia do Porto, where the vessel departs. Shortly after receiving safety instructions and meeting the crew, you begin a panoramic sail that covers the entire length of the island. Along the way, it's common for spinner dolphins to accompany the boat, jumping and swimming around in an unforgettable scene.
The route passes by iconic landmarks such as Pedra do Urro do Leão, the imposing Morro Dois Irmãos, and Ponta da Sapata, allowing you to admire the beauty of the island's coastline from a privileged perspective. In addition to spotting islets along the way, you'll have the chance to photograph the landscapes that made Fernando de Noronha world-famous.
The most anticipated moment is the stop for snorkeling at Baía do Sancho, internationally recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. Here, you can dive into crystal-clear waters and explore the seabed teeming with marine life. Snorkel equipment can be rented at Praia do Porto before boarding.
The vessel used may be a catamaran or a traditional fishing boat (traineira), depending on daily availability. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and departs in the morning, ensuring the best conditions for light and calm seas.
How it works
The tour departs from 7:30 AM from Praia do Porto. Upon boarding, you'll receive safety instructions and be introduced to the crew. The sail goes around the island, passing landmarks such as Pedra do Urro do Leão, Morro Dois Irmãos, and Ponta da Sapata, with a great chance of spotting spinner dolphins following the boat. On the return, there's a scheduled stop at Baía do Sancho for snorkeling, where you can explore the seabed with your own snorkel equipment. The entire tour lasts approximately 3 hours. Hotel pickup is included.
What you may see
Spinner dolphins swimming and jumping around the boat, Morro Dois Irmãos, Pedra do Urro do Leão, Ponta da Sapata, islets along the coast, Baía do Sancho with its crystal-clear waters and rich underwater marine life, sea turtles, tropical fish, and rock formations during snorkeling.
Recommended for
Families with children of all ages, nature and marine life lovers, those wishing to spot spinner dolphins in their natural habitat, snorkeling and free-diving enthusiasts, visitors who want to discover the island from a different perspective at sea, photographers interested in capturing iconic landscapes of Fernando de Noronha.
Before booking
It is mandatory to have a Parque Nacional Marinho ticket, which is not included in the tour and must be purchased separately. Snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel, and fins) is not included but can be rented at Praia do Porto before boarding. The vessel used may be a catamaran or a traineira depending on daily availability. The use of a life jacket is recommended. Children under 2 years old do not pay. Hotel pickup is included.
Tips
Bring your own snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel, and fins) or rent it at Praia do Porto before boarding. Wear comfortable swimwear and bring quality sunscreen (preferably biodegradable to preserve the marine ecosystem). Flip-flops or sandals are recommended for boarding. Consider wearing a life jacket if you're not an experienced swimmer, especially during the snorkeling at Baía do Sancho. Bring a waterproof camera to capture the dolphins and marine life. Arrive early at the meeting point, as the departure is in the morning and ensures better sea conditions and visibility.
Meeting point
Praia do Porto is the tour's departure point. Hotel pickup is available — confirm the time and location, which will be provided in advance.
Available languages
Upon request.