Humpback whales pass along the coast of Rio de Janeiro on their migration from Antarctica toward warmer Brazilian waters, and the islands off Ipanema are the city’s main viewing ground. Our whale-watching charter is a full day on the water: seven hours, from 7:00 to 14:00, from R$2,500 per charter, with options for groups of up to 20 people.
The route covers the Cagarras Islands, Ilha Rasa and Ilha Redonda — clear water, dense marine life and seabird colonies, with the city skyline behind you the whole way. Water, soft drinks, fruit and cereal bars are included on board.
Sightings are never guaranteed: whales are wild animals and the season is short, roughly June to August. Prices are in Brazilian reais (BRL), and payment terms are confirmed with each quote.
Humpbacks are seen off Rio between roughly June and August, on the northbound leg of a migration that runs from Antarctic feeding grounds to breeding waters up the Brazilian coast. Sightings happen occasionally in May and September, but the middle of the winter is when the odds are best. Outside that window the same route is still a fine day at sea — just without the whales.
Departures are early for a reason: the sea is calmer at first light, the wind picks up later, and morning light is far better for photographs.
The seven-hour itinerary works its way around three islands off Rio’s south coast, a few kilometres from Ipanema and Leblon.
Dolphins and sea turtles are common along the same route throughout the year.
Water, soft drinks, fruit and cereal bars are included. Bring sunscreen, a hat and something warm and waterproof — this is winter and open ocean, and the breeze at dawn is colder than most visitors expect. If anyone in the group is prone to seasickness, take something before boarding rather than after.
Brazilian regulations require boats to keep their distance from whales, approach slowly and never chase or swim with them. Our skippers follow those rules, which is also what makes a calm, respectful sighting possible.
Safety comes first. Charters can be cancelled or moved depending on sea and weather conditions, and if the forecast turns we’ll do our best to reschedule your date. Our team confirms conditions with you the day before.
Navegue Temporada is a Brazilian boat rental platform, and we arrange everything directly with you over WhatsApp or email. Tell us your date and group size and we’ll suggest the right boat — comfort matters more than usual on a seven-hour offshore day, so it’s worth asking about shade, seating and a toilet on board. Extra hours and catering beyond what’s included are confirmed per boat.
If your dates fall outside the season, the same coast makes a great day out: see boat rental in Rio de Janeiro, sailboat rental in Rio de Janeiro or departures from Barra da Tijuca. For island scenery and calm bays, many guests add boat rental in Angra dos Reis. Chartering in Europe? Our sister company Portugal Boat covers Lisbon and the Algarve.