Angra dos Reis

Angra dos Reis is the gateway to a bay of 365 islands on the Costa Verde, about 155 km southwest of Rio de Janeiro in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Buses leave Rodoviária Novo Rio for Angra, and the ride of about 2.5 to 3 hours costs roughly R$65-95 one-way, following the scenic coastal highway between the mountains and the sea. The town itself is modest, but the appeal lies in the boat tours, which leave from Praia do Anil and the Cais de Santa Luzia in the centre. Schooner and speedboat tours cost about R$150-250 and visit the most sheltered coves, islands and lagoons, with stops for swimming and snorkelling in calm, clear water. A typical tour runs four to six hours and often includes a lunch stop on an island, though prices for food are usually extra. A practical one-day arc is to catch an early bus so as to reach the pier by mid-morning, board a scheduled schooner or speedboat tour for the middle of the day, and return to the centre in the late afternoon for a meal before taking the evening bus back to Rio. Because the tour occupies most of the daylight hours, visitors should book a departure that returns with a comfortable margin before the last bus. The best season runs from April to October, when the weather is drier and the sea calmer, while December to March is rainy and can cancel or shorten boat outings. Visitors should bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel and a light rain layer. Food options in town include seafood restaurants near the waterfront and simple lunch spots, and boat operators sometimes provide drinks on board. The trip suits travellers who want island scenery without the complexity of the ferry to Ilha Grande, though those wanting more time on the water may prefer an overnight stay.