Full Day Tour to Frades Islands + Itaparica

The full day tour to Frades Islands and Itaparica provides an immersive cultural experience near Salvador da Bahia, Brazil. Combining scenic vistas and island exploration, the tour promises an enriching day for travelers seeking an escape from the city. Departing at 8:00 AM, the itinerary features historic landmarks and ample time to soak up the laid-back island atmosphere. With live music, comfortable boat transportation, and a mix of positive and critical feedback on the dining options, this tour offers a vibrant blend of activities that may pique the interest of those looking to discover the charms of this region.

Good To Know

• This full-day tour offers an immersive experience exploring the Frades Islands and Itaparica, located near Salvador da Bahia, Brazil.
• The tour includes 3 hours on Ilha dos Frades and 2 hours on Itaparica, with travel time totaling approximately 4.6 hours.
• Highlights of the tour include partial views of Salvador, the São Marcelo Fort, and the Bonfim Church, with cultural performances and live music.
• The tour includes a schooner boat with amenities like a bar and multilingual guide, accommodating a maximum of 15 participants.
• Customer reviews indicate a mix of experiences, with praise for the interactive crew and atmosphere, but concerns about boarding maintenance and food quality.

Tour Overview

The full-day tour to the Frades Islands and Itaparica offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the coastal landscapes surrounding Salvador da Bahia, Brazil.

Departing from the Nautical Tourist Terminal, the tour checks in at 7:30 AM and sets sail at 8:00 AM, returning at 5:20 PM.

With 61 reviews and a 3.5/5 rating, the tour promises a mix of highlights, including partial views of Salvador, the São Marcelo Fort, and the Bonfim Church.

The full itinerary involves 1.5 hours of travel to Ilha dos Frades, 3 hours spent on the island, 40 minutes to Itaparica, 2 hours there, and 1.1 hours back to Salvador.

Itinerary and Duration

What’s the travel time for this tour? The journey to Ilha dos Frades takes approximately 1.5 hours, while the trip from there to Itaparica is around 40 minutes. The return to Salvador takes 1.1 hours.

In total, travelers will spend:

• 3 hours on Ilha dos Frades
• 2 hours on Itaparica

The tour highlights include a partial view of Salvador, the São Marcelo Fort, and the Bonfim Church.

With a travel schedule designed to maximize time at the destinations, this full-day excursion offers an immersive experience in the islands surrounding Salvador.

Travel Time

Spanning approximately 1.5 hours, the journey from Salvador to Ilha dos Frades sets the stage for this full-day tour.

Travelers then ferry to Itaparica, which takes around 40 minutes. The return trip from Itaparica to Salvador takes roughly 1.1 hours.

In total, guests can expect to spend 1.5 hours traveling to Ilha dos Frades, 2 hours exploring Itaparica, and 1.1 hours returning to Salvador, for a combined travel time of about 4.6 hours.

This well-paced itinerary allows ample time for sightseeing and leisure across the two island destinations.

Time Spent

Guests are allotted 3 hours to explore the scenic Ilha dos Frades, offering ample time to soak in the island’s tranquil ambiance and historical landmarks.

After the visit, the tour proceeds to Itaparica, where travelers have 2 hours to enjoy the local culture and enjoy optional dining opportunities.

The total travel time between the destinations is as follows:

• Salvador to Ilha dos Frades: 1.5 hours
• Ilha dos Frades to Itaparica: 40 minutes
• Itaparica to Salvador: 1.1 hours

The carefully curated itinerary ensures that guests have a well-rounded experience, with a balance of exploration, relaxation, and cultural engagement throughout the day.

Highlights

The tour showcases a partial view of Salvador, offering travelers a glimpse into the city’s architectural splendor. As the boat approaches Ilha dos Frades, passengers can admire the imposing São Marcelo Fort, a 17th-century fortification that stands guard over the harbor. The highlight of the trip is a visit to the Bonfim Church, a renowned pilgrimage site known for its vibrant design and rich cultural significance.

Highlights
Partial view of Salvador
São Marcelo Fort
Bonfim Church
Live music
Dancing

The tour also features live music and dancing, creating a lively and immersive experience for guests.

Fees and Inclusions

Additional fees for the tour are incurred at various terminals. The boarding fee at the Nautical Terminal costs R$20.00, and there’s a preservation fee of R$25.00 for the Ilha dos Frades.

The tour includes:

• Return trip
• Guide
• Live music
• Fruit rounds

Optional lunch on Itaparica is also available. Fees are paid in person at the respective terminals.

It’s important to be aware of these additional costs when planning the tour.

Amenities and Services

The tour boat features a schooner with bar services, providing padded seats for traveler comfort.

A standardized samba set offers entertainment throughout the journey.

The tour guide is multilingual, fluent in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German, catering to a diverse group of travelers.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 15 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Customer Feedback

From the 61 reviews, the overall sentiment regarding the tour is mixed. Some travelers praised the interactive and high-energy crew, as well as the enjoyable atmosphere with music and dancing.

However, others criticized the food quality at the restaurant in Itaparica and expressed concerns about boarding maintenance and delays.

The tour offers the following highlights:

• Partial view of Salvador
• Visit to São Marcelo Fort
• Stop at Bonfim Church
• Live music and fruit rounds during the tour

While the tour provides a unique experience, the mixed reviews suggest there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding the dining options and transportation logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code. Comfortable and casual attire is recommended, as the tour involves boat rides and walking on the islands. Guests can dress for a relaxed, beach-oriented day trip.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour allows guests to bring their own food and drinks. However, the tour operator provides fruit rounds and an optional lunch on Itaparica. It’s best to check with the operator for any restrictions or recommendations.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to join the excursion. However, parents should consider the length and activity level when deciding if it’s suitable for young kids.

Can I Opt-Out of Certain Activities?

Travelers can opt out of certain activities on the tour. The tour offers flexibility, allowing participants to customize their experience based on their interests and preferences. However, some activities may be integral to the overall itinerary.

Is There a Bathroom on the Boat During the Tour?

Yes, the boat has a bathroom on board for passengers’ convenience during the tour. The amenities section notes the boat is equipped with standard features to ensure a comfortable experience.

The Sum Up

The Full Day Tour to Frades Islands and Itaparica offers an immersive cultural experience near Salvador da Bahia. Highlights include scenic views, live music, and time spent on the islands. While food quality on Itaparica has received mixed reviews, the tour provides a vibrant and enriching day for travelers seeking a blend of exploration and relaxation.