A full-day boat tour departing from Bombinhas explores the Four Islands, Sepultura Beach, and Arvoredo Biological Reserve in crystal-clear waters off southern Santa Catarina. Mid-size motorboat charters run R$ 2,400–4,300 in December 2025, accommodating up to 15 passengers, with departure from Bombinhas town center, stops at pristine beaches, and optional access to a protected marine reserve with native fauna and flora.
Table of Contents
- The Four Islands to Arvoredo itinerary
- Departure and Bombinhas infrastructure
- Beaches on the route: Sepultura, Arvoredo and peninsula
- Best season and seasonal considerations
- Tour cost and inclusions
- FAQ — Frequently asked questions
The Four Islands to Arvoredo itinerary
Bombinhas is a headland between the Bombinhas Bay (to the north) and open ocean (to the south), where four granite islands — Arvoredo, Deserta, Macela, and Índios — and a series of pristine beaches accessible only by boat mark the coastline. A complete full-day itinerary (6–8 hours) departs from Bombinhas town center in late morning, navigates southwest along the peninsula toward the Arvoredo Biological Reserve, pauses at Sepultura or nearby beaches for snorkeling and swimming, and returns to port by late afternoon.
Navigation is short: the Four Islands lie only 2–3 nautical miles southwest of Bombinhas harbor, making this route accessible for passengers with limited mobility or young children. Waters are calm in summer and snorkel visibility often exceeds 30 feet — ideal conditions for spotting sea turtles, trumpetfish, and moray eels. The route can be combined with lunch in town or extended with additional beach stops depending on group preference and weather.
Departure and Bombinhas infrastructure
Bombinhas is a beach village of roughly 17,000 residents on the northern headland of its namesake bay. The main departure point is Bombinhas town center, near the municipal pier and Central Beach, where three to four licensed tour operators are based. Supporting infrastructure is functional: waterfront restaurants, pousadas (small inns) steps from the dock, a pharmacy, and supermarket within a five-minute walk.
Land access is by road (BR-101 to Governador Celso Ramos, then SC-410 to Bombinhas — roughly 3 hours from Florianópolis or 1 hour from Itajaí). There is no local airport; flights arrive in Florianópolis or Navegantes, near Itajaí. From the north, Balneário Camboriú and Itajaí are less than an hour's drive away, allowing multi-destination itineraries. From the south, Florianópolis is just over an hour away, permitting combined tours of the Santa Catarina coast.
Beaches on the route: Sepultura, Arvoredo and peninsula
Sepultura Beach is the classic stop: a semicircular cove of white sand nestled between two headlands that shelter it from southern swells. Water depth is gentle to about 26 feet, with algae and rocky patches below — excellent for snorkeling. There is no beachfront infrastructure (no bars, shops, or restaurants), so the boat carries fresh water, fruit, and soft drinks.
Arvoredo Biological Reserve is a cluster of four islands designated a protected reserve in 1990 to safeguard nesting seabirds (primarily boobies, frigatebirds, and noddies) and coastal fauna. Visitor access is controlled via a marked trail of short distance — typically 1 mile — crossing mangroves and rocky shorelines. Entry fee is approximately R$ 15–20 per person (depending on current management) and is collected on arrival. Brief snorkeling pauses and wildlife photography are the main draws.
Peninsula beaches include Quatro Ilhas (the closest to the dock, popular for diver training), Lagoa (accessible on foot from town center), and small coves along the southern and northern rocky coasts — Praia Mole and Praia Encantada are local names for small sandy patches among rocks, ideal for quick swims or brief snorkels.
Best season and seasonal considerations
Santa Catarina is a summer destination. The best season for this itinerary runs October through March, peaking in December–February when water temperatures reach 75–79°F (24–26°C), days are long, and rainfall is minimal. Snorkel visibility is highest January through March, after spring rains have cleared the water column.
June through September is winter — not prohibitive, but cool. Water drops to 64–68°F (18–20°C), requiring a wetsuit or thick rash guard for extended snorkeling. Southern winds are more frequent, occasionally closing the sea to departures.
Seasonal pricing follows this pattern: September to November is the "sweet spot" — calm seas, minimal rain, rising but not peak demand. December through mid-January is holiday high season (New Year, Carnival); rates climb and beach congestion increases. Sepultura can fill with tour boats during this window.
Tour cost and inclusions
A mid-size motorboat in Bombinhas (35–45 feet, up to 15 people) runs R$ 2,400–4,300 for a full day in December 2025. Price variation reflects day of week (weekday vs. weekend), date (holiday periods command top rates), and operator.
| Tour type | Price range (Dec 2025) | Duration | Typical stops |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half day | R$ 1,400–2,000 | 4–5 hours | Sepultura or Four Islands |
| Full day | R$ 2,400–4,300 | 6–8 hours | Sepultura + Arvoredo + Four Islands |
| Larger boat (20–25 pax) | R$ 4,500–7,000 | 6–8 hours | Same itinerary, higher capacity |
| Sunset/evening | R$ 1,800–2,500 | 3–4 hours | Bombinhas Bay and nearby coast |
Typical inclusions: - Licensed captain and crew; - Life vests for all passengers; - Vessel insurance (DPEM); - Fresh water, soft drinks, and fruit; - Snorkel equipment (some operators; others charge separately); - Beach stop at Sepultura or similar (standard).
Optional or charged separately: - Entry fee to Arvoredo Reserve (R$ 15–20 per person); - Lunch in Bombinhas before or after tour; - Scuba diving gear (cylinder, regulator, BCD) — dry-suit alum gear is rarely available to rent locally; bring your own or arrange in advance.
Note — December 2025
These prices reflect the December high season. From January through October, especially outside holiday periods, rates drop 15–30% within the stated range. For a precise quote for your chosen date, direct contact with a local operator via WhatsApp is quickest.
FAQ — Frequently asked questions
How much does a boat rental cost in Bombinhas? A mid-size motorboat for up to 15 people costs R$ 2,400–4,300 in December 2025, depending on day of week and specific date. A half-day (4–5 hours) runs R$ 1,400–2,000. These are per-vessel rates, not per person — split among 10–15 guests, the individual cost drops to R$ 160–287.
What is the best time to visit Bombinhas by boat? October through March is ideal, with clear water, long daylight, and calm seas. January to March offers the best snorkel visibility (over 30 feet). September and October approach peak quality with less beach congestion. December through mid-January is holiday peak — reserve 2–3 months ahead to secure your date and rate.
Do I need diving experience for Arvoredo? No experience is required for snorkeling — depths are shallow and water is clear. For scuba diving (tank), you need an Open Water certification or equivalent, and a local guide is highly recommended. Most tours include free snorkeling, which is accessible for beginners. Children from age 5 can snorkel with a life vest and supervision.
Is the Arvoredo reserve fee included in the tour price? No. The entry fee for Arvoredo Biological Reserve (roughly R$ 15–20 per person) is paid upon arrival at the island. The operator typically mentions this in the quote and can assist in organizing it. The fee includes trail access and rocky-shore exploration.
Can I bring food and drinks? Yes, with limits. Water, juice, and fruit are normally included. Alcohol is permitted — bring cold beer or wine in moderation. Food is your responsibility (sandwich, cheese, fresh fruit extras) — the boat usually has a small bar for snacks. Glass bottles should be avoided (breakage risk).
Is Bombinhas safe for young children? Yes. Sepultura and Four Islands waters are shallow and calm in summer. Children from age 1 can participate (with constant supervision), wearing appropriately sized life vests — child sizes are standard onboard equipment. Children under 12 require constant adult supervision in the water.
Is a weekday or weekend tour better? Weekdays are less crowded (Sepultura will have 1–2 boats instead of 8) and 15–25% cheaper. Weekends are more festive, with more people on the beaches, but Bombinhas town infrastructure operates at full capacity (restaurants, shops). Monday through Thursday, the tour quality is superior due to quieter anchorages.
How do I book a tour? Contact your chosen operator directly via WhatsApp or phone through the Bombinhas town center. Provide your date, group size, interest in snorkeling or scuba, and they'll return availability and a quote. A 50% deposit via Pix (Brazilian bank transfer) secures the date; the remaining 50% is due the morning of departure, before boarding. Bring a passport and towel.
Read more about boat itineraries in Brazil
Explore routes along Brazil's coast and internationally: Boat itinerary in Florianópolis and Santa Catarina coast · Boat itinerary in Barra da Tijuca · Boat itinerary in Niteroi · Boat itinerary in Mangaratiba and Itacuruça
For boat rental in Brazil, visit Voguer's boat rental options or for international yacht charter, Voguer Yachts.
