
Reserva Biológica Marinha do Arvoredo
Explore a protected marine paradise off Florianópolis, teeming with sea turtles and vibrant fish, perfect for diving and snorkeling.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Calmer seas and best visibility

Reserva Biológica Marinha do Arvoredo
Best Time
Calmer seas and best visibility

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a protected marine paradise off Florianópolis, teeming with sea turtles and vibrant fish, perfect for diving and snorkeling.
"A magical place for snorkeling or diving, a trip worthwhile for anyone visiting Florianópolis."

🐠 Snorkel or Dive?
Both offer incredible views! Diving goes deeper (approx. 10m), while snorkeling is great for spotting turtles and fish near the surface.
🤢 Beat Seasickness
Light meals, no heavy breakfast, and medication if needed. Bananas and water are often provided.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Underwater Wonderland
Ilha do Arvoredo
Dive or snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish.

Serene Boat Journey
Departing from Florianópolis
Enjoy a scenic boat trip to the island, offering beautiful coastal views and a sense of adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Dive in Advance
Prepare for Seasickness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐠 Snorkel or Dive?
Both offer incredible views! Diving goes deeper (approx. 10m), while snorkeling is great for spotting turtles and fish near the surface.
🤢 Beat Seasickness
Light meals, no heavy breakfast, and medication if needed. Bananas and water are often provided.
📸 Capture the Moment
Underwater photography packages are available. Consider if you want to immortalize your encounters with marine life.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring extra water, though some tours offer it. The sun can be intense on the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐠 Snorkel or Dive?
Both offer incredible views! Diving goes deeper (approx. 10m), while snorkeling is great for spotting turtles and fish near the surface.
🤢 Beat Seasickness
Light meals, no heavy breakfast, and medication if needed. Bananas and water are often provided.
📸 Capture the Moment
Underwater photography packages are available. Consider if you want to immortalize your encounters with marine life.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring extra water, though some tours offer it. The sun can be intense on the water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Reserva Biológica Marinha do Arvoredo as a magical and worthwhile destination for snorkeling and diving, highlighting the professional guides and the incredible marine life. The boat trip is scenic, though some advise caution for seasickness. While landing on the island is prohibited, the underwater experience is the main draw.
"Too"
Etison Amorim
"A magical place for snorkeling or diving, a trip worthwhile for anyone visiting Florianópolis."
María Rojas Sánchez
"The people who take you are very professional, the instructors are excellent, we left from the Canasvieiras dock and it took us approximately 1 hour there and 1 hour back, if you get seasick I recommend not eating anything the night before and not having breakfast, you can bring something to eat during your stay, we left at 8:30 and returned at 2:00 p.m. They also have bananas and tangerines that they give you and water, the dive lasts approximately 25 minutes with one instructor per person and you have the option of having your picture taken, you dive about 10 meters very nice, you just have to be calm and concentrate on breathing that they previously instructed you."
Nicolas Rodriguez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access is exclusively by boat tours departing from Florianópolis, typically from docks like Canasvieiras. The journey takes about an hour each way.
Tours commonly depart from Canasvieiras, but other locations in Florianópolis might also offer options. It's best to confirm with your chosen tour operator.
No, the Reserva Biológica Marinha do Arvoredo is an island and can only be accessed by boat. Landing on the island for hiking or camping is prohibited.
The boat ride to Ilha do Arvoredo typically lasts around 1 hour each way, depending on sea conditions and the departure point.
Anchoring is prohibited in the reserve to protect the marine ecosystem. Access is managed through authorized tour operators.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Costs vary depending on the tour operator and inclusions (like diving or photography). Expect to pay for the boat trip and any optional activities.
Yes, it's highly recommended to book your tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot.
Tours usually operate in the mornings, departing around 8:30 AM and returning by early afternoon (around 2:00 PM). Confirm specific times with your provider.
Yes, landing on the island for hiking or camping is forbidden. The focus is on marine observation and activities like diving and snorkeling.
Tours usually include the boat trip, snorkeling or diving equipment, and sometimes water, fruit, and a brief instruction session. Photography packages are often extra.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You have a great chance of seeing sea turtles, diverse fish species, and potentially other marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Diving typically occurs at a depth of about 10 meters, offering a good experience for beginners and experienced divers alike.
Yes, the dive depth is manageable, and instructors provide thorough pre-dive instructions, with one instructor per person for safety.
No, landing on the island for hiking or camping is strictly prohibited to preserve the natural environment.
Wear comfortable swimwear. Wetsuits might be provided or recommended depending on water temperature. Life vests are usually available.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, you can take photos with your own equipment. Underwater photography packages are also offered by some tour operators.
Absolutely! The clear waters and abundant marine life make it a fantastic opportunity for underwater shots.
Prices vary, but expect to pay an additional fee for professional underwater photos. Inquire with your tour provider for details.
Sea turtles and various colorful fish are common subjects. The coral formations also make for beautiful backdrops.
Generally, no, but always be respectful of the marine life and follow your guide's instructions. Avoid touching or disturbing animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's crucial to manage expectations regarding seasickness for younger travelers. Opting for morning tours when seas are typically calmer can help. Ensure children are well-rested and have a light meal before departure. The tour operators often provide life vests, which are essential for water safety. Consider booking a tour that emphasizes the educational aspect of marine conservation to make the trip even more enriching for the whole family.
🐠 Dive Enthusiasts
While the reserve is accessible via organized tours, experienced divers might inquire about more specialized dive trips if available, though access is generally managed through the standard tour operators. The protected nature of the reserve ensures a healthy ecosystem, making it a rewarding dive site. Remember to check with your tour provider about equipment rental and any specific dive site conditions.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider if snorkeling is sufficient for your experience, as it's generally less expensive than diving packages. Weekday tours might sometimes be slightly cheaper than weekend excursions. While the cost is a factor, many visitors find the unique experience of exploring this protected marine reserve to be well worth the investment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Reserva Biológica Marinha do Arvoredo
This marine reserve is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and the abundance of marine life that thrives within its protected boundaries. Visitors can expect to encounter a variety of fish, sea turtles, and potentially other fascinating creatures. The underwater topography, with depths around 10 meters for diving, offers an accessible yet exciting experience for both novice and experienced divers. The commitment to preservation means that the ecosystem remains relatively pristine, offering a glimpse into a vibrant underwater world.
Access to the Reserva Biológica Marinha do Arvoredo is strictly controlled and managed through authorized boat tours. These tours are designed to provide an immersive experience while adhering to conservation guidelines. The journey to the island itself is often a highlight, offering scenic views of the coastline. The emphasis on conservation ensures that this natural wonder can be enjoyed by future generations, making it a truly special destination for marine enthusiasts.
Diving and Snorkeling Experiences
For those new to diving, the reserve provides a welcoming environment. Professional instructors offer thorough briefings, ensuring participants understand breathing techniques and safety protocols. The one-on-one instructor-to-diver ratio enhances the safety and personalized experience. Snorkeling also provides excellent visibility, allowing visitors to observe the vibrant coral formations and the active marine life just below the surface.
Many visitors opt for underwater photography packages to capture their encounters. The chance to photograph sea turtles and colorful fish in their natural habitat is a significant draw. It's important to remember that while the experience is thrilling, respecting the marine environment is paramount. Visitors are encouraged to follow their guides' instructions to ensure the preservation of this delicate ecosystem.
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