SUP or Kayak Trip to Ilha do Francês with Snorkeling in Florianópolis

A stand up paddle (SUP) or kayak crossing to Ilha do Francês, in the north of Florianópolis, in front of the beaches of Canasvieiras and Jurerê. The trip starts on the Canasvieiras waterfront, with guide and equipment included, and combines paddling, snorkeling and swimming in the sea.

After the equipment check, the group paddles toward the island for approximately 980 meters, about 20 minutes of paddling. On arrival, you will find two beaches with waters of different colors, ranging from crystal clear to green and several shades of blue, beside the island's native vegetation. When wind and tide conditions are ideal, participants can paddle around the island with the instructor.

The route is approximately 3.5 km of paddling in total, done in 3 stretches with breaks. The trip lasts from 3.5 to 4 hours and has an easy difficulty level. It can be done on a SUP or in single and double kayaks.

Meeting point in Canasvieiras: The group meets at Rua Conselheiro Cláudio de Vincenzi, at the end of the street, on the Canasvieiras beachfront (no street number). There is public street parking.

Crossing to Ilha do Francês: After the equipment check, the paddle continues for approximately 980 meters to the island, in about 20 minutes.

Ilha do Francês: On the island, participants can snorkel, swim in the sea and enjoy the two beaches. When wind and tide allow, it is possible to paddle around the island with the instructor. The island has no commercial facilities such as restrooms, a restaurant or a snack bar.

Quick summary

• Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

• Difficulty: easy

• Minimum age: 5 years

• Maximum weight: 95 kg (equipment limit, according to the manufacturer)

• Distance: approximately 3.5 km of paddling, in 3 stretches with breaks

• Modality: SUP, single kayaks and double kayaks

• Departure times: 7:00 am (morning) or 5:30 am (sunrise, with a minimum of 5 participants), with up to 15 spots per departure

• Days: every day, except from June to August

• Includes: single or double kayak, SUP board (subject to availability), snorkel, guide and tourist insurance; optional support boat

• Does not include: transfer to the meeting point, meals, snacks and drinks

• Weather dependent: the activity depends on weather and safety conditions

Additional information

• Facilities: public street parking near the meeting point; Ilha do Francês has no restrooms, restaurant or snack bar

• What to bring: drinking water, sunscreen, rash guard, insect repellent, cap and a snack; waterproof cover or bag for electronics

• What not to bring: drugs, narcotic substances, pets and excessive luggage

• Recommended clothing: swimwear, cap, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent

• Restrictions: people over 95 kg

• Safety: alcoholic beverages, drugs or any narcotic substance that could put participants at risk are prohibited before and during the activity

• Children: ages 5 to 8, free of charge, when in the triple kayak with parents or guardians; ages 9 to 14, R$ 150; from age 15, R$ 200; groups of 8 or more, R$ 180 per person

• Online booking: reservations up to 24 hours in advance

Cancellation by the customer

Cancellations can be made up to 48 hours in advance. Date changes are flexible and at no additional cost.

Cancellation by the operator

In case of rain or adverse weather, the customer can reschedule the experience for the following days when there is availability and favorable conditions.

Ideal for

• Anyone who wants to reach Ilha do Francês by paddling

• Families with children aged 5 and over

• Couples, friends and groups looking for an easy, fun outdoor activity

• Those who enjoy snorkeling and swimming in waters of different colors

• Those who want to watch the sunrise in Canasvieiras (5:30 am departure, with a minimum of 5 participants)

Why it is worth it: Ilha do Francês is about 980 meters from the Canasvieiras waterfront, and the easy SUP or kayak crossing makes the trip accessible to beginners. At the destination, there are two beaches, snorkeling, swimming and, when conditions allow, a paddle around the island with the instructor. With guide, equipment and tourist insurance included, and the option of a sunrise departure, the trip suits anyone who wants an active morning in the north of the island.

Expert's view

I recommend this trip to anyone who wants a light adventure with paddling, snorkeling and beach time in a single morning. The crossing is short, the level is easy and Ilha do Francês rewards you with beautifully colored waters. If you like waking up early, the sunrise departure is worth choosing.

Guta, co-founder of Acalanta Viagens