Fishing and Freediving in Florianópolis: a Morning Around Xavier and Aranhas Islands

This fishing and freediving tour in Florianópolis, Brazil, is what Curta Floripa calls Water Activities: fishing, spearfishing and freediving in a single boat itinerary. It leaves at 7 a.m. from the Deck do Passeio in Barra da Lagoa, and the Neptune heads for the stretch of sea between Ilha do Xavier and Ilha das Aranhas, chosen according to sea and wind conditions. Fishing gear is already included, along with a kayak, mask, snorkel and fins. Groups are limited to 8 people, which keeps the boat roomy. The boat returns to Barra da Lagoa at 1 p.m.

The stretch between Ilha do Xavier and Ilha das Aranhas lies in the sea off the east side of Santa Catarina Island, the island where Florianópolis sits. Ilha do Xavier is great for diving and sport fishing, while Ilha das Aranhas is a popular spot for diving and snorkeling, known for its rock formations and natural pools. Where the group actually ends up changes from day to day: the itinerary follows the sea and the wind, and the activity can be moved or replaced when the weather does not cooperate.

With Curta Floripa the day is an experience-first trip: a boat of their own, the Neptune, which carries 8 to 14 people and, on this outing, takes groups of up to 8. The team provides a guide, accident insurance and life jackets, and the boat has a restroom. If you do not have a group yet, you can join a ready-made one, and if you like you can have a barbecue on board, cooked during the trip.

Meeting at the Deck do Passeio — The group meets at 7 a.m. at the Deck do Passeio, Servidão José Laurindo de Souza, 233, Barra da Lagoa. The departure time must be confirmed in advance.

Sailing to the stretch between the islands — The Neptune heads for the area between Ilha do Xavier and Ilha das Aranhas. The spot of the day is chosen according to sea and wind, and the plan can be adjusted during the morning.

Fishing and spearfishing — With the fishing gear included, the group fishes and spearfishes. Results depend on the sea and the day, and no catch is promised.

Freediving and kayak — Mask, snorkel and fins are available for freediving, and the kayak rounds out the time in the water.

Barbecue on board (optional) — With Option A, the group brings food, charcoal, ice and drinks, and the crew grills during the trip at no extra cost. With Option B, the crew provides the meal for R$ 50 per person, with drinks and charcoal paid by the guest. Let us know when you book.

Return to Barra da Lagoa — The Neptune is back at the Deck do Passeio at 1 p.m., closing the 6-hour outing.

Quick summary

• Duration: 6 hours, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• Departure and return: Deck do Passeio, Barra da Lagoa (Servidão José Laurindo de Souza, 233); confirm the time in advance