Ilha Grande And Agra Dos Reis Brazil

Water Safety Realities

• Boat traffic: Many sites are shared with tour boats and water taxis. Use a DSMB for scuba ascents and a float/flag for snorkeling and freediving.
• Variable visibility: After rain, runoff can reduce visibility quickly. Keep dives conservative and stay close to your buddy.
• Cold fronts: Wind and swell can build fast. Let operators switch sites and do not push exposed points if surge is present.
• Wrecks: Treat wrecks as overhead environments. Do not penetrate unless trained and equipped.

Operator Checklist

• Confirm emergency oxygen is on board.
• Ask about maximum depth, current, and exit plan before entering.
• Use a local guide if you are new to the region or doing offshore sites.

Ilha Grande has limited medical services compared to major cities. For anything serious, evacuation to the mainland (Angra dos Reis) is typical, and advanced care may require transfer onward to Rio de Janeiro. For suspected decompression illness, start oxygen, hydrate, keep the diver warm, and contact emergency services. Carry dive accident coverage (for example DAN) and keep your insurance numbers offline on your phone.

Costa Verde includes state and federal conservation units, and some zones restrict public access. Ecological stations (such as ESEC Tamoios) are integral-protection areas where public visitation is generally not allowed except under specific educational authorization. Follow captain briefings, use moorings where provided, never anchor on reef, and do not remove shells or organisms. Keep buoyancy tight over rock reefs, avoid touching turtles, and pack out all trash (including micro-trash like snack wrappers and cigarette butts).