Porto Seguro–Arraial d’Ajuda ferry crossing
Visitor guide

Porto Seguro–Arraial d’Ajuda ferry crossing

Porto Seguro · Bahia

Visitor guide

Organising your visit

A safe crossing averaging 10 to 15 minutes, the ferry from Porto Seguro town to Arraial d'Ajuda operates 24 hours a day, every day. Departures are hourly overnight and every 30 minutes during the day. It crosses the Buranhém River carrying pedestrians and vehicles of all sizes. Although it connects two districts, it also offers some unique photo opportunities at dawn and late afternoon.

Open location on the map

About this place

A safe crossing averaging 10 to 15 minutes, the ferry from Porto Seguro town to Arraial d'Ajuda operates 24 hours a day, every day. Departures are hourly overnight and every 30 minutes during the day. It crosses the Buranhém River carrying pedestrians and vehicles of all sizes. Although it connects two districts, it also offers some unique photo opportunities at dawn and late afternoon. This place is part of Rede Bem Bahia’s Regional Guide and helps visitors understand the natural, historical, cultural and scenic diversity of the Costa do Descobrimento. The experience varies with the time of day, tide, weather, calendar and means of access. Plan your visit considering travel, time on site and current rules, and confirm operational information before setting out.

Getting there

From Porto Seguro, cross the Buranhém River by ferry and follow Estrada da Balsa to Arraial d’Ajuda. Road access is also available via BA-986, without a river crossing.

Things to do

Sail, admire mangroves, reefs or river mouths, and observe wildlife from a responsible distance, always following the crew's or guides' instructions. Allow time to notice the details presented in the attraction description and take photographs responsibly.

Travel tips

Confirm tide, wind, duration, included items and safety equipment before boarding.

Practical planning

Suggested duration
Half a day to a full day
Best time
Depending on tide, wind and authorized operations
Costs
Tours and crossings usually require payment
Accessibility
Boarding and disembarking require prior confirmation
Advance booking
Recommended, especially in high season
Seasonality
Operations subject to navigation conditions

Approximate distances

Porto Seguro airport
approx. 10–18 km via ferry
Porto Seguro town centre
approx. 7–15 km via ferry
Bus terminal
approx. 10–18 km via ferry
Coroa Vermelha
approx. 25–35 km via ferry
Mundaí
approx. 16–25 km via ferry
Arraial d’Ajuda
up to 8 km from Arraial town centre

Distances are estimates, not journey times. Confirm the route and any ferry crossings before departure.

Free travel guide · Rede Bem Bahia accommodation

Choose your base for exploring Porto Seguro and Cabrália

You can use the entire guide without booking with us. It is produced by Rede Bem Bahia, which brings together these three properties. Compare their locations with your itinerary and discover our hotels.

Mundaí · Porto Seguro

Bahia Beira Mar Hotel

A pool, accommodation and outdoor spaces in Mundaí: a base for exploring Porto Seguro and the northern waterfront.

Coroa Vermelha · Santa Cruz Cabrália

Bem Bahia Hotel

A pool, guest rooms and breakfast in Coroa Vermelha: explore the property before planning your stay in Cabrália.

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