Mar Do Rio

Arraial do Cabo, Brazil

The team at Mar Do Rio are an institution in Arraial do Cabo. They’ve been diving these waters for what feels like forever, and it shows in their calm professionalism and the easy way they navigate the local currents. We love their energy, especially when they’re kitting up a boatload of students, all buzzing with pre-dive nerves and excitement. They’re PADI through and through, running a proper 5-star IDC centre, so you know the training is top-notch. Our favourite thing about Mar Do Rio is their commitment to getting you comfortable. The water here can be surprisingly brisk, even in summer, so having well-maintained gear and a knowledgeable guide makes all the difference. We’d suggest chatting with them about the best time for specific sites; sometimes an early morning dive means you miss the weekend crowds at Ilha dos Franceses, where the schooling grunts are incredible. They really shine with new divers, patiently guiding them through their first breaths underwater. For anyone looking to get certified, or just wanting a few solid, well-run dives in Arraial, Mar Do Rio is a very good bet.