ECOSUL TURISMO
Nautical ecotourism charter conducted by biologists.
EcoSul Turismo offers boat rentals with sailing crew (nautical charters) specialized in nature observation experiences in Ilhéus, Bahia. Here, the boat is your starting point to discover the most authentic side of the region — a unique way to explore the southern coast of Bahia in total harmony with the river, the sea, and the wildlife!
EcoSul Turismo’s mission is to foster a deep and conscious connection between people and Nature, especially the ocean life of Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil. Led by passionate biologists, we offer both shared charters with predefined routes and private charters for a fully personalized and exclusive program.
Each moment is an immersion in Nature. Our commitment to science, environmental respect, and community support is at the heart of everything we do. We collaborate with research groups and conservation projects, actively supporting whale protection and cetacean research, while also providing technical and financial support to students and conservation initiatives.
With strict safety protocols and clear communication, we ensure unforgettable moments in a pleasant and secure environment — always prioritizing a form of tourism that respects and protects nature.
Alice
Biologist PhD on cetacean behaviour
A woman born in Bahia who has always been passionate about cetaceans, Alice began her career as a biologist studying Guiana dolphins in Ilhéus, at the Research Group on Aquatic Mammals at the State University of Santa Cruz (GPMAI/UESC).
Her fascination with marine mammals led to a career dedicated to researching and protecting these amazing creatures. With a solid academic background and a PhD in France, where she studied the acoustic communication of dolphins and published 4 scientific articles, Alice returns to Bahia after an enriching international experience.
Aiming to share her passion and knowledge about whales and dolphins, she is also a member of Projeto Baleias na Serra and strives to educate the public and promote the protection of marine ecosystems. Her dedication goes beyond cetaceans, extending to the protection of nature in all ecosystems, with special attention to the Atlantic Forest, which she has known since her childhood spent on cocoa plantations in southern Bahia.
On our team, Alice plays a key role, sharing her expert knowledge and contagious enthusiasm with everyone. His international experience, combined with his Bahian roots, enriches our work and inspires us to promote awareness of marine life and the importance of ocean conservation.
Thomas
Captain, Biologist and Wildlife Photographer
Thomas is a talented member of our team who combines his passion for biology, photography and marine exploration. Doctor in Biology who is dedicated to the understanding and conservation of species, his research work focuses mainly on animal reproduction with specialization in reptiles. He is also the author of five scientific articles and five popular science articles.
In addition, Thomas is a skilled wildlife photographer, capturing stunning images of whales and other animals. His artistic eye combined with his biological knowledge results in breathtaking photographs that awaken a greater appreciation and awareness of the nature around you.
As captain of the boat, he leads our expeditions, offering a safe and enriching experience. Fluent in French, English and Portuguese, Thomas brings a multicultural perspective. Now, he brings his work and enthusiasm to Brazil, transmitting his passion for nature and fauna.
Thomas enriches our team with his scientific skills, nautical knowledge and photographic talent.
His presence strengthens our mission to promote wildlife conservation and awaken a love for nature in everyone who crosses our path.
Anabela
Master Biologist, Specialist in cetaceans
Anabela is from Pará, biologist from the Federal University of Pará (UFPA) and in love with cetaceans, which led her to work with large cetaceans with Ecosul Turismo. Today, as a Master in Zoology at the Federal University of Santa Cruz (UESC), she developed her first work using drone monitoring to assess the behavioral response of humpback whales to tourism in the region of Ilhéus. There is no great sense in scientific research when thought solely by itself, without using it as a means to improve the human-environment relationship!
Kalyane
Master student, Biologist
Kalyane is from Ilhéus, Bahia! She graduated from Santa Cruz State University (UESC) and her love for cetaceans dates back to undergraduate studies. As an intern at Projeto Baleias na Serra, she participated in field activities for visual monitoring of humpback whales through a fixed point in Serra Grande.
She is currently a Master's student in Zoology at the State University of Santa Cruz (UESC), and is carrying out her research that seeks to study the behavior of female-calf pairs of humpback whales using the drone through our boat.
Juliano
Master student, Biologist
Ilheense, Juliano graduated in Biological Sciences from the State University of Santa Cruz. He grew up on the southern and far southern coasts of Bahia and has always had a strong connection with the marine environment. Currently, he is pursuing a master's degree in Tropical Aquatic Systems at UESC where he studies the effects of vessel approach on the behavior and movement patterns of humpback whales using drone assistance.
He is a member of the Ilhéus Aquatic Mammal Research Group (GPMAI), with experience and work in the field of Ecology, with an emphasis on Applied Ecology, focusing on photo identification and bioacoustics of gray dolphins, contributing to the conservation of cetacean populations in southern Bahia.
PEDRA LISA II
Our "Pedra Lisa II" is a TOP FISH 21 boat. It is 6.5m long and more than 2m wide. With its 6 seats, its 150hp outboard engine and its autonomy of almost 12 hours; it was designed and built for coastal and offshore navigation. But it is so very comfortable on the river thanks to it draft of only 45 cm. Whether exploring the high seas of Ilhéus or outing with your family, you will always have the best comfort and safety aboard with us.
They support us!
The Research Group on Aquatic Mammals of Ilhéus (GPMAI) was created in 2006 at the State University of Santa Cruz (UESC). The group's mission is to design and carry out research on cetacean species that frequent the coastal waters of the State of Bahia.
We have been working in partnership with GPMAI since 2022, taking a master's student on board who collects her scientific data during your whale watching tour. With two of our guides as part of the group, we can ensure that you always have the latest information about whales and dolphins in the region.
The Whales from the hill project was born in 2013. It is linked to the Laboratory of Ecology Applied to Conservation (LEAC) at the State University of Santa Cruz (UESC), in Ilhéus. The project's mission is to promote the appreciation of humpback whales through the production and dissemination of scientific knowledge, aiming to propose and support effective conservation actions that improve the perception and the importance of these giants on the planet. Having one of our guides as member of the project allows us to offer current and interesting knowledge about the whales that frequent our region. In addition, Ecosul Turismo finances the Baleias na Serra Project by donating 1% of its revenues for the continuation of its research activities. And if you book a whale watching trip with them, 20% of your booking will be donated to the Project.
Located by the sea just 1 km from Jorge Amado Airport, the Hotel Praia do Sol always supports the development of whale watching in Ilhéus and tells you all about this experience here! Providing easy access and convenience for the public, restaurant and convention center, the Praia do Sol hotel has 98 apartments with private bathroom, air conditioning, cable TV, safe, telephone and minibar. Some are adapted for people with special needs. Wi-Fi is free in social areas and apartments.
Booking : www.praiadosol.com.br
Instagram : @hotelpraiadosol
The Jardim Atlântico Beach Resort, formerly known as Hotel Jardim Atlântico, was designed by architect Rui Cores under the guidance of its Swiss owner. Located by the sea, between the lush Atlantic Forest and the ocean, the resort offers rich biodiversity, providing a natural spectacle with local birds that enchant at dawn. Aiming to create memorable experiences through hospitality and southern Bahia culture, its mission is to entertain and serve with joy, ensuring the comfort and well-being of guests. Striving to be recognized as the best beachfront urban resort in Bahia by 2026, the resort values respect, ethics, joy, and socio-environmental responsibility. The Jardim Atlântico Beach Resort maintains sustainable and high-quality practices, focusing on charming service, excellent cuisine, and a safe and inclusive work environment, offering a unique experience for those visiting the Ilhéus region.
Reservations: www.resortjardimatlantico.com.br
Instagram: @resortjardimatlantico
Located by the sea just 1 km from Jorge Amado Airport, the Hotel Praia do Sol always supports the development of whale watching in Ilhéus and tells you all about this experience here! Providing easy access and convenience for the public, restaurant and convention center, the Praia do Sol hotel has 98 apartments with private bathroom, air conditioning, cable TV, safe, telephone and minibar. Some are adapted for people with special needs. Wi-Fi is free in social areas and apartments.
Booking : www.praiadosol.com.br
Instagram : @hotelpraiadosol
Founded in 1996, it began as a beach house that was gradually divided into a few apartments, with a modest space where breakfast was served. At the time, due to the remote location and lack of nearby restaurants, the need arose to expand. As our guests began to seek greater convenience, we started serving moqueca, and that’s when our chef, DANI FAÇANHA, began to fall in love with gastronomy — a passion that gradually shaped the identity of her cuisine.
Concerned about controlling erosion in the area due to the scarce vegetation, the owners, Mr. Façanha and his wife Daniella, initiated a reforestation project. Today, the entire space is embraced by nature. Part of this vegetation is used in the restaurant's decor and even colors our dishes and drinks — with flowers and plants like jasmine, yellow daisy, aroeira, hibiscus, purple lambari, bougainvillea, among others.
The inn offers a swimming pool and a charming, cozy restaurant with a sea view, featuring a variety of options: pastas, risottos, seafood, and steaks — all from a menu created by our chef. Starting at 7 PM, guests can also choose our wood-fired pizzas and enjoy our "Instagrammable" spaces throughout the day and evening, designed to help capture and share memories of your time here.
Today, the inn has 23 accommodations with sea views and rooms equipped with whirlpool bathtubs. The property also has direct access to the beach.
Booking : www.morrodosnavegantes.com.br/
Instgram : @morrodosnavegantes
Located in Ilhéus, in the south of Bahia — the setting of so many stories by Jorge Amado — Hotel Aldeia da Praia combines comfort, charm, and hospitality right in front of the famous Praia dos Milionários, one of the most beautiful destinations in the region.
Whether you're here to relax with family, enjoy special moments as a couple, or even for a business trip, you'll find the perfect balance of rest, leisure, and convenience. The hotel offers 120 well-equipped apartments, designed to provide maximum comfort in every detail.
Come and live this experience. Here, every moment becomes a cherished memory.
Booking : www.hotel.aldeiadapraia.com.br/
Instagram : @hotelaldeiadapraia