The Catamarã Charitas, operated by CCR Barcas, connects Niterói’s Charitas neighborhood to Praça XV in Rio de Janeiro, offering a scenic and efficient 20-minute crossing of Guanabara Bay. The service, running weekdays from 6:30 AM to 8:10 PM (Charitas to Praça XV) and 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Praça XV to Charitas), provides air-conditioned catamarans with a capacity of around 350 passengers, ensuring a comfortable journey. The iconic Charitas station, designed by Oscar Niemeyer, is a notable architectural landmark, enhancing the travel experience with its modern aesthetic.
Recent changes have made the service more accessible, with the fare reduced from R$21 to R$7.70 starting March 6, 2025, following a partnership between Niterói’s municipality and the Rio de Janeiro state government. This 63% price drop led to a 60% surge in passengers on the first day, with daily usage rising from 3,500 to around 6,000, easing traffic on roads like Avenida Roberto Silveira. The fleet expanded from three to four catamarans, with plans for further additions to meet growing demand, and all vessels now feature air conditioning for enhanced comfort.
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