Joan & Joe - Spending a day in the wonderful city of Rio sitting in a day room or just going on the two-hour bus tour offered (maybe) by the ship seems like a terrific waste of time there. I would echo the previous recommendations of engaging a private guide for the day.

Even though Cedric is no longer in Rio, his close friends, Manu (whom Peggy cited) and Rafa (whom we know and who is frequently recommended on CC) are still in the business in Rio. Rafa and Manu refer clients to each other if one of them is already booked up.

Here's contact info for Rafa (Rafael Torres):

donrafainrio@yahoo.es

Rafa's interesting blog (which also features Manu in a couple of sections) is:

Rafa\'s Rio Blog

We had a grand time having lunch at Porcao, with a fantastic view of Sugarloaf and the bay. It isn't cheap (about $200 total for the three of us) but was worth the $$ for the view and the experience. If you go to Porcao, be sure to specify the one in Flamengo, as that is the one with the great view.

If you contact Rafa, tell him that his buddy, Freddynho, recommended him.

Have a good day in "A Cidade Maravilhosa" (the marvelous city), which is how Cariocas quite justifiably refer to Rio. They have a most apt saying there that, "While Paris may be the most beautiful city designed by men, Rio is the most beautiful city designed by God." That saying is a reference to the magnificent setting of Rio between the sea and the mountains.

Another great thing to do during a day in Rio is to take a helitour. If you want info about that, let me know.

Cheers, Fred