Snorkeling Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida

If you’re dreaming of floating above crystal-clear waters filled with colorful fish and graceful manta rays, this Snorkeling Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida is worth considering. It’s a popular choice among travelers seeking an authentic, memorable underwater adventure without the hassle of multiple bookings.

What we love about this tour: the chance to see manta rays—often swimming close enough to touch—plus the variety of marine creatures, the scenic island stops, and the friendly, helpful guides. The value for the price is impressive, especially considering all the inclusions, like lunch and snorkel gear.

A potential drawback? The trip’s physical demands, such as swimming and boat transfers, might not suit everyone. Also, weather conditions can influence manta ray sightings, so patience is sometimes needed.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who love marine life and want a full day of snorkeling, sightseeing, and island exploring. It’s especially suitable for those with moderate fitness levels, but not for young children or seniors over 64, due to physical and health considerations.

Good To Know

• Marine wildlife galore: Manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins, and clownfish often put on a spectacular show.
• Comprehensive experience: Includes multiple snorkeling spots, island visits, lunch, and optional activities like kayaking.
• Good value: For just over $40, you get equipment, transportation, lunch, and a memorable adventure.
• Flexible options: Available as a full-day or half-day trip, with hotel pickup in Bali included.
• Authentic local vibes: Visit Nusa Lembongan’s white sandy beaches and seaweed plantations for a taste of island life.
• Organized and friendly guides: Known for their efforts to make the trip smooth, fun, and photo-friendly.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Ease of Booking and Departure

Booking this trip about two weeks in advance is typical, which indicates good planning flexibility. The tour is operated by Bali Maju Mapan Tours, a reputable provider. Meeting points are conveniently located in Seminyak, with hotel pickup included if you select the full package. The process is straightforward, with a mobile ticket system making last-minute planning easier.

Transportation and Group Size

On the day, you’ll be picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Although some reviews mention that vehicles in Lembongan don’t always have air conditioning, this is more about the boats and local transport — it doesn’t detract from the overall comfort. The group size is capped at 100 travelers, keeping it lively but not overly crowded.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Start with a boat ride from Bali to Nusa Lembongan, which takes about 40 minutes. The fast boat is swift and generally smooth, and the crew is experienced at handling the crossing, even in slightly choppy weather. Upon arrival, you’re greeted with drinks and snacks—an immediate welcome to the island’s relaxed vibe.

Snorkeling spots are chosen by guides based on weather conditions, with Manta Bay being a priority if the conditions are right. This is where the magic happens: snorkelers often report seeing multiple manta rays swimming gracefully around them, sometimes just feet away. One reviewer mentioned seeing four manta rays around them at once, which is a highlight for many.

Other stops include Mangrove Point at Nusa Lembongan, where the calm waters and mangrove scenery create an ideal environment for spotting smaller marine life like clownfish and sea urchins. Visitors can expect to see thousands of fish and vibrant corals during these sessions.

Underwater Encounters and Marine Life

There’s no guarantee of manta rays — nature is unpredictable — but many travelers have been lucky. Multiple reviews mention encounters with up to four manta rays swimming around, making this experience worth the early wake-up. Besides manta rays, you’ll often see sea turtles, dolphins, and a colorful array of fish. Guides are attentive and do their best to get everyone into the best spot for photos, often capturing moments of guests swimming alongside the rays or colorful schools of fish.

Food, Rest, and Optional Activities

After snorkeling, a buffet Indonesian lunch is served—fruit, juices, and tasty local dishes. Guests have praised the food as satisfying and a good recharge for the afternoon. While the full-day trip includes more activities like kayaking and additional island tours, the half-day option is perfect if you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed pace.

Many reviewers appreciated the chance to view their underwater photos and videos, which are available for purchase. This is a nice touch, as it allows you to relive the moments without worrying about capturing everything yourself.

Additional Activities and Flexibility

Post-lunch, you can choose to go kayaking around Nusa Lembongan or explore the island further with guided tours. The tour wraps up with a fast boat back to Bali, where you’re transferred to your hotel or accommodation. The entire experience is designed to be smooth and seamless, with a focus on delivering memorable moments.

The Reviews Tell a Story

Travelers’ comments reveal that guides and staff go above and beyond to make the day enjoyable. One reviewer specifically mentions that the guides “really put their efforts into keeping the group together and giving everyone a nice day,” and another appreciated how photos were taken to capture the experience.

While some noted that vehicles in Lembongan aren’t air-conditioned, this is a minor quibble compared to the overall value and experience. The trip’s organization, from check-in to returning, earns high marks for reliability and friendliness.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snorkeling trip is ideal for adventurous souls eager to see manta rays and colorful marine life. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a well-organized, full-day experience that combines island scenery with underwater discovery.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 10 or seniors over 64 due to physical exertion and health considerations. People with respiratory issues should also consider their comfort level during water activities.

Those looking for a relaxing, lazy day on the beach might prefer a less active option, but if underwater encounters and island exploration excite you, this trip checks many boxes.

The Sum Up

This snorkeling day trip to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida offers a compelling mix of marine adventure, scenic island stops, and culture. The chance to swim alongside gentle manta rays and explore vibrant coral reefs makes it a standout activity. With friendly guides, good food, and well-organized logistics, it provides excellent value for the price.

While weather conditions can influence manta sightings, the trip’s flexibility and array of included activities make it a worthwhile investment. It’s perfect for travelers who want an active, authentic experience that combines underwater marvels with island charm.

If discovering marine life and enjoying a full-day of fun sounds appealing, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s a chance to create lasting memories, meet friendly locals, and see some of Indonesia’s best underwater sights—an adventure you’ll be glad you booked.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the full-day package includes hotel pickup from Bali, making the start of your day hassle-free. The half-day snorkeling option may not include this service.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection (like sunscreen and a hat), and waterproof essentials. Snorkeling equipment is provided, but you might prefer to bring your own mask and fins if you have specific preferences.

Can anyone participate in snorkeling?
Participants should have moderate physical fitness. The tour isn’t recommended for children under 10 or seniors over 64 due to the physical aspects of swimming and boat transfers.

What if I don’t see manta rays?
While sightings are common, they are not guaranteed due to nature’s unpredictability. Guides do their best to find manta rays, but patience is key.

How long is the boat ride?
The crossing from Bali to Nusa Lembongan takes around 40 minutes on a fast boat, which is generally smooth and comfortable.

Are there any hidden costs?
The tour price includes most essentials; however, you might want to budget for underwater photos or souvenirs. The Bali Marine Protected Area retribution is not included in the price.

This snorkeling tour offers a lively, rewarding glimpse into Indonesia’s underwater world. With expert guides and stunning marine encounters, it’s a trip that will add a splash of adventure to your Bali holiday.