Bali: Snorkeling Manta by Yacht to Nusa Penida & Lembongan

Taking a boat trip around Bali’s neighboring islands is a classic way to escape the busy beaches and explore some of Indonesia’s most beautiful waters. This luxury yacht tour to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan promises a day of adventure, relaxation, and encounters with marine life, all aboard a sleek 13-meter vessel with a professional crew and guide. From snorkeling with manta rays to scenic island visits, it’s an experience designed for those seeking an upscale, yet authentic, Balinese ocean escape.

What truly sets this trip apart is the combination of personalized comfort, diverse snorkeling spots, and the chance to see the famous manta rays at Manta Bay. Plus, the yacht’s amenities—including air-conditioned cabins and a flybridge—mean you can relax in style between the activities. The only thing to keep in mind is that the full-day nature means you’ll spend much of the day at sea, which isn’t ideal if you’re sensitive to boat movement or seeking a more laid-back, land-based tour.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a high-end, intimate adventure with a focus on marine discovery. It’s suited for those with a moderate level of fitness (able to snorkel and handle a boat ride), and families with children over five, thanks to the safety measures in place. If you’re after a luxurious way to see Bali’s underwater world and islands in one go, this tour could be just the ticket.

Good To Know

• Luxury Yacht Experience: Comfortable, stylish vessel with onboard amenities like air-conditioned cabins and a sound system.
• Marine Wildlife: Snorkel at world-renowned spots such as Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, and Gamat Bay.
• Island Exploration: Guided visits to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, with plenty of free time for sightseeing.
• Full-Day Adventure: Approximately 8 hours, including snorkeling, beach visits, and scenic cruising.
• Professional Support: Crew and guides prioritize safety and provide snorkeling and fishing equipment.
• Optimal for Couples, Families, and Small Groups: Up to 12 guests, private groups preferred, with flexibility in itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic and Luxurious Day at Sea

This Bali yacht tour offers a blend of comfort and adventure that’s hard to beat. Starting at Serangan port, you’ll set sail aboard the Freedom Yacht, a sleek, 13-meter long vessel with enough space for 12 guests. The boat’s design emphasizes style and safety, with lifejackets, fire extinguishers, and lifebuoys all in place, making you feel secure as you cruise across Bali’s waters.

Most reviews highlight how well-organized and attentive the crew is. Guests mention the professional crew and a private guide who are eager to ensure everyone’s experience is enjoyable. The onboard sound system allows you to play your favorite tunes, adding a personal touch to the day. The yacht’s amenities—like shaded areas and a flybridge—offer plenty of space to relax, sunbathe, or take in the views.

The Itinerary: A Perfect Balance of Action and Relaxation

The day kicks off around 9 am with a 40-minute cruise from Serangan to the first snorkeling spot, a coral fishing area that’s a fun, early taste of the water. Many reviewers appreciate this initial activity as a light-hearted way to start the day, with some noting they caught vibrant tropical fish that made for great photos. It’s a good warm-up before the main event.

The next stops are the star attractions: Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, and Gamat Bay. These sites are renowned for their marine biodiversity. At Manta Bay, you’re likely to encounter gentle manta rays gliding through the water, a once-in-a-lifetime moment for many. A guest shared, “Seeing those graceful manta rays was surreal—something I will never forget.” The guided tour and snorkeling equipment make it accessible, even for beginners.

Crystal Bay offers a more colorful coral reef scene, with chances to spot sea turtles, fish, and vibrant corals. Gamat Bay is less crowded and boasts beautiful coral gardens, making it an excellent spot for underwater photography. Reviewers often mention how clear the water was, allowing for excellent visibility and photography opportunities.

After several hours of snorkeling, you’ll enjoy a light onboard snack or a leisurely lunch at Virgin Beach, where Mount Agung is visible in the distance. Many appreciate the optional beachside lunch, noting the majestic views and the relaxing atmosphere.

Post-lunch, you can choose to relax on the beach, snorkel some more, or go fishing with the provided equipment. The day winds down with a scenic cruise back to Bali, arriving around 5 pm—well before sunset, giving you plenty of time to unwind or reflect on the day.

Highlights of the Experience

Snorkeling Sites: The stops for snorkeling are selected for their high marine activity, especially Manta Bay, which is famous for manta rays. The guided tours ensure you get to see the best spots, with snorkel instructors on hand to assist.

Scenic Views: You’ll love the views of Bali’s coastlines, the distant silhouette of Mount Agung, and the lush islands of Nusa Penida and Lembongan. The yacht’s flybridge offers an elevated perspective—perfect for photos.

Island Visits: While the focus is maritime, the stops at Nusa Penida and Lembongan include sightseeing and free time to explore or relax, adding a land-based element to the day.

Comfort and Safety: The boat’s design prioritizes comfort, with air-conditioned cabins, shaded areas, and safety equipment. The crew’s professionalism is often praised, with several reviews mentioning how smoothly everything ran.

What to Expect: Practical Considerations

The group size, capped at 12 guests, makes for an intimate experience that feels personalized without feeling crowded. This also means you get plenty of attention from the crew, which enhances safety and comfort.

The tour departs at 9 am from Serangan port, so arriving a little earlier ensures a relaxed start. The full-day schedule means you’ll be out on the water for about 8 hours, with some reviews noting that the time flies by due to the engaging activities and stunning scenery.

For those worried about seasickness, the boat’s stability and the relatively short cruising times should help. Still, packing some medication or ginger tablets might be a good idea if you’re prone to motion sickness.

The snorkeling equipment is provided, along with instructions, making it accessible for beginners. However, it’s best to have basic swimming skills and a comfortable mask and snorkel to fully enjoy the underwater scenes.

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The Value and Why It’s Worth Considering

While the tour isn’t cheap, many reviewers agree that the luxury level, personalized service, and access to prime snorkeling spots justify the price. The inclusion of food, equipment, and safety gear streamlines the experience, so you don’t need to worry about bringing much beyond your essentials.

The boat’s design minimizes discomfort and maximizes views, making it an excellent choice for those looking to combine comfort with adventure. On top of that, the small group size ensures a more private feel, which is especially appreciated when snorkeling or relaxing on deck.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a high-end, hassle-free day exploring Bali’s marine environment. It’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic, scenic escape, or small families wanting a safe, guided adventure. The limited capacity and private group options make it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more personalized experience.

People who enjoy snorkeling or are eager to see manta rays will find this especially rewarding. However, those who prefer a more relaxed, land-based tour might find the full-day boat focus a bit intense.

Summary: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for an exclusive, well-organized day of marine discovery combined with luxury amenities, this Bali yacht tour delivers exactly that. You’re likely to return with memories of stunning underwater encounters, beautiful island scenery, and a sense of indulgence. The well-balanced mix of active snorkeling, scenic cruising, and leisure time makes it suitable for various travelers, especially those wanting to experience Bali’s natural beauty with style.

On the flip side, if you’re not comfortable on boats or prefer a more laid-back experience without much water activity, this might not be your ideal choice. It’s also best suited for travelers over five years old, given the safety considerations and activity levels.

For anyone eager to see Bali’s vibrant marine life, enjoy scenic island views, and do so in comfort, this tour offers excellent value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 9 am from Serangan port, Bali. Arriving a little earlier is recommended to ensure a relaxed start.

How long is the boat ride?
The cruise from Serangan to the snorkeling locations takes approximately 40 minutes. During the day, you’ll spend around 100 minutes cruising between spots.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling and fishing equipment are included, along with guides to assist and ensure safety.

What safety measures are in place?
The yacht is equipped with lifejackets, life buoys, and fire extinguishers. The crew is professional and attentive, prioritizing guest safety.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children aged 5 and above can participate. The tour is designed to be family-friendly, but considerations about boat comfort should be made for very young children.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, hats, swimwear, a camera, and sunscreen. Remember to leave any litter or touching marine life, as these are not allowed.

This Bali yacht tour combines comfort, adventure, and stunning scenery, making it a memorable way to experience the island’s underwater treasures. Whether you’re snorkeling with manta rays or relaxing on deck, it’s a luxurious way to explore some of Bali’s most beautiful waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby