Day Tour and Snorkeling With Manta Rays to Lembongan From Bali

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of underwater adventure and scenic island exploration, this Day Tour and Snorkeling with Manta Rays to Lembongan might be just what you need. Organized by Bali Panoramic, this full-day trip from Bali offers a chance to see vibrant marine life, encounter gentle manta rays, and enjoy beautiful coastal views—all for a reasonable price.

What makes this tour stand out is its well-rounded itinerary, covering three different snorkeling spots, a village tour, and a lush mangrove visit. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day out without feeling rushed, thanks to its 9-hour schedule. However, as with any outdoor adventure, weather plays a role, and sightings such as manta rays are not guaranteed.

We love that this tour includes professional guides who are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness. Plus, the value for money is noticeable when you consider the multiple stops, included activities, and all the logistics handled for you. On the flip side, some might find the early start (7:30 am) a bit of a stretch, especially if they’re not morning people. This experience is ideal for snorkelers, nature lovers, and those eager to explore Bali’s more offbeat spots.

Good To Know

• All-Inclusive Day Experience: Combines snorkeling, boat transfers, village visits, and a beachside lunch.
• Marine Encounters: Focus on seeing manta rays, plus colorful reefs and diverse marine life.
• Convenient Logistics: Includes pickup, transfer, and all fees for stops like Gamat Bay and Mangrove Point.
• Guided Comfort: Knowledgeable guides help make the experience accessible, even for non-swimmers.
• Flexible & Trustworthy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours, with good weather guarantees.
• Value for Money: At $77 per person, it offers a comprehensive day out with many included activities.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation. Starting bright and early at 7:30 am, you’ll be picked up from your Bali hotel in a comfortable vehicle, with free pickup from key locations like Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, and Sanur.

Morning: From Bali to Lembongan via Sanur Harbour

The journey kicks off at Sanur Harbour, a scenic spot famous for its sunrise views and iconic lighthouses. Here, you’ll board a fast boat heading to Nusa Lembongan. The boat ride itself is a highlight—smooth and quick, taking about 45 minutes, giving you a preview of the sea’s beauty.

First Stop: Jungutbatu and Manta Bay

Once on Nusa Lembongan, the first snorkeling stop is Manta Bay. This site is renowned for its clear waters and the chance to see gentle manta rays gliding beneath your gaze. While sightings are not guaranteed (a common caveat in natural habitats), many travelers have enjoyed memorable encounters. The guided snorkeling here is tailored to both beginners and experienced snorkelers, with safety equipment provided.

Tip: The guides are experienced and attentive, often sharing insights about marine species, making the experience more enriching. Some reviews mention that the guides’ knowledge adds to the overall enjoyment.

Second Stop: Crystal Bay

Next, you’ll explore Crystal Bay, a vibrant stretch of water home to pelagic fish, small sharks, stingrays, and even turtles. The shallow, calm waters make it a perfect spot for relaxed swimming and snorkeling. The scenic backdrop of rocky formations and a sandy seabed makes for stunning photos. Many visitors appreciate the chance to see a variety of marine life in one stop.

Third Stop: Gamat Bay

Gamat Bay is known among divers for its striking beauty and strong currents. Though the currents can be challenging, the calm parts of the bay offer excellent opportunities to observe reef fish and invertebrates in their natural environment. The caves and crevices are bonus spots for exploration.

Lunch and Village Exploration

After a morning of snorkeling, you’ll head to a local restaurant on Nusa Lembongan for a generous beachside lunch. This is a great chance to rest, refuel, and enjoy fresh local cuisine, often praised for its simplicity and freshness.

Post-lunch, the tour shifts to a village tour and a visit to the Mangrove Point. Walking through the mangroves, you’ll see impressive root structures and local wildlife. Several reviews highlight how peaceful and photogenic the mangroves are, making it a favorite stop for nature lovers.

Afternoon: Exploring Nusa Lembongan and Return

The final stops include Jungutbatu Beach for some leisure time and a scenic crossing back to Sanur Harbor. The boat ride back is usually smooth, offering another chance to soak in the sea views.

Upon arriving at Sanur, your driver will be waiting to escort you back to your hotel, completing a well-organized day that balances activity with relaxation.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour keeps things personal with a maximum of 20 travelers, which means you’ll get a more intimate experience and better attention from guides. The transportation logistics are smooth—your pickup and drop-off are included, reducing the hassle of navigating Bali’s busy streets.

The fast boat transfers between Bali and Nusa Lembongan are quick and comfortable, which helps maximize your time exploring rather than sitting on water. The entire day is paced to give you ample snorkeling time, with additional stops to explore the island’s natural beauty.

Price & Value

At $77 per person, this tour offers good value considering the multiple snorkeling spots, guided instruction, all transportation, and included meals. It’s a cost-effective way to see several of Nusa Lembongan’s highlights without the hassle of organizing each activity separately. A great benefit is that the tour provider includes insurance coverage, providing peace of mind.

While the price is reasonable, keep in mind that manta ray sightings depend on environmental factors, so patience is key. Many travelers appreciate how much they get for their money, especially the inclusiveness of stops like Gamat Bay and Mangrove Point, which add variety to the experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring comfortable clothing and a change of clothes for after snorkeling.
• Sunscreen is a must, as you’ll be exposed to the sun for most of the day.
• A camera or waterproof case will help capture the moment, especially during the marine encounters.
• Cash or credit card for personal expenses or optional souvenirs.
• Non-swimmers are welcome, as guides provide safety gear and assistance.
• The early start might be tiring, so consider bringing some snacks or water bottles for extra energy.
• Check the weather forecast before booking, as poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

The Sum Up

This Bali to Lembongan snorkeling tour offers a complete day of adventure, scenic beauty, and marine encounters at a reasonable price. The inclusion of multiple stops, guided instruction, and organized transfers makes it a hassle-free choice for travelers wanting to explore Bali’s underwater world without overplanning.

It’s especially suited for snorkelers of all experience levels, nature enthusiasts, and those eager to encounter manta rays in their natural habitat. The knowledgeable guides, combined with stunning coastal views and diverse marine life, create a memorable outing.

While manta ray sightings aren’t guaranteed, the overall experience—covering vibrant reefs, tranquil bays, and cultural highlights—delivers good value and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Just be prepared for an early start and a full day out, but rest assured, your effort will be rewarded with a rich tapestry of sights and sounds beneath and above the waves.

FAQs

Do I need to be a strong swimmer to join?
No, non-swimmers are welcome since the tour provides safety equipment and guides are attentive to all skill levels.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers boat transfers, snorkeling stops at Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, and Gamat Bay, a village tour, mangrove visit, lunch, and insurance coverage.

Can I see manta rays during the tour?
There’s a high chance of encountering manta rays at Manta Bay, but sightings are not guaranteed due to their natural habitat.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, camera, change of clothes, and cash or credit card for additional expenses.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour’s group size is small, and guides ensure safety and fun for all ages, including children who can snorkel with assistance.

What is the duration of the boat ride?
The boat ride from Bali to Lembongan takes approximately 45 minutes, offering a quick and comfortable transfer.

Are meals included?
Yes, a beachside lunch on Nusa Lembongan is included, providing a good local meal after snorkeling.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I join if I don’t have much snorkeling experience?
Absolutely. Guides provide safety equipment and instructions, making this accessible even for novices.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal and attentive experience.

This tour combines the best of Bali’s coastal beauty, marine life, and island culture into one well-organized, value-packed journey. It’s a fantastic way to add a splash of adventure and exploration to your Bali itinerary.