Bali/Nusa Penida: Manta Point Snorkel Boat & West Coast Tour

This Bali/Nusa Penida tour offers a full day of adventure, scenic beauty, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries highlight what makes it a standout experience.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to swim with manta rays, the chance to explore iconic Nusa Penida landmarks, and the convenience of pickup and drop-off services. Plus, the balance between snorkeling and sightseeing ensures a well-rounded day.

A potential consideration is the roughness of some roads on Nusa Penida, which might not be suitable for everyone—especially those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues. Still, if you’re after a combination of marine life and stunning coastal views, this tour is likely to satisfy.

It’s perfect for travelers who crave adventure, scenic vistas, and local cultural touches, and who are comfortable with a full-day itinerary that includes boat rides, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

Good To Know

• Snorkeling with Manta Rays at Manta Point is a core highlight, offering a chance to observe these majestic creatures up close.
• Scenic Landmarks like Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Kelingking Beach provide dramatic photo opportunities and breathtaking views.
• Flexible Options include add-ons such as traditional massages or coffee tastings, allowing you to customize your experience.
• All-Inclusive Convenience with hotel pickups, ferry rides, and guided tours make for a seamless day.
• Authentic Local Cuisine offers a flavorful break after snorkeling, giving a taste of Indonesian dishes.
• Reviews praise knowledgeable guides, well-organized logistics, and stunning scenery, adding confidence to booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Ferry Ride

The adventure begins early, with pickup from your accommodation—whether you’re based in Bali or Nusa Penida. Pickup times vary depending on your location, generally between 5:30 AM and 6:15 AM, to ensure you catch the ferry and maximize your day.

Traveling on a shared shuttle or private transfer, you’ll head to the port for a 45-minute ferry crossing. The large group ferry ride offers the chance to chat with fellow travelers, and some reviews mention the trip is smooth, with a few noting the boat ride can take 30-40 minutes depending on conditions.

Snorkeling at Manta Point

The star of this experience is swimming with manta rays at Manta Point, usually allocated around 1.5 hours. Expect to don your snorkeling gear and be guided to areas where these gentle giants glide effortlessly beneath you. Reviewers have praised the “vibrant marine life” and “large rays” that appear regularly, making the underwater part of the tour truly special.

One reviewer, Kristina from Australia, described the experience as “perfectly organized” and appreciated the professionalism of guides like Mobi, who made everyone feel safe and relaxed. Another comment from Emma from the UK called it “magical,” emphasizing how incredible it is to see manta rays up close.

Exploring Gamat Bay and Crystal Bay

Following the manta encounter, the tour moves to Gamat Bay for more snorkeling or a guided tour of the vibrant coral reefs and marine life that surround Nusa Penida. Some travelers mention that the water clarity is often excellent, allowing you to see colorful fish and rays clearly, and the guides are attentive, explaining what marine life to look out for.

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Lunch and Relaxation

After the water activities, a well-earned local lunch awaits. Reviewers have noted the quality of the food, describing it as flavorful and satisfying—an important boost after a morning in the water. You’ll enjoy Indonesian specialties in a local restaurant, giving you a taste of the island’s culinary culture.

Landmarks and Scenic Sights

Post-lunch, the tour shifts focus to Nusa Penida’s stunning coastlines and rock formations. Stops include:

• Broken Beach: Known for its spectacular natural archway, offering great photo opportunities and a chance to walk around the expansive coastal views.
• Angel’s Billabong: A striking tide pool with clear, shallow waters and unique rock formations. Reviewers highlight how peaceful and photogenic this spot is.
• Kelingking Beach: The iconic cliffside viewpoint that resembles a T-Rex’s head, often described as breathtaking. Many guests love taking endless photos here, with some noting it’s a must-see for its dramatic landscape.

Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often helping visitors capture the perfect shot or sharing interesting facts about each site.

Returning and Drop-Off

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll take a 40-minute ferry back to Bali, followed by drop-offs at your hotel or designated locations. The tour’s logistics are designed to be smooth, with reviews mentioning the punctuality and professionalism of guides and drivers, especially Alex, who many describe as “super friendly” and informative.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Marine Life Encounters

Swimmers and snorkeling lovers consistently highlight the opportunity to see manta rays, something few other tours can guarantee. The fact that many reviews describe the experience as “incredible” and “magical” indicates the high value placed on this part of the trip. Guides are also commended for their attentiveness, making sure everyone feels comfortable and safe, even in the water.

Iconic Landmarks and Scenic Beauty

The land-based stops—Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Kelingking Beach—are clearly the highlights for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The views and formations provide ample photo opportunities, and guides often help visitors capture the perfect shot, making it a memorable part of the day.

Ease of Organization

The tour’s inclusive approach, with pickups, ferries, and guided sightseeing, removes much of the logistical stress often associated with exploring islands. Travelers can focus on enjoying the experience, knowing that transportation and timing are well-handled. Plus, the option to customize with add-ons like massages or coffee tastings adds extra value for those wanting a more personalized trip.

Quality of Guides and Service

Multiple reviews consistently mention guides like Mobi and Alex, who go beyond basic duties to provide engaging commentary, assistance with photos, and friendly service. Their professionalism and local knowledge significantly enhance the overall experience, especially for first-time visitors.

Practical Considerations and Tips

Road Conditions: Be prepared for some bumpy, narrow roads on Nusa Penida. While this is part of the island’s rugged charm, it might not be comfortable for everyone. If you are sensitive to motion sickness, consider taking preventive measures.

Duration and Timing: The whole trip can last from 3 to 10 hours, so check your available time and plan accordingly. Starting early helps to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

What to Bring: Remember to pack your camera, sunscreen, flip-flops, and some cash for souvenirs or optional extras. The tour is focused on snorkeling and sightseeing from the cliffs—not from the beach—so wear appropriate footwear.

Suitability: This tour is best for travelers aged 10 and above, who are comfortable swimming and exploring natural sites. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, very young children, or anyone prone to seasickness.

Cost and Value: While the price includes ferry rides, guides, snorkeling gear, and land transportation, some reviews mention paying separately for certain meals or photos. The combination of wildlife encounters, scenic sites, and guided support makes it a good value for those seeking a full-day, memorable adventure.

The Sum Up

This Bali/Nusa Penida tour offers a balanced mix of marine adventure and land exploration, wrapped in a well-organized package. The chance to snorkel with manta rays, combined with visits to epic coastal formations and viewpoints, makes for a highly engaging day.

It’s especially suited for travelers eager to combine wildlife encounters with breathtaking scenery, and who don’t mind a full day of activity. The guides’ professionalism and local knowledge shine through in reviews, ensuring you’ll be in good hands.

While some roads on Nusa Penida can be rough, the overall experience—marked by stunning vistas, friendly guides, and memorable underwater encounters—delivers on its promise to create cherished memories. If you’re craving an authentic Bali adventure that combines nature, wildlife, and culture, this tour should be high on your list.

FAQ

How long is the ferry ride from Bali to Nusa Penida?
The ferry ride lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing a scenic and relaxed start to your day.

Is snorkeling at Manta Point suitable for non-swimmers?
Snorkeling generally requires basic swimming ability, but guides are attentive to safety. If you’re not comfortable in the water, it’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a camera for photos, sunscreen to protect against the sun, flip-flops for walking, and some cash for optional expenses or souvenirs.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 10 or 12 years old, and people over 70 or with mobility issues are advised against participating.

Will I see manta rays every time?
While many reviews describe seeing manta rays as “incredible,” nature can be unpredictable. Guides do their best to maximize your chances, but sightings depend on sea conditions and migration patterns.

What kind of guides will I have?
Guides like Mobi and Alex are praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and local knowledge, making the experience more engaging and comfortable.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Lunch is included and usually features local Indonesian dishes; it’s best to specify dietary needs when booking or ask the guide.

What is the best time of day for this tour?
Early morning pickups help avoid crowds and provide cooler weather, especially for sightseeing on the land sites.

How physically demanding is the trip?
It involves some walking and snorkeling, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Be prepared for bumpy roads and uneven terrain.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, there are optional add-ons like traditional massages or coffee tastings, allowing you to tailor the day to your preferences.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience the highlights of Nusa Penida with ease, comfort, and plenty of memorable moments. Whether you’re chasing manta rays or scenic vistas, it offers a comprehensive adventure worth considering for your Bali trip.

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