Lombok Sumbawa Sharing 2D1N Whale Shark With Snorkeling

Embarking on a 2-day trip from Lombok to Sumbawa to swim with whale sharks promises a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and authentic local experiences. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a compelling picture of what travelers can expect. From the excitement of snorkeling alongside gentle giants to the early morning serenity of sunrise dives, this trip seems tailored for those craving an active, memorable escape.

What really makes this experience shine are the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenic views, and the chance to capture underwater moments with a GoPro. That said, the overnight sailing can be a consideration for anyone prone to seasickness or with motion sensitivity.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who love marine life, appreciate comfort during long journeys, and are seeking authentic local interactions. If you’re looking for a combination of wildlife encounter and culture in Indonesia’s lesser-visited corners, this one might be perfect.

• Wildlife Wonder: Swim with majestic whale sharks in their natural habitat.
• Early Mornings: Experience sunrise snorkeling, offering peaceful waters and stunning scenery.
• Comfort & Convenience: Round-trip transportation from Lombok and hotel accommodations provided.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy local stops and simple, authentic meals.
• Photography Focus: Capture moments with provided GoPro underwater camera.
• Active & Adventurous: Suitable for swimmers comfortable with seas.

Starting Point: Convenient Pickup & Transfer

The tour begins with pickup options from seven key locations, including Senggigi, Bangsal port, or Mataram—making it flexible for travelers staying in different parts of Lombok. From there, travelers are transported comfortably to the ferry point at Kayangan Harbor.

The ferry ride to Sumbawa takes approximately 11.5 hours—a lengthy journey but one packed with scenic views and anticipation. The ferry crossing is part of the adventure, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the ocean scenery. It’s worth noting that the ferry ride is quite long, so packing some snacks or entertainment might make the trip more pleasant.

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Day 1: Crossing and Arrival

Once in Sumbawa, the journey continues overland to Labuan Jambu. Some travelers take this time to explore or shop in Sumbawa Besar, which can be a nice breather before heading to your hotel. The tour includes a hotel check-in where you can rest up after the lengthy travel.

While the itinerary doesn’t specify additional activities during daytime, the focus shifts to resting and preparing for the early start the next day. The hotel stay provides a good chance to get a good night’s sleep—important for the early morning snorkeling ahead.

Day 2: The Main Event – Swimming with Whale Sharks

The highlight of this tour is waking up at 3:30 AM for a pre-dawn departure. The group boards a traditional wooden boat, adding an authentic touch—these boats are simple but functional, and part of the charm of Indonesian marine tours. Expect a light breakfast on the boat at around 4 AM, with coffee, tea, bread, and fresh fruit—simple, filling, and enough to keep you energized for the early hours.

At approximately 5 AM, the boat arrives at the fishing platform, known locally as bagang. This is where you’ll get ready to snorkel with the whale sharks, which is often described as an “unforgettable” experience. The dawn light enhances the feeling of serenity and awe, and the chance to see these gentle giants in the quiet morning waters is a privilege.

What It Feels Like to Snorkel with Whale Sharks

Reviews emphasize guides’ expertise in locating whale sharks, which can be a challenge given their wandering nature. Guides like Made and others are praised for their knowledge and patience, making the experience smoother even for first-timers. You’ll typically see whale sharks feeding on plankton, and their massive size becomes all the more impressive when you’re just a few meters away.

Travelers consistently mention the surreal feeling of swimming alongside these enormous creatures, with quotes like “it’s hard to describe how calming yet exhilarating it is to be near such a gentle giant.” Some reviewers highlight that the GoPro allows them to relive the experience, capturing the awe-inspiring moments in stunning detail.

Duration and Group Size

The snorkeling session lasts around 4 hours, giving ample time to get multiple close encounters. Groups tend to be small, ensuring personalized attention from guides, which is crucial for safety and maximizing the experience.

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Returning & Rest of the Day

After the snorkeling, you’ll head back to your hotel for breakfast and some rest. The tour concludes around 11 AM, giving plenty of time to reflect on the morning’s adventure or enjoy the hotel’s amenities before heading back to Lombok.

Return Journey: Long but Scenic

The return trip begins mid-morning, with the group heading back to Lombok, arriving in Bangsal or Mataram in the evening around 6 PM. The long ferry ride can be tiring but also offers more scenic views and time to decompress after the thrill of whale shark encounters.

This tour is well-organized with round-trip transportation from Lombok and options to be picked up from various locations. The use of traditional boats during snorkeling adds a local flavor, but some travelers might prefer to bring motion sickness prevention if prone, as boat rides early in the morning can be bumpy.

The overnight sailing experience is a highlight but might not suit everyone—those sensitive to seasickness or seeking a more luxurious experience might find the traditional boats a bit basic. Still, reviews mention that guides are attentive, and safety precautions are taken seriously.

The timing—starting early and ending late—means you should be prepared for an active, sometimes tiring schedule. Packing essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and water is vital. Also, bring comfortable shoes for the land portions and a towel for snorkeling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to avid swimmers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. It offers a chance to see marine life in its natural habitat and enjoy the peaceful early morning atmosphere. It’s less suited for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, given the early start and boat rides.

You’ll also benefit from guides’ local knowledge, which enhances the overall quality and safety of the trip. If you appreciate authentic, slightly rough-around-the-edges adventures that emphasize connection with nature, this tour offers excellent value.

Considering the unique opportunity to swim with whale sharks—a rare and precious experience—coupled with the stunning scenery and authentic local vibe, this 2-day trip provides impressive value. The logistical planning, including hotel stays and transportation, simplifies what could otherwise be a complicated journey.

While the ferry ride is lengthy, it’s part of the adventure and offers a glimpse into local life and maritime culture. The guides’ expertise and the chance to photograph these gentle giants elevate the experience from simply “touristy” to genuinely memorable.

If your goal is to see whale sharks in Indonesia and enjoy a mix of adventure and cultural touchpoints, this tour is a strong contender. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind early mornings, boat rides, and a fair amount of activity—delivering a memorable story for years to come.

How long is the ferry ride from Lombok to Sumbawa?
The ferry crossing takes approximately 11.5 hours, making it a significant part of the journey but also a scenic one.

What should I bring for the snorkeling experience?
Pack swimwear, a towel, camera, sunscreen, hat, comfortable shoes, and water. It’s also wise to bring motion sickness prevention if you’re prone.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, this experience requires swimming and snorkeling skills. Non-swimmers may not be comfortable in the water during whale shark encounters.

What is included in the tour?
Transportation from Lombok, ferry tickets, hotel accommodation, boat ride for snorkeling, breakfast on the boat, and the use of a GoPro for underwater photos are typically included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, allowing flexibility for unforeseen plans.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the group size tends to be manageable, and guides are known for their friendly, attentive service, making it easy to join solo.

To sum it up, this 2-day Lombok to Sumbawa whale shark tour offers a rewarding blend of wildlife encounters, scenic boat rides, and cultural discovery. It’s perfect for those eager to see one of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures in their natural environment, provided they’re comfortable with early mornings and boat travel. The guides’ local expertise and the opportunity to capture stunning underwater moments make it a worthwhile adventure for adventure lovers and marine life enthusiasts alike.

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