Nusa Penida : Snorkeling Trip Manta Point, Gamat Bay and Wall Bay

Traveling to Bali and craving a memorable underwater adventure? This snorkeling tour in Nusa Penida offers just that—an opportunity to swim alongside manta rays, marvel at vibrant coral gardens, and explore some of Bali’s most stunning marine environments.

From the moment you step onto the boat, you’ll notice the focus on quality and comfort. Not only are the locations handpicked for optimal sea conditions, but the guides take pride in providing good equipment and ensuring everyone has a safe, enjoyable experience. Plus, the relatively low price of around $27.49 per person makes this a surprisingly accessible adventure for travelers on any budget.

Three things we really like about this experience? First, the chance to see manta rays, which is a rare and unforgettable moment. Second, the variety of underwater scenes—from coral reefs to busy fish schools—keeps the trip exciting. Third, the small group size (maximum 22 travelers) means you get a more personalized feel.

One thing to consider: the tour’s success hinges on weather and sea conditions, meaning sightings like manta rays aren’t guaranteed. If the water’s rough or visibility is poor, your guide might take you to alternative spots.

This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed, affordable, guided snorkeling outing that emphasizes natural beauty, with the possibility of rare wildlife encounters.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At approximately $27.49, this snorkeling trip offers excellent value for an authentic marine experience.
• Wildlife Encounters: The chance to see manta rays, turtles, and vibrant fish makes this tour memorable.
• Expert Guides & Good Equipment: Guides are experienced, and snorkeling gear is included, making the experience comfortable and safe.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 22 participants, which enhances personalized attention.
• Strategic Locations: The trip visits well-chosen sites with good sea conditions, maximizing your chances for great sightings.
• Weather Dependence: The experience is weather-dependent; poor conditions might mean rescheduling or going elsewhere.

What to Expect on the Nusa Penida Snorkeling Tour

This three-hour adventure begins early at 8:00 am, starting from the meeting point at Salty Penida Snorkeling in Kampung Toyapakeh. As part of a small group—up to 22 travelers—you’ll set out by boat to explore some of the island’s top underwater spots. The tour is designed to balance chance encounters with enjoyable exploration, making it ideal for those who want a taste of Bali’s marine life without a full-day commitment.

Manta Point: The Star of the Show

Your first stop is Manta Point, famous for its residents—majestic manta rays. The waters here are crystal clear, providing fantastic visibility for observing these gentle giants as they glide effortlessly beneath you. The experience is both graceful and humbling, as the manta rays can grow quite large, yet remain unbothered by snorkelers.

One reviewer, Davide_L, noted, “We saw several manta rays, a turtle, and marvelous fish. It’s not always guaranteed, so we got lucky.” The guides are well-versed in manta behavior and will do their best to position the boat for prime viewing, but as with all wild encounters, luck plays a role.

Gamat Bay: A Colorful Underwater Scene

After snorkeling at Manta Point, the boat takes you to Gamat Bay, where coral reefs teem with life. Expect to see brightly colored tropical fish darting among the coral, creating a lively underwater tableau. The bay’s calm, clear waters make it an excellent second stop—perfect for relaxing, snapping photos, and exploring at your own pace.

This spot is praised for its visual appeal, with many reviewers mentioning the stunning coral formations and the abundance of marine life. The clear waters mean you’ll be able to see details of the coral structures and the fish swarming around you, which is especially appealing for underwater photography enthusiasts.

Wall Bay & GT Point: The Final Dive

Your journey concludes at Wall Bay, renowned for its impressive coral formations and diverse marine life. The currents here can sometimes be strong, adding a bit of thrill to the experience while providing excellent visibility and natural scenery.

If the conditions are less than ideal, the guide may take you to GT Point, where calmer waters still offer captivating views of the marine ecosystem. This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your trip, regardless of weather.

Included & Not Included

The tour includes boat transportation, snorkeling gear, and photos/videos captured with a GoPro—once again emphasizing value. Guides are on hand to assist, making it suitable for snorkelers of various skill levels. However, you’ll need to arrange your own hotel transfers and bring a towel, as these aren’t included.

Real Experiences & Insights

The reviews reveal that many travelers, including Davide, felt lucky to experience close encounters with manta rays and turtles. Guides like Ramadana received praise for making the trip special, highlighting the importance of having knowledgeable local guides who can spot wildlife and adapt to changing conditions.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At just $27.49 per person, this tour delivers an accessible way to explore some of Nusa Penida’s top snorkeling destinations. The inclusion of quality equipment and professional guidance translates to a safer, more enjoyable day in the water. Plus, the opportunity to see wildlife you might not encounter on a typical Bali trip—like manta rays and turtles—sets this experience apart.

While it’s a brief trip, the carefully curated stops and small group size mean you can truly appreciate each site without feeling rushed. The flexibility to move to alternative spots if the weather isn’t perfect shows a thoughtful approach to ensuring everyone gets a good experience.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This snorkeling trip is ideal for travelers on a budget who want a high-value, guided marine adventure. It suits those who enjoy wildlife spotting and are comfortable in the water, even if they’re not expert swimmers. The tour’s short duration makes it perfect for fitting into a busy Bali itinerary or for travelers who want a quick, impactful marine experience.

It’s also well-suited to people seeking a more intimate experience, thanks to the smaller group size and personalized guide attention. If you’re after Instagram-worthy underwater scenery or dreaming of swimming with manta rays, this trip offers the right blend of accessibility and adventure.

The Sum Up

For an affordable price, this Nusa Penida snorkeling tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines the thrill of wildlife encounters with the beauty of Bali’s underwater world. You’ll enjoy several strategic stops at sites known for their vibrant marine life, all guided by knowledgeable locals who prioritize safety and comfort.

While sightings like manta rays depend on chance, the tour’s well-chosen locations and excellent guides increase your odds of witnessing these gentle giants. The inclusion of quality snorkel equipment and photos makes the experience even more memorable, without hidden costs.

This trip is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a fun, authentic, and reasonably priced way to explore Nusa Penida’s aquatic treasures. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned snorkeler, it’s a fantastic introduction to Bali’s vibrant underwater life.

FAQ

Is hotel transfer included?
No, hotel transfers aren’t included, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at Salty Penida Snorkeling in Kampung Toyapakeh.

What’s the start time?
The tour kicks off at 8:00 am, so plan to arrive a little earlier to prepare and meet your guide.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about three hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that fits well into a busy Bali schedule.

Are snorkel gear and photos included?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment is provided, along with photos and videos taken with a GoPro to help you remember the day.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund or an alternative date offered.

Is the group size large?
No, the maximum group size is 22 travelers, which means better personal attention and less crowding in the water.

Can beginners join?
Absolutely, as the guides are experienced and snorkeling equipment is provided. Just let the guides know if you’re less confident in the water.

Will I definitely see manta rays?
While sightings depend on the day’s conditions, the tour is designed to give you the best chance, with guides actively seeking out these creatures.

Embark on this Nusa Penida snorkeling adventure for a blend of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and expert guidance—all at a price that makes it an easy addition to your Bali trip.