Bora Bora: Full day Lagoon Safari & Lunch on a Motu – ST

Travelers often dream of Bora Bora, and a good way to bring that dream to life is with a comprehensive lagoon safari tour. While I haven’t done this specific tour myself, I’ve reviewed countless experiences in Bora Bora’s waters, and this one consistently earns high praise. It promises an action-packed day filled with marine encounters, scenic vistas, and a relaxed Polynesian feast.

What caught our attention first are the friendly guides, who are both knowledgeable and engaging, ensuring you don’t just see marine life but understand it. Also, the combination of snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and a picnic on a peaceful motu offers a well-rounded day of adventure and relaxation.

A few considerations to keep in mind: this tour is weather-dependent, meaning if storms roll in, your plans might shift or be canceled — but they offer full refunds or rescheduling. Also, this experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women, so plan accordingly.

If you are looking for an authentic, activity-rich day with a taste of local Polynesian culture and marine wonder, this tour is ideally suited for travelers eager to explore Bora Bora’s waters beyond the typical beach day.

Key Points

• Expert guides enhance the experience with their local knowledge, making every stop informative and fun.
• Snorkeling in coral gardens offers a vibrant underwater spectacle, with opportunities to see sharks, rays, and colorful fish.
• Wildlife encounters such as swimming with stingrays and reef sharks are both safe and unforgettable.
• The Motu picnic lunch provides a delicious taste of Polynesian cuisine in a picture-perfect setting.
• The tour’s flexible cancellation policy and the option to book now and pay later add peace of mind.
• It’s ideal for those who enjoy active outdoor experiences combined with culture.

Imagine setting out early in the morning, with the gentle sea breeze on your face and the promise of a day full of marine marvels and stunning scenery. This tour, operated by BORA BORA EXPERIENCE – ROHIVAI TOURS, offers about six hours of guided exploration in the waters surrounding Bora Bora, a place known for its crystal-clear waters, volcanic peaks, and lush motus.

What makes this experience attractive is its balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. You’re not just on a boat; you’re actively engaging with the environment, swimming among sharks and rays, and learning about the marine ecosystem from guides who truly know their stuff. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or just curious to see what’s beneath the surface, this trip promises plenty to see and do.

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The Itinerary: From Land to Sea and Back

The day begins with hotel pickup, with options at over 14 locations, making it convenient regardless of where you’re staying. Once aboard, you’ll cruise over Bora Bora’s tranquil lagoon for roughly 20 minutes to reach your first snorkeling spot. Expect to see stingrays and blacktip reef sharks — and don’t worry, these creatures are harmless, and guides are there to ensure your safety.

Following this, you’ll visit a vibrant coral garden, where the underwater scenery is likely to wow you. The kaleidoscope of fish and coral formations is often highlighted in reviews as one of the tour’s most captivating parts. Many travelers mention how friendly the guides are in pointing out interesting marine life and making sure everyone gets a good look, even if they’re not confident swimmers.

Next, the safari continues to a sanctuary where manta rays can sometimes be spotted (though sightings aren’t guaranteed). This adds an extra thrill for those eager to see these gentle giants up close. After snorkeling and wildlife viewing, your boat heads toward a motu, a small island with swaying palms and pristine sands, perfect for the highlight: a Polynesian-style picnic lunch.

The Polynesian Picnic: A Tasty Break with a View

Lunchtime on the motu is one of the standout moments of this tour. Many reviews rave about the local delicacies, and the setting couldn’t be more idyllic — white sand, coconut palms, and the backdrop of Bora Bora’s volcanic peaks. The lunch typically features a spread of Polynesian-inspired dishes, with fresh seafood and tropical fruits, served in a relaxed, open-air environment.

This break isn’t just about food — it’s about soaking in the peaceful, picture-perfect scenery and feeling the warm sun. Guests often comment on how this part of the tour feels like a genuine slice of island life, away from tourist crowds.

The Return and Reflection

After lunch, there’s usually some free time for a walk on the motu, swimming, or just unwinding on the sand. Then, it’s back on the boat for the return cruise, which offers more chances to enjoy Bora Bora’s stunning views and maybe even spot some dolphins or additional marine life.

The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or nearby location, making for a seamless experience. Many guests describe the day as “superb,” “fantastic,” and “unforgettable,” often citing the guides’ friendliness and knowledge as a major part of their enjoyment.

Marine encounters with sharks, rays, and, if lucky, manta rays, make this tour stand out. The underwater stops are thoughtfully chosen to maximize seeing marine animals in their natural environment. Guides are praised for their patience and enthusiasm, often going the extra mile to make sure everyone gets a good look and a memorable photo.

The lunch on the motu is another highlight, providing a genuine taste of Polynesian hospitality and cuisine. Many reviewers mention that the food is “delicious,” and the setting is “beautiful,” making it more than just a meal — it’s part of the experience.

From a value perspective, the tour offers a full day of activities for a reasonable price, especially considering the amount of snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and culture included. Some guests even mention that it exceeded their expectations, feeling like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

• Bring sunscreen, water shoes, a camera, and beachwear. The tour involves several snorkeling stops, so waterproof gear is recommended.
• Weather matters. If poor weather cancels the tour, a full refund or alternative date is offered.
• Group size is kept manageable, with many reviews mentioning small groups and personalized attention.
• Booking flexibility is available, with the option to reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans are still evolving.
• The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant travelers, so plan accordingly.
• Snorkeling confidence isn’t necessary, as guides help those who are less experienced.

Looking at the reviews, it’s clear that guides make a huge difference. The most praised guides are described as “friendly,” “helpful,” and “knowledgeable,” with some going above and beyond, like playing ukulele or helping with little tasks. This personal touch elevates the experience from a typical boat tour to a heartfelt adventure.

Many guests have expressed that the tour offers excellent value for money, with the combination of wildlife, scenery, and cultural elements standing out as a good deal. The opportunity to see manta rays, sharks, and a coral garden, all in one day, makes this a comprehensive way to truly enjoy Bora Bora’s natural beauty.

The lunch on the motu adds a relaxing, authentic element that many find refreshing compared to more commercialized options. It’s not just a cruise; it’s a chance to connect with the island environment and its people.

If you’re someone who loves marine life, scenic vistas, and genuine cultural experiences, this tour is a strong choice. It’s ideal for travelers looking for adventure combined with relaxation, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike rave about the personal touches and the stunning sights.

However, if you have mobility issues or are pregnant, you might want to explore other options. The activity is primarily based on snorkeling and boat transfers, and not all stops are accessible for those with special needs.

Do I need to be able to swim?
Snorkeling is a big part of the tour, but guides are very helpful. If you’re not comfortable swimming, guides can assist, and some stops might be suitable for just floating or staying on the boat.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, beachwear, water shoes, and a camera. Waterproof gear will help you capture all the marine wonders without worry.

What if the weather is bad?
The activity depends on favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 6 hours, typically starting with pickup and ending with drop-off at your hotel.

Is food included?
Yes, the Polynesian-style picnic lunch on the motu is part of the tour. Many reviews mention it as a delicious and memorable part of the day.

Can I change the date of my tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reschedule if weather or personal plans change.

This lagoon safari tour in Bora Bora offers a well-rounded look at the island’s marine treasures, stunning scenery, and Polynesian culture. The combination of friendly guides, diverse snorkeling stops, and a scenic picnic makes it valuable for anyone wanting a full-day adventure.

It’s perfect for those who love outdoor activities, wildlife, and local flavors. The high ratings and detailed reviews reflect a tour that many consider a highlight of their trip. While weather can be unpredictable, the tour company’s flexible policies help ensure you can enjoy Bora Bora’s waters with minimal stress.

This experience provides a wonderful way to see and feel the essence of Bora Bora, making it a smart choice for anyone wanting more than just a beach day — a genuine, fun, and immersive outing that captures the spirit of French Polynesia.