From Bali: 2D1N Gili Island Private Snorkel Boat with Hotel

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and having a camera-ready adventure, this 2-day private snorkeling trip to the Gili Islands from Bali might just be the experience you’re after. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and detailed itinerary paint a compelling picture of what you can expect—an efficient, well-organized, and genuinely fun escape that balances relaxation with underwater exploration.

What I love about this trip is its focus on personalized service—complete with a private guide, GoPro documentation, and hotel transfers—that ensures you get a tailored experience without feeling lost in a crowd. Plus, the chance to swim among sea turtles and visit underwater statues is hard to beat. The potential drawback? It’s a weather-dependent activity, so you might want to keep your schedule flexible and check the forecast. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic island vibes, especially if snorkeling and underwater photography are high on your list.

Key Points

• Private guided experience ensures personalized attention and smooth logistics
• Snorkeling at three different sites with opportunities to see turtles and underwater statues
• All-inclusive documentation with GoPro captures for lasting memories
• Comfortable transfers and hotel stay options add to the value and ease
• Flexible schedule and free cancellation provide peace of mind
• Ideal for water lovers, snorkelers, and those seeking a quick island escape from Bali

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The journey begins early in the morning, with hotel transfers available for convenience if you choose that option. The guide will pick you up, and from there, you’re driven to Padang Bai harbor—an efficient setup that keeps the transport part of the fun, not a hassle. The boat ride itself lasts about 1.5 hours—a comfortable cruise across the Lombok Strait, with stunning views of Bali’s coastline fading into the open sea.

The Fast Boat to Gili Trawangan

Once aboard the fast boat, you’ll feel the thrill of setting off toward the Gili Islands. The boat ride is not just transport but part of the experience—speeding across clear waters with plenty of opportunities to snap photos or simply soak up the sea breeze. The journey is well-timed, leaving enough room in your day to enjoy the island’s highlights.

Arrival at Gili Trawangan

Upon arrival, a guide will meet you at the harbor, setting the tone for a smooth and welcoming experience. If you’ve selected the option, you’ll check into a hotel—the comfort of a clean, well-located accommodation allows you to rest or explore at your leisure before the snorkeling adventure.

Gili Trawangan itself is a lively, laid-back spot. Its beaches are lined with cafes, bars, and shops—perfect for walking or renting a bicycle. The island’s relaxed vibe means you can unwind, enjoy the scenery, or simply people-watch while sipping a chilled drink.

Day 1: Settling In and Exploring

The first day offers a gentle introduction to island life. If your schedule includes hotel check-in, you can relax after the boat ride, explore the beaches, or get a quick feel for the local scene. For those eager to jump right into the water, the next morning promises an exciting snorkeling tour.

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The Snorkeling Experience: What Really Matters

Day 2 is the star of the show. Starting early at 7:00 AM, you’ll head out on a private boat with a guide and captain—a key feature that sets this tour apart. Early morning snorkeling lets you avoid crowds, and according to reviews, this is when you’ll have the best chances to swim alongside sea turtles—sometimes multiple sightings during a single session. One reviewer mentioned encountering four turtles during snorkeling, which highlights how rewarding these trips can be.

You’ll visit three different snorkeling spots, including ones with underwater statues—a unique feature that adds a touch of curiosity and artistic intrigue beneath the waves. The guide, equipped with a GoPro camera, will capture high-quality photos and videos of your underwater moments, eliminating the need to scramble for your phone or camera. Several reviews emphasized the quality of these memories, with one reviewer noting, “they took so many pictures and videos,” making it clear that this documentation is a highlight.

The snorkel sites feature vibrant coral reefs and a variety of colorful fish, making it a feast for the eyes. For those new to snorkeling, the activity is generally suitable, but non-swimmers should consider their comfort level—this is not recommended for pregnant women or those with back or heart issues, as safety is paramount.

Exploring Gili Meno or Gili Air

After the underwater adventure, the tour includes a visit to either Gili Meno or Gili Air. These smaller islands offer a different vibe—quiet, charming, and less crowded than Trawangan. Here, you can stroll, cycle, or simply relax on the beach, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

Afternoon Free Time

By 11:00 AM, you have some free time on Gili Trawangan. Many reviewers appreciated this segment, noting they enjoyed walking, cycling, or indulging in local treats like gelato. This is your chance to soak up the island’s slow-paced charm before heading back.

Return Journey

By early afternoon, you’ll reunite with your guide and head back to the harbor for the return boat to Bali. The cruise offers a scenic return trip, giving you one last look at the open sea. After arriving at Padang Bai, a driver will transfer you back to your hotel—an effortless end to a packed two days.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers a comprehensive package: roundtrip fast boat tickets, hotel stay in Gili Trawangan (if selected), snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and GoPro documentation. The inclusion of bottled water and insurance shows attention to comfort and safety.

Additional costs might include lunch and dinner, as these are not provided, as well as the island entrance fee of IDR 20,000. If you’re staying in Bali’s Ubud, Canggu, or Kuta, the hotel transfer is included, but for areas like Uluwatu or Nusa Dua, an extra fee applies.

Practical Considerations

The tour is designed for private groups, which means a more intimate experience and flexibility. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, or those with back or heart problems, so keep your health in mind. Weather can impact the activity, and it’s best to check forecasts beforehand.

Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

Travelers consistently praised the guides, describing them as “very supportive,” “flexible,” and “knowledgeable.” One reviewer said, “Communication was a bit difficult at times because I had no cell phone reception, but luckily I did in the hotel,” highlighting the importance of staying connected.

The quality of snorkeling was also a common theme. “We encountered 4 turtles,” and “everyone was super nice and took good care of us,” reflect the high level of service. The underwater statues and vibrant corals add a memorable, almost surreal element to the snorkeling spots—perfect for underwater photography.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This 2-day adventure is a solid choice for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free way to experience the Gili Islands. Its emphasis on personalized service, professional guides, and memorable photos make it particularly appealing for those seeking quality over quantity. If you’re someone who values comfortable transfers, a well-organized itinerary, and underwater encounters with turtles, this tour offers genuine value.

It’s especially suited for water enthusiasts, couples, or small groups looking for a quick but fulfilling escape from Bali’s busy atmosphere. The inclusion of a hotel stay in Gili Trawangan makes it convenient, and the flexible cancellation policy reduces risk if plans change.

While it’s weather-dependent, the positive reviews suggest that most travelers find the experience rewarding—swimming with turtles, exploring underwater statues, and capturing stunning memories with ease. If your goal is a blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic island culture, this trip delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
This tour involves snorkeling, which generally requires some comfort in water. It’s not recommended for non-swimmers or those with health issues related to swimming or being in deep water.

What is included in the price?
The price covers roundtrip fast boat tickets, a private snorkeling boat with equipment, guides, GoPro documentation, bottled water, and hotel in Gili Trawangan if selected. Hotel transfers from Bali are also included if you choose that option.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is food provided during the trip?
No, lunch and dinner are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own meals, though there are plenty of cafes and restaurants on Gili Trawangan.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a change of clothes, and your camera or phone if you prefer to take photos beyond what’s captured by the GoPro.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there’s a small island entrance fee of IDR 20,000 per person, payable on Gili Trawangan. Extra costs might include optional activities or personal expenses.

In essence, this private Gili Islands snorkeling tour combines ease, adventure, and authentic underwater encounters, making it a memorable escapade for those keen on exploring Bali’s nearby marine treasures. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just rewarding yourself with a quality getaway, it’s a well-rounded, thoughtfully designed tour to consider.

You can check availability for your dates here: