From Bali: Snorkeling 3 Spots To Nusa Penida & Lembongan

Taking a day trip from Bali to explore the underwater wonders of Nusa Penida and Lembongan is a popular choice for travelers craving vibrant marine life and authentic island scenery. This particular tour offers a full day packed with snorkeling, lush mangrove exploration, and local flavor, all guided by knowledgeable locals. It’s a solid option for those who want a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience that combines adventure with culture.

What we like about this tour is its comprehensive nature: snorkeling at Manta Bay with manta rays is a highlight, and the guided mangrove gondola ride offers a different perspective on the island’s lush ecosystems—something you won’t find everywhere. Plus, the hassle-free logistics—hotel pick-up, round-trip boat transfers, and included lunch—make it a convenient choice.

A possible consideration is that the duration is about 7 hours, which means some might find it a packed schedule, especially if you prefer more time at each spot. Also, since it’s a shared trip, the group size can vary, and some travelers have noted it can get crowded, especially at popular snorkeling sites.

This tour suits travelers eager for a full day of snorkeling with a touch of local culture, especially those who enjoy guided experiences and value the convenience of all-inclusive packages. It’s perfect for first-timers or those with limited time but looking to maximize their marine encounters.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package including transfers, snorkeling gear, lunch, and guided tours.
• Multiple snorkeling stops, notably Manta Bay where you may swim with manta rays.
• Lush mangrove exploration via traditional gondola, offering a different kind of scenic beauty.
• Professional guides ensure safety and enhance your understanding of the environment.
• Convenient logistics with hotel pick-up options and round-trip fast boat tickets.
• Suitable for travelers ages over 6, but not recommended for pregnant women, seniors over 60, or those with certain health issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Bali

Depending on your chosen pick-up point, your day begins early. For most travelers in South Bali, Ubud, or Uluwatu, pickup times start around 7:00 to 8:00 am, giving you a head start on the day’s adventure. The journey by private car or shared transport to Sanur Port or Lembongan Office takes approximately 45 minutes.

Transfer to Nusa Lembongan

From Bali, you’ll hop on a fast boat to Nusa Lembongan. This leg of the trip is usually smooth, and the boat ride offers scenic views that build anticipation for what’s ahead. The boat transfer is included in the price, which is a plus considering how seamless it makes the trip.

Snorkeling at Manta Bay

Once on Nusa Lembongan, you’ll meet your local guide and gear up at the tour office. The highlight for many travelers is the snorkeling session at Manta Bay—a well-known spot for manta rays often seen gliding gracefully beneath the surface. According to a review, “Robbie and Danny made sure we were all safe constantly knowing where we all were,” emphasizing the guides’ attentiveness. Expect to see small fish and beautiful corals along with the mantas, which are a mesmerizing sight.

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Lunch and Rest

After about two hours in the water, you’re treated to a local lunch at a restaurant that aims to showcase authentic island flavors. This break not only refuels you but also offers a chance to relax and enjoy the island’s laid-back vibe.

Exploring the Mangroves by Gondola

Post-lunch, the adventure continues with a 30-minute gondola ride through the lush mangroves. This experience adds a different sensory layer—quiet, scenic, and a bit mystical. Travelers have noted the perspective from the gondola is “by a different perception,” providing a peaceful contrast to the snorkeling excitement.

Return Journey

After the mangrove tour, you’ll reboard your boat back to Bali. The return trip takes approximately 45 minutes, followed by transportation back to your hotel or drop-off points. The entire day is roughly 7 hours, making it a manageable yet fulfilling outing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Marine Encounters

The snorkeling at Manta Bay ranks among the most memorable aspects. The chance to swim alongside majestic manta rays is a rare experience for many travelers, and guides help ensure safety and a respectful encounter. As one review enthusiastically noted, “Had 5 snorkel stops in total,” indicating the variety and volume of underwater sights.

The Unique Ecosystem Experience

The mangrove gondola ride is a distinctive feature that sets this tour apart. Many tours focus solely on snorkeling, but this quieter, contemplative cruise offers insight into Nusa Lembongan’s ecological richness—seeing how the island’s mangroves thrive and filter the environment.

The Convenience Factor

All logistics are handled for you—hotel pick-up, boat transfers, snorkeling gear, lunch, and insurance. This means less planning stress and more time enjoying the experience. The included documentation of your underwater moments is also a nice touch for memories.

The Local Guides

Guides are described as experienced and attentive, making the trip safer and more educational. They often point out interesting marine life and explain ecological importance, adding value to your trip.

Practical Considerations and What To Expect

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts about 7 hours, with pick-up times depending on your location. It’s well-paced but does involve a fair amount of travel. Expect early mornings, especially if you’re in Ubud or Uluwatu, to ensure you arrive at the meeting point on time.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While the experience is described as guided and personalized, it is ultimately a shared trip, which means you may be in a group with other travelers. Some reviews mention crowded sites, particularly at popular snorkeling spots, so patience and flexibility are helpful.

Equipment and Safety

Snorkeling gear is included, and guides help you get suited up. They also document underwater scenes, which is a nice souvenir. The tour includes insurance, adding an extra layer of peace of mind.

Dietary and Physical Restrictions

The tour is not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, seniors over 60, or those with certain health issues, including heart problems or altitude sickness. So, check your own health before booking.

The Value Proposition

At $72 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience—multiple snorkeling spots, mangrove exploration, a local lunch, and all transfers—making it a solid value. Considering the inclusions and the expert guidance, it’s a good deal for those wanting a full day of marine adventure without the hassle of organizing transportation and equipment themselves.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This tour suits travelers looking for active, guided experiences with a mix of underwater and ecological sights. It’s especially fitting for first-timers or those wanting a snapshot of Bali’s offshore marine life. It’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more relaxed, less packed schedule.

Final Thoughts

This full-day snorkeling trip to Nusa Penida and Lembongan offers a well-rounded mix of marine adventure, ecological insight, and local flavor. The opportunity to swim with manta rays at Manta Bay is the star attraction, and the mangrove gondola offers a peaceful, visual journey through lush ecosystems. The tour’s all-inclusive nature simplifies logistics, making it a practical choice for busy travelers.

While the pace might feel a bit rushed for those who prefer more leisure at each stop, the guides’ professionalism and the scenic variety keep it engaging. If you’re eager for a day of underwater encounters combined with ecological exploration, this trip delivers good value and memorable moments.

For travelers seeking a guided, organized adventure with coral reefs, manta rays, and mangrove scenery, this tour hits the sweet spot. Just prepare for a full day, and bring your sense of curiosity and adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up and drop-off from your Bali hotel depending on your location, especially in central and south Bali areas.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts about 7 hours, including transfers, snorkeling, lunch, and the mangrove gondola ride.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, along with underwater documentation.

Can I join if I have little snorkeling experience?
Guides assist with equipment and safety, but some swimming ability is recommended for comfort in the water.

What if I can’t swim?
It’s best to have some swimming skills, as snorkeling requires comfort in water. If unsure, consult with the tour provider beforehand.

Is this trip suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over 6 years old. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, seniors over 60, or those with certain health conditions.

To sum it up, this tour offers a thoughtful balance of marine adventure and ecological discovery, all wrapped in a convenient, guided package. It’s ideal for those who want to experience Bali’s underwater beauty and lush landscapes without the hassle of detailed planning. Whether you’re a snorkeling novice or a seasoned water lover, you’ll find plenty to enjoy—and plenty to remember—on this full-day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: