From Gili Trawangan: Gili Islands Snorkeling Boat Tour

If you’re heading to Gili Trawangan and looking for a memorable way to explore the surrounding islands, this snorkeling boat tour offers a fantastic introduction to Indonesia’s vibrant marine life. We’ve looked into this experience and found it combines good value, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of chances to see turtles and underwater art.

What really appeals to us is how accessible and versatile the tour is — with options for different durations and island visits, plus the chance to capture your memories on a GoPro. One consideration? The popular underwater statues and turtle spots can get crowded, especially during peak hours, so planning your timing might be wise. This tour suits travelers who love the water, want a mix of adventure and island exploration, and don’t mind sharing the experience with others.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $15 per person, it offers excellent value given what’s included.
• Multiple Snorkeling Stops: Three different locations, including underwater statues and turtle reefs, give a varied experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides help you spot turtles and ensure safety, making the experience more enjoyable.
• Island Visits: Free time to explore Gili Air and Gili Meno, with optional lunch — a nice break from the water.
• Photo & Video: Optional GoPro footage capture your underwater moments, a highlight for many.
• Flexible Duration: Ranging from 2 to 5.5 hours, so you can choose a quick taste or a more extended adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour

This snorkeling tour is all about showing off the beauty beneath the waves around Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. For around $15, you get a package that includes transportation on a glass-bottomed boat, snorkeling gear, life jackets, mineral water, and the chance to take home photos and videos if you opt for the GoPro.

What makes this trip stand out is its well-paced itinerary. The experience begins at Sama-Sama Reggae Bar, an easy-to-find meeting point close to the harbor. From there, a guide will assist you with equipment, help you pick the right fin sizes, and give a safety briefing — essential for first-timers or those who want to make the most of their time in the water.

Once aboard, you’ll sail to three main snorkeling spots, each offering a different flavor of underwater life. The first is the famous Bask Nest underwater sculptures, a surreal and artistic site that’s popular but can get busy. Next, you’ll visit Turtle Point, where chances are good to swim alongside one of these gentle creatures. The final stop is a coral reef teeming with fish and vibrant corals, promising plenty of photo opportunities.

After snorkeling, the boat heads to Gili Air, the quieter neighbor, where you’ll have free time to explore, relax, or enjoy lunch (not included). For those who choose the Deluxe option, an additional stop at Gili Meno offers a freshwater lake and turtle sanctuary — a quieter, more relaxed island atmosphere compared to Gili Trawangan.

The tour concludes back at Sama-Sama Reggae Bar, where you return your gear, reflect on your underwater discoveries, and share stories with fellow travelers. The entire journey is flexible, with durations from 2 hours for a quick trip to 5.5 hours for a more in-depth experience.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

The experience kicks off at the Sama-Sama Reggae Bar, where the crew makes everyone feel welcome. The safety briefing is straightforward but thorough, covering snorkel use, hand signals, and what to watch for underwater. This sets the tone for a relaxed yet safe adventure.

Bask Nest Underwater Sculptures

The first stop is the Bask Nest, an artistic installation of underwater statues. Guides often take photos here, and many reviews mention the appeal of swimming among these human-made sculptures. However, be prepared for crowds; the sculptures are popular, and the site can be busy, sometimes causing some jostling. This site is ideal for those interested in both art and marine life.

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Turtle Point Reef

Next up is Turtle Point, a reef where many guests are thrilled to spot sea turtles. Several reviews highlight the guides’ expertise in locating these creatures — some even say their guides were better at spotting turtles than other boats. The turtles are usually gentle and approachable, making for magical moments. Remember, crowds can be an issue, so patience and a steady camera hand will help.

Gili Meno Lake and Turtle Sanctuary

For the Deluxe tour, you’ll visit Gili Meno, known for its tranquil atmosphere. The freshwater lake and turtle sanctuary here are quiet, peaceful spots perfect for a relaxed walk or some snorkeling. Many reviewers appreciate this added island visit, describing it as a peaceful retreat after the busier spots.

Gili Air

The last island stop is Gili Air, where you can enjoy free time for lunch or sightseeing. The island has some nice beaches, cafes, and shops, and many travelers say it’s perfect for a laid-back break. Some recommend walking further along the shoreline to find a peaceful cafe, like Black Sweet, away from the harbor area.

The Experience in Detail: A Deep Dive

Snorkeling Equipment and Guides

The tour includes snorkel gear and life jackets, with guides available to assist. We loved the way guides helped with fin sizing and explained safety procedures clearly. Several reviews mention how helpful and friendly the staff are — from helping beginners to taking photos with the shared GoPro. The equipment quality appears good, and the guides are attentive, making sure everyone stays safe and has fun.

Snorkeling Stops and Marine Life

Expect to see colorful coral reefs, a variety of tropical fish, and the chance to swim with sea turtles. Many guests note that their guides are skilled at spotting turtles, which are often a highlight. The underwater statues add an artistic twist to the usual reef experience, giving snorkelers a surreal encounter.

Photo & Video Opportunities

For an extra fee, you can rent a GoPro camera, which many reviewers say is a worthwhile addition. The crew often uses it to take pictures and videos, sending them right after the tour — a handy feature that saves you from lugging your own waterproof camera or risking damage.

Island Exploration and Lunch

After snorkeling, you have free time on Gili Air or Gili Meno, depending on your tour. Many travelers enjoy walking along the beaches or relaxing at a local cafe. Some recommend exploring further away from the main harbor, where options are quieter and more scenic.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts from 2 to 5.5 hours, giving you options based on how much time you want in the water and on land. The small group or private options are available, which can make the experience more intimate and flexible. The typical group size seems manageable, avoiding the overwhelming crowds sometimes seen on larger tours.

Value for Money

At $15 per person, the tour is priced competitively, especially given what’s included. The reviews consistently emphasize the good value — seeing multiple turtles, underwater art, and island visits for such a low cost. The optional GoPro footage and the thorough guides add to the value, making it a popular choice among budget travelers.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and their eagerness to help everyone get the best experience. One review mentions that the guides “made us laugh several times,” indicating that the crew adds a friendly, relaxed vibe. Others highlight how guides helped even less confident swimmers feel safe.

The underwater statues, often called the Bask Nest, are a standout feature, with some reviewers noting how surreal swimming among art and coral was. Although the statues can be crowded, guides are flexible, sometimes adjusting routes to avoid busy areas, as one reviewer pointed out.

Swimmers repeatedly mention the abundance of turtles — multiple sightings are common, and many say they couldn’t believe how close they got. The reef’s colorful fish and coral formations also receive high praise, making this experience a visual feast.

Tips from Reviews:

• Going early helps beat the crowds at the statues.
• Renting a GoPro is worth it for the photos and videos.
• Be patient at busy sites — guides do their best to manage crowds.
• Don’t forget sun protection, waterproof cameras, and cash for optional lunch or souvenirs.
• The tour is suitable for most, but not recommended for children under 3, pregnant women, or those with mobility or heart issues.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This snorkeling tour offers excellent value for anyone eager to see Gili’s stunning underwater world without breaking the bank. With knowledgeable guides, well-organized stops, and the chance to swim alongside turtles and marvel at underwater statues, it’s a well-rounded package.

If you’re someone who loves marine life, enjoys a bit of island hopping, and doesn’t mind sharing the water with other travelers during busy times, this trip fits the bill. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate good organization, friendly guides, and the option to capture their experience on camera.

The combination of snorkel stops, island visits, and optional photos makes this a flexible and memorable way to spend your day. It’s not a luxury tour, but it’s certainly a genuine, fun, and affordable way to explore the natural beauty of the Gili Islands.

FAQ

How long is the Gili Islands Snorkeling Boat Tour?
The tour lasts between 2 and 5.5 hours, depending on the option you choose and the weather conditions.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a guide, transportation by glass-bottomed boat, snorkeling gear, life jackets, mineral water, and insurance. The GoPro footage is optional and can be rented separately.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided. Just bring your own essentials like sunscreen, waterproof camera if desired, and cash for lunch or souvenirs.

Can children join this tour?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 years old, and non-swimmers or pregnant women are advised to consider their safety before booking.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While guides help ensure safety, swimming skills are recommended to make the most of the experience. If unsure, communicate with the guides beforehand.

Are there options for private or small group tours?
Yes, small group and private options are available, offering a more personalized experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended, especially during peak season, but with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours before, you can secure your spot with peace of mind.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, camera, waterproof gear, sunscreen, and cash. A light snack or food for the island stops might also be good.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of cafes and restaurants on Gili Air and Gili Meno where you can enjoy a meal.

What about the crowds?
Popular stops like the underwater statues can get busy, but guides often adjust routes to avoid overcrowding. Going early can also help.

In short, this snorkeling tour offers a well-priced, fulfilling glimpse into the marine and island life around Gili Trawangan. With friendly guides, multiple stops, and opportunities for great photos, it’s a favorite for many travelers seeking a fun and authentic experience in Indonesia’s Gili Islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: