From Nusa Penida: 2D1N Gili Islands Private Snorkeling Tour

If you’re looking to add some underwater magic to your Bali adventure, the 2D1N Gili Islands Private Snorkeling Tour promises a combination of fun, relaxation, and striking scenery. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, it’s crafted for travelers eager to experience Bali’s stunning marine life without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the private boat and personalized guide ensure a tailored experience—no crowded group tours here. Second, the inclusion of a GoPro camera means you’ll leave with high-quality snapshots of your underwater encounters. However, one aspect to consider is the price—$147 per person—it’s a worthwhile investment if you’re passionate about snorkeling and island exploration.

This experience suits those who enjoy flexible, immersive adventures, want to explore multiple islands, and love capturing memories under the sea. If you’re a first-timer or a seasoned snorkeler wanting hassle-free logistics, it could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a guide and GoPro camera.
• Multiple snorkeling spots including underwater statues and sea turtles.
• Island hopping with time to relax, explore, or enjoy Gili Trawangan’s lively vibe.
• Convenient transfers from Nusa Penida, including hotel pickup (if selected).
• All equipment and safety gear included, plus insurance.
• Flexible scheduling and cancellation with the ability to reschedule or cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from This Tour

The tour offers a carefully balanced mix of snorkeling, island exploration, and relaxing in paradise. It starts early, with the option of hotel pickup from Nusa Penida, making the journey smooth and hassle-free. The fast boat ride across the Lombok Strait takes just under two hours, giving travelers a comfortable and quick transition from Bali’s neighbor to the lively Gili Trawangan.

Gili Trawangan quickly reveals its appeal: soft, white beaches, quaint cafes, and a lively, friendly atmosphere. The island is famous for its vibrant beach scene, and you’ll find no shortage of spots to walk, cycle, or just soak up the sun.

The Snorkeling Experience

Once on Gili Trawangan, the real excitement begins. The private boat with a guide and captain takes you to three carefully selected snorkeling spots. Travelers have described these as unforgettable, especially with the chance to swim with sea turtles and explore underwater statues—an unusual feature that adds a unique touch to the underwater scenery.

Your guide, equipped with a GoPro camera, captures photos and videos during your swim, saving you from fumbling with gear or worrying about getting the perfect shot. Many reviews praise this aspect, noting that having professional documentation makes the experience even more special to reminisce about later.

The snorkeling spots are chosen for their vibrant coral reefs, abundant fish, and the possibility of encountering marine life in its natural habitat. Starting early at 7 am helps you avoid crowds, giving you calmer waters and better visibility.

Island Exploration After Snorkeling

After your underwater adventure, you have free time to explore Gili Trawangan itself. Many travelers enjoy strolling along the beach, renting a bicycle to circumnavigate the island, or popping into local cafes for a cool drink or famous gelato. This period allows you to absorb the island’s relaxed vibe at your own pace.

You’ll also find options to visit nearby Gili Meno and Gili Air, which are quieter and perfect for more snorkeling or just lounging. The tour is flexible enough that if you prefer, you can spend more time on Gili Trawangan’s lively beaches or indulge in some local shopping.

Return Journey and Practicalities

In the afternoon, you’ll head back to the fast boat, which takes about two hours to return to Bali’s Padang Bai harbor. The entire experience—from pickup, transfer, snorkeling, island exploration, to the return—is designed for convenience, with safety and comfort in mind.

The cost includes all necessary equipment, safety gear, bottled water, insurance, and even the GoPro documentation. Lunch and dinner aren’t included, but there are plenty of food options on the islands to refuel after a busy morning.

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What Makes This Tour a Good Value

At $147 a person, the tour offers a lot in terms of convenience and unique experiences. Private snorkeling with a guide ensures safety and personalized attention, while the included photos mean you won’t need to worry about capturing these moments yourself. The multiple stops and island visits provide variety, making it more than just a simple snorkel trip.

The hotel transfer option adds value if you’re staying in Nusa Penida, saving you the hassle of arranging transport. Plus, the flexibility to change your dates (up to 24 hours in advance) is helpful in case of weather changes or shifting plans.

The Ideal Traveler for This Experience

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free, well-organized way to see the Gili Islands with minimal fuss. It suits snorkelers of all skill levels, including beginners, thanks to the provided equipment and guided support. The inclusion of free time and island exploration makes it ideal for those looking to combine underwater adventure with some leisure.

However, it might not be suitable for non-swimmers or those with back or heart issues, as stated in the safety guidelines. If you’re traveling solo, a couple, or a small group seeking a private experience, this package offers intimacy and personalized service.

Day 1: The Journey Begins

Your adventure kicks off early, with hotel pickup in Nusa Penida—though this depends on your booking choice. If you’ve selected the transfer option, your driver will collect you and bring you to Banjar Nyuh harbor. Here, you’ll check in for the fast boat, a quick but scenic crossing across the Lombok Strait.

Traveling by fast boat is a highlight itself. We loved the way this swift, comfortable vessel slices through the water, offering scenic views of Bali’s coastline and the open sea. It’s a fresh way to start your island-hopping adventure, with the wind in your hair and anticipation building.

Arrival and First Impressions in Gili Trawangan

Once on Gili Trawangan, you’ll be met by your guide, who will help you settle into your hotel if you’ve booked that option. The island itself is charming—tiny, car-free, with a laid-back vibe. Even if you’re not used to island life, you’ll quickly appreciate its slow pace, perfect for unwinding after a day of traveling.

The afternoon is yours to explore. Many reviews note how lively and welcoming the island feels, with plenty of cafes, shops, and sunset spots. It’s a good chance to soak in the views and start adjusting to island time.

Day 2: Snorkeling and Island Leisure

The real highlight is the morning snorkeling tour, starting at 7 am. The private boat whisks you to three different spots, each with its own character—some with underwater statues, others with abundant coral and busy fish. As one reviewer noted, you can expect to swim with sea turtles, which is often a highlight for nature lovers.

Your guide captures footage with the GoPro, making it easy to relax and enjoy. Many visitors find this a major plus: no need to wrestle with a camera or miss the shot. The visibility and calm waters at this hour really enhance the experience, and many say they felt like they had the reefs to themselves.

After snorkeling, you have time to explore Gili Trawangan—whether that’s lounging on the beach, cycling around, or grabbing a local snack. The free time lets you absorb the island’s chill atmosphere and take in the views from different vantage points.

Return and Reflection

At noon, it’s time to head back to the boat for the return trip to Bali. The two-hour ride gives you a chance to reflect on your underwater encounters and the stunning scenery. Many travelers mention how the photos captured truly help keep those memories alive, especially since snorkeling often leaves you with a camera full of blurry underwater shots.

Upon arrival in Padang Bai, the trip concludes—though the memories and photos last much longer.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

This tour offers a compelling way to see the Gili Islands without the fuss of planning every detail on your own. The private guide, included photos, and multiple stops make it stand out from standard group snorkeling trips. While $147 might seem steep for some, consider what’s included: private service, multiple islands, snorkeling with marine life, and the convenience of transfers.

It’s especially valuable for first-time snorkelers, couples, or small groups who appreciate a more intimate, guided experience. The flexibility to change dates and the inclusion of insurance add peace of mind for cautious travelers.

In essence, if you’re after a well-rounded, comfortable way to enjoy the Gili Islands’ underwater beauty and island charm, this tour hits many sweet spots. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want quality, convenience, and memorable photos to bring home.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the hotel transfer option, your driver will pick you up in Nusa Penida. Additional charges may apply if your hotel is far from the pickup point.

How long does the boat ride take?
The fast boat from Nusa Penida to Gili Trawangan takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. The return trip from Gili Trawangan to Bali is around two hours.

Are snorkeling equipment and guides provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear, including fins and life jackets, are included along with a guide and captain who support your underwater experience.

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, including beginners, thanks to the provided equipment and guided support.

What’s the best time for snorkeling?
Starting early at 7 am helps avoid crowds and ensures calmer waters, offering better visibility and a more peaceful experience.

Are there any additional costs?
The tour price covers most expenses. However, there’s a small island entrance fee of IDR 20K per person, and lunch is not included.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While it’s suitable for many, non-swimmers and those with health issues should consider their comfort level. It’s best suited for travelers able to snorkel safely.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a change of clothes, and a sense of adventure.

This 2D1N private snorkeling tour to the Gili Islands offers a rare balance of comfort, adventure, and cultural charm. With personalized guidance, opportunities to swim with turtles, and stunning island scenery, it’s a trip that many will treasure. The inclusion of professional photos and flexible arrangements makes it well worth the investment for those seeking a hassle-free, immersive experience.

Ideal for first-timers, couples, or small groups wanting a personalized touch, it’s a chance to see Bali’s neighboring islands from a new perspective—underwater and above. For travelers craving memorable views, lively beaches, and vibrant marine life, this tour checks all the boxes.

You can check availability for your dates here: