Full-day Lagoon Safari Tour with Lunch in Bora Bora – Shared tour

If you’re planning a trip to Bora Bora, you’ll find plenty of options to explore its legendary lagoon. One that consistently earns glowing reviews is the Full-day Lagoon Safari Tour with Lunch, offered by Rohivai Tours. This shared adventure promises an intimate look into the island’s vibrant marine life, complemented by authentic Polynesian hospitality.

What we love about this tour is how it combines multiple snorkeling spots with the chance to swim with sharks, rays, and manta rays — all in a single day. Add to that a delicious Polynesian-style picnic lunch on a peaceful motu, and you have a recipe for a memorable day. The only caution? The tour’s popularity means some spots may be crowded, especially at the main snorkeling stops. Still, if you want a well-rounded, engaging experience with knowledgeable guides, this tour is hard to beat.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy active sightseeing, marine life, and local culture. Families, couples, or groups of friends will all find something to love here. Just be prepared for a full day on the water — it’s worth every minute.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Passionate local guides enhance every moment with their knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Diverse Marine Life: Encounter sharks, rays, manta rays, and colorful reef fish — a true underwater spectacle.
• Authentic Polynesian Lunch: A delicious, well-prepared meal on a tranquil motu offers a relaxing break.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Snorkeling gear, towels, drinks, and a tasty lunch are included, ensuring comfort and convenience.
• Small Group Vibes: With a maximum of 12 travelers, the experience remains intimate and personalized.
• Value for Money: At around $205, it’s a comprehensive experience for the price, considering the various stops and included amenities.

A Complete Look at the Lagoon Safari Experience

Introduction to the Tour

This full-day Bora Bora lagoon safari is designed for travelers eager to explore the island’s crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and scenic islands — all with a guide who genuinely cares about sharing the lagoon’s secrets. Managed by Rohivai Tours, a family-run operation, this tour emphasizes authentic Polynesian hospitality and personalized attention.

Two aspects stand out: the variety of snorkeling sites and the delicious, cultural lunch. The tour’s reviews consistently praise the guides — calling Coco “simply the best” and highlighting Manu’s attentiveness. It’s these genuine interactions that make the experience special.

One possible consideration is the popularity of the stops; they can get busy with other boats, but the guides do their best to keep things engaging and personalized.

This tour suits travelers looking for a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavor, especially those eager to see Bora Bora’s marine residents up close.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Rohivai Tours

Your adventure begins at Rohivai Tours’ meeting point in Matira around 9:00 am. Transportation is included, and the boat is described as comfortable — an important detail when spending several hours on the water. The maximum group size is 12, maintaining an intimate atmosphere while still allowing for a lively group experience.

Stop 1: Bora Bora’s Lagoon

The tour kicks off with a 30-minute overview of Bora Bora’s stunning lagoon, setting the scene with views of lush land and turquoise waters. This intro session is brief but offers a chance to get excited about what’s to come.

Stop 2: Marine Sanctuary — Swim with Rays and Sharks

The highlight for many is the visit to a protected marine area. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim with stingrays and blacktip reef sharks — creatures known for their calm demeanor around humans, according to reviews. Our sources mention the guides’ skill in helping guests feel safe, with floating vests provided for those less confident swimmers. Reviewers like Shasha_D appreciated the “floating vests, perfect for snorkeling,” making this experience accessible for a variety of swimming abilities.

Stop 3: The Coral Garden

Next up is a vibrant coral garden, teeming with colorful fish and coral formations. Expect to see reef fish, maybe even some butterflyfish or parrotfish, darting among the corals. The water clarity on Bora Bora’s lagoon makes this a mesmerizing underwater walk, with guides offering insights about marine ecosystems.

Stop 4: Manta Ray Sanctuary (or not)

The tour continues to another sanctuary where manta rays are sometimes seen. While sightings can vary — some guests have described swimming with manta rays as a highlight — reviews also mention the unpredictability of nature. Nonetheless, even the chance to see these gentle giants adds to the appeal.

Stop 5: Motu Lunch and Relaxation

After a morning of snorkeling, it’s time to unwind. The tour takes you to a tranquil motu (small islet) lined with coconut palms. Here, the guides serve a Polynesian-style picnic lunch featuring rice salad, grilled chicken, raw fish in coconut milk, seasonal fruits, coconut bread, and cake. Many reviews highlight the high quality and deliciousness of the meal, with some noting that the menu can be adapted for allergies or dietary restrictions.

Guests often mention the relaxing atmosphere on the motu, where you can lounge, swim, or simply enjoy the scenery. Maui’s storytelling and ukulele playing, as mentioned in reviews, add a fun and cultural touch to the lunch break.

Stop 6: Return and Reflection

The tour concludes with a 30-minute return trip back to the meeting point, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Many travelers describe feeling grateful for the natural beauty and marine encounters they experienced.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Guides Who Know Their Stuff

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides are passionate and knowledgeable. Coco, in particular, receives praise for being enthusiastic, witty, and responsible — making each moment both fun and informative. Maui’s storytelling and musical talents are also noted as adding to the experience, making the day more than just a snorkeling trip.

Multiple Snorkeling Stops

The itinerary’s core strength lies in visiting four distinct snorkeling sites. Each offers a different marine habitat, keeping the day varied and exciting. Seeing sharks, rays, and colorful fish across several locations ensures you get a comprehensive look at Bora Bora’s underwater life.

Authentic Polynesian Flavor

The lunch on the motu is a highlight, giving a taste of local cuisine in a relaxed setting. The fact that the meal can be customized for dietary needs shows thoughtful planning and adds value.

Small Group Experience

Limited to 12 travelers, the tour maintains a personal touch. Travelers consistently mention how this enhances their comfort and allows guides to give more individual attention.

Value for Money

At approximately $205 per person, the tour covers multiple snorkeling spots, a boat ride, lunch, drinks, towels, and snorkeling gear. Considering the variety of experiences and the high-quality guides, many reviews suggest it offers good value, especially given the all-inclusive feel.

Practical Details

Duration and Timing

The full-day adventure lasts around 5 to 6 hours, starting at 9:00 am, which means you’ll have plenty of time to experience multiple sites without feeling rushed. The flexible schedule allows you to enjoy each stop at your own pace.

Price and Inclusions

The ticket price includes snorkeling equipment, towels, drinks (soda, bottled water, fruit juices), and a substantial lunch. Alcoholic beverages and snacks are not included, so if you’re craving a cocktail afterward, you’ll need to purchase separately.

Accessibility and Group Size

Most travelers can participate, and the tour is near public transportation options. For safety and a more personalized experience, the group size remains limited — a big plus for those who prefer intimate tours over large, crowded excursions.

Cancellation Policy

Offering free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour, this flexibility appeals to travelers wary of last-minute changes. Weather cancellations are also covered, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

Authentic Marine Encounters and Cultural Highlights

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the opportunity to swim with sharks, rays, and manta rays — creatures that often symbolize Bora Bora’s allure. Many reviews describe these encounters as “breathtaking” and “unforgettable,” with guides helping even less confident swimmers feel safe. The marine sanctuaries are well-chosen, offering viewers and swimmers a chance to see these animals in calm, protected waters.

Plus, the coral gardens showcase Bora Bora’s vibrant underwater world, with the clarity of the lagoon providing exceptional visibility. Guides often share insights about the reef’s ecosystem, enriching the snorkeling experience beyond just gliding through beautiful scenery.

The Motu Lunch

The Polynesian-style meal is noteworthy not just for its quality but for its role in offering a break from water activities. Sitting on the motu, surrounded by coconut palms and the sound of gentle waves, you get a taste of island life. Many guests appreciate the chance to relax, chat, and enjoy the scenery along with their meal.

The Role of Guides

Guides like Coco and Maui are praised for their enthusiasm and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. They often go beyond just pointing out marine animals — sharing stories, music, and cultural tidbits that deepen the sense of connection to Bora Bora.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This lagoon safari is ideal for travelers who:

• Want a comprehensive marine experience with multiple snorkeling stops
• Appreciate authentic local culture through Polynesian food and storytelling
• Prefer a small, intimate group rather than a crowded tour
• Enjoy active outdoor experiences combined with relaxation
• Are comfortable with swimming, but guides provide support for less confident swimmers
• Seek good value — as the tour offers a full day of activities, food, and gear for a reasonable price

It may not suit those with very limited mobility or those looking for a luxury, private experience, as the group size is limited but still involves a full day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Snorkeling equipment, towels, drinks (soda, bottled water, fruit juices), and a Polynesian lunch are included. Alcoholic beverages and snacks are not part of the package.

How long does the tour last?
The adventure lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

What kind of marine animals will I see?
You’ll have the chance to see and swim with stingrays, blacktip reef sharks, manta rays, and a variety of colorful reef fish.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families with children enjoying the experience, especially with the floating vest support provided for snorkeling.

Are the stops crowded?
Some stops can get busy with other boats, but the guides do their best to keep the experience engaging and personalized.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, with a full refund.

This Full-day Lagoon Safari Tour in Bora Bora offers a compelling combination of marine exploration, culture, and scenic relaxation. Its small group size, passionate guides, and well-planned itinerary make it stand out as a trusted choice for travelers eager to experience Bora Bora’s underwater world without the hassle of large crowds.

The inclusion of a substantial Polynesian lunch, the chance to swim with a variety of marine animals, and the opportunity to enjoy the island’s natural beauty make this tour a well-rounded option for those seeking an authentic adventure. Whether you’re a snorkeler, a culture seeker, or simply someone who wants to revel in Bora Bora’s legendary lagoon, this tour promises a memorable day filled with sights, sounds, and tastes of paradise.

For travelers who value quality over quantity and appreciate genuine local experiences, this lagoon safari provides remarkable value and unforgettable memories — a true highlight of any Bora Bora trip.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before your trip, as marine excursions depend on good weather, and cancellations due to poor conditions are possible, with options for rescheduling or refunds.