Planning a snorkeling adventure in Indonesia’s Gili Islands? We’ve looked into a popular option—the Gili Islands Sunset Snorkeling Trip with a GoPro shoot—and here’s what you need to know before booking. This experience is designed for travelers eager to explore vibrant underwater life, capture memorable moments, and enjoy a relaxed day on the water without breaking the bank.
What catches our eye about this tour? First, the remarkable value at just $13 per person, making it accessible for most budgets. Second, the combination of snorkeling, scenic views, and professional photo capture offers a well-rounded experience. That said, it’s worth noting that some guests have found the snorkeling gear a bit outdated, and the tour’s brevity may leave those wanting more underwater time wanting a bit longer. This trip suits travelers who cherish authentic marine encounters, enjoy photography, and want a fun, low-cost day trip.
Key Points
- Affordable price point offers excellent value for a full day of snorkeling and sightseeing.
- Highlights include Turtle Point, underwater statues, blue coral, and sunset views from the boat.
- Includes snorkeling gear and professional guide, but food and sunscreen are extra costs.
- Small group feel, typically around 15 guests, fostering a more personal experience.
- Good for beginners and casual snorkelers seeking fun without technical complexity.
- Ideal for travelers who love photography with GoPro footage of their underwater adventure.
Exploring the Gili Islands Sunset Snorkeling Tour
The Gili Islands are famous for their clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. This tour takes you to three of the islands’ most interesting spots—primarily focusing on Gili Trawangan—and combines guided snorkeling with scenic moments that leave you with memorable photos and stories.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Gili Islands.
The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience
Starting Point and Duration
The trip begins in front of the night market, where you’ll meet your guide. The whole outing is designed to last roughly a day, with specific start times depending on availability. Since the tour is priced attractively at just $13 per person, it’s a straightforward option for those looking for a budget-friendly yet memorable adventure.
Main Snorkeling Spots
Your day will include stops at several sites:
- Turtle Point: The star of the trip for many, this spot is renowned for its sea turtles. According to one review, “the highlight of our vacation was seeing gigantic turtles” swimming gracefully in their natural habitat. Expect to snorkel in shallow waters where green and hawksbill turtles often come close enough for great sightings.
- Underwater Statues and Blue Coral: The Bounty Wreck and other designated sites feature sunken statues and coral formations. One reviewer loved the “beautiful, colorful fish and sunken statues,” which add a touch of artistic charm to the underwater landscape. The blue coral adds a splash of color, making each snorkel session visually striking.
- Additional Marine Life: Expect to see an array of reef fish, parrotfish, angelfish, and possibly reef sharks on the stronger current sides. The currents bring in different species, making each stop unique.
Lunch and Rest
Midday, you’ll stop for lunch on one of the nearby islands—Gili Air or Gili Meno. You should plan to bring cash, as not all places accept cards. The lunch break offers a chance to relax, enjoy local food, and swap stories with fellow travelers.
Sunset Cruising
The tour concludes with a sunset on the boat, a peaceful way to reflect on your underwater discoveries. As you cruise, you’ll appreciate the calm waters and stunning sky colors—an authentic way to end your day.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included in the Price
- Snorkeling gear (though some reviews suggest the goggles could be better)
- Glass-bottom boat for viewing marine life from above
- Professional guide to assist and ensure safety
Extras to Budget For
- Food and drinks during the lunch stop
- Sunscreen and towels (these are not included, so bring your own)
- Cash for lunch and souvenirs
- Wetsuit (if you prefer extra warmth)
Practical Tips for the Trip
Bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, waterproof bag, and cash. Note that baby strollers are not allowed, likely due to boat and water safety considerations. Wetsuits are optional but can help if you’re sensitive to cooler water. Be prepared for a relatively short snorkeling session if you’re expecting a full-day adventure; this is more of a relaxed, scenic trip rather than a marathon underwater exploration.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic Encounters and Genuine Feedback
Based on actual reviews, travelers are genuinely pleased with the experience. One traveler mentioned, “Very attentive instructors, with the GoPro always in hand ready to immortalize every single moment!” This highlights the professional guidance and the added value of capturing your underwater moments with a GoPro.
Another review reflected the beauty of the trip: “There were lots of beautiful, colorful fish and sunken statues, and the turtles—great highlights for our vacation.” Visitors appreciate the combination of marine life, artistic underwater sculptures, and the chance to see turtles up close.
However, some guests have pointed out minor flaws. For example, one noted that the goggles provided were a bit outdated, which could slightly hinder the visual experience. It’s a small detail but worth considering if you’re particular about your snorkeling gear.
The Value Proposition
At just $13, this tour offers a surprisingly comprehensive experience in a tropical setting. It’s perfect for budget travelers, families, or those new to snorkeling who want a safe, guided introduction to Indonesia’s underwater world. The included equipment and guides make it straightforward, while the scenic boat ride and sunset add a special touch.
While the trip is not lengthy—generally a few hours of snorkeling and sightseeing—the quality of marine encounters and the chance to get great photos make it worthwhile. The tour strikes a good balance between affordability and memorable moments, especially with the GoPro footage that allows you to relive your underwater adventure.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is best suited for casual snorkelers, first-timers, or those wanting a laid-back day on the water. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for an affordable way to see turtles, statues, and coral reefs without committing to a more intensive dive or longer tour. Families with kids, travelers on a tight schedule, or anyone looking for scenic photos will find plenty to enjoy here.
If you’re after a more in-depth exploration or longer underwater time, you might want to explore other options. But for pure, straightforward fun with a touch of scenic beauty, this tour hits the mark.
The Sum Up: The Bottom Line
This Gili Islands sunset snorkeling tour offers an excellent introduction to Indonesia’s marine environment at a very reasonable price. You’ll encounter turtles, colorful fish, and underwater sculptures, all while enjoying a relaxed boat cruise at sunset. The inclusion of a professional guide and GoPro footage enhances the experience, especially for travelers eager to capture memories without extra hassle.
It’s a fantastic choice for budget-conscious travelers, photography enthusiasts, or those new to snorkeling who want a safe, guided experience. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the scenic cruise adds a peaceful, beautiful ending to the day.
While some guests mention minor issues like gear quality, the overall value and authenticity shine through. This tour is a solid pick if you’re visiting Gili Trawangan and want a taste of its underwater wonderland without overspending.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes guided assistance and snorkeling gear, making it accessible for beginners or those who haven’t snorkeled before.
How much does the trip cost?
The current price is $13 per person, which is quite affordable considering the included gear, guide, and scenic boat ride.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, cash for lunch and extras, waterproof bag, and possibly a wetsuit if you prefer warmth.
Does the tour include food?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is a stop for lunch at Gili Air or Gili Meno where cash is needed.
How many people are on the boat?
The reviews suggest around 15 guests typically join the trip, offering a small-group environment.
Can I download my photos or videos afterward?
Yes, travelers have mentioned being able to download photos and videos from the website the day after their trip.
This snorkeling adventure combines affordability, scenic beauty, and marine encounters, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a memorable day on Indonesia’s Gili Islands.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Snorkeling Tours in Gili Islands
- Lombok : Snorkeling Trip (Gili Trawangan, Meno & Gili Air)
- Gili Trawangan: Private Snorkeling (Coral, Statues, Turtles)
- Lombok: Gili Nanggu, Sudak and Kedis Private Snorkeling Tour
- gili island: sunset and snorkeling tour + GoPro photoshoot
- Gili Islands Snorkeling Day Trip with private speedboat
- Lombok: Gili Nanggu, Sudak, and Kedis Snorkeling Tour
More Evening Experiences in Gili Islands
More Tour Reviews in Gili Islands
- Exclusive Gili Nanggu, Sudak, and Kedis Tour Featuring GoPro
- Lombok : Snorkeling Trip (Gili Trawangan, Meno & Gili Air)
- gili sunrise Stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking (droneshot
- Gili Trawangan: Private Snorkeling (Coral, Statues, Turtles)
- Lombok: Gili Nanggu, Sudak and Kedis Private Snorkeling Tour
- gili island: sunset and snorkeling tour + GoPro photoshoot
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Gili Islands we have reviewed
- Exclusive Gili Nanggu, Sudak, and Kedis Tour Featuring GoPro
- Lombok : Snorkeling Trip (Gili Trawangan, Meno & Gili Air)
- gili sunrise Stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking (droneshot
- Gili Trawangan: Private Snorkeling (Coral, Statues, Turtles)
- From Lombok: Private Snorkeling Trip include GOPRO shoot
- Gili Meno: Experience the Thrill of Spearfishing Adventures!
- From Gili Meno: Private Snorkeling with Turtle & Statue
- Gili Air: 1-Hour Horse Riding Adventure
- Gili Islands & Lombok Speed Boat
- Gili Meno: Private Snorkeling 3 & 4 Spot with Gopro Camera
- Snorkeling around 3 island & turtle sanctuary
- Gili T : Shared group snorkeling trip