Gili T : Small group snorkeling trip

If you’re planning a trip to Gili Trawangan and looking for a way to enjoy its vibrant marine life without the crowds, the Gili T Small Group Snorkeling Trip from Ed Gili Snorkeling might just be your perfect match. Priced at an affordable $22 per person, this four-hour excursion promises an intimate, guided experience with a maximum of 10 participants. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the underwater beauty of the Gilis up close and personal, without feeling lost in a large crowd.

What immediately attracts us to this tour is the small group size, which ensures personalized attention from the guide — ideal for nervous swimmers or those wanting a more relaxed, engaging experience. Plus, the chance to swim with turtles is a highlight many snorkelers dream of, and this tour makes that a real possibility. Another appealing feature is underwater photos and videos taken by a guide, so you can focus on enjoying the moment without worrying about capturing it.

One possible consideration? The trip’s duration and stops are well planned, but if you’re expecting a more in-depth exploration or multiple different snorkeling locations, you might find the three spots somewhat brief. Still, for most, the value lies in the quality of the experience rather than quantity. This tour suits those seeking a straightforward, safe, and friendly way to explore Gili’s reefs with a small group — perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Turtle Encounters: A special chance to swim with turtles in their natural habitat.
• Underwater Memories: Photos and videos captured by the guide, saving you the hassle.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours, with the option to reserve and pay later.
• Convenient Locations: Starts and ends at Ed Adventures, next to Hello Capitano Gili T.
• Relaxed Schedule: Four hours covering three popular snorkeling spots with time to unwind on Gili Meno.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Snorkeling Adventure

The experience begins at Ed Adventures, conveniently located next to Hello Capitano, making it easy to find and meet your guide. The boat is equipped with a glass-bottom design, offering a preview of what’s to come and making even the boat ride part of the fun. Once aboard, you’ll be introduced to your guide, who’s experienced and friendly, ready to ensure everyone feels comfortable — valuable if you’re not a confident swimmer.

The Itinerary: Three Unique Snorkeling Spots

Stop 1: Romantic Statue
The first stop is the Romantic Statue, an underwater attraction that captures the imagination. While the specific details aren’t provided, underwater statues are often created as art installations or reefs and serve as excellent landmarks for snorkelers. Expect calm waters and vibrant marine life, making it ideal for beginners and kids. “It’s more than just a spot,” says one review, “it’s like swimming through an open-air gallery.”

Stop 2: Turtle Point
The star attraction of this trip is Turtle Point, where your guide will help you spot and swim alongside sea turtles. This chance to observe these gentle creatures in their natural environment is often a highlight, and many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who help locate the turtles and ensure everyone stays safe. The tour description emphasizes that it’s especially suitable for those who have never swum with turtles before, with guides providing instructions to make the experience enjoyable for all.

Stop 3: Blue Coral
The final snorkeling site is Blue Coral, known for its vibrant reef formations and stunning underwater scenery. Here, you’ll see a variety of corals and tropical fish, making it a visually satisfying conclusion to your underwater tour.

Landing on Gili Meno and Beach Relaxation

After the snorkeling, the boat makes a stop on Gili Meno, a quieter island ideal for relaxing. You can unwind on the beach, take photos, or simply enjoy the scenery before heading back to Gili Trawangan. This added element of beach time offers a well-rounded experience, balancing underwater adventure with some leisure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers a lot of value for its price. Included are snorkeling gear, life vests, fresh drinking water, and a GoPro/underwater camera to capture your underwater moments. The guide’s role extends beyond just leading; they take your photos and videos, which is a big plus for those who want to relax and enjoy rather than fuss with a camera.

Extras like tips, donations for baby turtles, and personal insurance aren’t included — typical for tours at this price point. You’ll need to bring cash for tips or personal expenses, and don’t forget your beachwear, sunscreen, and towel for after your swim.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Transportation and Schedule

The tour departs from the next to Hello Capitano Gili T, with the exact starting times available upon check. The four-hour session includes three snorkeling stops and a bit of beach relaxation time, making it a manageable and enjoyable half-day activity.

The Experience from Recent Reviews

Many travelers praise this tour for its friendly, knowledgeable guides who go above and beyond to ensure everyone has a good time. One reviewer noted, “The guide was great at helping me get comfortable in the water,” highlighting the approachable and professional attitude of the team.

Another reviewer fondly recalled swimming with turtles, describing it as “a surreal moment,” and appreciated the underwater photos that helped preserve the memory. The small group size often comes up as a major advantage — “It felt more like an adventure with friends than a typical tour,” one guest shared.

Some minor negatives include the brief duration at each site, but most agree that the quality of the experience outweighs this, especially given the reasonable price.

Why Choose This Snorkeling Trip?

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, focused experience that emphasizes personal attention, safety, and fun. It’s ideal for first-time snorkelers, solo travelers, or small groups who want to avoid the chaos of larger tours. If swimming with turtles or capturing underwater photos interests you, this trip hits those marks well.

The price point makes it accessible, while the small group size and experienced guides deliver peace of mind and a high-quality experience. Plus, Gili T’s reef is known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life, so you’re likely to come away with fantastic memories.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking an authentic, laid-back introduction to Gili’s underwater world, this small group snorkeling trip from Ed Gili Snorkeling offers solid value, friendly guides, and the chance to see turtles in their natural habitat. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a more personal approach and appreciate the comfort of knowing their guide is experienced and attentive.

The combination of easy logistics, beautiful spots, and the opportunity to relax on Gili Meno after your snorkel makes this a well-rounded half-day adventure. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or trying it for the first time, this trip is likely to leave you with a thirst for more underwater exploration.

If your priority is a safe, friendly, and memorable snorkeling experience without the fuss, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who value small group intimacy, professional guidance, and photo opportunities that help preserve your memories.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately four hours, including three snorkeling stops and some time on Gili Meno.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Ed Adventures, located next to Hello Capitano Gili T.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, the tour includes snorkeling gear, life vests, and an underwater camera to capture your experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this suitable for non-swimmers?
The guide will provide instructions, and the boat’s safety equipment makes it manageable for non-swimmers or less confident swimmers.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash — especially for tips or personal expenses.

This snorkeling trip offers a friendly, manageable, and authentic way to enjoy Gili T’s underwater world. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, intimate experience that combines marine encounters with relaxing beach moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: