Nusa Penida: Full Day Private Snorkeling With Manta Ray

If you’re dreaming of swimming alongside one of nature’s most graceful creatures—the majestic manta ray—this private snorkeling tour from Bali to Nusa Penida might just be your ticket. As someone who has reviewed countless island excursions, I can say that this experience offers genuine encounters with incredible marine life, all in a comfortable and well-organized package.

What sets this tour apart? First, the focus on small-group intimacy, which means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. Second, the variety of snorkeling spots—you won’t just see manta rays but also turtles, vibrant corals, and colorful fish.

That said, a possible consideration is that seeing manta rays isn’t guaranteed—it depends on weather and water conditions, which can change unexpectedly. But even without a manta encounter, the other highlights, like coral gardens and turtle sightings, make this a worthwhile day.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate guided, structured marine adventures with good value for money. It’s especially suitable if you’re keen on professional guides, underwater photography, and avoiding the crowds often found on larger group trips.

Key Points

• Private, small-group experience offers more personalized service and fewer crowds.
• Swim with manta rays, turtles, and colorful reef fish across four diverse snorkeling sites.
• Includes snorkeling gear, underwater photos/videos, and lunch—great value for around $70.
• Flexible itinerary with a focus on safety, even if water conditions change.
• Professional guides who are attentive, knowledgeable, and take great photos.
• Ideal for those wanting authentic marine encounters and a mix of adventure and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Look at the Nusa Penida Snorkeling Tour

This full-day private snorkeling trip from Bali to Nusa Penida has earned a solid reputation, with a 4.8/5 rating from over 100 reviews. It’s clear that many travelers find it a worthwhile way to experience Bali’s underwater treasures.

The trip starts at Toya Pakeh Harbour, where you meet your guide at the Amir Snorkeling office. The process is straightforward: you get fitted with snorkeling gear, your guide briefs you on safety, and then off you go. The boat itself is private, meaning you’re not tangled up with large crowds—something many reviewers appreciate, especially those who mention that “we had the boat to ourselves” or “it’s a good idea to take this private trip.”

The itinerary is thoughtfully planned yet flexible. It includes stops at four top snorkeling spots: Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay, and The Wall. Each location offers a different experience—ranging from manta rays and turtles to coral gardens and schools of small fish.

Diving Into Each Stop

Toya Pakeh Harbour: Starting Point and Briefing

The tour kicks off with a 15-minute safety briefing at Amir Snorkeling’s office. This is a good chance to ask questions, ensure all your gear fits comfortably, and get to know your guide. Many reviews mention how guides like Harry and Mizan go the extra mile to make sure everyone feels safe and confident in the water.

Manta Bay: The Highlight

Swimming with manta rays is the main draw here. At Manta Bay, the waters are typically clear, giving you a good chance to see these gentle giants glide by gracefully. Several reviews praise the guides’ efforts in spotting manta rays, often “finding out there was one nearby and bringing us there,” even if they weren’t initially scheduled to go.

While manta sightings are dependent on water conditions, the reviews show many families and solo travelers were thrilled to get close to these creatures, some just 2-3 meters away. “Seeing manta rays at Manta Bay was incredible,” one reviewer said, emphasizing how surreal it was to be so close to such a majestic animal.

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Crystal Bay: Refresh and Relax

Next is Crystal Bay, a popular spot for its calm, clear waters perfect for a relaxing swim. Here, travelers often enjoy snorkeling amidst colorful reef fish and corals, as noted by many reviewers who mention “feeding tropical fish and seeing starfish.” The shallow waters make it great for beginners or those who prefer a leisurely experience.

Gamat Bay: Underwater Gardens

Gamat Bay offers a diverse underwater scene. Reviewers note the abundance of small fish and vibrant corals. Many appreciate that guides stay close, “supporting us throughout the journey and taking videos with their GoPro,” which makes the whole experience more relaxed and worry-free.

The Wall: Dramatic Underwater Landscape

The final snorkeling stop, The Wall, features a long underwater coral plateau that provides incredible scenery. It’s perfect for underwater photographers or anyone keen on seeing more diverse marine life. The reviews highlight that this site offers “the best scenery with a variety of colorful fish surrounding you.”

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour lasts about three hours of actual snorkeling, but the entire experience, including transfers and briefing, takes around a half-day. The boat is private, which significantly enhances the experience, especially for those who value privacy or traveling with family or friends.

The price of $70 per person is quite reasonable, considering it includes a private boat, snorkeling gear, underwater photos and videos, and lunch. Several travelers comment on the great value—they appreciated that they didn’t have to pay extra for professional photos or additional gear.

Timing varies by availability, so it’s essential to check the schedule in advance. The tour weather runs rain or shine, and the itinerary might shift if the water swells or conditions are unsafe, as guides emphasize safety first.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are the private snorkeling boat, gear, underwater documentation, guides, and lunch. Personal expenses, souvenirs, or extra snacks aren’t covered. Many reviewers mention the delicious lunch at a beach club after the trip, which is a nice way to unwind and reflect on the day.

What to Bring

• Swimwear and a change of clothes for after snorkeling
• Sunscreen (preferably reef-safe)
• Towel and waterproof camera if you wish to take your own photos

The guide’s advice about water safety is clear: the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, and water conditions may change suddenly. Punctuality is key, especially if you want to get the most out of each stop and avoid the crowds arriving later.

Authentic and Enthusiastic Reviews

Multiple travelers rave about the guides. One mentions, “Our guide Harry was great and mindful,” while another notes how “Mizan supported us and took several vids/pics on his GoPro—all for free.” It’s clear that professional guides who genuinely care make a big difference.

The marine life sightings also impress. Many reviews talk about seeing up to five turtles and multiple manta rays, with some even swimming with dolphins or feeding tropical fish. “We saw a turtle, dolphins, and mantas—unforgettable,” one reviewer states.

The experience of being in the water with large, gentle manta rays—and in some cases, dolphins—turns an ordinary snorkeling trip into a memory that lasts a lifetime. Plus, the additional perk of having professional photos makes it easy to share your adventure afterward.

The Sum Up

This private snorkeling tour to Nusa Penida offers a well-rounded mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic natural encounters. For around $70, you get a private boat, multiple snorkeling stops, expert guides, and underwater photos—an excellent value for anyone eager to see Bali’s marine biodiversity without the chaos of large group tours.

It’s especially good for travelers who value personalized attention, safety, and a variety of underwater scenery. Though manta ray sightings aren’t guaranteed, the chance to swim with these giants, combined with turtles, vibrant corals, and a laid-back vibe, makes this trip worthwhile.

If you’re after a trusted, friendly guide, quality equipment, and a small-group atmosphere, this tour ticks all the boxes. And if your schedule allows, a private experience like this can transform a regular Bali trip into a highlight of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this snorkeling tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most skill levels as the sites are generally shallow and calm, especially at Crystal Bay. Guides are attentive and supportive, making it friendly for first-timers.

How long does the entire trip last?
The snorkeling itself lasts around 3 hours, but with transfers, briefing, and lunch, plan for a half-day outing.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers a private snorkeling boat, snorkeling accessories, underwater photos/videos, an experienced guide, and lunch.

Can I see manta rays on every trip?
While many guests do see manta rays, their appearance depends on weather and water conditions, so sightings are not 100% guaranteed.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and possibly a waterproof camera. It’s also wise to have a towel and some cash for personal expenses.

Is this trip suitable for children or pregnant women?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, and children should be comfortable in the water. Always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates rain or shine. Water conditions may change, and guides reserve the right to adjust the itinerary for safety.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is at Amir Snorkeling near Toya Pakeh Harbour. It’s best to arrange transportation in advance or check local directions.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

This snorkeling tour from Bali to Nusa Penida offers an authentic chance to experience Bali’s underwater world, guided by friendly professionals who prioritize safety and fun. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, it’s a chance to create lasting memories with marine life in a stunning setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: