Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise

Imagine drifting over crystal-clear waters, spotting turtles gliding by, and enjoying a relaxed, fun-filled day on the water. The Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise offers just that—an approximately four-hour jaunt starting from Gili Trawangan that takes you to three of the Gili Islands, with time to snorkel, relax on pristine beaches, and savor a tasty BBQ lunch aboard a custom-made pontoon. Priced at $82.80 per person, this tour is highly recommended by 98% of travelers and often booked 27 days in advance, which speaks volumes about its popularity.

During this trip, you’ll visit Gili Meno, home to underwater statues and calm waters, and the Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary, where you can witness gentle sea turtles in their natural habitat. Then it’s off to Gili Meno Beach for some laid-back beach time, followed by Gili Air, where the snorkeling continues and a light BBQ lunch awaits you on a floating platform.

What sets this tour apart? First, the small group size—max 12 travelers—ensures a more personal and relaxed experience. Second, many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff who go out of their way to make sure everyone gets great photos and feels at ease.

One consideration for travelers: this tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at Gili Trawangan. Also, since it involves snorkeling and beach time, bring your own sunscreen, towel, and waterproof camera if you want to capture the moments.

This tour suits travelers who love snorkeling, marine wildlife, and authentic island experiences. If you’re after a laid-back day with plenty of opportunities to see turtles and underwater statues, combined with good-value food and scenic views, this cruise could be just right.

Key Points

• Small group size makes for a more personal experience.
• Snorkeling with turtles and visiting underwater statues are major highlights.
• An authentic BBQ lunch on a custom pontoon adds a relaxing touch.
• The itinerary includes three beautiful islands with varied snorkeling and beach options.
• Cost-effective, given the included snorkeling gear, towels, and lunch.
• No hotel pickup, so plan to meet at the designated point in Gili Trawangan.

An In-Depth Look at the Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise

If you’re visiting Gili Trawangan and looking for a memorable, active day on the water, this tour ticks many boxes. It combines snorkeling, sightseeing, and lounging, all in a compact four-hour window that fits well into most travel plans.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $82.80, you get snorkeling gear, towels, and a delicious BBQ lunch—all essentials for a comfortable, enjoyable trip. The food, described as “delicious” by travelers, is served on a custom-made pontoon, floating just above the water—an experience in itself. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment means you don’t have to worry about packing your own gear, making it a hassle-free activity.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at 9:30 am, the tour kicks off at the Gili Hai Cruises Office in Gili Trawangan. From there, a boat takes you to Gili Meno, known for its underwater statues and calm waters. The one-hour stop here is perfect for snorkeling and exploring the underwater sculptures, which many travelers find fascinating. We loved the way the guides helped us take great photos with GoPro cameras, as one reviewer mentioned, making it easy to capture memories.

Next, you head to Turtle Point at Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary. Here, you can observe sea turtles in their natural habitat—an experience many describe as “magical.” Watching these gentle creatures in their environment creates a special connection to the marine world. Reviewers frequently mention how this stop felt like a highlight, with one saying, “we swam with turtles!”

The third stop is Gili Meno Beach, a stretch of soft white sand perfect for strolling, relaxing, or just soaking up the sun. The reviews highlight how peaceful and pristine this beach is, offering a quiet contrast to the lively boat rides.

Finally, the boat moves to Gili Air, a spot where snorkeling continues, and the crew serves the light BBQ lunch on the pontoon. This floating platform becomes a relaxing oasis with chilled tunes, making it easy to unwind while watching the surrounding waters. The lunch is often praised as “lovely” and “delicious,” and many comments mention how good value this makes the tour.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

Travelers rave about the friendly and attentive crew, who are praised for their helpfulness and ability to make the day smooth and memorable. The small group size means you get more personalized attention, and the guides are often praised for their patience and helpfulness, especially in taking photos.

One reviewer noted, “Our guide helped us take great pics with our GoPro,” highlighting the added value of personalized service. Another mentioned, “The crew looked after us well,” which makes a big difference when you’re in unfamiliar waters.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 12 travelers, the atmosphere is intimate and relaxed. This small size facilitates better interaction and more space to enjoy each spot without feeling crowded. It also ensures that the guides can tailor their assistance, such as helping with snorkeling skills or photo opportunities.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is excellent value, it’s important to note that hotel pickup isn’t included. Most travelers staying in Gili Trawangan can easily reach the meeting point, which is next to Ocean 2 Gili Trawangan. The tour starts promptly at 9:30 am, so arriving at least 30 minutes early is advisable.

Since the tour involves snorkeling and beach time, bringing essentials like sunscreen, water, and a waterproof camera enhances the experience. Weather can influence the trip, and in severe conditions, departures might be rescheduled without refunds—so flexibility is key.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy marine life and a relaxed island vibe. Families, couples, and groups of friends all find this day engaging, especially given the stunning underwater sights and the opportunity to see turtles in the wild. If you’re after a good mix of activity and downtime, with top-notch guides and a memorable meal, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Final Words: Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

The Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise offers a great balance of snorkeling, scenic beauty, and relaxed fun. It’s ideal for those who want an authentic experience, see turtles in their natural habitat, and enjoy some of the best underwater views the Gilis have to offer—all without breaking the bank.

The small group size, friendly guides, and delicious lunch ensure that you not only see beautiful spots but also feel well cared for. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, you’re likely to leave with fantastic memories and plenty of photos to remember this special day.

If you value authentic marine encounters, personalized service, and a well-organized day out on the water, this cruise should be high on your list. Just remember to arrive prepared for a day in the sun, and you’re all set for an unforgettable Gili adventure.

FAQ

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 27 days ahead, as it’s a popular activity. Booking early ensures you secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup isn’t provided. Most guests meet at the Gili Hai Cruises Office in Gili Trawangan, which is easy to reach by bike or walk.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, waterproof camera if desired, and any personal snorkeling gear you prefer. The tour provides snorkeling equipment and towels.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning to the meeting point. It’s a compact yet fulfilling experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for a wide age range. Always consider your comfort with snorkeling and swimming if traveling with children.

What is the group size?
Limited to 12 travelers, offering an intimate atmosphere with plenty of personal attention.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of severe weather or harbor closures, the trip might be rescheduled without a refund. Always check the weather forecast before your day.

To sum it up, the Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise combines adventure, relaxation, and authentic island charm into a well-rounded day. It’s perfect for those seeking a fun, intimate, and value-packed way to experience the magic of Gili Trawangan and its neighboring islands—an experience worth every penny for marine lovers and beachgoers alike.