Bora Bora: Blue Lagoon Cruise, Snorkeling and Lunch .

Bora Bora: Blue Lagoon Cruise, Snorkeling and Lunch offers a captivating taste of French Polynesia’s most iconic island. For around six hours and $235 per person, you’ll explore Bora Bora’s famous crystal-clear waters, encounter sharks and rays in their natural habitat, and enjoy a delicious meal on a remote motu. Led by the friendly and knowledgeable Teina Tuaiva, this tour presents a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation—perfect for those eager to see Bora Bora’s vibrant marine life without spending a fortune or dedicating a full day.

What we particularly love about this experience are two key details. First, the opportunity to swim with sharks and rays—a thrill that feels both safe and authentic, thanks to the experienced crew. Second, the lunch on the motu, where you can enjoy authentic Polynesian flavors with your toes in the water, making the meal both scenic and memorable.

A possible consideration? This tour isn’t designed for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, as it involves boat travel and underwater encounters. Nonetheless, it’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking an active yet comfortable way to experience Bora Bora’s famed marine environment.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced day of adventure and relaxation, appreciate authentic local experiences, and are comfortable on a boat. It’s especially good if you’re keen to see marine wildlife like sharks, rays, and even manta rays, as well as enjoy a scenic meal amid paradise.

Key Points

• Stunning Marine Encounters: Swim with sharks, rays, and manta rays in their natural setting.
• Vibrant Underwater Life: Snorkel amidst coral gardens teeming with tropical fish.
• Authentic Polynesian Lunch: Enjoy local cuisine on a remote motu with water views.
• Comfortable Cruise: Travel on a stable, well-equipped boat with a friendly crew.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Snorkel gear, drinks, and fruits provided for a hassle-free experience.
• Limited Suitability: Not recommended for non-swimmers or seasick-prone travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Bora Bora Blue Lagoon Cruise in Detail

The Itinerary and Highlights

Starting with a hotel pickup included in the morning, we found the logistics straightforward—look for the distinctive white and beige boat about 10 minutes before pickup time. Once aboard, the journey into Bora Bora’s famous lagoon begins. The boat itself is described as comfortable and stable, ideal for the roughly six-hour adventure. This stability is particularly appreciated given the open water stops and snorkeling sessions.

The cruise is designed to hit the most iconic sights of the lagoon. The first main attraction is swimming with sharks and rays. According to reviews, the experience feels both thrilling and safe, thanks to the professional guidance of the crew. Nicoletta from Italy mentioned, “The guide Tu is super professional, and makes you feel very safe,” which is crucial when dealing with wildlife. The sharks and rays are in their natural environment, providing a genuinely authentic encounter—no cages and no artificial setups—just you, the water, and some fascinating creatures.

Next, you’ll snorkel in coral gardens bursting with colorful tropical fish. These underwater landscapes are described as spectacular, making it easy to see why snorkel gear is included and why many travelers bring waterproof cameras. The shallow waters and clear visibility give you a front-row seat to this underwater spectacle and a chance to appreciate the vibrant marine biodiversity that makes Bora Bora world-famous.

The Mysterious Motu Lunch Experience

Midday, the boat anchors at a remote motu, a small island within the lagoon. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious Polynesian-style lunch. Nicoletta’s review highlights the “super lunch at Tus motu, eating typical food with our feet in water”—an experience that elevates a simple meal into a memorable event. The laid-back setting, with feet in sand and water, gives you a true sense of island life. The meal typically features local ingredients, fresh fruits, and often a communal, friendly atmosphere with the crew and fellow travelers.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Beyond the wildlife encounters, what makes this tour special is the personal touch of the guides. Teina Tuaiva, the provider, is praised for making sure everyone feels safe and engaged. The fun and friendly atmosphere keeps the mood lively, especially when sharing stories and laughs during the cruise.

The sheer beauty of Bora Bora’s lagoon is the star here. The stunning views of turquoise waters and lush islands are visible throughout the trip, offering plenty of photo opportunities, whether from the boat or underwater.

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Practical Details and What to Prepare

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, fresh drinks, and fruits. You’ll want to bring a swimsuit, towel, camera, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), and perhaps a long-sleeved shirt for sun protection. Since touching marine life or bringing alcohol and fireworks is prohibited, respect these rules to keep the environment safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Group size is not specified but given the nature of the tour, expect a small to medium group—enough to feel lively but still intimate. The safety gear and crew’s professionalism ensure that even less experienced swimmers can participate comfortably.

The Value Proposition

At $235, this tour offers excellent value for those seeking a half-day adventure immersed in Bora Bora’s waters. It combines wildlife encounters, snorkeling, scenic cruising, and a local-style meal in one package. Compared with full-day or more expensive options, this experience strikes a good balance between quality and affordability.

The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with Nicoletta calling it “simply amazing” and Ettore noting the stops near manta rays and sharks. Both reviews emphasize the professional guidance and stunning underwater scenery, confirming that this tour delivers on its promises.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who love marine wildlife and want a relaxed, fun day on the water. It’s especially well-suited for those comfortable on boats and interested in snorkeling. If you’re looking for a photography-rich experience with plenty of opportunities to capture Bora Bora’s beauty, this trip won’t disappoint.

Final Thoughts

This Bora Bora Blue Lagoon Cruise is a well-rounded choice for travelers craving authentic encounters with marine life in a setting that’s both scenic and comfortable. The knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and delicious lunch elevate it beyond just a boat ride, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to French Polynesia.

While it’s not ideal for non-swimmers or those with seasickness, for most adventure-loving visitors, it offers a safe, fun, and genuinely immersive experience. It’s a great way to see Bora Bora from the water, with the added bonus of delicious Polynesian cuisine. If you want to combine wildlife, scenery, and local flavor in half a day, this cruise is worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from all Bora Bora accommodations, making it easy to start your adventure without transportation worries.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 6 hours, from pickup to drop-off, providing plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, camera, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), long-sleeved shirt, and binoculars if you wish to spot wildlife from the boat.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment—including masks and fins—is included in the tour, so you can comfortably explore the underwater world.

Can non-swimmers participate?
Non-swimmers might find it challenging, as the tour involves swimming with marine life. Seasickness could also be an issue for some.

Is there an age limit?
While not explicitly mentioned, the focus on marine encounters suggests it’s best suited for those comfortable in the water. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What’s the lunch like?
The lunch is on a remote motu, featuring typical Polynesian cuisine, with fresh fruits and local dishes, enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere with water views.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility in case your plans shift.

In all, this Bora Bora tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, scenery, and local flavor, making it a worthwhile choice for travelers eager to connect with the island’s natural beauty without overextending their time or budget.

You can check availability for your dates here: