From Lembongan: Snorkeling Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan & nusa Penida island

From Lembongan: Snorkeling Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida Island

If you’re craving a day immersed in stunning marine life and vibrant coral reefs, this snorkeling trip from Nusa Lembongan makes a solid choice. For just $42 per person, you’ll spend about 4 hours on the water, exploring three prime snorkeling sites around Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida. The tour includes hotel pickup (for select hotels), all snorkel gear, and a chance to see manta rays, turtles, and myriad colorful fish—a true highlight for anyone who loves underwater photography or simply wants to marvel at the Indian Ocean’s marine diversity.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how well-organized it feels, with a professional guide ensuring safety and fun, and the opportunity to upgrade with a mangrove kayak tour and a hearty buffet lunch. The flexibility to visit different sites based on weather conditions is a smart touch, ensuring a safer, more enjoyable outing. The only consideration is that conservation fees and harbor taxes are extra—so, be prepared for a small cash payment at the end.

This trip suits travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo—especially if you’re eager to see manta rays or explore coral reefs without spending a fortune. Be aware that a minimum age of 10 years applies, and swimmers should be comfortable in the water.

Key Points

• Diverse snorkeling spots provide chances to see manta rays, turtles, and vibrant fish.
• All-inclusive gear and guides ensure a safe, hassle-free experience.
• Upgradable options include mangrove kayaking and a buffet lunch for a fuller day.
• Weather-dependent itinerary keeps safety and comfort a priority.
• Hotel pickup is available for select hotels, making logistics easier.
• Maximum group size of 15 means more personalized attention.

Exploring the Snorkeling Adventure in Detail

Starting Point and Early Morning Logistics

The tour kicks off around 9:30 am with hotel pickup for guests staying at designated hotels in Lembongan. If your accommodation isn’t accessible by vehicle, you’ll be asked to wait at the main road. This punctual start ensures you maximize your time in the water and experience the best of the day. Once on the boat, expect a swift but scenic ferry crossing to the neighboring islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.

The boat ride itself isn’t a long haul—just enough to set the tone for the underwater adventure ahead. The crew is attentive, and the guides are eager to help you get comfortable with your gear—masks, fins, and life jackets are provided, with flotation devices available for those less confident swimmers. One reviewer, Natasha, summed up her experience nicely, saying, “this was a freaking amazing trip,” noting how guides made sure everyone was safe and had a good time.

Snorkeling at Jungut Batu Beach

Your first stop is Jungut Batu Beach—a gentle introduction to the underwater landscape. Here, you’ll meet your guide who will help you suit up if you haven’t already. Expect to see some of the most diverse coral reefs in the world, teeming with brightly colored fish like emperor angelfish, parrot fish, and schools of tiny reef fish.

For many, the highlight is the chance to see marine creatures like moray eels, turtles, and if conditions align, manta rays. Natasha praised her guides for making things fun and safe, emphasizing how they ensured everyone could enjoy and explore comfortably. The shallow waters make it suitable for all ages and swimming abilities, adding to its appeal.

Crystal Bay and the Main Sites

Next, the tour takes you to Crystal Bay, renowned for its sprawling coral gardens and relatively light currents—ideal for both novice and experienced snorkelers. Depending on the weather, the guides may adjust the stops to Manta Bay or Gamat Bay. Manta Bay, if conditions permit, offers a rare chance to observe the majestic manta rays gliding gracefully over the reefs, a truly awe-inspiring sight.

If the swell is high, the group might visit Gamat Bay instead, which offers calmer waters and equally vibrant marine life. Judy, a reviewer, shared how fortunate she was to swim with manta rays, describing the experience as “wonderful to watch them cruise over the coral.” Such sightings aren’t guaranteed every time but are often the main draw of this trip.

The Optional Mangrove Kayak Tour

One of the more unique features of this tour is the option to upgrade to a mangrove kayak or traditional boat. This is a great way to see a different side of the islands—the lush, tangled roots of mangrove forests that line the coast. If you choose to kayak, you’ll paddle through serene, shaded waterways that contrast beautifully with the vibrant coral reefs. This part of the tour tends to be relaxing and offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially for nature lovers.

Lunch and Relaxation

After several hours on the water, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch—the quality and variety depend on your chosen package. Many reviews highlight how satisfying and tasty the meal is, making it a perfect way to refuel before heading back to your hotel. The inclusion of a hearty meal adds excellent value, especially when booked as part of the package.

Return and Drop-off

By the late morning or early afternoon, your boat will head back, and you’ll be dropped off at your hotel in Lembongan. The tour wraps up roughly four hours after it begins, leaving plenty of time to relax or explore more on your own.

What Makes This Tour Special

The professional guides stand out, especially in their ability to keep everyone safe and engaged. James commented that the knowledgeable guides made sure they “got the most from the experience,” which is a reassuring aspect when swimming with marine life. The small group size (max 15) ensures a more personal experience, avoiding the crowded feeling sometimes associated with larger tours.

The diverse reef environments and the chance to see mantas, turtles, and a range of tropical fish are the main reasons we find this trip appealing. The upgradable features allow travelers to extend their adventure with a kayak trip through mangroves and enjoy a satisfying meal, turning a snorkeling half-day into a fuller, richer experience.

Considerations and Tips

While the itinerary is flexible and weather-dependent, this is typical for boat-based tours in open water. If you’re hoping to see manta rays, plan your trip in good weather to maximize your chances. Also, be prepared to pay a conservation fee of Rp. 100,000 per adult and harbor tax—bring cash just in case.

Travellers should feel comfortable swimming, as most sites are shallow but still require basic water confidence. The minimum age of 10 is a reasonable restriction, ensuring younger children are able to participate safely.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This snorkeling trip is a fantastic choice for those who love marine life and want a well-organized, value-packed outing. It’s excellent for beginners and intermediate snorkelers, thanks to its calm, shallow sites and professional guides. Families with older children will find it particularly suitable. If you’re keen on seeing manta rays, this trip offers a reasonable chance without needing a multi-day commitment or expensive private tour.

Lovers of good food, scenic boat rides, and coral reefs will find this experience hits all the right notes—plus, the option to include a peaceful mangrove kayak or a hearty lunch offers extra enjoyment.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel transfers (for select hotels), snorkeling at three different sites, a guide, towels, lockers, masks, fins, snorkel gear, and the optional mangrove tour if upgraded.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay a conservation fee of Rp. 100,000 per adult and harbor tax, both payable in cash. Food and drinks outside of the included buffet are not covered.

How long is the snorkeling?
The total snorkeling time is approximately 3 hours spread across three stops, with each site offering a different experience.

Can I see manta rays on this tour?
You might see manta rays if conditions are right, especially at Manta Bay, which is a designated site for manta sightings when the weather permits.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunblock, a hat, and a waterproof camera if you like capturing underwater moments. Since the tour involves water activities, packing a dry bag for belongings is a smart idea.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 10 years old, and participants must be able to swim comfortably. The small group setting and safety precautions make it suitable for families with older children.

Final Word

For anyone looking to combine a half-day of snorkeling with scenic boat rides and optional mangrove exploration, this trip from Nusa Lembongan offers a strong value. It’s geared towards travelers who want to see marine highlights like manta rays and colorful reefs without splurging on private tours or multi-day excursions. The careful organization, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to enjoy a satisfying meal make it a well-rounded choice.

If you’re ready for a memorable underwater adventure with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of marine life, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to check the weather forecast, bring cash for fees, and set your expectations for a fun, safe, and beautiful day on the water.