Full-day Lagoon Safari Tour with Lunch in Bora Bora – Shared tour

Thinking about adding a full-day lagoon adventure in Bora Bora to your trip? For around $203 per person, you’ll spend 5 to 6 hours on a boat exploring the island’s vivid coral reefs, swimming with marine life, and relaxing on a small motu with a Polynesian-style lunch. The tour is run by Rohivai Tours, a family-operated business, with passionate guides who love sharing their corner of paradise.

Two things we really appreciate about this excursion are the variety of snorkeling stops—from stingrays to manta rays—and the authentic, homemade-style lunch on the motu, which provides a genuine taste of Polynesian hospitality. However, a possible consideration is that popular snorkeling sites can get crowded, especially with other boats, which might slightly affect the feeling of exclusivity.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, active day with plenty of underwater encounters, a good mix of adventure and relaxation, and an intimate group size. If you’ve dreamed of swimming alongside rays and sharks or simply soaking up the stunning scenery, this trip offers authentic experiences for all ages—especially those eager to see Bora Bora’s marine life up close.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Lagoon Experience: Multiple snorkeling stops, including stingrays, sharks, and manta rays.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable locals, often praised for their friendliness, humor, and storytelling.
• Authentic Polynesian Lunch: A delicious, sit-in-the-water meal featuring local flavors.
• Limited Group Size: A maximum of 12 travelers ensures a personalized adventure.
• Value for Money: A full day of activities, good food, and marine encounters for around $200.
• Good for All Skill Levels: Snorkel gear is provided, and guides help less confident swimmers.

A Deep Dive into the Bora Bora Lagoon Safari

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour offers snorkeling gear, towels, bottled water, fruit juices, soda, and a hearty Polynesian lunch. The lunch menu is flexible, accommodating allergies or dietary preferences, and includes rice salad, grilled chicken, raw fish in coconut milk, seasonal fruits, and traditional coconut bread and cake. Having these included means you can focus on enjoying your day without worrying about additional expenses—especially since alcoholic drinks and snacks aren’t covered.

The Itinerary in Detail

Embarking in the Morning

The tour begins at 9:00 am from Rohivai Tours’ meeting point in Matira. The boat is described as comfortable and well-equipped, designed for a smooth ride across the lagoon. The small group size (max 12) minimizes crowds, fostering a friendly, conversation-rich environment. Reviewers mention a punctual pickup, which sets a positive tone for the day.

First Stop: The Marine Sanctuary & Rays

Your first encounter is at a protected marine sanctuary, where you can swim with stingrays and sharks. Several reviewers marveled at how “friendly” and “graceful” these creatures are. One guest mentioned that guides “know all the good spots” for these animals, making it a highlight. With 40 minutes allocated here, you’ll have time to observe, take photos, and perhaps get comfortable with these gentle predators.

Some travelers shared the experience of feeling at ease thanks to guides’ helpfulness, noting that even less confident swimmers felt supported. This stop offers an impressive look at the marine biodiversity of Bora Bora’s waters, which are famed for their clarity and vibrancy.

Coral Gardens & Colorful Fish

Next, you’ll snorkel in a vibrant coral garden teeming with a kaleidoscope of fish and coral formations. This 50-minute stop often receives praise for its “spectacular” reef life. Several reviews highlight the variety of fish, including reef fish, manta rays, and colorful corals, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Manta Ray Sanctuary (or Not)

Another sanctuary is on the schedule for a chance to see manta rays—or sometimes not, as one reviewer noted. The unpredictability adds an element of luck but also underscores the importance of visiting multiple sites during the day to maximize your chances.

Motu & Polynesian Lunch

Midday, you’ll head to a tranquil motu, a small islet with swaying coconut palms. Here, a delicious, traditional Polynesian picnic awaits, served in a relaxed, scenic setting. Several guests rave about the “delicious food,” and some mention sitting in the water during lunch, which sounds both fun and memorable.

The two-hour stop here is ample time to relax, soak up the scenery, and chat with fellow travelers. Many reviews emphasize the authenticity of the lunch, often citing it as a highlight. The setting also offers opportunities for photos and a peaceful break from snorkeling.

Final Stop & Return

After refueling, the safari continues with more snorkeling, or simply enjoying the tranquil lagoon scenery. The boat returns to the starting point after about six hours, leaving you with a collection of cherished memories of marine encounters and island beauty.

What the Reviews Say

Guests consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Coco, Maui, and Manu. “He knows all the good spots,” one reviewer shared, emphasizing how the guides make the experience more fun and educational. Many mention the “delicious” lunch and the opportunity to sit in the water, making the meal a delightful, authentic part of the adventure.

In terms of marine life, multiple reviews highlight swimming with manta rays, eagle rays, sharks, and colorful reef fish. “The scenery, the variety of water creatures… was the best aquatic experience of one’s life,” one guest raved. Even those less comfortable in the water appreciated the use of snorkel gear and helpful guides.

Practical Details and Considerations

• The tour’s price of around $200 offers good value for a full day of guided activities, multiple snorkel sites, and a delicious lunch.
• The small group size ensures personal attention and fewer crowds, but be prepared for some sites to feel busy at peak times.
• Weather dependency is important—poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling, with full refunds offered if necessary.
• Physical comfort varies; most reviews mention the boat being comfortable, but if you’re nervous about snorkeling or swimming, the guides’ supportive attitude is key.
• The minimum of 4 travelers ensures a personalized experience, though the maximum is 12, keeping the vibe intimate.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal for travelers who value marine encounters and authentic island experiences. It’s perfect if you want to see a variety of sea life and enjoy a relaxed, full-day adventure with friendly guides. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate small group sizes and personalized attention will find it especially appealing.

If your priority is a well-rounded, active day with snorkeling, good food, and local culture, this tour hits the spot. Those looking for luxury or exclusive experiences might prefer private options, but for value, authenticity, and fun, Rohivai Tours delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll get snorkeling equipment, towels, bottled water, fruit juices, soda, and a Polynesian-style lunch. The menu is flexible for allergies and dietary restrictions.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning around early afternoon.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Most reviews highlight the support from guides, and snorkel gear is provided. If you’re hesitant, guides are helpful in making sure everyone feels comfortable.

What kind of marine animals will I see?
Guests often see stingrays, sharks, manta rays, and colorful reef fish. Encounters depend on the day’s conditions, but guides know the best spots.

How crowded is the tour?
The group is limited to 12 people, which helps keep the experience intimate. However, some snorkeling sites can be busy, especially with other boats.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, sunblock, a hat, and some cash if you want to purchase souvenirs or participate in activities like pareo making, as credit cards aren’t accepted locally.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Lagoon Safari offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Polynesian hospitality. With friendly guides, a variety of snorkel stops, and a delicious local lunch, it’s a great way to connect with Bora Bora’s incredible marine life while enjoying the company of a small, engaged group.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, fun-filled day that covers the highlights of Bora Bora’s waters, this tour delivers in spades. It’s especially suitable for those eager to see sharks, rays, and colorful fish in their natural habitat, all while enjoying a relaxed, scenic setting.

For travelers who want good value for money and an experience that combines adventure with cultural authenticity, Rohivai Tours’ lagoon safari will leave you with wonderful memories—and probably some coral reef selfies, too.