Private Bora Bora Lagoon & Water Lunch Experience

Exploring Bora Bora’s Lagoon and Water Lunch Experience: A Complete Guide

When thinking about Bora Bora, most of us envision a postcard-perfect island surrounded by turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs. The Private Bora Bora Lagoon & Water Lunch Experience offers a chance to get up close and personal with these iconic sights. For approximately $518.65 per person, this 4-hour private cruise takes you around the island’s lagoon, with personalized stops for snorkeling, and concludes with a traditional Polynesian barbecue set on a secluded islet.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its customizable nature—your guide, like Ken or Glenn, adapts the itinerary based on your interests. Whether you want to swim with manta rays, explore coral gardens, or simply relax with a drink in hand, this tour caters to your pace. And the fact that it’s private means you won’t be sharing the water with crowds—making it all the more special.

A key highlight is the water lunch—imagine sitting at a table surrounded by fish and coral, enjoying fresh, local dishes right in the lagoon. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a memory-maker. The only potential drawback? With a price tag of over $500, some might feel it’s a bit steep for the limited time, though many reviews suggest the quality and exclusivity justify it.

This tour will suit travelers who value personalized service, love snorkeling and marine life, and want an authentic experience away from crowded resorts. It’s especially ideal if you’re seeking a combination of adventure, relaxation, and culture in a beautiful setting.

Key Points

• Private & Customizable: Your group sets the itinerary, avoiding crowds and maximizing your interests.
• Marine Encounters: Snorkel gear included with chances to see manta rays, sharks, and vibrant coral.
• Water Lunch: Unique dining experience on a secluded motu with local, fresh food served “feet in the water.”
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable captains like Ken or Glenn enhance the experience with insights and safety.
• Includes Beverages: Wines, Champagnes, sodas, and bottled water are part of the package.
• Round-Trip Transfers: Convenient pickups and drop-offs from your accommodation are available, making planning easier.

In-Depth Review of the Bora Bora Lagoon & Water Lunch Tour

Starting Point and Duration

The experience kicks off in Vaitape, the main town on Bora Bora, with round-trip transfers available from your hotel or resort. This added convenience means you won’t have to worry about navigating or finding a meeting point. Once on board, the boat ride itself offers a smooth introduction to the lagoon—paying attention to the experienced guides like Ken, who take pride in showing you the hidden gems.

The 4-hour schedule is tight but well-paced, balancing adventure with relaxation. Many travelers note that the time flies by quickly, especially when immersed in marine life or enjoying the water lunch. For those worried about feeling rushed, this short window still packs a lot in, thanks to the private setup and flexible planning.

The Cruise and Snorkeling

Sailing around Bora Bora’s lagoon, the guide is at your disposal to tailor stops to your preferences. Snorkeling gear is supplied, and the guides are known for their considerate approach—avoiding crowded spots and respecting the marine environment. Multiple reviews highlight how the guides like Glenn and Ken expertly navigate to coral gardens, manta ray sites, and shark encounters.

One traveler, Andrew, mentioned, “First stop was to snorkel with manta rays. Incredible! Way bigger and more majestic in person.” His comment underscores how extraordinary these encounters can be, especially since the guides are skilled at finding these creatures and ensuring guests feel safe.

Another review enthusiastically shared, “Swim with sharks, manta rays, and see coral with so many colorful fish,” emphasizing the diversity of marine life. The shallow water fauna offers excellent opportunities for photography and quiet observation, especially in spots selected by your guide.

The Private Islet and Water Lunch

The highlight for many is the water lunch on a private motu. This isn’t just a meal—it’s a sit-down affair right in the lagoon, with “feet in the water” and surrounded by vibrant fish and coral. The local, fresh products are served in traditional Polynesian style, complete with deck chairs, a covered pandanus shelter, and restroom facilities, ensuring comfort in this idyllic setting.

Reviews describe the lunch as “better than any resort dinner,” with fans praising the delicious grilled fish, chicken, salads, and an abundance of fresh fruit. The setting itself, with panoramic views of the reef and Mount Otemanu, makes it a picture-perfect experience. The exclusive nature of the location means you enjoy your meal in peace, away from other travelers.

Beverages and Additional Comforts

Beverages, including French wine, champagne, soda, and bottled water, are included, allowing you to toast the stunning scenery or relax after snorkeling. The boat is equipped with towels, flippers, and snorkel equipment, so packing light is possible. Many reviews mention how attentive the crew is, ensuring your comfort and safety throughout.

The Guides and Their Expertise

Beyond just navigating the lagoon, guides like Ken, Tupuna, or Glenn provide valuable insights into Bora Bora’s marine life and legends, adding an educational component to the trip. Their knowledgeable and friendly manner makes even nervous swimmers feel at ease, often turning first-time snorkelers into confident explorers.

Multiple reviews praise the guides’ attentiveness, with one guest remarking, “Ken was an amazing guide. He went above and beyond to make sure our day was special.” Their flexibility in customizing the route means you get a tailored experience, whether you want more snorkeling, a quiet cruise, or additional photo stops.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for couples, families, or groups of friends seeking a personalized adventure in Bora Bora. If you love marine life and want a combination of snorkeling, relaxation, and authentic Polynesian food, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer private, intimate experiences over crowded excursions.

However, keep in mind the cost—not necessarily a budget option but one that many reviews justify by the quality of service, exclusivity, and memorable food. If your priority is unforgettable marine encounters in a secluded setting, this tour will exceed expectations.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Book in advance, as the tour is popular and often reserved 42 days ahead.
• Share your expectations beforehand—whether you want more snorkeling or a focus on marine life—to help the guides tailor the trip.
• Bring reef shoes if you have them; reviews mention how useful they can be.
• Consider the weather: The tour requires good weather, with cancellations or rescheduling offered if the conditions aren’t suitable.
• Plan for a full day if you want to explore more, but the 4-hour window is enough for a rich taste of Bora Bora’s lagoon.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a luxurious, personalized experience that combines marine exploration, local cuisine, and scenic beauty, this private lagoon and water lunch tour is hard to beat. It offers incredible opportunities to see manta rays, sharks, and myriad colorful fish—all with expert guides ensuring your safety and comfort. The water lunch adds a special touch of Polynesian culture amidst stunning scenery, making it ideal for those celebrating something special or simply wanting a memorable day in Bora Bora.

While the price might seem high for just four hours, the quality of the experience, the private setting, and the authenticity of the meal make it worth considering for travelers who crave a more intimate connection with Bora Bora’s natural wonders. It’s perfect for anyone who values attention to detail, expert guidance, and a unique adventure on the water.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Yes, the guides are attentive and do their best to help all guests feel comfortable. If your children are confident swimmers, they’ll enjoy the marine encounters. Non-swimmers might want to stay in shallower areas or relax on the boat.

Does the tour include transportation from my hotel?
Round-trip transfers from your accommodation are available, making the trip easier and more relaxing. Confirm your pickup location when booking.

What should I bring for the water lunch?
The lunch is served on the private motu with chairs and shelter. You might want to bring reef shoes, sunglasses, and sun protection, but towels and snorkel gear are provided.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, guides like Ken and Glenn are flexible about stops—whether you want more snorkeling, marine wildlife viewing, or just relaxing.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How long in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 42 days in advance, as this tour is popular among visitors seeking an exclusive experience.

Are drinks included?
Yes, beverages like French wine, Champagne, soda, and bottled water are included throughout the tour.

What is the average group size?
Since it’s a private tour, your group is the only one on board, ensuring a personalized, intimate experience.

In summary, the Private Bora Bora Lagoon & Water Lunch Experience offers a chance to explore the island’s spectacular lagoon with personalized attention, marine encounters, and a memorable Polynesian meal. It’s well-suited for travelers who cherish exclusivity and natural beauty, willing to invest in a carefully curated, authentic adventure in one of the world’s most beautiful locations.