Sharing Snorkeling Trip Gili islands Depart Lombok/Gili Trawangan

Imagine spending a sunny half-day floating above coral reefs, swimming alongside sea turtles, and discovering underwater statues—sounds tempting, right? For just $20 per person, this sharing snorkeling trip from Lombok to the Gili Islands offers a wonderful way to explore some of Indonesia’s most stunning marine environments. The tour lasts about 4 hours and 20 minutes, taking you through a series of carefully selected spots around Gili Meno, Gili Air, and Gili Trawangan.

We love how this trip combines accessible snorkel gear, professional guides, and beautiful locations—all without breaking the bank. The opportunity to see sea turtles, vibrant coral reefs, and even underwater statues makes it a tempting choice for nature lovers and first-time snorkelers alike. Plus, the chance to relax on Gili Air with some free time for lunch and exploration adds a nice balance of activity and downtime.

One thing to keep in mind is the boat’s stability—a few reviews mention that the vessel can be quite rough, which might cause seasickness for sensitive travelers. If you tend to get seasick, it’s worth considering this before booking. This tour suits those who appreciate value for money, adventure, and authentic marine encounters—ideal for travelers eager to maximize their Gili experience without a hefty price tag.

• Affordable Price: At just $20, this tour offers great value, especially considering the variety of stops and experiences.
• Professional Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance safety, provide insight, and make the snorkel spots more engaging.
• Diverse Locations: From coral reefs to turtle interactions and underwater statues, each stop offers something unique.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample time on Gili Air allows for relaxing, exploring, or grabbing a meal of your own expense.
• Group Experience: With a maximum of 25 travelers, you get a lively, social vibe without feeling overcrowded.
• Weather Dependent: The tour is weather-sensitive; poor conditions may lead to rescheduling or refunds.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For just $20, you’re included in the cost of snorkeling gear and a glass-bottom boat experience, which really elevates the trip. The bottled water keeps you hydrated as you bounce between spots, and the group discounts ensure a fun, communal atmosphere. Lunch, however, isn’t provided, giving you the freedom to choose your own meal on Gili Air—an advantage if you’re particular about your food or want to sample local fare.

The tour is operated by Bale Laut Lombok Tour Organizer, and most travelers book about 10 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and value.

Meeting Point and Duration

The adventure kicks off at Ombak Bar on Gili Trawangan, a lively hub perfect for meeting fellow travelers. The entire trip clocks in at roughly 4 hours and 20 minutes, making it a perfect half-day activity—leaving you plenty of time later to explore the islands or relax on the beach.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1 & 2: Gili Meno – Coral Reefs and Turtles

Your snorkeling begins at Gili Meno, renowned for its vivid coral reefs and colorful fish. The first stop is about 25 minutes, giving you a chance to marvel at marine life in a calm, coral-rich environment. As one reviewer noted, the activity here involves snorkeling to see coral reefs and many colorful fish, which makes it a rewarding start.

The second stop on Gili Meno is particularly exciting because it’s swimming with sea turtles. One traveler described this as “a very interesting experience”, and with the calm waters around Gili Meno, you’ll have a good chance to spot these gentle creatures. The 30-minute turtle encounter is often highlighted as a highlight of the tour.

Stop 3: Gili Air for Lunch and Exploration

Next, the crew takes you to Gili Air, where you’re given 45 minutes to unwind, explore, or grab a meal (own expense). The island is known for its laid-back vibe, and the free time here allows you to relax, walk along the beaches, or take some photos. Several reviews mention enjoying the “media mañana bien aprovechada” — making good use of the morning with a mix of snorkeling and downtime.

Stop 4: Gili Meno’s Statue Ring Point

The final snorkeling stop is at Statue Ring Point, a spot famous for the underwater statue. This is often the main attraction, with travelers eager to see the sea life and the underwater sculptures. It’s about 30 minutes, and the sight of the statues beneath the water makes for fantastic photos. One review called it “the spot you’ve been waiting for,” emphasizing its appeal.

Return to Gili Trawangan

The trip concludes with a 20-minute sail back to Gili Trawangan, where most travelers can reflect on a full morning of marine discovery.

The Experience: What You’ll Actually See and Feel

Expect crystal-clear waters and a gentle, warm sea that makes snorkeling a pleasure. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, helping less confident swimmers feel comfortable. As one reviewer remarked, the guides are “very cool,” contributing to a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

While the currents can be strong, as noted by some, this is typical of the Gili waters and adds a bit of thrill—though those prone to seasickness should prepare accordingly. The glass-bottom boat offers a chance to see marine life even if you prefer staying dry, which is helpful for those who might not want to snorkel at every stop.

Most reviews highlight the value for money. For just $20, you’re getting multiple snorkel sites, a boat ride, and free time on the islands—an excellent deal considering the quality of the locations and the overall experience.

Authenticity and Practicality

This tour strikes a good balance between organized activity and authentic exploration. You’ll be with a group, but the stops are flexible enough for personal exploration. The local guides enhance the experience with local knowledge and safety tips, which adds value beyond just the scenery.

This snorkeling trip is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to see the highlights of the Gili Islands without a hefty price. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, families, or anyone eager to encounter sea turtles, coral reefs, and underwater statues in a short period. If you’re seeking a relaxed, social atmosphere and don’t mind a rougher boat ride, you’ll find this tour very rewarding.

However, if you’re sensitive to seasickness or looking for a luxury experience with a very stable boat, you might want to consider more comfortable options. Also, those who prefer luxury meals might find the lack of included lunch a drawback, but plenty of local eateries are nearby.

This sharing snorkeling trip to the Gili Islands offers a fantastic way to experience Indonesia’s vibrant marine life on a budget. The carefully curated stops—especially the sea turtle encounter and underwater statues—make it a memorable outing. The guides’ expertise, combined with the stunning underwater scenery, ensures you’ll come away with beautiful photos and stories.

While the boat’s roughness might be a concern for some, the overall value, variety, and authentic charm make this tour a great choice for travelers wanting a quick, fun, and affordable dive into Gili’s underwater world.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes, including multiple snorkeling stops, free time on Gili Air, and transportation.

What is included in the price?
You get snorkeling equipment, a glass-bottom boat experience, bottled water, and a guided tour. Lunch is not included, giving you the freedom to choose your own meal on Gili Air.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are experienced and friendly, making it accessible for first-time snorkelers. However, be aware of the strong currents some reviews mention.

What should I bring?
Bring your own sunscreen, a towel, and cash for lunch or souvenirs. Consider a waterproof case for your valuables.

How many people are in a group?
The tour caps at 25 travelers, fostering a lively but manageable group size.

What are the main highlights?
Expect coral reefs, sea turtles, underwater statues, and free time on Gili Air to relax or explore.

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

If you’re after affordable, lively marine adventures with a chance to see sea turtles and underwater sculptures, this snorkeling tour offers genuine value. It’s especially suited for those who want to maximize their time exploring Gili’s underwater world without overspending, as well as travelers who enjoy group activities with friendly guides. For anyone ready to get their fins wet and experience Indonesia’s marine beauty in a straightforward, fun way, this tour is definitely worth considering.