Snorkeling Day Trip To Lembongan and Penida

Snorkeling Day Trip to Lembongan and Penida: An Underwater Adventure for Every Traveler

This full-day snorkeling tour from Bali offers a chance to explore some of Indonesia’s most extraordinary underwater spots, including Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, and Gamat Bay. Starting at around 9 hours long and costing just $35.48 per person, it’s an affordable way to see manta rays, sea turtles, and an abundance of tropical fish, all while enjoying the stunning scenery of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.

What we love most is how professional yet friendly the guides are, making everyone feel safe and confident in the water—no prior experience needed. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, kayaks, and a buffet lunch make it a hassle-free day, especially for those who want a mix of adventure and relaxation.

A potential consideration is that marine park fees are at your expense, and the water conditions can sometimes be rough, especially at the manta spots. Plus, this tour isn’t suited for non-swimmers or those with certain health issues, so it’s best for physically active travelers who are comfortable in the water.

If you’re looking for an authentic, well-organized day that combines marine wildlife with Indonesian hospitality, this trip could be perfect—ideal for snorkelers of all levels who want a taste of Bali’s incredible underwater world without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience with snorkeling at three different sites and a kayaking adventure
• All-inclusive with snorkeling gear, buffet lunch, bottled water, towels, and lockers
• Flexible departure points from Sanur, Nusa Lembongan, and southern Bali to suit your plans
• Professional guides prioritize safety and provide valuable local insights
• Marine park fees are additional and at your expense
• Not suitable for non-swimmers or travelers with certain health conditions

Exploring the Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

This tour packs a lot into one day, starting early with convenient pickup options that ensure you’re on your way without fuss. The journey unfolds with several stops, each offering a different flavor of Bali’s underwater and coastal beauty.

Stop 1: Check-In at Dcamel Fast Ferry

For travelers beginning from Bali, the adventure kicks off at the Dcamel Fast Ferry check-in counter in Sanur. The quick 30-minute process is mostly just a formality, with no extra cost, but it’s your first taste of the organized pace that makes this tour smooth.

Stop 2: Lembongan Watersport Base

Once you arrive on Nusa Lembongan, the tour base at Lembongan Watersport becomes your hub. Here, you’ll enjoy complimentary snacks and welcome drinks, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The staff will fit you into snorkeling gear, which is included—an important detail for those worried about equipment quality.

What makes this stop special is the friendly, professional approach of the team and the fact that it’s a dedicated base, so everything is well-organized ahead of the day’s activities. Several reviews mention the guides’ knowledge and care, making even nervous swimmers feel more at ease.

Stop 3: Snorkeling at Nusa Penida

The centerpiece of the tour is the snorkeling between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, with three main spots: Manta Bay (or Manta Point), Toyapakeh Wall, and Gamat Bay. Your guides will prioritize manta rays at Manta Bay if the weather cooperates, which is a highlight for many.

Expect about three hours at this segment, where you’ll see manta rays, turtles, moray eels, and a vibrant array of reef fish. As one reviewer noted, the guides “took good care of everyone in the water,” and others described it as “one of their favorite days ever.” Still, some mention the water can be crowded, especially at Manta Bay, making it a slightly chaotic experience—something to keep in mind if you prefer quieter encounters.

Stop 4: Buffet Lunch and Refresh

Back at the base, a buffet lunch awaits, offering a variety of local dishes, with vegetarian options available (tofu is mentioned). A few reviews praise the quality and abundance of the meal, which helps refuel you after the morning’s water activities. Shower facilities are available, and towels and lockers add to your convenience.

Stop 5: Kayaking Through Mangroves

The final activity is a kayak trip through the mangrove forest. It’s a peaceful way to end the day, and many reviews highlight how refreshing and scenic the experience is. The kayaking is suitable for most, though one reviewer mentioned it was more challenging than expected, and some got left behind. The guides do their best to keep everyone together, but it’s wise to be comfortable paddling if you want to enjoy this part fully.

End of the Day: Return to Sanur

For those starting from Bali, the day concludes with a ferry transfer back to Sanur port, completing your eco-adventure. The logistics are well-managed, with pick-up and drop-off included, making this a hassle-free experience.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

Reading reviews reveals that many travelers are genuinely impressed by the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. Several mention the guides’ knowledge and safety focus, creating a trustworthy environment where even non-swimmers felt comfortable—especially with life vests and rings available at Manta Bay.

The value for money stands out, considering that the price includes snorkeling gear, kayak, lunch, water, towels, lockers, and transfers. For just over thirty-five dollars, you get a full day of diverse activities and a chance to see some of Indonesia’s most iconic marine creatures.

However, it’s worth noting that marine park fees are not included in the price, adding around IDR 100,000 per person. Planning for this extra expense ensures no surprises at the checkout.

Some reviews point out that water conditions can be unpredictable—rough at times, especially at the manta spot—so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable in open water. The tour is not recommended for non-swimmers or those with certain health issues, such as respiratory or heart problems.

This trip strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort, making it a top choice for those wanting a comprehensive snorkeling experience in Bali’s nearby waters.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers with basic water skills and a curiosity for marine life. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy snorkeling and are comfortable in the water will find this a fulfilling experience.

If you’re seeking professional guides, well-organized logistics, and a chance to see manta rays, turtles, and vibrant reefs—all at a reasonable price—you’ll appreciate what’s on offer here.

However, if you prefer quieter, less crowded spots or have mobility concerns, you might want to explore other options. This trip caters to those who are okay with busy environments and unpredictable water conditions, but it compensates with its friendly staff and authentic underwater encounters.

The Sum Up

For under fifty dollars, this snorkeling day trip provides a solid mix of marine wildlife encounters, scenic boat rides, and cultural lunch. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, kayaks, and transfers offers convenience and good value, especially appreciated by travelers who hate the hassle of organizing each piece separately.

What sets this tour apart are the friendly, knowledgeable guides who go out of their way to ensure everyone is safe and enjoying the experience. The chance to swim alongside manta rays and sea turtles is genuinely memorable, making it a highlight for many reviews. The lunch and kayak activities add a relaxed, diverse touch to the day, ensuring it feels more than just a boat ride.

While water conditions and the presence of large groups may not suit everyone, those open to adventure, moderate physical activity, and authentic marine encounters will find this tour a rewarding addition to their Bali itinerary. It’s a fine way to see the underwater world without the high costs or complicated logistics, especially for first-timers or families seeking a safe, fun, and memorable day out.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, especially for Nusa Lembongan and Bali Mainland options, making it very convenient.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, from early pick-up to return, providing ample time for snorkeling, kayaking, and enjoying the lunch.

Are snorkel gear and kayaks included?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment and kayaks are included in the package, so you don’t need to rent anything separately.

Can non-swimmers join this tour?
It’s not suitable for non-swimmers, as snorkeling and kayaking require a basic comfort level in the water. Guides do provide safety equipment, but confidence in water is important.

What about marine park fees?
Marine park fees are not included in the ticket price and cost approximately IDR 100,000 per person. It’s wise to budget for this extra.

Is there an age limit for participants?
Insurance covers ages 10-65. Travelers outside this range will be denied entry, so check your age before booking.

This snorkeling tour offers a lively, well-organized way to encounter Bali’s underwater splendors. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see manta rays, turtles, and vibrant reefs without complicated planning or high costs. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and a water-friendly attitude!