Snorkelling with Manta Rays at Nusa Penida and Lembongan

If you’re seeking a day out on the water that combines marine marvels with practical comfort, this snorkeling tour from Bali’s Kuta area offers an excellent choice. For $143 per person, you’ll spend about 7 hours exploring some of Bali’s best underwater sites, with the highlight being swimming alongside gentle manta rays at Manta Point. Led by knowledgeable guides, this small-group trip (max 15 travelers) promises a memorable encounter with Bali’s vibrant marine life, complemented by smooth logistics and thoughtful inclusions like lunch, gear, and transfers.

What we love most about this tour is the personalized feeling—the guide-to-participant ratio is about one to six, making it easier to ask questions and get tailored assistance. Plus, the variety of snorkeling spots—from manta rays to sea turtles and colorful coral—ensures you’ll experience Bali’s underwater diversity. The convenient collection from major areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua makes the whole day comfortably accessible.

A possible consideration is the reliance on good weather—since snorkeling is weather-dependent, a stormy day might mean rescheduling or cancellation. Still, the tour’s flexibility with full refunds or alternative dates offers peace of mind.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see manta rays firsthand, beginners who appreciate guides and gear, and those who enjoy a well-organized, all-inclusive day on the water.

Key Points

• Up-close Manta Encounters: Swim alongside graceful manta rays at Manta Point, a highlight appreciated by many.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Lunch, water, towels, gear, and Wi-Fi transfers make it a hassle-free experience.
• Expert Guides: Personalized attention with roughly one guide per six snorkelers, ensuring safety and knowledge.
• Flexible Second Stop: Choose between Crystal Bay or Nusa Lembongan based on weather, with options to see sea turtles or healthy corals.
• Ideal for Beginners: No prior experience needed; guides and equipment are provided.
• Weather Contingent: The tour depends on favorable conditions, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

An In-Depth Look at the Snorkeling Adventure

The Journey Begins: Convenient Pickup and Transport

Starting early in the morning around 6:30-7:30 AM from popular locations like Kuta, Seminyak, or Nusa Dua, the tour offers round-trip transfers with Wi-Fi. This means you can relax during the ride, possibly reviewing your snorkeling plans or just enjoying Bali’s morning scenery. The bus or boat transfers are smooth, and the pickup service reduces the stress of figuring out logistics, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

The Speedboat: Fast and Focused

Once on the boat, you’ll appreciate the speedy ride to Nusa Penida—a perfect way to maximize your time in the water. The boat trip itself is part of the fun, offering scenic views of Bali’s coastline. The boat is equipped with life jackets, safety gear, and space for your gear, which is included in the price.

First Stop: Manta Point

The main attraction here is swimming with manta rays, which can be as large as 4 meters across. Many reviewers, like Joshua, have mentioned how majestic and unforgettable these encounters are. Guides actively assist and oversee the interactions, making it suitable even for those with limited swimming experience.

One traveler, Geoff, describes the experience as “up close and personal”, having swum with six manta rays and capturing the moment with photos and videos included in the package. The guides’ patience and knowledge shine through, ensuring everyone feels safe and informed.

Second Stop: Crystal Bay or Nusa Lembongan

After the manta experience, the tour typically moves to Crystal Bay, known for its sea turtles and clear waters, or Nusa Lembongan, famous for drift snorkeling and vibrant corals. The choice depends on weather conditions, but both sites have their charms.

At Crystal Bay, you might find yourself floating alongside sea turtles, a gentle addition to your underwater adventure. Alternatively, Nusa Lembongan offers the chance to see some of the healthiest corals in Bali, perfect for those interested in marine biodiversity.

Lunch and Refreshments

A delicious lunch is served on the boat, giving you fuel for the day’s exploration. Fresh fruit and water are also provided, ensuring you stay hydrated and energized. This is a thoughtful touch, especially on a physically active day out.

The Return: Relaxed and Satisfied

By mid-afternoon, usually around 2-3 PM, the boat returns, and you’ll be transferred back to your hotel. The entire experience is designed to be both fun and manageable, offering a sense of achievement without feeling rushed.

Authentic Encounters and Real-Life Experiences

Many reviews underline how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience. Joshua praises his guide’s kindness and expertise, which made the day more enjoyable. The opportunity to capture photos and videos is also highly valued—many mention that their memories are well-preserved thanks to the included media.

Others highlight how stunning the manta rays are—”so majestic,” as one reviewer says—and how the coral reefs at the second site are among the healthiest in Bali. Such details add depth to why this trip feels so worthwhile compared to just a beach day.

The Value of the Experience

For $143, the tour provides an all-inclusive package—gear, lunch, transfers, and expert guidance—which is a strong value considering the often high costs of similar activities elsewhere. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making the experience more intimate and safer.

Practical Tips for Future Snorkelers

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, often booked over a month ahead, so plan early.
• Weather matters: Check the forecast; if the weather’s poor, your trip might be canceled or rescheduled.
• No experience needed: Guides are there to help, and equipment is provided—perfect for beginners.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be intense, especially on the boat.
• Prepare to get your hair wet: Water shoes or reefs shoes are optional but can help.
• Be patient: Marine life encounters depend on luck and conditions, but guides do their best to give everyone a chance.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This snorkeling trip is ideal for adventurers who want to see Bali’s marine life without the fuss of diving certification. It’s also perfect for families or groups with mixed experience levels, thanks to the guides’ expertise and safety measures.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic, up-close wildlife encounters, this trip will deliver. The small-group setting fosters a more personal experience, and the quality of the guides ensures you’ll learn as you explore. Even if snorkeling isn’t your main passion, the chance to see manta rays in their natural habitat makes this a memorable outing.

The Sum Up

In a nutshell, this snorkeling adventure to Nusa Penida and Lembongan offers a balanced mix of exciting marine wildlife, beautiful coral reefs, and well-organized logistics. The chance to swim alongside manta rays is the standout, paired with the comfort of all-inclusive features, from gear to lunch and transfers.

This trip suits beginners and experienced snorkelers alike who want a trusted, small-group tour led by knowledgeable guides. The focus on authentic encounters and safety makes it a solid choice for travelers wanting more than just a beach day.

While weather can influence the day’s plans, the flexibility of the tour provider—with full refunds or rescheduling options—adds confidence. The cost reflects a comprehensive, hassle-free experience that’s worth considering if marine life is on your Bali bucket list.

If you’re craving a focused, well-organized adventure to see Bali’s underwater wonders, this tour is a smart pick. Just remember to book early, prepare for the sun, and keep your camera ready—the manta rays are truly magical.

FAQ

Is there an age limit for this snorkeling tour?
While specific age limits aren’t stated, most travelers can participate, especially since no experience is required and guides are attentive. It’s best to check with the provider if traveling with young children.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, towel, and any personal items you prefer. The tour provides gear, water, and fruit, so packing light is fine.

Can I participate if I don’t swim well?
Yes, guides are experienced and attentive, and the group size allows for personalized help. No prior swimming experience is necessary.

What if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does the snorkeling at each site last?
While exact times aren’t specified, expect to spend sufficient time at each site to enjoy the marine life comfortably—likely around 1-2 hours per stop.

Are photos and videos included?
Yes, many reviews mention that photos and videos of the manta rays are included, enabling you to relive the experience.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 15 travelers ensures small-group attention and safety.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a freshly prepared lunch on the boat is part of the package, along with fruit and water.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 39 days ahead, so early planning is advised to secure your spot.

If marine life and the thrill of swimming with manta rays appeal to you, this Bali snorkeling tour from Zero Gravity Diving offers a reliable, enjoyable way to dive into the island’s underwater world.