Swim with Manta Rays : Snorkeling Day Trip from Bali

If you’re looking for a unique underwater adventure in Bali, this snorkeling trip to Nusa Lembongan offers the chance to swim alongside gentle manta rays—a highlight for many travelers. At $70 per person, the tour lasts roughly 5 to 6 hours and includes hotel pick-up, fast boat transfers, and visits to some of the most beautiful snorkeling sites in the region. The trip is especially appealing if you love marine life, scenic views, and a bit of island hopping without spending the entire day on the water.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the variety of stops, which include not only manta bay but also other spectacular spots like Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay, offering diverse underwater scenery. The friendly guides and well-organized logistics make it easier for everyone, whether you’re a confident snorkeler or a curious beginner.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the duration of actual snorkeling time. Some reviews mention that while it’s marketed as a full-day outing, the snorkeling itself may only last around 2 hours—so if you’re expecting hours of underwater exploration, you might feel a bit shortchanged. Still, those precious moments with manta rays are often worth it.

This tour suits travelers who want a combination of marine wildlife encounters, scenic island views, and hassle-free logistics. If you enjoy guided tours with small groups, delicious local snacks, and an opportunity to see manta rays in their natural habitat, this trip could be a good fit. But be prepared for some waiting and to manage your expectations on how much snorkeling you’ll get.

Key Points

• Includes multiple snorkeling sites such as Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, and Gamat Bay, offering great variety.
• Guided by friendly, well-organized crew with good safety measures and an emphasis on environmental protection.
• Morning start with hotel pickup and fast boat transfers making logistics simple.
• Snorkeling with manta rays is a highlight, though sightings are not guaranteed due to their natural habitat.
• Limited actual snorkeling time—around 2 hours—means you should be prepared for a busy but somewhat brief water experience.
• Includes food, snacks, and island sightseeing, adding value and making it a relaxed, enjoyable day.

A Detailed Look at the Snorkeling with Manta Rays Day Trip

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

The day begins with a pickup from your Bali hotel—most likely in Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, or nearby areas—and a ride to Sanur Harbor. This early morning departure (around 8:30 AM) sets the stage for a well-paced adventure. The boat ride to Nusa Lembongan is quick and comfortable, giving you a glimpse of Bali’s coast before arriving at the island.

Once at the harbor on Nusa Lembongan, the journey continues with a short cruise to Manta Bay, the main snorkeling spot. Here, the crystal-clear waters and the protected marine environment make it a prime location to spot manta rays, which feed on plentiful plankton near the surface. According to reviews, seeing multiple manta rays is possible, but always with the understanding that these are wild animals, and sightings can’t be guaranteed. One reviewer enthusiastically shared, “We saw multiple manta rays!!” which captures the excitement.

After Manta Bay, the tour proceeds to other spectacular sites like Crystal Bay, where you’ll enjoy calmer waters full of pelagic fish, sharks, stingrays, and even turtles. The shallow waters here provide a safe and enjoyable spot for snorkelers of all levels. Gamat Bay is another highlight, known for its rugged beauty, small caves, and abundant reef life—perfect for both snorkeling and diving. The sights here are complemented by crystal waters and tiny white sand beaches, which make for excellent photo opportunities.

Later, the tour includes a visit to Mangrove Point, where the group observes the fascinating mangrove roots and the wildlife that inhabits this lush environment. It’s a scenic stop that appeals especially to nature lovers and photographers alike, with plenty of opportunities for capturing the lush greenery.

Finally, the journey wraps up with a visit back to Jungut Batu Beach and the fast boat transfer to Sanur Harbor, where your driver awaits to escort you back to your hotel.

What You Can Expect in Each Stop

• Manta Bay: The star of the trip, this site offers the best chance to see manta rays gliding gracefully near the surface. The water is clear and regulated to protect the ecosystem. Snorkeling here is likely to be the highlight, but again, sightings depend on environmental conditions. Expect to wear life jackets, and guides will assist in spotting the animals.

• Crystal Bay: Known for its shallow waters, this is a great spot for snorkeling newbies and seasoned snorkelers alike. The variety of marine life here is impressive, with chances to see sharks, turtles, and colorful reef fish.

• Gamat Bay: Less crowded and more rugged, this bay features small caves and crevices, making it an interesting area for more adventurous snorkelers and divers. The waters here are calm, but the currents can be stronger, so guides pay close attention to safety.

• Mangrove Point: A peaceful retreat from open water, the mangroves provide a different perspective on marine ecosystems. You’ll enjoy observing the roots and the animals that dwell among them—an excellent photo opportunity.

The Realities of the Experience

Many travelers, especially those who reviewed their experience, appreciated the friendly guides and the smooth logistics. One reviewer called the crew “great, friendly, well organized,” and highlighted their safety focus. For non-swimmers, the tour offers safety equipment and snorkeling guides so everyone can enjoy the underwater sights, which is reassuring.

However, some travelers found the actual snorkeling time to be somewhat limited—about 2 hours out of a full day—and expressed a desire for more time in the water. A reviewer pointed out, “Only 2 hours snorkeling,” but still enjoyed the amazing sea life and the experience of seeing manta rays.

The included lunch and snacks are generally well-received, with one reviewer describing the meal as “yummy,” and the overall organization receiving high praise. Small group sizes and attentive guides enhance the experience, making it more personal and manageable than larger tours.

Transportation and Logistics

Starting at Arthamas Express Fast Boat in Sanur, the tour handles all the logistics, including hotel pickup (within certain areas) and fast boat transfers. Outside areas like Ubud or Uluwatu incur a small additional fee, but for most Bali travelers, the hassle-free transportation adds significant value.

The entire day is designed to maximize your time on the water and in scenic spots, with the boat rides being quick and comfortable. The group size caps at 40, which helps keep the trip intimate and allows for more personal attention from guides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkeling trip is perfect for travelers eager to see manta rays and marine life near Bali but don’t want a full-day commitment. If you enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable guides and want to visit multiple snorkeling spots, it’s a good choice. The tour’s emphasis on safety and environmental protection also appeals to those conscious of responsible tourism.

However, if your priority is long hours of underwater exploration, you might find the actual snorkeling time a bit short. The experience is more about encountering manta rays and enjoying the scenic beauty of Nusa Lembongan’s waters than extended underwater pursuits.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Bali and craving a marine adventure, this trip offers excellent value—combining spectacular sites, friendly guides, and the thrill of swimming with manta rays. While the snorkeling time may be limited, the chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural environment remains a highlight for many. Expect a well-organized day with stunning views, delicious local food, and plenty of opportunities to capture memorable photos.

This tour will suit those who appreciate small-group guided experiences, are comfortable with boat rides, and are eager to explore diverse underwater ecosystems. It’s a day packed with variety, scenic beauty, and the chance to create unforgettable memories beneath Bali’s waves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour? Yes, most areas in Bali such as Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and Sanur are included in the free pickup service. Outside those areas, an additional fee applies.

What is the best time of year for snorkeling with manta rays? The optimal period is from March to November, when the seas are calm and visibility is best, increasing your chances of manta ray sightings.

How long is the snorkeling experience? Many reviews indicate that actual snorkeling might only last about 2 hours, so plan your expectations accordingly.

Is snorkeling suitable for non-swimmers? Yes, non-swimmers can still enjoy snorkeling because safety equipment and guides are provided to assist and ensure safety.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable clothing, a change of clothes, sunscreen, a camera, and cash or credit card for personal expenses.

Are meals included? Yes, a delicious lunch and snacks are provided, which many reviewers found to be enjoyable.

What happens if I don’t see manta rays? Since sightings depend on nature, they are not guaranteed, but the trip includes multiple stops and a variety of marine life sightings, making it worthwhile even without manta rays.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor? Yes, the tour offers free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this snorkeling trip from Bali to Nusa Lembongan offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and hassle-free logistics. It’s particularly suited for those wanting a good chance to see manta rays and enjoy multiple snorkeling sites without spending an entire day on the water. Expect friendly guides, beautiful sites, and a memorable experience that captures the essence of Bali’s vibrant marine world.