Three Islands Snorkeling (3 Spots) Manta Rays – From Lembongan

Discover the Underwater Wonders of Nusa Lembongan with the Three Islands Snorkeling Tour

If you’re craving an authentic glimpse of Indonesia’s marine life without the hassle of planning every detail, the Three Islands Snorkeling tour from Lembongan may be just what you need. For around $24 per person, you’ll spend approximately 3 to 4 hours exploring three of Nusa Penida’s top snorkeling sites — including the famed Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, and Gamat Bay. The tour is a fantastic way to see vibrant coral reefs, spot majestic manta rays, and get a taste of the local marine ecosystem—all with the convenience of hotel pickups and provided gear.

What we love about this experience is how it combines guided expertise with beautiful scenery. The guides are attentive, and the boat trips are organized to maximize time at each site. Another big plus: the tour includes an underwater camera for capturing those memorable moments, leaving you free to enjoy the sights without worrying about snapping photos.

One thing to consider is that group sizes can be large — with up to 20 travelers sharing the boat, which might impact comfort and the chance to see elusive manta rays. If you prefer quieter, more intimate encounters, this could be a point to keep in mind. Still, for those looking for a value-packed adventure that covers multiple hotspots in a short period, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This snorkeling trip is best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, cost-effective way to explore Nusa Lembongan’s underwater treasures. Even non-swimmers can join, thanks to the provided safety equipment and guides. It’s perfect for those with a limited schedule or anyone eager to tick off several snorkeling spots in one go.

Key Points

• Includes hotel or harbor pickup for added convenience
• Visits four spots, including Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay, and Mangrove Point
• Snorkeling gear and underwater camera provided
• Group size can reach up to 20, which may affect comfort
• Suitable for non-swimmers, thanks to safety equipment
• Duration of approximately 3-4 hours offers just enough time for multiple stops without full-day commitment

An In-Depth Look at the Snorkeling Tour Experience

The Introduction: Ease and Comfort Before You Jump In

Starting at 9:30 am from the designated meeting point at Lagoon Bliss in Jungutbatu, the tour offers the convenience of free pickup from hotels or the harbor. The tour’s price tag of $24 might initially seem modest, but it covers quite a bit—transportation, snorkeling equipment, guiding, and even an underwater camera to document your trip. For many travelers, this level of service for such a budget is a compelling deal.

The tour begins with a brief safety briefing and introduction to your guides, who are knowledgeable about the local marine environment. We appreciate the personal touch of a welcome drink and bottled water, making the start of the trip comfortable and refreshing.

First Stop: Manta Bay—The Big Show

Manta Bay, or Manta Point, is the star attraction. Here, you’re likely to see the awe-inspiring sight of manta rays gliding gracefully through the water, a spectacle that’s often the highlight of anyone’s trip. The main topography of the area is designed around these gentle giants, with the presence of plankton and nutrients attracting them—a natural cleaning station where manta rays often stop by.

One reviewer, Melina, described her experience as “great,” noting they saw several manta rays with their guides. The site is known for a variety of sizes and colors of manta rays, making each encounter unique and memorable. However, it’s important to note that sightings are not guaranteed—they depend on environmental conditions and the manta rays’ natural behavior.

Second Stop: Crystal Bay—Colorful Reefs and Steep Slopes

Next, you’ll visit Crystal Bay, renowned for its clear waters, stunning scenery, and vibrant marine life. The bay features cliffs and steep slopes, adding drama to the landscape and providing excellent habitats for smaller fish and coral formations.

During this part of the tour, you’ll see small gaps and coral mounds, all teeming with colorful fish and refuge for juvenile marine life. The crystal-clear waters make it ideal for snorkeling, and the natural, undisturbed habitats provide an authentic experience. If the weather isn’t perfect, the team may opt for a different site, but generally, this stop is highly praised for its visual appeal and lively fish populations.

Third Stop: Gamat Bay—A Challenging and Rewarding Dive

Known for its beauty and current strength, Gamat Bay is for more experienced snorkelers or divers. The bay features small caves and crevices, offering a more adventurous experience. Reefs here are full of reef fish and invertebrates, and the crystal-clear waters lend themselves to superb underwater viewing.

From Melina’s review, “divers who come here really enjoy the underwater life,” which indicates this site is a favorite among those with some prior experience. It’s important to note that Gamat Bay is only reachable by boat, and due to the currents, it’s recommended for snorkelers with some experience or those diving with guides.

The Final Stop: Mangrove Point—Serene and Photogenic

The last stop takes you to Mangrove Point, where the shallow reef is home to a variety of coral fishes and beautiful mangrove trees along the shore. Covering 230 hectares, this area offers a peaceful environment, perfect for a slow-paced snorkel and photography.

According to the reviews, this spot is less crowded, adding to its charm. A local guide can provide detailed insights into the mangrove ecosystem, enriching your understanding of this fragile habitat.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour supplies snorkeling equipment, an underwater camera, and guided assistance—all designed to make your experience as smooth as possible. The return transfer from your hotel or harbor is an added bonus, especially in a busy island setting.

However, the tour does not include pickup from Ceningan Island, which is important if you’re staying there. You’ll need to meet at the designated spot or arrange your own transportation. The max group size of 20 can impact comfort, especially if the boat is crowded, as one reviewer noted.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

Hanna’s review highlights a common concern: “Too many people in a group,” which can impact both comfort and the chances of seeing manta rays. She mentions, “making it difficult to see the animals and kicking each other,” which underscores that larger groups might detract from the experience.

On the flip side, Melina found the trip “great,” appreciating the friendly crew and the opportunity to capture photos with a GoPro. This suggests that, despite some drawbacks, many travelers enjoy the variety of spots and the professional guidance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkeling adventure is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to see multiple underwater sites in a short period. It’s especially suitable for families, non-swimmers, or those with limited time. Since snorkel gear is provided and safety equipment is available, non-swimmers can still participate comfortably.

However, if you’re seeking a more intimate, less crowded experience, you might consider a smaller group or private tour. Also, those looking primarily for manta ray encounters should be aware that sightings are not guaranteed, though the probability is high.

Final Thoughts

The Three Islands Snorkeling tour from Lembongan offers a cost-effective and diverse introduction to the underwater world of Nusa Penida. It balances beautiful scenery, marine life encounters, and guided expertise, making it a solid choice for many travelers.

While the group size might be a concern for some, the overall value and variety of sites make it a compelling option. The combination of marine biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and professional guidance ensures you’ll leave with plenty of memorable moments—whether it’s the majestic manta rays or the vibrant fish and corals.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to explore several snorkeling spots, families or groups with varied experience levels, and those who appreciate well-organized, budget-friendly excursions. If your goal is to see marine life in a safe, guided environment and you’re okay with sharing the experience with others, this trip is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup and drop-off from your hotel or the harbor in Lembongan, making logistics simple.

How long is the snorkeling experience?
The entire tour lasts about 3 to 4 hours, including four different snorkeling stops.

Can non-swimmers join this tour?
Absolutely. The tour provides safety equipment and guides, so non-swimmers can snorkel comfortably with supervision.

What spots will we visit during the tour?
You’ll visit Manta Bay, where manta rays are common; Crystal Bay, known for its clear waters and colorful reefs; Gamat Bay, with caves and strong currents; and Mangrove Point, a tranquil reef with mangroves along the shore.

Is seeing manta rays guaranteed?
While manta rays are often spotted at Manta Bay, sightings are not guaranteed because they are wild animals and their presence depends on environmental conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, a change of clothes, sunscreen, a camera, and cash or credit card for personal expenses. The tour provides gear and an underwater camera.

Are there any age or experience restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and non-swimmers are welcome. Gamat Bay’s site is for more experienced snorkelers due to strong currents, so keep that in mind.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 20 travelers, which might feel crowded for some, especially at popular sites.

To sum it up, if your priority is exploring multiple snorkel spots without fuss, enjoying vibrant marine life, and having guides to help you along the way, this tour offers real value. The combination of accessible pricing, diverse locations, and professional support makes it an excellent choice for a memorable day on the water. Just be prepared for some busier moments and keep expectations realistic about manta ray sightings—wild animals, after all, tend to do what they want.