Bora Bora is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it one of the world’s premier snorkeling destinations. The lagoon’s calm, warm waters are ideal for exploring coral gardens, manta rays, sharks, and colorful tropical fish. Among the many options, the Half Day Snorkeling Shared Boat Tour stands out for its balance of accessibility and rich experiences, with guests often seeing manta rays and eagle rays in just a few hours. For a more adventurous full day, the Full-Day Bora Bora Lagoon Cruise offers encounters with sharks and stingrays, combined with a barbecue lunch on a private island. Whether you’re after a quick scenic swim or an immersive marine adventure, Bora Bora delivers memorable underwater moments.
In this guide, you’ll find a carefully curated list of 15 of the best snorkeling experiences in Bora Bora, covering everything from eco-focused tours to luxury private charters. We’ve included options suited for all budgets, interests, and travel styles—so you can pick the perfect experience for your trip.
1. Half day Snorkeling Shared Boat Tour in Bora Bora
This popular morning snorkeling tour takes you to three or four of Bora Bora’s top spots, chosen by your captain based on the day’s conditions. It’s a great introduction for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting an efficient taste of the lagoon’s marine life. The tour includes transfers from your accommodation, making it hassle-free. Guests rave about the gorgeous coral gardens and abundant fish, with many sightings of manta rays and even dolphins. The guide’s storytelling — sometimes with ukulele in hand — adds a local flavor. At about 3.5 hours, it leaves plenty of time for other activities in the afternoon.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a half-day adventure that combines ease, excellent snorkel spots, and friendly guides. A favorite among families and nature lovers.
2. Full-Day Bora Bora Lagoon Cruise Including Snorkeling with Sharks and Stingrays
For around $155, this full-day cruise offers a comprehensive look at Bora Bora’s lagoon. It includes multiple snorkeling stops, where you can see manta rays, stingrays, and black-tip reef sharks. The highlight is a delicious barbecue lunch on a secluded island, with time to relax and soak in the scenery. The boat is designed for comfort, and the guides are experts at finding wildlife. Reviewers mention the entertaining crew and fantastic photo ops on the island summit. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a complete day of marine life, scenic views, and local hospitality.
3. Bora Bora Eco Snorkel Cruise Including Snorkeling with Sharks and Stingrays
This eco-friendly tour keeps the environment front and center. In about 2.5 hours, you’ll visit several snorkeling sites focusing on marine conservation. The guide is knowledgeable about the lagoon’s ecosystem and helps you spot sharks, rays, and colorful fish. The small group size (max six guests) allows for a personalized experience. Equipment and hotel pickup are included, making it convenient. Guests describe it as an intimate, educational adventure with plenty of opportunities to see sharks and rays in their natural habitat.
Bottom Line: Ideal for eco-minded travelers wanting a more intimate, sustainable snorkeling experience.
4. Tohora Bora Bora Snorkeling Lagoon Tours
This small-group tour offers a personalized look at Bora Bora’s underwater world. With a maximum of six guests, you’ll visit marine hot spots for manta rays, tropical fish, and coral reefs. The guide is passionate and shares insights about the reef ecosystem. Equipment is provided, and hotel pickup is available if the boat can dock. Many reviews mention the close encounters with manta rays and the chance to snorkel multiple sites. The tour is flexible, allowing the guide to tailor the experience based on weather and guest interests.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a private, tailored experience with a maximum of six people.
5. Half-Day Small-Group Cruise in Bora Bora with Snorkelling
This small-group tour is all about quality over quantity, with just a handful of guests. It includes snorkeling at top spots, with the guide hand-feeding stingrays and sharing insights about the lagoon’s creatures. The 4-hour trip is ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere. Many reviewers mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the chance to swim with manta rays and sharks. Towels and gear are provided, making it a simple and enjoyable experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a relaxed, personalized snorkeling adventure with excellent guide interaction.
6. Bora Bora Half-Day Catamaran Sailing, Snorkeling and Floating Bar Experience
Sail aboard the Vitamin Sea, a sleek 40-foot catamaran, on this half-day sailing tour. It combines scenic cruising past Mount Otemanu with stops at coral gardens, where you can snorkel and observe eagle rays and marine life. The highlight is the floating bar, where you can relax with drinks in shallow waters. The boat’s small group setting ensures a relaxed, personal experience. Reviewers highlight the beautiful sailing and friendly crew, making it a top choice for a scenic, laid-back day.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a mix of sailing, snorkeling, and a fun social vibe.
7. Bora Bora Lagoon Snorkeling Tour by Private Boat
For those who want exclusivity and a tailored experience, this private tour is hard to beat. You can choose your departure time and visit 4-5 snorkeling spots with your dedicated crew. The tour emphasizes marine encounters with manta rays, sharks, and colorful reefs. Guests note the personalized attention and the ability to customize the day. All gear, towels, and refreshments are included, and the guide helps you spot the best marine life.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or couples seeking privacy and a customized snorkeling day.
8. Bora Bora: Eco Shark and Snorkeling Safari
A shorter but intense 2.5-hour shark safari, this tour offers multiple snorkeling stops to see reef sharks, stingrays, and moray eels. It’s a great option for thrill-seekers wanting a focused yet safe encounter with Bora Bora’s shark population. The guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable about marine safety. It’s a straightforward, engaging adventure suitable for a quick afternoon activity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in shark encounters without a full-day commitment.
9. Bora Bora: Full-Day Lagoon Snorkelling Tour
This 7-hour tour covers a lot of ground, including lagoon circumnavigation and swimming with friendly rays in shallow waters. It’s an all-encompassing experience designed for travelers craving a comprehensive lagoon exploration. The itinerary includes marvelous underwater wildlife encounters and a chance to relax on a boat with snacks and drinks. Reviewers mention the excellent guide and the variety of marine life seen.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting an extensive, immersive day in Bora Bora’s lagoon.
10. Bora Bora: Lagoon Tour and Snorkeling Experience
This 4-hour tour is perfect for a quick but rich snorkeling session. You’ll explore the shallow lagoon waters, swimming with stingrays, sharks, and tropical fish. The guide is attentive, ensuring everyone is comfortable. It’s a reliable choice for travelers on a tighter schedule but still wanting quality marine encounters.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a half-day of snorkeling without sacrificing quality or marine diversity.
11. Bora Bora: Luxury Private Half Day Snorkeling Tour
This luxury private tour offers a curated experience with a dedicated guide. You’ll visit multiple sites, including manta and eagle rays, coral gardens, and more. The boat is a Four Winns 220 luxury model, offering maximum comfort. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the tailored itinerary.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a luxury, private experience with all the comforts.
12. Bora Bora Combo Tour: Lagoon Cruise and 4WD Tour Including Snorkeling
This full-day tour combines land and sea exploration. The 4WD tour visits lookout points and cultural spots, while the boat cruise includes snorkeling near rays and sharks. It offers insight into Bora Bora’s natural beauty and history, with stops like the WWII canon lookout. Guests love the diverse experience and see marine life at coral gardens.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive land and sea adventure with cultural insights.
13. Combo snorkeling + motu lunch + jet ski group tour full day
This full-day combo is packed with activities: snorkeling among sharks, rays, and coral gardens, a lunch on a private motu, and a jet ski ride. It’s ideal for active travelers who want to maximize their time and variety. The reviews highlight the delicious food and fun on the jet skis. The experience balances thrill, relaxation, and scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: Best suited for energetic guests who want a full day of diverse experiences.
14. Luxury Private Catamaran: Bora Bora Half Day Sailing, Snorkeling
This private sailing tour offers an intimate experience aboard a luxury catamaran. It combines sailing past Mount Otemanu with snorkeling at coral reefs, where you might see eagle rays and moray eels. The floating bar adds a fun touch, while the crew provides attentive service. Reviews mention the beautiful sailing and exclusive feel.
Bottom Line: Ideal for honeymooners or couples seeking a luxurious, private day with exceptional scenery.
15. Half Day Private Lagoon Snorkeling Experience
Finally, this private tour is perfect for families or couples who want a quiet, personalized experience. You’ll explore vibrant coral reefs and spot marine life like manta and eagle rays, all with a dedicated guide. The tour is flexible and designed to maximize comfort and privacy. Guests appreciate the friendly guide and tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best for those craving a customized, intimate snorkel adventure.
How to Choose the Best Snorkeling Experience in Bora Bora
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you want a quick taste of the lagoon, the Half day Snorkeling Shared Boat Tour offers excellent value. For a full immersion, the Full-Day Bora Bora Lagoon Cruise combines adventure and relaxation. Travellers seeking privacy and tailored attention should explore the Private Boat or Luxury Private Tours.
Weather also plays a role. Some tours, like the Eco Snorkel Cruise, work well in choppier conditions, while others are best on calm days. Booking early is recommended during peak season (June to September), especially for private or small-group tours.
Bora Bora’s underwater world is spectacular no matter which experience you choose. Whether you go for a quick snorkel, a full-day adventure, or a private luxury tour, the chance to see manta rays, sharks, and vibrant coral will undoubtedly be a highlight. For most travelers, the key is matching your style and budget—so pick the tour that excites you most and book ahead to secure that special slice of paradise.