Gili Trawangan is renowned for its clear waters, vibrant marine life, and laid-back island vibe—making it an ideal spot for boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re eager to snorkel alongside sea turtles, enjoy a sunset with a cocktail in hand, or indulge in a delicious BBQ while drifting between islands, this small island packs a big punch when it comes to water-based adventures. We especially like the 5H Snorkeling & Sunset Cruise on Utopia Catamaran because it combines underwater exploration with a relaxing evening, all aboard a stylish 60-foot catamaran []. It’s perfect for those who want a personal, upscale experience with all gear included.
If you’re interested in exploring the three Gili islands while enjoying a chilled BBQ, the Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise offers a more active day with underwater statues, turtle sanctuaries, and white sand beaches []. For a mix of luxurious snorkeling and gourmet dining, the 5H Snorkeling & Breakfast Cruise on Utopia Catamaran provides a high-end, all-inclusive option. Lastly, if watching the sunset while feasting on BBQ sounds best, the Gili Trawangan Sunset BBQ Dinner Cruise with snorkeling offers a cozy, intimate trip around all three islands [].
1. 5H Snorkeling & Sunset Cruise on Utopia Catamaran
This 5-hour cruise offers a luxurious way to experience the Gilis. As the name suggests, it pairs top snorkeling spots with a stunning sunset, all from the deck of a sleek 60-foot catamaran. The boat carries just 18 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience that feels more like a private outing. The trip includes all snorkeling gear and beach towels, so there’s no need to pack extra. You’ll visit coral-encrusted sculptures and, most likely, see sea turtles gliding past your mask. The crew will serve a European-style buffet dinner with sweets, cakes, tea, and coffee—perfect for winding down as the sun dips below the horizon. The onboard bar offers craft cocktails, wine, and more for an additional fee.
Reviews highlight how friendly and attentive the crew is, with many mentioning the delicious food and the chance to see turtles. One guest noted, “Fabulous snorkeling and beautiful sunset,” and another mentioned the “relaxing atmosphere” with “great food and drinks.” The small group size keeps things intimate and enjoyable.
Bottom Line: This cruise is ideal for those seeking a stylish, all-in-one experience—snorkeling, sunset, and a delicious meal—on a quiet, well-equipped boat.
2. Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise
For approximately 4 hours, this tour takes you on a lively journey through the three Gili islands with snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on pristine beaches. It’s designed for those who want a full day of fun without the fuss. The tour begins with snorkeling at Gili Meno, exploring underwater statues and the famous Turtle Point. You’ll then visit the Turtle Sanctuary to see these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. After some beach time, the boat heads to Gili Air, where you can snorkel among soft corals and tropical fish. The highlight is a delicious BBQ lunch cooked on a custom-made pontoon while listening to chilled tunes.
Guests consistently praise the friendly crew and the quality of the snorkel stops—swimming with turtles and colorful fish is a common highlight. One reviewer called it “the best day,” citing the “excellent value” and “beautiful underwater sights.” The tour’s small size makes it suitable for families or small groups who want a relaxed, interactive experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a lively, well-rounded day exploring all three islands, perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts and those wanting a social, fun experience.
3. 5H Snorkeling & Breakfast Cruise on Utopia Catamaran
This upscale 5-hour cruise combines the best of snorkeling with gourmet breakfast and lunch aboard an elegant catamaran. Starting early, it takes you to Turtle City, Underwater Statues, and the Secret Garden, each offering unique underwater scenery. The guide helps spot marine life, making sure you see turtles, colorful fish, and coral gardens. The cruise includes all snorkeling gear and nonalcoholic drinks, with options to buy wine, craft cocktails, and beer at the bar. The boat’s small size—just 31 reviews rated it 5.0/5—ensures a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Guests rave about the friendly crew, the delicious meals, and the knowledgeable guide. One reviewer said, “The food was excellent, and the crew took great care of us,” highlighting how smooth the experience was from start to finish. The combination of snorkeling and fine dining makes it a standout for travelers who want comfort and quality.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a luxurious, all-inclusive day with top snorkeling sites and great food, this cruise is a smart choice.
4. Gili Trawangan Sunset BBQ Dinner Cruise with snorkeling
This 4-hour cruise is perfect for those who want to soak in Gili Trawangan’s sunset while exploring all three islands by boat. Starting at 2:30 pm, it features stops at the Nest underwater sculptures, Turtle Point, and vibrant reefs around Gili Air. The boat caps at 12 travelers, creating a serene, less crowded environment. All snorkeling gear is provided, and you can expect to see sea turtles, colorful fish, and coral formations. The highlight is a fresh BBQ dinner served on deck as you watch the sun set over Bali.
Guests mention the intimate feel and how the small group allows for a more personal experience. The underwater sculptures and turtle encounters are especially memorable. One reviewer said, “The snorkeling was fantastic, and the BBQ dinner was delicious,” emphasizing the balance of adventure and relaxation.
Bottom Line: This cruise suits travelers looking for a cozy, scenic evening with good snorkeling and a memorable sunset dinner.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Gili Trawangan
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities. If you want a luxury experience with snorkeling and sunset, the 5H Snorkeling & Sunset Cruise on Utopia Catamaran offers a stylish and intimate setting. For a family-friendly, active day exploring all three islands, the Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise provides a lively, well-rounded adventure. If your focus is on gourmet meals combined with snorkeling, then the 5H Snorkeling & Breakfast Cruise is ideal. Those seeking a special sunset experience with fewer crowds should go for the Sunset BBQ Dinner Cruise.
Think about your budget, how much time you want to spend on the water, and whether you prefer a more social or private atmosphere. Booking early is wise, especially during peak dry season from May to September.
In summary, Gili Trawangan offers a variety of boat tours that cater to different tastes—from luxurious sunset cruises to lively island-hopping adventures. For a special, romantic evening, the sunset cruise is hard to beat. If a full-day snorkeling trip exploring all three islands appeals, the BBQ cruise hits the mark. For those wanting a high-end experience with great food and marine encounters, the breakfast cruise is a perfect match. Whichever you choose, booking in advance ensures you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences.