Exploring the Gili Islands: A Snorkeler’s Paradise with a Glass Bottom Twist
Imagine cruising over crystal-clear waters, stopping at three different islands, and slipping into a world filled with colorful corals, graceful turtles, and intriguing underwater statues. That’s exactly what the 3 Islands Snorkeling with Glass Bottom Boat & GOPRO SHOOT promises. Whether you’re a seasoned underwater enthusiast or just curious about what lies beneath the surface, this tour offers a well-rounded peek into the vibrant marine ecosystem surrounding Lombok’s famed Gili Islands.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the opportunity to snorkel at Turtle Point, where encounters with gentle sea turtles are practically guaranteed. Second, the chance to explore the underwater statue—a popular photo spot and fascinating piece of submerged art. Third, the convenience of a glass bottom boat, which allows non-swimmers or those who prefer to stay dry to enjoy the marine views from above. The potential drawback? Some reviews mention the trip can feel crowded, especially during peak season, which might diminish the feeling of serenity for some travelers.
If you love marine life, enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, and appreciate a guided experience that’s accessible to various skill levels, this tour is likely to suit you well. It’s particularly good for those who want a snapshot of Gili’s underwater beauty without the need for a full diving course or extensive planning.
Key Points
- Marine encounters with turtles, colorful fish, and coral reefs
- Accessible experience with snorkeling gear and a glass bottom boat
- Flexible options for private or shared tours with English-speaking guides
- Photo opportunities including underwater statues and scenic views
- Duration of around 4 hours makes it ideal for a half-day adventure
- Rescheduling flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
- Key Points
- Diving into the Details of the Tour
- The Itinerary: What to Expect
- The Glass Bottom Boat Experience
- Marine Life & Photography
- Practical Details & Comfort
- Value & Cost Considerations
- What Travelers Are Saying
- Who Should Book This Tour?
- Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
- FAQs
- More Private Tours in Lombok
- More Tours in Lombok
- More Tour Reviews in Lombok
- Still browsing? Here are more Lombok experiences we've covered recently
Diving into the Details of the Tour

The 3 Islands Snorkeling with Glass Bottom Boat & GOPRO SHOOT offers a balanced mix of snorkeling adventures and scenic boat rides, making it a solid choice for visitors eager to explore the Gili Islands’ underwater world without diving or long commitments. Starting at the check-in point on Gili Trawangan (coordinates -8.35466, 116.04301), you’ll meet your English-speaking guides—who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness—and gear up for a trip that blends education, fun, and picture-perfect moments.
Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Lombok
The Itinerary: What to Expect
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, during which you’ll visit three different stops. The first key highlight is Turtle Point on Gili Trawangan, where green and hawksbill turtles are common visitors. Here, snorkelers often comment on how “we’re almost guaranteed to encounter these majestic creatures grazing or swimming nearby,” as one reviewer noted. The calm, clear waters at Turtle Point make for an ideal setting for both beginners and those more experienced.
Next, the boat takes you to the underwater statue, a popular photo spot that impresses with its artistry and the eerie beauty of its submerged form. Several guests have mentioned that this site is busy, especially in high season, but the visual impact remains impressive. You’ll also get the chance to snorkel around blue coral and observe garden fish, which are attracted to the vibrant reefs.
The third stop often includes the Bounty Wreck, a sunken platform turned artificial reef, which lies around 10 meters below the surface. It’s a favorite among those wanting to see a bit of history mixed with marine life. The wreck teems with colorful fish and corals, offering a more adventurous snorkel experience for those comfortable with slightly deeper water.
The Glass Bottom Boat Experience
For those who prefer to stay dry or want a different perspective, the glass bottom boat is a major plus. It lets you admire the underwater scenery while floating comfortably above without getting wet. Reviewers have appreciated this feature, especially when traveling with children or non-swimmers who still want to enjoy the marine environment. The boat ride itself is smooth and provides excellent views of the reefs and marine activity.
Marine Life & Photography
As highlighted in reviews, this tour offers excellent opportunities to see sea turtles, colorful fish, and corals. The underwater statues and wrecks add a unique visual element, perfect for photos. The inclusion of a GOPRO shoot means you will have the chance to capture high-quality footage of your underwater encounters, though some guests mentioned only receiving thumbnail clips rather than full videos, which is worth bearing in mind if capturing memories is important to you.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details & Comfort
This tour is shared unless you opt for a private booking, and groups tend to be moderate in size. It’s tailored to those with basic swimming ability, with life jackets provided for added safety. The tour does not include lunch, but there’s a stop for purchasing food—so bringing cash is recommended. The entire experience is weather-dependent; adverse sea conditions could lead to rescheduling or adjustments, so flexibility is key.
Into underwater exploring? These other snorkeling spots in Lombok might work for you
- Gili T Island: Gili Snorkeling Day Trip Swim With Turtles
- Gili T Island: The Thrilling Sunset Snorkeling Adventure
- Lombok: Secret Gili Islands Snorkeling Tour
- Lombok: Pink Beach Snorkeling and Picnic Tour Fullday
- From Lombok: Gili Islands Snorkeling Day Trip
- From Lombok: Southern Gilis Private Snorkelling Day Trip
Value & Cost Considerations
Considering all the inclusions—multiple snorkel stops, guided commentary, boat rides, gear, and GOPRO footage—the tour offers good value, especially for first-timers or those with a limited window. While some reviews mention feeling rushed or the site being overly busy, the overall package is designed for a half-day escape that fits well into a broader itinerary.
What Travelers Are Saying

The comments reflect a mix of experiences, but many praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning underwater views. Michela from Malta called it “an amazing experience,” appreciating the professionalism of the guides. Conversely, some found it crowded; a traveler from Spain mentioned it felt “muy masificado,” suggesting that during peak seasons, multiple tours go to the same spots simultaneously.
A common theme is the quality of the guides and the ability to see marine animals such as turtles, which remains a highlight for many. A reviewer from Spain also appreciated that the trip allowed enough time to snorkel and explore, although they were slightly disappointed about the lunch arrangements, which they felt weren’t as flexible as advertised.
Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for beginners, families with children (as long as they meet swimming ability), and those looking for a half-day adventure packed with underwater sights and photos. It’s not ideal for travelers seeking solitude or advanced diving experiences, nor for those with serious medical conditions, as the tour involves snorkeling and some physical activity.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a compact, well-organized way to see some of Gili’s best underwater sights, this tour offers a lot of value. The combination of snorkeling, a glass bottom boat, and the chance to photograph turtles and statues makes it a memorable option. The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude are often highlighted as a real plus, helping to make the experience both educational and fun.
The main considerations? Expect some level of busyness at popular sites and be aware that weather could influence the schedule. If you’re after a relaxed, crowd-free experience, consider a private tour or visiting during shoulder seasons.
Ultimately, this trip suits travelers eager to tick off iconic Gili highlights with minimal fuss, especially if capturing underwater moments is important to you.
FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, the glass bottom boat allows non-swimmers or those uncomfortable in water to enjoy views of the underwater world without getting wet.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes around 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day outing.
Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, all snorkeling gear is provided, but bringing essentials like sunscreen, a towel, and cash for snacks or souvenirs is recommended.
Can I choose my snorkeling sites?
The itinerary is set by the guides, and stops are made at popular locations like Turtle Point, the underwater statue, and the wreck.
Is the tour good for families?
While children over 15 are accepted, the tour generally suits families with older kids comfortable in water. The guides are friendly and helpful.
Are food options included?
No, lunch is not included, but there’s a stop to purchase food. It’s wise to bring cash, especially for smaller vendors.
What if the weather is bad?
The trip may be rescheduled or adjusted for safety reasons. Check the weather forecast and confirm your booking if you have concerns.
How many people typically join the tour?
It’s a shared group tour, usually with a moderate number of participants, which can feel busy during peak season.
Is this tour environmentally friendly?
The tour emphasizes exploring marine life responsibly, but visitors should always follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
To sum it up, if you’re looking for a balanced introduction to Gili’s underwater wonders that combines guided snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and photo opportunities, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a hassle-free, engaging half-day experience with plenty of opportunities to see turtles, statues, and colorful fish. Keep in mind the potential for crowds and weather influences, but overall, it offers a memorable glimpse into one of Indonesia’s most celebrated marine destinations.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Private Tours in Lombok
- Private 3 Gili Islands Snorkeling Tour from Kuta Lombok
- Experience Lombok with Private Car Transport
- Private Snorkeling Tour of Gili Islands in Air Meno and Trawangan
- Private Lombok Historical Sightseeing and Waterfall Tour
- Private Guided Snorkeling Tour in Gili Nanggu Sudak and Kedis
- Pink Beach and Southeast Gili Islands Private Tour Full Day
More Tours in Lombok
More Tour Reviews in Lombok
- South Lombok Coastline Tour
- 3 Islands Snorkeling with Glass Bottom Boat & GOPRO SHOOT
- Lombok Airport Transfer
- Benang Kelambu Waterfalls the Hidden Wonders of Lombok Island
- Traditional Cooking Class Experience With Recipes From The Past Generations
- Lombok Day Trip – Privat Snorkeling Gili Nanggu,Gili Kedis,Sudak
Still browsing? Here are more Lombok experiences we've covered recently
- South Lombok Coastline Tour
- 3 Islands Snorkeling with Glass Bottom Boat & GOPRO SHOOT
- Lombok Airport Transfer
- Benang Kelambu Waterfalls the Hidden Wonders of Lombok Island
- Traditional Cooking Class Experience With Recipes From The Past Generations
- Lombok Day Trip – Privat Snorkeling Gili Nanggu,Gili Kedis,Sudak
- Eka Jaya Boat Transfer from Lombok to Padang Bai
- Pergasingan Hill Soft Trekking Oneday Trek
- Daily Sasak Tour Lombok
- Lombok Car Hire With Driver
- Waterfall Trip (Sendang Gile & Tiu Kelep Waterfall) North Lombok
- Guided Waterfall Adventure: Sendang Gile & Tiu Kelep North Lombok
