Gili Trawangan Sunset BBQ Dinner Cruise with snorkeling

Planning a trip to Indonesia’s Gili Islands? If so, you’ve probably seen the many options for snorkeling cruises, but this Gili Trawangan Sunset BBQ Dinner Cruise with snorkeling really stands out. With a cozy group size, scenic stops, and a delicious onboard dinner, it promises a memorable experience. Our review digs into what makes this tour a worthwhile pick, plus some considerations to keep in mind.

What we love about this experience? First, the intimate atmosphere—capped at just 12 travelers, it feels more like a private outing than a crowded tour. Second, the variety of snorkeling spots, from underwater sculptures to turtle-filled waters, offers a well-rounded underwater adventure. Third, the evening BBQ and sunset views over Bali create a perfect combination of feast and feast-for-the-eyes. A potential drawback? It’s weather-dependent, so a windy day could impact the experience’s quality.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences, excellent snorkeling, and a relaxed, scenic outing that offers both adventure and relaxation. If you’re after authentic, well-organized tours with genuine underwater encounters, this cruise might just be a highlight of your Gili trip.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 12 travelers) offers a more personal, relaxed vibe.
• All snorkeling gear included means no extra expense or hassle.
• Multiple snorkeling stops target underwater sculptures, turtles, and coral reefs.
• Delicious BBQ dinner served on board with sunset views over Bali.
• Weather-dependent — clear skies enhance the experience, but wind can affect visibility.
• Great value for the price considering all activities, gear, and meals included.

Analyzing the Experience: The Details That Matter

Why Choose This Tour?

In a setting like Gili Trawangan, where water activities seem endless, picking a cruise that balances quality, intimacy, and value can be tricky. This tour offers a carefully curated experience that caters to those who want more than just a splash in the water. The inclusion of all snorkeling gear means you can simply turn up and start exploring—no need to rent or buy equipment separately.

The price of $91 per person may seem a little steep at first glance, but when you factor in the stops, your BBQ dinner, and the small group setting, it becomes clear that you’re paying for quality and comfort. Reviews highlight how much guests appreciated the friendly crew, delicious food, and the chance to relax while watching the sunset.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start: Gili Hai Cruises at 14:30

The adventure begins at the meeting point, with guests advised to arrive 30 minutes early for a smooth departure. The 4-hour cruise takes you around Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, with snorkeling at three different sites.

Stop 1: Bask the Nest Underwater Sculptures

Your first stop is the Gili Meno underwater sculptures created by Jason deCaires Taylor. These artful structures are a haven for marine life and a photographer’s dream. Interestingly, guests often mention encountering sea turtles here; they’re used to humans and quite approachable if you’re lucky. The review from a traveler in 2019 notes, “we saw lots of turtles just 5-10 meters from the beach,” emphasizing how accessible and friendly these creatures can be.

Stop 2: Turtle Point and Gili Meno Beaches

Next, the boat moves to Turtle Point, known for its friendly sea turtles, where you might find yourself swimming alongside these gentle giants. The review from a visitor highlights how the crew helped find and take photos of the turtles, making it a memorable sight. The stop in Gili Meno’s famous white sands is brief but perfect for relaxing or snapping some photos before heading to the next snorkeling site.

Stop 3: Gili Air’s Vibrant Reefs

The third snorkeling spot is Screet Point on Gili Air, where coral covers the seabed and colorful fish dart in and out. Expect to see surgeonfish, butterflyfish, and clownfish—highlighting how vibrant and healthy these reefs are. The inclusion of “admission tickets” indicates that this is a protected area, ensuring you’ll see lively underwater scenes.

Sunset and BBQ on the Return

As the boat heads back to Gili Trawangan, guests are treated to a fresh BBQ dinner cooked onboard. The meal is often described as delicious, with reviews specifically mentioning how well the crew manages the grilling while you enjoy drinks like Bintang beer. The highlight, of course, is watching the sun set over Bali—an unforgettable moment of the trip. One reviewer called it a “perfect day,” emphasizing the calm atmosphere and excellent service.

What to Expect from the Snorkeling

The snorkeling stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase Gili’s underwater treasures. From the sculpture park to the turtle encounters and coral reefs, these sites offer a variety of sights and experiences. The fact that all gear is included means you don’t have to worry about packing or renting equipment—just bring your swimsuit, towel, and sun protection.

Guests reported how the crew was attentive, helping with photos and ensuring they felt safe. The underwater sculptures not only serve as art but also as habitats, making the first stop both visually interesting and ecologically meaningful.

Tips for Snorkeling

• Arrive prepared with your swimwear, sunblock, and a towel.
• Be comfortable swimming and confident in the water, as snorkeling experience is recommended.
• Keep an eye out for turtles and colorful fish—these are the main highlights for many guests.
• Don’t forget to bring a waterproof camera or phone if you want photos.

Food and Beverage on Board

The onboard BBQ dinner is a major part of the experience—freshly grilled, flavorful, and served in the relaxed setting of the boat. Guests consistently mention the quality and taste of the food as a standout feature. However, note that cold beer and soft drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some cash if you want beverages beyond the meal.

Sunset Views

Watching the sun dip into the ocean while sipping on a cold drink or enjoying your meal is something that many find truly magical. From the boat, the views are unobstructed, and the atmosphere is tranquil—ideal for unwinding after a day of snorkeling.

Group Size and Practical Details

With a maximum of 12 travelers, this tour is designed to be intimate. Reviewers mention how this enhances the experience, making it less hectic and more personalized. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed environment compared to larger tour boats.

The tour departs at 2:30 pm from Gili Hai Cruises, and travelers are advised to arrive 30 minutes early. Most travelers enjoy the smooth coordination and friendly crew, which adds to the relaxed vibe.

Important Considerations

• Weather plays a crucial role — if windy or rainy, the experience could be affected, and the company reserves the right to cancel or reschedule.
• Minimum age is 7, and swimmers should be comfortable in the water.
• The tour is non-refundable if canceled due to weather or other reasons, so flexible plans are recommended.
• Bring essentials like swimwear, sunblock, hat, sunglasses, and cash for drinks.

Authenticity and Reviews: What Really Stands Out

Guests consistently praise the friendly crew—their attentiveness and willingness to assist with photos or help spot turtles make a difference. One review mentioned how the crew was “constantly concerned about our safety,” which adds peace of mind.

While weather was a slight disappointment for some (windy conditions), the overall sentiment was very positive. Guests appreciated the delicious food, the scenic sunset, and the well-organized stops that showcased Gili’s undersea wonders.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for small groups or couples seeking a relaxed, intimate outing. It’s perfect for those who want to see turtles, sculptures, and reefs without the hassle of renting gear or navigating larger crowds.

If you’re a snorkeler with basic swimming skills and love taking photos, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s also a good choice if you’re after a combination of adventure, relaxation, and sunset views—all in roughly four hours.

Final Thoughts

To sum it up, this Gili Trawangan Sunset BBQ Dinner Cruise with snorkeling offers an excellent combination of underwater exploration, scenic beauty, and local flavor. The small group size, inclusive gear, and tasty onboard dinner make it a fantastic value for anyone looking to experience the best of Gili’s marine environment in a laid-back setting.

The focus on quality interactions, authentic encounters with turtles, and stunning sunset vistas makes this tour a standout option. Whether you’re celebrating, seeking family fun, or just want a memorable day in paradise, this cruise ticks many boxes.

If you enjoy calm, intimate tours that emphasize genuine experiences over crowds, this cruise is definitely worth considering. Just remember to check the weather forecast and arrive prepared for a day of fun, food, and fantastic underwater sights.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 2:30 pm from Gili Hai Cruises, so arriving 30 minutes early is recommended.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included, so no need to bring your own or rent elsewhere.

How many stops are there?
There are three main snorkeling stops: the underwater sculptures at Gili Meno, Turtle Point, and Screet Point on Gili Air.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 7, provided they are comfortable swimming and in good health.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers snorkeling gear, a BBQ dinner, boat transportation, and access to all snorkeling sites.

Are drinks included?
No, cold beer and soft drinks are not included, but you can bring cash for purchases onboard.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
No, the booking is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

This cruise offers a genuine slice of Gili life—underwater art, turtles, reefs, and sunset views—wrapped in a relaxed, personal atmosphere. Perfect for those who want to explore without the crowds and enjoy authentic experiences in Indonesia’s beautiful waters.