Nusa Penida Day Trip for 3 dives

Planning a dive trip to Bali often means considering the stunning waters of Nusa Penida. We’ve looked into the popular Nusa Penida Day Trip for 3 dives, and it’s clear this tour has earned a stellar reputation—rated 5.0 out of 5 from 125 reviews and recommended by 98% of previous travelers. Whether you’re an experienced diver craving big pelagics or someone eager to see manta rays, this tour promises a full day of underwater marvels.

We love the professionalism of Bali Scuba, the opportunity to see big marine life, and the well-organized logistics. One thing to keep in mind: you’ll need to be a certified diver with at least 25 dives, and recent diving experience within six months, which makes this trip ideal for seasoned underwater explorers. It’s not suited for beginners or less experienced divers unless you hire a private guide.

This tour is best for travelers who want value-packed diving, crave authentic reef encounters, and appreciate smooth, hassle-free transfers. If you’re prepared for a full, active day in the water and are comfortable with some ocean surge, this trip is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Professional guides and small groups (maximum 4 divers per guide) ensure safety and personalized attention
• Includes tanks, weights, lunch, and water—offering excellent value for the price
• Highlights like manta rays and possibly mola-mola make this trip a bucket-list experience
• Transfers from South Bali hotels mean no stress about logistics
• Nitrox tanks are free for certified divers, boosting bottom time and safety
• Rougher surface conditions may challenge some, but experienced divers will appreciate the vigor

Why the Nusa Penida 3-Dive Trip Stands Out

When it comes to diving in Bali, Nusa Penida is often called one of the top underwater destinations. This tour offers three dives in one day, which means plenty of underwater exploration without needing to book multiple trips. The price of $205 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions—lunch, water, tanks, and expert guides.

What really makes this trip shine are the marine encounters. Reviewers have repeatedly mentioned the chance to see mantas, mola, and other big pelagics. One diver noted that despite tricky surge conditions, the Bali Scuba team managed everything smoothly, highlighting their professional and safety-conscious approach. Another reviewer said, “This is an exceptionally well-run dive shop, with friendly, competent staff at every step,” emphasizing how well-organized the operation is.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Transfer

The day kicks off with hotel pickup from various locations like Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, and Sanur. The process is seamless—an air-conditioned vehicle transports you to Bali Scuba’s meeting point in Sanur. Reviews mention comfortable, spacious transport, which sets a relaxed tone for the day.

Dive Briefing and Gear Setup

Once at the dive center, you’ll meet your guide, often a PADI Dive Professional praised for their local knowledge and friendly attitude. Divers with certification and recent dives are allocated up to four divers per guide, ensuring safety and personalized attention. Gear hire is extra, but tanks and weights are included, along with two free tanks of Nitrox (32%) if you’re certified. The shop’s reputation for good equipment and attentive staff makes gear issues rare.

First Dive: Reef and Manta Rays

Expect vibrant drift dives along Nusa Penida’s famous reefs. Many reviewers highlighted the big pelagics, especially manta rays, which are often seen gliding gracefully overhead. The currents can be strong, so this experience is best suited for confident divers comfortable with surge.

Lunch Break in Between

After the first two dives, you’ll pause for a lunch box, tailored to dietary needs, and hot drinks or coffee—perfect for recharging. The lunch is simple but well-liked, with reviewers praising the good food and efficient service.

Second and Third Dives: Varied Marine Life

The final dives often include more reef exploration and the chance to spot cutthroat fish, colorful corals, and possibly mola-mola in season. Reviewers mention that the boat and crew go out of their way to make each dive different and memorable.

Return and Drop-off

The day wraps up with hotel drop-offs and the opportunity to reflect on a day packed with marine encounters. The experience typically lasts around 8-9 hours from pickup to return.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Small Group Numbers
With no more than four divers per guide, the attention to safety and quality of experience are top priorities. Divers from reviews consistently mention how well-guided and safe they felt, even in rough surf conditions.

Professional Guides with Local Knowledge
The guides are highly praised—notably Gede, who received glowing reviews for his spotting skills and friendly manner. They are well-versed in current conditions, helping you get the best possible sightings.

Marine Life Encounters
The chance to see mantas and mola-mola (oceanic sunfish) in season is a huge draw. One diver shared that their guide was “outstanding” at spotting marine life, making the experience truly magical.

Value for Money
Given the inclusions—three dives, lunch, water, tanks, weights, and Nitrox—the $205 price tag offers a lot of bang for your buck. Reviewers often highlight the excellent organization and premium service, making the relatively higher cost worth it.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

Transportation and Timing

Most pickup locations are near public transportation, and the start time typically allows for an early departure—meaning you get to enjoy the water during the calmer morning hours. Reviews suggest punctual, comfortable transfers.

Equipment and Certification

You’ll need at least 25 logged dives and recent experience (within six months). Private guides are available for less experienced divers or those with fewer dives, but the overall safety and quality are geared toward more confident divers. Gear hire is extra, but tanks and weights are included.

Surface Conditions

Some reviewers noted strong surges and rough surface conditions, especially on the boat. While these are part of the adventure, less experienced divers should be aware. The guides’ professionalism helps ensure safety despite these challenges.

Price and Value

While not the cheapest Bali dive trip, the price includes most essentials—plus the opportunity to see big marine animals often out of reach for casual snorkelers. The small group size, experienced guides, and well-organized logistics add to the overall value.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is perfect for certified divers with recent experience who crave big marine encounters and are comfortable with a full day of ocean activity. It’s better suited for those who value personalized guidance and safety over budget. If you’re passionate about marine life—especially manta rays and mola—this tour will deliver.

If you’re a less experienced diver, you might need a private guide or consider other options, as the tour requires a certain level of confidence and recent diving activity.

The Sum Up

The Nusa Penida 3-Dive Day Trip from Bali Scuba is a well-organized, value-packed experience that offers a genuine chance to see some of Bali’s most iconic underwater creatures. The small groups, professional guides, and excellent marine sightings make it a fantastic choice for seasoned divers seeking adventure.

While the surface conditions can be challenging, the quality of the guiding, the variety of marine life, and the inclusions ensure that most divers will feel they’ve had a rewarding day. This tour is best suited for those who have the experience and confidence to handle some ocean surge but want the convenience of a all-inclusive, safe, and thoroughly enjoyable trip.

If you’re looking for a reliable, professional dive operator with a proven track record of satisfied travelers, this trip hits all the right marks. It’s a chance to tick off big pelagic sightings and enjoy Bali’s underwater riches in one beautifully organized package.

FAQ

Do I need to be a certified diver to join this tour?
Yes, you must be certified with at least 25 logged dives, and recent diving experience within six months. Private guides are available for less experienced divers.

Is Nitrox included in the price?
Yes, certified Nitrox divers receive two free tanks of 32% Nitrox, which helps extend bottom time and enhances safety.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your certification card, personal diving gear if preferred (though gear hire is available), a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and a towel for after the dives.

How long does the whole trip last?
The trip lasts approximately 8-9 hours, including transfers, diving, lunch, and return to your hotel.

Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, pickups are offered from South Bali hotels in Sanur, Kuta, Benoa, Nusa Dua, Seminyak, and Legian.

What is the group size?
Groups are limited to 4 divers per guide, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

What marine creatures are commonly seen?
Expect to see manta rays, reef fish, colorful corals, and potentially mola-mola if the season aligns.

What are the main challenges of this tour?
Surface conditions can be rough, with surge and ocean swell, so comfort with ocean currents is recommended.

Can I book extra tanks or private guides?
Yes, additional tanks (like a third Nitrox tank) and private guides are options, though they come at extra cost.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

In the end, this trip offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day in Bali’s underwater realm—highlighting marine giants, offering excellent organization, and delivering value for serious divers. It’s a great way to make your Bali diving adventure truly memorable.