Nusa Penida Snorkeling with Manta Bay & Island Tour

If you’re considering a day trip to Nusa Penida, this tour offers a chance to see some of Bali’s most breathtaking coastal scenery and vibrant underwater life. While it promises an action-packed itinerary, it’s not without its challenges—long travel times and busy spots mean you’ll want to plan accordingly.

We’re particularly drawn to the chance of swimming alongside manta rays in Manta Bay, the stunning views of Kelingking Beach, and the opportunity to enjoy authentic Indonesian food. What makes this tour appealing is the combination of marine adventures and scenic land stops—all bundled into a single day, making it a solid choice for travelers with limited time.

However, some reviews highlight concerns about overcrowding, rushed schedules, and variable tour quality. If you’re comfortable with a slightly hectic pace and want a taste of Nusa Penida’s top sights, this could be an excellent trip for you. It’s especially suited to those eager to pack a lot into one day, provided they’re prepared for the crowds and the long hours.

Key Points

• Value for Money: At around $50, this tour packs snorkeling, island sightseeing, and food into a full-day trip.
• Diverse Experiences: Combines marine life encounters with scenic coastal views and cultural stops.
• Group Size & Logistics: Managed group tours with shared transportation and boat rides—expect busy spots.
• Long Day & Rushed Feel: Expect early mornings, tight schedules, and quick visits—perfect for those who want highlights.
• Weather & Conditions: Water conditions and weather can vary, so check forecasts before booking.
• Authentic Food & Local Vibe: Enjoy a local Indonesian lunch in a relaxed setting, adding flavor to your day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers good value considering the inclusions. For $49.61, you get hotel transfers, return fast boat tickets, land transportation on Nusa Penida, lunch, and snorkeling gear with life jackets and towels (if you opt for that). The convenience of door-to-door pickup from Bali’s main tourist hubs like Ubud, Kuta, and Sanur makes the early start manageable.

However, extra costs can add up. Things like additional hotel pickups outside the main area, private options, or extras like onboard upstairs seating come at extra charges. Notably, breakfast isn’t included, so a hearty meal beforehand is a good idea to avoid seasickness and keep energy up.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Early Morning Pickup & Transit

Starting around 6:15 AM, the experience kicks off with hotel pickups—be prepared for a very early start, especially if you’re staying outside central Bali. The drive to Sanur or Serangan port takes about an hour, with some reviewers noting delays that can affect timing.

Fast Boat to Nusa Penida

The boat ride from Sanur to Nusa Penida lasts about 45 minutes. The boats are shared, with capacity for roughly 110-150 passengers depending on the vessel, so expect crowds and a lively atmosphere. Some travelers mention feeling cramped, especially if you’re on the back row or don’t get a window seat.

Snorkeling at Manta Bay & Other Spots

The highlight for many is the chance to swim with manta rays at Manta Bay, which is truly a bucket-list moment if the conditions cooperate. One reviewer noted they saw 1-2 manta rays, while others were disappointed that they didn’t see any. The water can be cloudy, and the experience is heavily dependent on the weather and current—some days are better than others.

Other snorkeling stops include Wall Point/Gamat Bay and Crystal Bay, both known for their coral reefs and colorful fish. Reviewers mention that coral and fish life at these sites can be quite vibrant; however, some felt the stops were too brief—only around 10-15 minutes each—making it difficult to fully enjoy the underwater scenery.

Post-Snorkeling & Lunch

After about 4 hours of snorkeling, the tour transitions into a land exploration. The lunch is typically served at a local restaurant, with many reviewers describing it as simple but tasty Indonesian fare. It’s a rural-style meal, so don’t expect gourmet—just hearty enough to keep you going through the rest of the day’s activities.

Island Sightseeing

The afternoon involves a quick tour of iconic Nusa Penida landmarks like Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong. Expect limited time at each spot—around 5-10 minutes—so you’ll want to focus on photos and appreciating the views rather than wandering.

Some travelers felt rushed, especially with tight schedules and traffic delays. As one reviewer pointed out, the drives between stops involve narrow, bumpy roads with little commentary, which can be tiring or underwhelming if you’re expecting more local insights.

Return & Back to Bali

The boat departs around 5:00 PM, returning to Sanur by 6:40 PM, followed by transfers back to your hotel. Expect a long, full day—many find it exhausting but rewarding if you’re keen to see the island’s highlights quickly.

The Realities of the Experience

The tour logistics are well-organized in terms of group management and transportation, but the reviews reveal a mixed picture. Many travelers praise the smooth coordination, especially the guides and drivers who are friendly and eager to assist. One guide, Ekka, was commended for making the land portion fun and engaging, snapping photos and keeping everyone on schedule.

However, some travelers report feeling hurried, with only a few minutes at each scenic spot, which can diminish the experience. The crowded boats and spots mean that you’ll need patience and a sense of adventure—be prepared to share space and wait in line for photos.

Weather plays a big role—bad conditions can lead to murky waters at snorkeling sites or choppy seas that make the boat ride less comfortable. Some unlucky visitors have pointed out safety concerns, especially during rough water days, although these seem to be exceptions rather than the norm.

Food and hygiene at the lunch stop received mixed reviews, with some describing it as basic but satisfying. Facilities at the land stops are often simple and sometimes crowded, so pack accordingly.

The Value Proposition

For roughly $50, you get a full-day adventure that covers both marine and land highlights of Nusa Penida. It’s a decent deal for travelers eager to maximize limited time, offering transport, snorkeling gear, lunch, and guided tours. The experience is most suitable for active travelers who are okay with early mornings, tight schedules, and some crowds.

The tour balances adventure and sightseeing but doesn’t leave much time for deep exploration or relaxation. If you prefer a leisurely pace or personalized attention, consider private options, which are available at a higher cost but promise more comfort and flexibility.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to tick multiple boxes—snorkeling, beaches, scenic views—in one go. It’s also well-suited to those who don’t mind crowds and rushed stops, and are comfortable with a structured schedule. If you’re visiting Bali for a short period and want a taste of Nusa Penida’s top sights, this tour delivers.

However, if you’re seeking a relaxing, in-depth experience or have mobility concerns, a private tour or a more leisurely approach might serve you better. Be prepared for a long, busy day—but one filled with memorable moments in Bali’s stunning surroundings.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from major locations like Ubud, Kuta, Sanur, and Canggu is included. Some areas outside these zones may incur extra charges.

How long does the boat ride take?
The ferry from Sanur to Nusa Penida takes about 45 minutes. The return trip is roughly the same duration.

What snorkeling gear is provided?
Snorkeling equipment, including life jackets and towels (if you select that option), is included. It’s advisable to bring your own waterproof bag for valuables.

Can I see manta rays?
While sightings depend on weather and conditions, many travelers do see manta rays at Manta Bay. But it’s not guaranteed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, travelers aged 7 to 75 can participate. Keep in mind the early start and the physical demands of some stops.

Is the tour rushed?
Yes, many reviews mention feeling hurried, especially at scenic spots, due to limited time and traffic.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included and generally features local Indonesian dishes, which many find satisfying after a morning of activity.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe, the operator may cancel or reschedule, offering a full refund or alternative date.

How crowded are the spots?
Very crowded, especially in peak season, with limited time at each location making for a busy, often bustling experience.

Can I customize the trip?
Private options are available for more tailored experiences. For shared tours, the schedule is fixed.

To sum it up, the Nusa Penida Snorkeling with Manta Bay & Island Tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Bali’s marine and coastal wonders. It’s a practical choice for those wanting to see as much as possible in one day, provided they’re prepared for busy spots and a packed schedule. The snorkeling, scenic views, and local food create a memorable, if whirlwind, adventure suited for energetic travelers eager to experience the island’s highlights.