Full-day Lagoon Safari Tour with Lunch in Bora Bora - Shared tour

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of exploring Bora Bora’s legendary waters, this Full-day Lagoon Safari Tour with Lunch from Rohivai Tours promises a memorable adventure. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a top-notch way to see the island’s marine highlights without crowds.

What we love most about this experience is the variety of snorkel stops, the knowledge and warmth of guides like Coco and Maui, and the delicious Polynesian-style lunch on a tranquil motu. Plus, the small group size (max 12 guests) promises a more personal, relaxed atmosphere.

A potential consideration is that popular snorkel spots can get busy, especially with other boats sharing the water. If you’re after a completely secluded experience, this might not be the quietest option.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who love marine life, appreciate authentic local guides, and enjoy a good mix of activity and relaxation. It’s perfect for those seeking a full-day, value-packed exploration of Bora Bora’s stunning lagoon.

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Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and scenic views
Knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing Bora Bora’s marine life and culture
Delicious Polynesian lunch on a peaceful motu adds a cultural touch
Small-group setting ensures intimacy and personalized attention
Cost-effective for a full-day adventure with multiple stops and included meals
Flexible cancellation policy with full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

A Detailed Look at the Bora Bora Lagoon Safari Tour

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Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and Early Start

The tour begins at 9:00 am at Rohivai Tours’ meeting point in Taahana, Matira. The company offers pickup options, which is a big plus for those staying nearby. Starting early allows you to maximize daylight hours — Bora Bora’s waters are best in the mornings when marine activity is lively and visibility is high.

The boat itself is described as comfortable, and with a maximum of 12 travelers, you’re unlikely to feel crowded. Travelers consistently praise the punctuality of pickups and the friendly demeanor of guides like Coco and Timmy, which sets a welcoming tone from the start.

The Itinerary: Marine Encounters and Scenic Beauty

Stop 1: Welcome to Bora Bora’s Lagoon

The tour kicks off with an initial 30-minute stop to soak in the sights of Bora Bora itself. While this isn’t a lengthy sightseeing moment, it’s a gentle way to start your adventure, orient yourself, and settle into the boat’s relaxed pace.

Stop 2: Marine Sanctuary with Rays and Sharks

Next, about 40 minutes are dedicated to visiting a marine sanctuary, where you’ll swim alongside friendly stingrays and majestic blacktip reef sharks. Multiple reviews highlight this as a standout experience—not only because it’s thrilling but also because guides like Coco are incredibly knowledgeable, helping guests feel safe while getting close to these graceful creatures.

One reviewer mentioned that Coco “knows all the good spots for sharks and rays,” which means you’ll likely visit places less crowded and more vibrant. Expect to see sharks and rays in their natural environment, swimming freely in clear waters, which many consider a must-do in Bora Bora.

Stop 3: Colorful Coral Gardens

The third stop, lasting around 50 minutes, takes you to a vibrant coral garden teeming with colorful fish and coral formations. Snorkeling here is described as “spectacular,” with a kaleidoscope of reef fish and some reviewers calling it “the most colorful reef they’ve ever seen.” The clarity of Bora Bora’s waters means you’ll have excellent visibility, making every fish, coral, and tiny sea creature pop.

Guide insights are invaluable here; some reviewers mention that guides like Maui are great at pointing out specific fish species, including rare ones you might not spot on your own.

Stop 4: Manta Ray Sanctuary (Conditional)

Another sanctuary awaits, where manta rays are sometimes spotted. One reviewer noted the chance of seeing manta rays “or not,” which highlights the unpredictability of wildlife sightings. But the thrill of perhaps swimming alongside these gentle giants adds to the sense of adventure.

Lunch on a Tranquil Motu

After your snorkel adventures, the tour shifts to a peaceful motu adorned with coconut palms. Here, a Polynesian-style picnic lunch is served — a generous spread of rice salad, grilled chicken, raw fish in coconut milk, seasonal fruits, coconut bread, and cake.

Guests love the authentic flavors and the setting — sitting on the water with the sound of gentle waves and tropical breeze. Many reviews mention that the lunch is delicious, with some describing it as “hearty” and “fun,” especially with the opportunity to learn how to open a coconut or make pareos.

Final Stop: Relaxation and Reflection

The last 30 minutes are for winding down, soaking in the scenery, or perhaps doing a last swim before heading back. The small group size makes it easy to relax and chat, and guides like Maui and Manu are noted for their warm, friendly nature.

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What Sets This Tour Apart

The Guides: Knowledge and Personality

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and friendliness. Coco, Maui, and Manu are described as informative, entertaining, and caring. They don’t just point out marine creatures—they share stories, teach about local culture, and ensure everyone feels comfortable, whether snorkelers or first-timers.

Marine Life Encounters: Genuine and Respectful

Swimmers report swimming close to sharks, rays, and manta rays, often citing the healthy, natural behavior of the animals. This is not just a tourist spectacle; guides emphasize respect for wildlife, making interactions feel authentic.

The Food and Cultural Touches

The Polynesian lunch isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience in itself. Many reviewers mention that the food was delicious and plentiful, served in a scenic setting that enhances the overall value.

Value for Money

At $203.20 per person, considering the full day of activities, multiple snorkel stops, guided expertise, and a hearty lunch, this is a great deal. Smaller groups mean more personalized attention and fewer crowds, enhancing the quality of the experience.

Flexibility and Convenience

The mobile ticket and pickup options make it straightforward to join, and the full refund policy offers peace of mind. The 5-6 hour duration ensures you get a thorough taste of Bora Bora’s waters without feeling rushed.

Potential Drawbacks

While many praise the tour, some mention that popular snorkel spots can be busy, with other boats sharing the water. This is a common issue in well-known marine sanctuaries, and it’s worth considering if you’re after complete seclusion. Also, the weather can impact the tour — poor weather might lead to cancellation or a different experience, but the company offers a full refund or alternative date if that occurs.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day lagoon safari suits adventurous travelers eager to see a variety of marine life, snorkel in pristine waters, and learn about Polynesian culture. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for rich, guided experiences rather than solo exploration. If you enjoy authentic encounters and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, this tour delivers.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What’s included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, a Polynesian-style lunch, soda, bottled water, fruit juices, and towels are all included.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the lunch menu can be adapted to allergies or dietary preferences, so inform the tour provider in advance.

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

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see sharks, rays, manta rays, and many colorful reef fish. The guides are skilled at spotting and safely bringing guests close to the animals.

The Sum Up

For anyone eager to explore Bora Bora’s stunning lagoon, this full-day safari tour offers a well-rounded mix of marine encounters, scenic beauty, and cultural insights. The small group size and passionate guides mean you’ll get personalized attention and authentic stories, making it much more than just a snorkeling trip.

The delicious Polynesian lunch, combined with the opportunity to swim with rays, sharks, and manta rays, makes this experience both fun and meaningful. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value quality, genuine interactions, and value for money.

While not the quietest if you seek total solitude, the tour’s informative guides and varied stops ensure you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of Bora Bora’s underwater world. This safari is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to see the best of Bora Bora’s lagoon in one memorable day.