Bora Bora: 3/4 Day Private Lagoon Tour with Lunch&Snorkeling

Bora Bora’s reputation as a paradise is well deserved, and this private lagoon tour offers a chance to experience its beauty in a personal, relaxed setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a luxurious day exploring the island’s vibrant marine life, this tour promises a mix of adventure, culture, and delicious food.

What we love about this experience is the chance to swim with stingrays and sharks in crystal-clear waters, snorkel among colorful reefs, and enjoy a Polynesian feast on a remote private island. The fact that it’s a private group means you get personalized attention and flexibility in your schedule. A potential downside? If you’re not comfortable around marine life or seasickness, this might not be the best fit.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, and groups wanting a tailored experience that combines both adventure and relaxation. It’s perfect for those looking to see Bora Bora’s marine wonders without the crowds, and for travelers who appreciate good food, fine wine, and authentic cultural touches.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your schedule and preferences
• Snorkeling with sharks and stingrays offers unforgettable encounters
• Luxurious lunch on a private motu with Polynesian flavors and optional lobster upgrade
• Knowledgeable guides ensure you get the most out of your time exploring
• All-inclusive drinks like Moët & Chandon and selected wines enhance the experience
• Suitable for families, couples, and groups, but not for non-swimmers or seasick travelers

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Insider Look at the Tour Itinerary

This 5-hour private tour begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation, allowing you to avoid the hassle of organizing transport. The boat ride itself is a highlight — a traditional Polynesian-style vessel that combines classic design with comfort, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.

Exploring Bora Bora’s Lagoon on a Traditional Polynesian Boat

The guide, often a local with deep knowledge of the island’s marine environment, navigates you through Bora Bora’s iconic turquoise waters. You’re likely to be welcomed with warm hospitality and some interesting insights into Polynesian culture as the boat gently glides over the lagoon. The small group size fosters a sense of intimacy and allows for tailored stops along the way.

Snorkeling with Sharks and Stingrays

One of the standout moments occurs when you reach the snorkeling site — a designated zone where blacktip reef sharks swim freely in their natural habitat. As one reviewer remarked, “Seeing the sharks in the wild was incredible, and they’re surprisingly shy and non-aggressive if you keep your distance.” The guide ensures safety and explains the sharks’ behavior, which makes the experience both exciting and reassuring.

Close by, graceful stingrays glide through the water, eager for a gentle touch. Reviewers consistently mention how friendly and curious these creatures are, making the interaction a highlight. You’ll have plenty of time to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, with guides offering tips to identify different species.

The Private Island & Polynesian Feast

After covering the marine highlights, the tour anchors at a private motu — a small island that feels worlds away from the busy tourist spots. Here, you’ll witness traditional Polynesian food preparation, often involving local techniques and fresh ingredients.

Guests are invited to relax at beachside tables and enjoy a delicious BBQ or Polynesian feast featuring local dishes such as suckling pig, chicken with spinach, manioc, taro, plantains, breadfruit, and raw fish salad with coconut milk. The meal is complemented by Moët & Chandon champagne or a selection of wines, elevating the overall experience.

For those seeking a touch of luxury, an upgrade with seasonal spiny lobster is available, adding a special touch to an already memorable meal. Several reviewers appreciated the authenticity of the food, noting that it was both hearty and flavorful with fresh tropical fruits and a traditional dessert rounding out the feast.

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Cultural and Scenic Highlights

Beyond the marine adventures and food, the tour offers opportunities to observe Polynesian cultural practices, including food preparation techniques. The relaxed beachside setting allows for photo opportunities and quiet moments soaking in Bora Bora’s spectacular scenery.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Unlike larger, more generic lagoon trips, this private experience offers a level of personalized service and flexibility. You can customize your schedule — whether you want more snorkeling time, a longer meal, or a relaxed swim on the beach.

Guests often comment on the expert guides, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer noted, “Our guide was fantastic — knew all about the marine life and shared stories that made everything more meaningful.” Their ability to keep the group safe while making the experience fun is a key highlight.

The inclusion of luxury drinks, such as champagne, adds a celebratory feel that’s hard to match on larger tours. Plus, the option to upgrade with seasonal lobster makes this a great choice for travelers wanting a touch of exclusivity.

Practical Considerations

The tour duration of around 5 hours strikes a good balance — long enough to truly enjoy the lagoon without feeling rushed. Pickup at your hotel or residence simplifies planning, especially if you’re on a cruise or staying in Bora Bora.

It’s suitable for families and couples, but non-swimmers should note that snorkeling is a key part of the experience. Seasickness could be a concern for some, as the boat ride depends on weather conditions.

The Value of a Private Lagoon Tour

For the price, this experience delivers a mix of adventure, culture, and luxury that many independent activities cannot match. The private group setting enhances comfort and allows for tailored interactions, making it feel more exclusive than most public tours.

The combination of marine encounters, cultural education, and gourmet meal makes this a comprehensive day out. It’s an excellent way to see Bora Bora’s lagoon in a relatively short time, especially if you’re limited on days or want a high-quality, stress-free experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, intimate encounter with Bora Bora’s marine environment. It’s especially suited for those wanting interactive snorkeling, cultural insights, and a luxurious meal in a stunning setting.

Couples celebrating special occasions, families with children (who are comfortable in the water), or groups of friends looking for a memorable day will find this tour ticks all the boxes.

However, if you’re uncomfortable in the water or prone to seasickness, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling is a key part of the tour, non-swimmers can still enjoy the boat ride and the scenery. However, active participation in snorkeling with marine life requires swimming ability.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sandals, camera, snorkeling gear, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and quick-dry clothing. A few snacks are also helpful.

Can I customize the timing of the tour?
Yes, the tour is flexible and can be tailored to your schedule, making it suitable for cruise ship excursions or independent travelers.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a glass of Moët & Chandon champagne or selected wines during your meal. Upgrade options like seasonal lobster are available at extra cost.

Is there a limit on group size?
This is a private tour, so your group will be the only guests. This allows for personalized attention and flexibility.

Will I see sharks?
Yes, you’ll observe blacktip reef sharks in their natural environment, often described as a surreal yet safe encounter.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s recommended to inform the provider beforehand to ensure arrangements are suitable.

What’s the ideal age for this tour?
It’s suitable for families, but children should be comfortable in the water. Non-swimmers or those with seasickness may find it less enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

This private lagoon tour in Bora Bora offers an excellent balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation, all wrapped in a comfortable, personalized package. The chance to snorkel with sharks and stingrays, paired with a gourmet Polynesian feast on a secluded motu, makes for a truly memorable day.

The knowledgeable guides, luxury touches like champagne, and flexible itinerary ensure you get maximum value from your time in this island paradise. It’s a perfect choice for those who want an authentic and exclusive experience that combines natural beauty with cultural richness.

If you’re planning a trip to Bora Bora and want an intimate, well-organized adventure that checks all the boxes — marine life, fabulous food, and stunning scenery — this tour is well worth considering.

Note: Due to the nature of the experience, planning ahead and communicating your preferences with the tour provider can enhance your enjoyment. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon or seeking a fun family outing, this private lagoon tour delivers a taste of Bora Bora’s magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: