We Rank Bora Bora’s 15 Top Snorkeling Experiences

The 15 Best Snorkeling Experiences in Bora Bora

Bora Bora is one of the most photogenic islands in the world, and its lagoon is a snorkeler’s paradise. Crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and big marine animals like manta rays, sharks, and stingrays make this place a must-visit for anyone eager to see underwater life up close. We especially like the Full-Day Bora Bora Lagoon Cruise including snorkeling with sharks and stingrays for its comprehensive experience, but the variety of options below means there’s something for every snorkeler—whether you prefer a short morning tour or a private boat experience.

Why Bora Bora is perfect for snorkeling?

The sheer diversity of marine life and ease of access make Bora Bora a top snorkeling destination. You can float over coral gardens teeming with colorful fish in shallow waters or get up close with manta rays and sharks in deeper areas. Many tours include gear, so you don’t need to bring your own, and some even offer hotel pick-up, which makes planning easier.

Quick overview of top tours

On this list, you’ll find half-day and full-day lagoon cruises, private boat tours, and luxury catamaran experiences. Some tours focus on eco-friendly snorkeling with sharks and rays, while others blend adventure with scenic land excursions. Prices range from around $118 to over $1,800 for private charters, and most include snorkeling gear, lunch, and hotel transfers. Read on to find the best fits for your trip.

1. Half day Snorkeling Shared Boat Tour in Bora Bora

This shared half-day tour offers a smooth introduction to Bora Bora’s best snorkeling spots in just over three hours. The tour departs in the morning, giving you the rest of the day free for other adventures. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit three or four carefully selected sites, with the captain personally choosing the most vibrant spots that day.

Reviewers praise the “extremely knowledgeable” guide Vincent, who shares interesting insights about the marine environment. Guests consistently mention seeing eagle rays, manta rays, and thriving coral gardens. This tour is perfect for families or anyone who wants a quality experience without a full-day commitment. The hassle-free hotel pickup makes it easy to relax and enjoy the underwater spectacle.

Bottom line: A well-rated, efficient tour ideal for those on a tight schedule or seeking a family-friendly introduction to Bora Bora’s lagoon.

2. Full-Day Bora Bora Lagoon Cruise Including Snorkeling with Sharks and Stingrays

For around $159, the full-day lagoon cruise offers a comprehensive look at Bora Bora’s marine life. Over about six hours, you’ll explore multiple snorkel sites, including coral gardens, and see manta rays, stingrays, and reef sharks. The tour includes lunch, usually a barbecue on a private island, making it a fantastic value for travelers wanting an all-in-one experience.

Guests rave about the “amazing first stop with manta rays,” and the crew’s hospitality. The guides are noted for their helpfulness and safety. This tour is suited for cruise passengers and island visitors alike, offering ample snorkeling time and top-notch photo ops.

Bottom line: If you want a full-day adventure with plenty of marine encounters and a tasty lunch, this cruise delivers a memorable experience.

3. Bora Bora Eco Snorkel Cruise Including Snorkeling with Sharks and Stingrays

At just over two hours, the Eco Snorkel Cruise offers an intimate, eco-conscious way to see Bora Bora’s underwater world. This small-group tour (max six guests) emphasizes personalized attention and education about marine ecosystems. You’ll visit several sites, searching for stingrays, sharks, and colorful fish, with the guide sharing insights about each species.

Guests love that equipment and transport from select hotels are provided, simplifying logistics. The relaxed pace makes it ideal for travelers interested in learning about the environment while observing marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Bottom line: Perfect for eco-minded travelers who want a personalized, no-hassle snorkeling experience with a focus on marine conservation.

4. Tohora Bora Bora Snorkeling Lagoon Tours

This small-group tour offers a personalized, immersive experience with a maximum of six guests. It lasts about three hours, focusing on seeing manta rays, sharks, and coral reefs in a relaxed setting. The guide is passionate and knowledgeable about Bora Bora’s marine environment, sharing stories and information as you snorkel in some of the most pristine spots.

Guests highlight the chance to see large manta rays and eagle rays, along with coral gardens bursting with tropical fish. The tour includes snorkeling gear and hotel pickup where possible, making it very convenient.

Bottom line: This tour is ideal for small groups or couples seeking a tailored experience with close-up encounters with big marine animals.

5. Half-Day Small-Group Cruise in Bora Bora with Snorkelling

For about $142, this small-group cruise combines snorkeling, stingray feeding, and sightseeing. With just a handful of guests, you get personalized attention and the chance to hand-feed stingrays, a unique experience that often surprises first-timers.

Guests praise guide Tau for his enthusiasm and storytelling, as well as the varied stops that include reef and shallow lagoon spots. The tour lasts around four hours and is especially good for those wanting a relaxed, intimate experience.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a personal touch, excellent guides, and the chance to interact directly with stingrays.

6. Luxury Catamaran Bora Bora : Sailing, Snorkeling & Floating Bar

Imagine sailing on a 40-foot catamaran with your own crew — this luxury experience is about indulgence. Over four hours, you’ll enjoy snorkeling at a private coral garden, watching Mount Otemanu pass by, and relaxing with free drinks and a floating bar.

Guests rate it highly for the personalized service and the opportunity to sail and snorkel in style. This trip is perfect for honeymooners, couples, or anyone looking for a luxury experience with stunning scenery and gourmet touches.

Bottom line: The best choice for travelers wanting a high-end, private adventure with plenty of time for relaxation and picture-perfect moments.

7. Bora Bora Lagoon Snorkeling Tour by Private Boat

This private tour offers an exclusive experience for up to four people, allowing you to customize your itinerary. The guide will lead you through 4-5 snorkeling spots, including manta rays, sharks, and coral gardens, based on your interests.

Guests mention the personalized attention and flexibility of this tour, which is perfect if you want to spend more time at specific sites or include special requests. The boat is a Four Winns 220, blending luxury with comfort.

Bottom line: Ideal for small groups or families wanting a tailored, private experience with the flexibility to explore exactly what interests you most.

8. Bora Bora: Eco Shark and Snorkeling Safari

This eco shark and snorkeling safari is a 2.5-hour excursion focusing on seeing reef sharks and stingrays in their natural environment. It’s a good choice for those wanting a shorter, eco-minded trip that offers multiple snorkeling stops without sacrificing marine encounters.

Guests like the opportunity to see reef sharks and rays, though notes mention that marine animal sightings are not guaranteed. The tour includes pickup, safety briefing, and a chance to see Bora Bora’s underwater life up close.

Bottom line: Suitable for travelers short on time but eager to experience Bora Bora’s marine wildlife responsibly.

9. Bora Bora: Full-Day Lagoon Snorkelling Tour

At about seven hours, this full-day lagoon tour provides a comprehensive adventure. You’ll circle the island on a boat, snorkel in multiple sites, and enjoy a BBQ lunch. It’s a great way to see various marine life and enjoy scenic views along the way.

Reviews highlight the exhilarating experience of swimming with rays and the friendly, helpful guides. The tour is perfect for those wanting an immersive day with lots of snorkel stops and island scenery.

Bottom line: Best for travelers who want an all-day, comprehensive tour with diverse marine encounters and scenic exploration.

10. Bora Bora: Lagoon Tour and Snorkeling Experience

This four-hour guided tour focuses on swimming with stingrays and sharks in shallow lagoon waters. It’s a straightforward yet rich experience, with snorkel spots that feature blacktip and lemon sharks along with tropical fish. Guides are present to ensure safety and comfort.

Guests appreciate the easy access and the chance to see marine animals in calm, shallow waters. It’s a great choice for travelers who prefer short, focused excursions.

Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a concentrated, family-friendly snorkeling experience.

11. Bora Bora: Luxury Private Half Day Snorkeling Tour

For a more exclusive experience, this private half-day tour offers personalized guiding on a luxury boat. You’ll visit multiple sites to see manta rays, eagle rays, coral gardens, and moray eels. The tour lasts around three and a half hours and includes snacks and beverages.

Guests praise the professional guides and the private ambiance, making it ideal for honeymooners or special celebrations. The focus on comfort and exclusivity makes it a premium choice.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a luxury, intimate experience with tailored snorkeling.

12. Bora Bora Combo Tour: Lagoon Cruise and 4WD Tour Including Snorkeling

This land-and-sea combo offers 7-8 hours of exploration by 4WD and boat. You’ll visit lookout points with views of the lagoon, then enjoy snorkeling over coral gardens and with rays and sharks.

Reviews describe the tour as “amazing” and highlight the variety of experiences, including a local craft workshop and delicious tropical fruits. Suitable for travelers who want a full-day, diverse experience.

Bottom line: Great for those wanting a comprehensive tour covering land, sea, and cultural highlights.

13. Combo snorkeling + motu lunch + jet ski group tour full day

This full-day combo mixes snorkeling, a motu lunch, and jet skiing. It’s ideal for active travelers wanting multiple adventures in one day. You’ll snorkel around coral and see sharks and manta rays, then relax at a private island with a delicious Polynesian-style lunch.

Reviews highlight the amazing snorkeling and scenery, with enthusiastic descriptions of the lunch and jet skiing. It’s perfect for those who want a full-throttle day on the water.

Bottom line: Suited for energetic travelers interested in multiple water activities and culture.

14. LUXURY Private Catamaran Bora Bora : Half-Day Trip

This private half-day offers a luxury sailing experience in Bora Bora’s lagoon. With just your group, you’ll enjoy sailing past Mount Otemanu, snorkeling at reefs, and relaxing onboard with drinks and music. The crew provides personalized service, making it ideal for special occasions.

Guests mention the beautiful boat and the opportunity to swim and observe eagle rays. It’s for those seeking a luxury, quiet escape.

Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups who want a private, elegant day on the water.

15. Half Day Private Lagoon Snorkeling Experience

Finally, the private half-day tour allows you to explore Bora Bora’s lagoon in comfort. With a dedicated guide, you’ll visit multiple snorkeling sites to see colorful fish, manta rays, and sharks. All equipment and hotel pickup are provided, making for a seamless experience.

Guests love the personalized attention and custom itinerary, with some noting how the guide tailored the tour to their interests. It’s a great option for those wanting a private, flexible snorkeling adventure.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking privacy and customization on a shorter, half-day outing.

How to Choose the Right Snorkeling Tour in Bora Bora

When selecting your ideal Bora Bora snorkeling experience, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you want a short but rich experience, the half-day tours are perfect. For those seeking luxury and privacy, options like the private boat or luxury catamaran are excellent. Budget-conscious travelers should look at eco-focused tours, while families or groups might prefer small-group or combo tours.

Booking early, especially in peak seasons, guarantees availability—many tours fill up quickly. Also, consider your fitness level and desire for marine encounters. Some tours focus on shark and ray sightings, while others are more about relaxing over scenic reefs. Read reviews carefully to match the experience with your expectations.

Final Thoughts

Bora Bora offers a diverse range of snorkeling experiences. From quick morning excursions to luxury private charters, there are options for every preference. For travelers wanting an immersive, all-day adventure, the full-day lagoon cruise is hard to beat. Those seeking intimate, private moments will appreciate the private boat or luxury catamaran.

For families or first-timers, the half-day shared tours provide great value and ease. Whichever you pick, early booking ensures you won’t miss out on the unforgettable underwater spectacle that makes Bora Bora a world-famous snorkeler’s haven.