Lombok Sumbawa Sharing 2D1N Whale Shark With Snorkeling

If you’re craving a truly immersive experience in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara, the Lombok Sumbawa Sharing 2D1N Whale Shark with Snorkeling tour promises an unforgettable adventure. This tour offers a blend of stunning marine encounters, cultural stops, and comfortable logistics, all led by knowledgeable guides from Rinjani Climbing Tours. While it’s not a quick, surface-level trip, it’s packed with authentic moments that keep you engaged from start to finish.

What makes this experience stand out? We’re drawn to the chance to snorkel alongside majestic whale sharks, the early morning sunrise snorkel sessions that turn ordinary days into magic, and the expert guidance that makes the entire trip smooth and informative. On the flip side, the long ferry crossing might be a consideration for those prone to seasickness or looking for a quicker route.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love marine life, enjoy a mix of adventure and comfort, and are eager to explore less-touristy parts of Indonesia. It’s perfect for those with a sense of curiosity and a willingness to travel a bit off the beaten path for genuine experiences.

Key Points

• Majestic whale sharks await snorkelers in Sumbawa’s waters, offering once-in-a-lifetime encounters.
• Early morning sunrise snorkeling enhances the experience with peaceful, magical surroundings.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation from Lombok, making logistics straightforward.
• Knowledgeable guides provide insights, making the trip both educational and safe.
• The trip involves overnight sailing, which adds adventure but requires some preparation.
• The experience delivers excellent value for marine lovers and adventure seekers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

How the Itinerary Works

The tour kicks off early, with pickups available from seven convenient locations in Lombok, including Senggigi, Bangsal Port, and even Mataram. From there, you’ll hop on a speedboat to cross over to Sumbawa, a journey that lasts roughly two hours. Once in Sumbawa, the overland transfer takes you to Labuan Jambu, where you’ll settle into a hotel and rest after a long travel day.

The highlight begins on Day 2 with a pre-dawn wake-up call at 3:30 AM — yes, you’re getting up before sunrise! At 4:00 AM, you’ll set out on a traditional wooden boat, adding a rustic charm to the adventure. The boat is modest but equipped for your comfort with a light breakfast of coffee, tea, fresh fruit, and bread to fuel you for the snorkel.

By 5:30 AM, you’ll be in the water at the designated whale shark spots, where you’ll have the chance to swim alongside these gentle giants. Many reviewers describe this as “an unforgettable, almost surreal experience,” emphasizing the whale sharks’ majestic presence and the thrill of sharing water with them in their natural habitat.

After a morning of snorkeling, you’ll return to the hotel for breakfast and some downtime before heading back to Lombok around noon, arriving back by 6 PM. This itinerary balances adventure with rest, giving you time to reflect and soak in the scenery.

The Snorkeling and Marine Encounters

The morning whale shark swim is undoubtedly the core attraction. These gentle creatures are known for their impressive size and calm demeanor, making them safe for snorkelers, even beginners. Guides like Yanto, praised for their local knowledge and friendly attitude, ensure everyone feels comfortable during these encounters.

Several reviews mention how the sunrise setting creates an almost surreal backdrop — the water turning shades of orange and pink just before the sharks appear. You’ll be on a fishing platform called “bagang,” which is a traditional spot used for fishing but now serves as a snorkeling base.

The tour provides a GoPro for capturing these moments, a huge plus for those wanting to relive or share their adventure. And, if you’re concerned about safety or seaworthiness, note that the tour is led by experienced guides, and it’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness — the early hours and boat sailing can be challenging if you’re sensitive to motion.

Transportation and Comfort

Transportation is included in the package, with round-trip transfers from Mataram or Bangsal, making the logistics easier for travelers. The ferry crossing is about 11.5 hours, which might seem lengthy but is part of the authentic adventure of island-hopping in Indonesia. The overland transfer in Sumbawa is smooth, with some optional shopping stops at Sumbawa Besar, offering the chance to pick up local souvenirs or snacks.

The overnight accommodation is basic but comfortable, allowing you to rest before the early start. On the boat, a simple breakfast keeps you fueled, and the overall group size tends to be manageable, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere during the trip.

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Things to Know Before Booking

• The tour departs every Wednesday, so plan your schedule accordingly.
• Be prepared for overnight sailing, which adds a touch of adventure but may not suit everyone.
• Bring motion sickness prevention if you’re prone to seasickness, as the ferry and boat rides can be bumpy.
• Pack essentials like comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, towels, a camera, sunscreen, and water. Touching plants is discouraged to protect the environment.
• The tour is not suitable for non-swimmers or those with severe seasickness, so choose accordingly.

Pricing and Value

While the exact cost isn’t detailed here, the tour’s inclusivity — transportation, boat rides, guides, GoPro, and accommodation — makes it a good value for marine adventure lovers. The experience’s uniqueness and the chance to swim with whale sharks in their natural habitat justify the price, especially when you consider the logistics and local guides’ expertise.

Authentic Encounters and Guide Expertise

One aspect that truly sets this tour apart is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Reviewers frequently mention how guides like Yanto are “well-informed and attentive,” ensuring safety without sacrificing fun. They share insights about whale sharks, local culture, and marine conservation, enriching the experience beyond just watching these gentle giants.

The stunning views at sunrise are a recurring highlight, with many describing it as “a moment I’ll never forget,” emphasizing how the tour’s timing enhances the magic of the experience. The guides’ local knowledge ensures you get the best possible viewing spots and safe snorkeling conditions.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour will suit adventurous travelers who are comfortable on boats early in the morning and eager to see marine life in its natural environment. It’s also ideal for nature lovers and photographers wanting to capture unforgettable underwater moments with a GoPro provided.

Because of the overnight sailing and early start, it’s best for those who enjoy a bit of a trip — not just a day trip. If marine encounters and authentic local experiences appeal to you, this tour offers a perfect blend of excitement and culture.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This 2-day whale shark tour from Lombok to Sumbawa offers a rare chance to swim with one of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures, combined with the thrill of sunrise snorkeling. The experience is well-organized, guided by knowledgeable locals, and includes all the essentials for a safe, enjoyable adventure.

The long ferry journey might be a consideration, but for many, it’s part of the charm — enjoying the authentic Indonesian island-hopping vibe. The early mornings and boat rides add a sense of adventure, and the guides’ expertise makes it accessible for most travelers.

If you’re looking for an active, meaningful experience that combines wildlife, culture, and stunning scenery, this tour represents excellent value for your trip to Indonesia.

FAQ

How do I get to the start point of this tour?
You can be picked up from seven locations in Lombok, including Senggigi, Bangsal Port, and Mataram, making it convenient no matter where you’re staying.

What is the duration of the ferry crossing?
The ferry from Lombok to Sumbawa takes approximately 11.5 hours, which is a key part of the authentic island-hopping experience.

Is the tour suitable if I don’t swim well?
It’s not recommended for non-swimmers, as snorkeling with whale sharks requires basic swimming ability and comfort in the water.

What should I bring for the snorkeling?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a towel, camera, sunscreen, and water. The tour provides a GoPro, but you’re welcome to bring your own waterproof camera.

Will I be able to see whale sharks easily?
Yes, guides target locations where whale sharks are often seen, and many guests describe these encounters as “unforgettable” and “majestic.”

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is geared toward adult travelers and those comfortable with early mornings and boat rides. It’s best suited for older children or teenagers who can handle snorkeling and boat conditions.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility — just ensure to cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if I get seasick?
Bring motion sickness prevention if needed, especially since the tour involves overnight sailing and early boat rides.

In summary, this tour combines adventure, wildlife, and authentic Indonesian culture, making it an ideal choice for travelers eager to experience the ocean’s wonders in a responsible, guided environment. If you love marine life and enjoy meaningful travel moments, this 2-day trip ticks all the boxes.

You can check availability for your dates here: