Bali Tulamben: Liberty Shipwreck Snorkeling & Kayak Day Trip

Exploring Bali’s underwater treasures is a bucket-list experience, and this tour promises an unforgettable adventure above and below the water. While we haven’t personally joined this trip, detailed reviews and descriptions paint a clear picture of vibrant coral gardens, fascinating wrecks, and scenic coastline paddling.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to snorkel right above the iconic USAT Liberty shipwreck, a site renowned for its lively marine life and colorful corals. The convenient hotel pickup makes the whole day smooth and hassle-free, especially if you’re staying in South or Central Bali. Plus, the combination of snorkeling and kayaking offers a well-rounded day that balances underwater exploration with relaxing coastline views.

One potential consideration is the group size—limited to just four participants, which is ideal for personalized attention but may feel crowded with other tours in high season. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of activity and relaxation, and those comfortable in water, as a basic swimming ability is recommended. This tour’s balance of culture, natural beauty, and adventure makes it perfect for curious snorkelers and nature lovers alike.

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip with hotel pickup and drop-off from Bali’s main areas.
• Snorkel directly above the USAT Liberty wreck, teeming with marine life and coral formations.
• Enjoy Indonesian cuisine with a tasty lunch by the beach—simple but satisfying.
• Paddle along Bali’s coast in a kayak or stand-up paddleboard for a different perspective.
• Small group setting ensures personalized guidance and safety.
• Experienced guides provide safety briefings and gear, making it accessible for beginners.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This 8-hour adventure begins with a prompt pickup from your Bali hotel, whether you’re staying in Seminyak, Ubud, or Sanur. The scenic drive takes about two hours, passing lush rice paddies, small coastal villages, and mountain views—setting the stage for a day immersed in Bali’s natural beauty. It’s a good way to see the island’s varied landscapes even before the underwater fun starts.

The Journey to Tulamben

Once you arrive in Tulamben, a quiet fishing village renowned for its marine attractions, your guide from BIRD DIVE CENTER will equip you with all the necessary gear—mask, snorkel, fins, and a life jacket. The guides are noted for their friendly, professional attitude and attentiveness, which elevates the experience, especially for those new to snorkeling.

Snorkeling at the Liberty Shipwreck

The star of the trip is snorkelling just meters from the shore over the USAT Liberty shipwreck, sunk during World War II and now one of Bali’s most iconic underwater sites. According to reviews, snorkelers find the floating above the wreck mesmerizing, with vibrant coral encrusting the metal and a lively array of fish. One reviewer mentioned that schools of fish swirl around, and turtles are often seen gliding past—making the underwater environment feel like an aquatic aquarium.

A review from a traveler said, “We felt safe and in good hands, and the guides helped us feel comfortable even with the strong currents at certain spots.” The shallow waters make it accessible for beginners, but as another reviewer pointed out, currents can be a bit strong, so staying close to your guide is advised.

Post-Snorkel Relaxation and Lunch

After about two hours of snorkeling, it’s time to unwind with a local Indonesian lunch on the beach. Common dishes include Nasi Goreng or Mie Goreng—familiar flavors served in a casual, beachfront setting. Reviewers appreciated the simple yet tasty meal, which provides much-needed energy after water activity.

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Kayaking and Paddleboarding along Bali’s Coastline

Following lunch, the adventure continues with kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding along Bali’s stunning coastline. About an hour is dedicated to paddling, giving you a chance to take in the scenery from a different vantage point. The coastline offers picturesque views—craggy cliffs, sandy beaches, and clear waters—which you’ll love capturing on camera or just soaking in.

One reviewer praised this part of the trip, noting, “The guides were very friendly and attentive. Paddling along the coast was a highlight—it’s a relaxing way to enjoy Bali’s natural beauty.”

Returning and Final Thoughts

The return journey is another two hours, providing time to reflect on what you’ve experienced. The entire day is well-paced, with enough downtime and activities to suit most travelers looking for a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The iconic Liberty Shipwreck is undeniably the main draw, and for good reason. It stands as one of Bali’s best snorkeling spots, offering vibrant underwater scenery suitable even for beginners. The guides’ reputation for professionalism and attentiveness ensures you’re well cared for, especially if it’s your first time snorkeling.

The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off from major Bali areas cannot be overstated. It simplifies logistics, making the trip accessible without the hassle of arranging transportation yourself.

The small group size (limited to four participants) guarantees personalized attention, which many travelers find reassuring, especially in water-based activities that require safety-awareness.

The combination of activities—snorkeling, eating, and paddling—offers variety without feeling rushed. This makes it an excellent full-day option for those looking for a broad Bali experience packed into one day.

Authentic reviews highlight the friendly, professional guides, such as those from GetYourGuide, who are praised for their energy and care. The underwater environment, with schools of fish and turtles, appeals to those looking for lively marine encounters without the complexity of diving.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Drive (2 hours):
Traveling from South or Central Bali, the scenic drive sets a tranquil tone, with lush rice fields and mountain views. It’s a good moment to get a sense of Bali’s landscape away from the tourist hotspots.

Snorkeling at Tulamben (2 hours):
Once at the snorkel site, your guides will provide safety instructions and gear. As the reviews note, the guides are attentive and helpful—key for making newcomers comfortable. Expect to float above a coral-covered wreck teeming with tropical fish, possibly turtles, and other sea creatures. The water is shallow enough to see plenty of marine life without needing advanced swimming skills, but strong currents can occur, so staying close to your guide is wise.

Break and Lunch at Amed (1 hour):
After snorkeling, you’ll get a chance to relax and enjoy a local Indonesian meal. The lunch is typically a simple, delicious affair, fueling you up for the afternoon activities.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding (1 hour):
Post-lunch, the water activity part of the tour lets you paddle along Bali’s scenic coastline. Reviewers describe paddling as relaxing, with guides offering support if needed. The coastline views are often highlighted as a major perk.

Return to Bali (2 hours):
The drive back offers a peaceful conclusion, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details and Tips

• What to bring: Swimsuit, change of clothes, sun protection, and waterproof camera if you like.
• What’s included: Snorkel gear, safety briefings, lunch, and kayaking equipment.
• Group size: Small, limited to four participants, enhancing the safety and personalized feel.
• Duration: About 8 hours, with flexible starting times depending on your hotel location.
• Suitability: Basic swimming skills recommended; not suitable for children under 2 years.

The Sum Up

This Bali Tulamben: Liberty Shipwreck Snorkeling & Kayak Day Trip offers a well-rounded taste of Bali’s marine and coastal beauty. It combines accessibility with adventure, making it a good fit for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike. The professionalism of the guides, the convenience of hotel pickup, and the variety of activities mean you’ll get a lot of value for your day.

Travelers who appreciate authentic experiences and scenic views will find this tour fulfilling. It’s especially suitable for those who want to explore Bali’s underwater world without diving and enjoy some seaside relaxation in a small, friendly group. While the drive might be long, the underwater sights and coastal paddling make it worthwhile.

Overall, if you’re craving a day of underwater discovery paired with local charm and scenic coastline, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a balanced, engaging day that captures the essence of Bali’s natural allure—perfect for creating lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from all areas in Bali, including Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur, and Ubud. Be ready in your hotel lobby about 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup.

How long is the drive to Tulamben?
The drive typically takes around two hours from central Bali locations, offering a scenic journey through rice paddies and coastal villages.

Do I need previous snorkeling experience?
No, basic swimming ability is recommended, but guides provide safety instructions and gear to help you feel comfortable in the water.

What marine life can I expect to see?
You can float above schools of tropical fish, and turtles are often spotted gliding past. The coral gardens are vibrant and teeming with marine creatures.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a change of clothes, sun protection, and a waterproof camera if you prefer.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 2 years old. Basic swimming skills are recommended, so older children comfortable in water can usually join.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is limited to small groups of four participants, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour offers a wonderful mix of adventure, cultural flavor, and relaxation—ideal for those looking to discover Bali’s underwater world while enjoying the island’s stunning coastal scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: