From Lembongan: Snorkeling Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan & nusa Penida island

If you’re dreaming of swimming alongside manta rays, colorful fish, and vibrant coral reefs in Indonesian waters, this snorkeling day trip from Nusa Lembongan promises an unforgettable experience. While we haven’t personally tested it, reviews and tour details paint a compelling picture for anyone craving marine adventure, stunning scenery, and hassle-free logistics.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to encounter manta rays at Manta Bay, a true highlight for marine enthusiasts. Second, the well-organized guides who prioritize safety and fun, making it accessible even for non-expert swimmers. Third, the value for money—including multiple snorkeling stops, equipment, and optional extras like mangrove kayaking and buffet lunch. One consideration? The tour does exclude conservation fees and harbor taxes, so budget extra cash for those.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, with a focus on seeing Nusa Penida’s underwater beauty while enjoying convenient transport. If you’re comfortable swimming and seeking an active yet comfortable day on the water, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Expert-guided snorkeling at multiple prime sites around Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida
• Potential manta ray sightings at Manta Bay, depending on weather conditions
• Optional add-ons include mangrove kayaking and a buffet lunch for a fuller experience
• Hassle-free transfers from select hotels on Nusa Lembongan enhance convenience
• Affordable price point with excellent reviews for value and professional guides
• Limited to a small group (max 15 people), for a more personalized experience

A Deep Dive into the Snorkeling Experience

This snorkeling day trip offers a compact but rich adventure, perfect for those who want to maximize their time in Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida’s underwater worlds. Starting early at around 9:30 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel (if within designated areas), and then the boat whisks you across the calm waters of the Indian Ocean for a day packed with vibrant marine encounters.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Stop 1: Jungut Batu Beach

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your accommodation in the morning, followed by a short boat ride from Lembongan’s Jungut Batu Beach. Here, you’ll meet your guide and get fitted with snorkeling gear—masks, fins, and life jackets are provided, with flotation devices available for those less comfortable in the water.

Our sources indicate that this initial stop is especially friendly for all ages and swimming abilities. Reviewers like Natasha mention, “the guides really made sure we were safe and had a good time,” emphasizing how well the team manages safety without sacrificing fun. Expect to see an array of native Indian Ocean species—emperor angelfish, parrot fish, moray eels, or even turtles. Occasionally, if conditions are right, manta rays will glide past, adding a magical touch.

The designated reefs here are known for their pristine corals and abundant fish, making this a fantastic introduction to the island’s underwater life.

Stop 2: Crystal Bay & Manta Bay

Next, you’ll head to Crystal Bay, one of the most celebrated snorkeling spots. The exact site depends on the weather—if conditions are calm, you’ll visit Manta Bay and Crystal Bay, both boasting expansive coral gardens and relatively gentle currents. If the swell is higher, Gamat Bay may be substituted, offering a different kind of underwater scenery.

Reviewers such as Judy highlight the thrill of swimming with manta rays: “It was just wonderful to watch them cruise over the coral.” While manta sightings are weather-dependent, the guides do their best to position the group in the best possible spots. The experience of floating near these gentle giants is often described as unforgettable.

Optional: Mangrove Tour and Lunch

A major perk of this tour is the opportunity to upgrade your experience. For an extra fee, you can enjoy a kayak tour through the mangroves, offering a peaceful alternative to the ocean’s bustle, and a buffet lunch that many reviewers praise for its quality and variety. The lunch, served on the beach, provides a well-deserved break with hearty local dishes.

Transport and Comfort

The tour offers hotel transfers from select accommodations on Nusa Lembongan, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free. The group remains small—no more than 15 travelers—ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What’s Not Included and Extra Costs

Travelers should prepare for conservation fees of Rp.100,000 per adult and Rp.50,000 per child, payable in cash. These fees support marine protected areas, which are vital for maintaining the health of the reefs and marine life you’ll be observing. The tour also does not include hotel pickup and drop-off in Ceningan Island, but shuttle services are available at the Yellow Bridge.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $42 per person, this tour packs a lot of bang for your buck. It combines multiple snorkeling sites, equipment, guides, and optional upgrades—a package that many reviews agree is worth the investment.

The inclusion of a local guide ensures you’re safe and well-informed, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions about marine life or the best spots to snorkel. The small group size means you’ll get more personalized attention, which many travelers appreciate, especially given the unpredictable nature of ocean conditions.

Authentic Experiences & Reviewer Insights

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides genuinely enhance the experience. James calls the guides “fantastic,” noting they made sure everyone got the most from their day. Natasha mentions, “We saw many different fish and stingrays,” highlighting the diversity of marine life.

Reviewers like Judy were thrilled to swim with manta rays, describing it as “wonderful to watch them cruise over the coral”—a moment that many snorkelers cherish. Others appreciate the delicious buffet lunch and the chance to try kayaking through the mangroves, adding a relaxing element to the active day.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Book at least 18 days in advance—popular dates fill quickly.
• Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel—essentials for comfort.
• Prepare cash for the conservation fee, as it’s not included.
• Most travelers can participate, but those over 60 or under 10 need to sign extra risk forms.
• Confidence in swimming is necessary, though flotation devices are available.
• The tour operates in small groups, so expect an intimate, friendly atmosphere.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkeling adventure is ideal for marine lovers, adventure seekers, and small group fans. It’s perfect if you want to explore multiple sites without the hassle of organizing transportation and equipment yourself. Families with older children will find it accessible, provided they are comfortable swimming.

Those eager to see manta rays will especially appreciate the chance at Manta Bay, though weather conditions do influence sightings. Food lovers will enjoy the included buffet, which adds a satisfying break to the day.

If you’re looking for an active, engaging day with knowledgeable guides and stunning underwater scenery, this tour checks all the boxes.

This snorkeling day trip offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to explore Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida’s underwater world. The small group size, professional guides, and optional extras like mangrove kayaking elevate the experience from a simple snorkel to a memorable adventure.

It caters well to travelers who want reliable logistics, expert guidance, and the chance to see diverse marine life—including, hopefully, manta rays. With reviews praising the food, safety, and knowledgeable staff, it’s clear that this tour delivers on many fronts.

Whether you’re an avid snorkeler or a first-timer eager to see colorful fish and gentle rays, this trip promises a fun-filled day with plenty of opportunities for great photos, new discoveries, and relaxation on beautiful beaches.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:30 am with hotel pick-up, usually completed by 9:45 am, depending on your hotel’s location.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers from select hotels on Nusa Lembongan are provided. However, hotel pickup in Ceningan Island is not included, but shuttle services are available at the Yellow Bridge.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunblock, a hat, and a towel. Cash is needed for conservation fees and optional extras like kayaking or additional food.

Are the snorkeling spots suitable for beginners?
Yes, the specially designated snorkeling areas are safe and enjoyable for all ages and skill levels, with flotation devices available.

Can I see manta rays on this trip?
While sightings depend on weather and ocean conditions, many travelers have been lucky enough to swim with manta rays at Manta Bay, which is one of the key highlights.

What is the size of the tour group?
The tour maintains a small, intimate group size of up to 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

Is food included?
A buffet lunch is available and depends on your selected package, often praised for its quality and variety.

In short, this snorkeling day trip from Nusa Lembongan offers a fantastic opportunity to explore vibrant reefs, encounter manta rays, and enjoy a relaxing day with practical logistics and friendly guides. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting an authentic, value-rich marine adventure in Indonesia.