Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise

Introduction: What to Expect from the Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise

If you’re heading to Gili Trawangan and crave a memorable day on the water, the Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise promises an engaging mix of snorkeling, wildlife, and relaxed island vibes. This tour has quickly become a favorite among travelers, with a perfect 5.0-star rating based on 55 reviews, and nearly everyone recommending it.

What makes this trip stand out are its well-curated stops, friendly guides who know the waters intimately, and a delicious light BBQ lunch served on a custom floating pontoon. It’s a short but packed experience—around four hours—that offers genuine value whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned snorkeler.

A couple of points to consider: the tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up, so you’ll need to make your own way to the meeting point, and alcoholic beverages aren’t included. This is ideal for those who prefer a daytime adventure with active snorkeling and a relaxed lunch. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers who want a balance of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and laid-back island atmosphere.

Key Points

• Comprehensive snorkeling stops include Gili Meno, Turtle Sanctuary, and Gili Air, providing varied underwater sights
• Expert guides help enhance your experience, including taking photos and sharing local insights
• The light BBQ lunch on a floating pontoon is highly praised for its quality and relaxing vibe
• Group size is limited to 12, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere
• The tour is reasonably priced for the experience—around $82.80 USD per person
• Good for all skill levels, with equipment provided and easy-to-follow safety instructions

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

Stop 1: Gili Meno – Underwater Statues & Snorkeling

Your day begins with a trip to Gili Meno, famous for its crystal-clear waters and underwater statues. These statues are a favorite for underwater photographers and snorkelers alike, offering a unique contrast against the marine life. According to past guests, the boat and equipment are in good condition, making for a comfortable start.

One reviewer shared how the guide helped them take great photos with their GoPro, ensuring they captured the memorable moment of swimming among vibrant fish and the statues. Expect to spend about an hour here, exploring the underwater sculptures and enjoying the calm, inviting waters.

Stop 2: Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary – A Magical Wildlife Encounter

Next, you’ll head to Turtle Point at Gili Meno, a highlight for many travelers. Watching these gentle creatures in their natural habitat is often described as a magical experience. The Turtle Sanctuary provides an authentic encounter with marine wildlife, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

One reviewer mentioned how the boat crew looked after everyone well and helped capture photos of the turtles, making this part both fun and educational. Plan for about an hour here, and bring your waterproof camera or GoPro for memorable shots of swimming alongside these peaceful creatures.

Stop 3: Gili Meno Beach – Relaxing on White Sands

After the underwater adventures, take time to unwind on Gili Meno’s pristine beaches. The soft white sand and gentle waves create a peaceful setting perfect for strolling, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the views. The reviews emphasize the appeal of feeling the sand between your toes and enjoying the calm environment.

This stop is also about experiencing the natural beauty of the island’s shoreline—an ideal moment for photos or just relaxing with a drink in hand (though alcohol isn’t included in the tour).

Stop 4: Gili Air – Snorkeling & BBQ on the Pontoon

The final stop is at Gili Air, where you’ll continue snorkeling and enjoy a delicious light BBQ lunch served on the floating custom-made pontoon. The setup offers a lovely combination of scenic views, chilled tunes, and tasty food. Past guests rave about the BBQ, describing it as flavorful and perfectly portioned for a light meal.

While snorkeling here, you’ll likely see tropical fish and maybe more turtles, adding to the underwater excitement. The guides are attentive and friendly, often helping guests with snorkeling tips and photography.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour includes everything you need for a fun day: snorkeling equipment, towels, and a tasty BBQ lunch. The only extras are alcohol (which isn’t included) and the transportation to the meeting point—most guests find Gili Trawangan’s free bicycle rental options convenient for reaching the office.

The tour’s small group size—capped at 12 people—is a major benefit, ensuring you get personalized attention and a relaxed experience, especially valuable when snorkeling or taking photos.

The Value of the Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise

At approximately $82.80 USD per person, the value is clear when considering the quality of the stops and inclusions. Snorkeling equipment, a guided experience, and a tasty lunch on a private pontoon make this a well-rounded, hassle-free way to enjoy Gili’s waters.

Guests consistently mention how the guides enhance the trip—helping with photo-taking, sharing interesting facts about marine life, and making everyone feel comfortable. The small group size fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere, which many reviews highlight as a key reason for their positive experience.

Many travelers note that the tour exceeded their expectations, describing it as “the highlight of their vacations” and “amazing and memorable.” The combination of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and relaxed dining makes it a stand-out option for a full or half-day adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is great for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike, thanks to the straightforward, guided approach and good equipment. It’s perfect for those who want to see turtles, enjoy spectacular underwater sculptures, and relax on scenic beaches without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

It’s ideal for small groups, ensuring a more personalized experience, and suits travelers seeking a combination of adventure and relaxation. If you prefer a quiet, scenic day with friendly guides, good food, and impressive wildlife encounters, this tour will hit the spot.

The Sum Up: Is the Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise Worth It?

This tour offers an authentic, value-packed experience that balances active snorkeling, wildlife sightings, and leisure time. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a small-group vibe, expert guidance, and a tasty meal on the water. The fact that it’s been highly praised by reviewers for its friendly staff, stunning views, and good value makes it a standout choice.

The light BBQ lunch paired with the chance to swim with turtles and explore underwater statues makes this a well-rounded day out. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, you’ll likely come away with beautiful photos, new memories, and perhaps a new appreciation for Gili’s underwater world.

If you’re after a relaxed, engaging, and scenic adventure that doesn’t break the bank, the Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise is a solid pick. Just be sure to arrive prepared for a fun day on the water and a dose of island serenity.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, hotel pickup is not included. Most guests use free bicycle rentals or arrange their own transport to the meeting point in Gili Trawangan.

What should I bring? Bring your swimwear, waterproof camera or GoPro, towel, and sunscreen. Alcoholic beverages are not included, so consider bringing your own if desired.

How many people are on the tour? The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

What is the tour duration? The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear is included and ready for use during all the stops.

Can I join if I’m a beginner? Absolutely. The guides are experienced and helpful, making the snorkeling accessible for all skill levels.

What if the weather is bad? In case of severe weather or harbor closure, the tour may be rescheduled without refund. It’s wise to check conditions beforehand.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is suitable for most travelers, but specific age restrictions aren’t detailed. Use your discretion based on your comfort with swimming and snorkeling.

In short, the Gili Hai 3 Islands BBQ Cruise offers a thoughtfully curated day packed with snorkeling, wildlife, scenic views, and good food. It’s a reliable choice for travelers seeking a genuine Gili experience with friendly guides, making memories that go beyond the usual island-hop.