Gili Snorkeling Tour With GOPRO, Visit Turtles Sanctuary

If you’re dreaming about snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, observing sea turtles up close, and exploring colorful coral reefs, this Gili snorkeling tour might just be what you need. Although we haven’t personally joined this specific trip, the details paint a picture of a well-rounded experience that offers stunning underwater sights combined with engaging stops.

What we love about this tour is its focus on marine life encounters, especially the chance to swim alongside turtles and see famous underwater statues. The inclusion of a GoPro rental adds a fun, memorable twist, letting you capture those spectacular moments. Plus, the visit to the Turtle Sanctuary promises an educational touch, highlighting conservation efforts.

One potential consideration is the capacity of the boats, which can hold around 30 people. This may mean a busier, more social atmosphere, so if you prefer solitude or a private tour, that’s worth considering. Still, for most travelers seeking a lively, picturesque snorkeling adventure, this tour delivers excellent value and fun.

This experience is particularly suited for those who want easy access to snorkeling sites, enjoy marine life, and are comfortable in the water for at least basic swimming. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of underwater exploration, wildlife encounters, and local island visits.

Key Points

• Includes Turtle Sanctuary Visit: Great for wildlife lovers and conservation awareness.
• Snorkeling with Turtles & Marine Life: Encounters with green and hawksbill turtles are common.
• Famous Underwater Statue: Adds an artistic, cultural element to the underwater scenery.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Snorkeling gear is provided, so no need to bring your own unless you prefer.
• Photo Opportunity with GoPro: Capture your underwater moments easily with the included GoPro.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Starting Point: GILI HUFOLL

The tour begins at GILI HUFOLL, an accessible meeting point clearly marked with coordinates. Being at the heart of the island makes it convenient for most travelers staying nearby. From here, the boat departs for a 4-hour journey that promises a variety of stops and activities.

The check-in process is straightforward, and the staff, led by a live English-speaking guide, facilitates a smooth start. We appreciate that the tour emphasizes safety with clear instructions, especially for those with limited snorkeling experience.

Snorkeling in Gili Trawangan: The Main Attraction

Gili Trawangan, the largest of the Gili Islands, is renowned for its easy access to top snorkeling spots. The waters surrounding the island are so transparent that you can expect visibility exceeding 20 meters, making marine life sightings particularly rewarding.

Turtle Point: A Must-See

The highlight for many visitors is Turtle Point, located in the northeastern part of the island. Here, the chance to see green and hawksbill turtles grazing or swimming is almost guaranteed, as these gentle creatures have made the area their home. The experience of swimming alongside turtles is peaceful and memorable, especially for those who love wildlife.

Underwater Statue & Artificial Reefs

Another distinctive feature is the famous underwater statue, which adds an artistic dimension to the underwater landscape. This sculpture, along with vibrant coral formations, creates fantastic photo opportunities—especially with the GoPro rental included in the tour.

The Bounty Wreck, an old pier turned artificial reef, further diversifies the marine environment, teeming with colorful fish and corals. Although the wreck lies about 10 meters below the surface, it’s accessible for snorkelers with decent buoyancy and provides a glimpse into local marine resilience and adaptability.

More Great Tours Nearby

Adventure on the West Coast

The west coast of Gili Trawangan offers a slightly different snorkeling experience. Here, the currents are stronger, attracting larger and more diverse marine species—think parrotfish, angelfish, and sometimes even reef sharks. This part of the tour is perfect if you’re up for a bit more adventure and don’t mind the slightly more challenging waters.

Visiting the Turtle Sanctuary

A key part of this tour is a stop at the Turtle Sanctuary. This facility is dedicated to saving and rehabilitating sea turtles, giving visitors a chance to learn about conservation efforts firsthand. Many reviews mention how meaningful it is to see the work being done to protect these gentle animals and their habitats, making the tour both fun and educational.

Lunch and Island Visits

The tour includes a lunch break on either Gili Air or Gili Meno, depending on the day’s schedule. While the food isn’t included in the ticket price, you’ll find local restaurants serving delicious Indonesian fare and tapas-style dishes—a great way to relax and refuel after snorkeling.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, with departures scheduled at convenient times. The group size can be up to 30 people, which fosters a lively, social atmosphere but might be busy for those seeking privacy.

Snorkeling gear is provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer. Remember to pack sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), a waterproof bag, and cash for tips or additional purchases. The tour recommends basic swimming ability—if you’re nervous, crew members are friendly and ready to assist.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Excellent opportunity to see turtles and marine statues.
– The inclusion of a GoPro lets you document your underwater adventures effortlessly.
– The educational visit to the Turtle Sanctuary adds value and context to your trip.
– The transparent waters and diverse sites keep the experience exciting and visually stunning.

Cons:
– The boat capacity of around 30 people might lead to a busier, less intimate experience.
– Snorkeling spots and schedules may vary with weather conditions, sometimes affecting the planned stops.
– Not suitable for children under 16 or travelers over 55, so it’s targeted at active, confident swimmers.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Given the price point and the variety of stops—including the Turtle Sanctuary, underwater statues, and coral reefs—this tour offers good value. The ability to capture moments with a GoPro is an extra perk, especially for those who love photography. The half-day duration makes it manageable for most travelers without feeling rushed, and the local guides add expert insights that enrich the experience.

This snorkeling trip is ideal for marine life enthusiasts, travelers eager to see sea turtles, and those wanting a well-rounded Gili Islands experience. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable in the water and want a social, engaging activity. For families or travelers seeking more privacy, asking about private options might be worthwhile.

Keep in mind, if you’re after a more relaxed or less crowded experience, the larger boat capacity might be a downside. But for most, the lively atmosphere, beautiful sights, and educational stops make this a valuable introduction to Gili’s underwater wonders.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included in the tour, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer it.

Can I bring my own GoPro or underwater camera?
The tour includes the use of a GoPro, but you’re welcome to bring your own waterproof camera or preference for capturing your underwater moments.

What is the best time of day for the tour?
While specific start times depend on availability, morning tours are often preferred for calmer seas and clearer water.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, basic swimming ability is recommended, and crew members are on hand to assist if needed. The shallow reefs and calm waters around Gili Trawangan make it beginner-friendly.

How many people will be on the boat?
The boats typically hold around 30 guests, which means a lively group but potentially busier at the stops.

Are meals included?
Lunch isn’t included in the price, but there are local restaurants available on the islands where you can enjoy Indonesian dishes after your snorkeling.

In summary, this Gili snorkeling tour with a focus on marine life, turtles, and underwater art offers a fantastic half-day escape into the vibrant waters of Indonesia. It blends adventure, education, and photo opportunities, making it a solid choice for travelers wanting to explore Gili Trawangan’s underwater treasures with ease and a fun group atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: