Lembongan Snorkeling at Manta Point Crystal Bay and Mangrove

Exploring the waters around Nusa Lembongan is a must for anyone wanting to see Bali’s marine life in action. This snorkeling tour, rated a perfect 5.0 based on 10 reviews, promises a mix of iconic encounters and vibrant underwater scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a curious beginner, this trip offers an accessible way to enjoy Bali’s aquatic treasures.

What makes this experience stand out? First, there’s the rare chance to swim with majestic manta rays at Manta Point — an exhilarating highlight. Second, the crystal-clear waters of Crystal Bay reveal colorful coral reefs filled with tropical fish. Finally, Mangrove Point provides a peaceful yet biodiverse environment, perfect for nature lovers.

One potential consideration is that hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. This tour suits travelers seeking a genuine, value-packed snapshot of Bali’s underwater world in a short timeframe.

Key Points

• Amazing value for money at just $26.73 per person, including essential snorkeling gear and GoPro photos.
• Unmatched marine encounters, especially with manta rays, which are seldom seen so close in the wild.
• Multiple snorkeling sites offering diverse underwater landscapes and marine biodiversity.
• Expert guides ensure safety, and reviews praise their professionalism and knowledge.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Limited group size (maximum 22 travelers), making the experience more personalized and enjoyable.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting Point and Timing

Your adventure begins early at 8:00 am at the designated meeting point in Jungutbatu, Nusa Penida. Most travelers find this timing ideal, avoiding the midday crowds and catching the best light for underwater photography. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules.

Manta Point: Swimming with Gentle Giants

The first stop is Manta Point, a renowned site for manta ray encounters. Here, the guides—who are described as professional and knowledgeable—brief you on safety procedures before jumping into the water. According to reviewers, swimming with these graceful, massive creatures is a surreal experience, with one reviewer mentioning it felt “like stepping into a dream.” The waters are crystal clear, allowing for excellent visibility as you watch manta rays glide effortlessly beneath you.

The guides are experienced in spotting the mantas and ensuring everyone gets a good look. This site is not just about the thrill — the guides also educate about manta ray behavior, adding an educational layer to the awe-inspiring moment.

Crystal Bay: Vibrant Underwater Scenery

Next, you’ll head to Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida. Known for its translucent waters, this spot offers a lush underwater landscape full of tropical fish and colorful coral reefs. The calm conditions here make it ideal for snorkelers of all skill levels. Expect to see a variety of fish darting among the corals, with some reviews noting the stunning biodiversity and “beautiful underwater scenery.”

Here, the focus shifts from encounters with large creatures to exploring a thriving marine habitat. The inclusion of photos and videos via GoPro allows you to capture these vibrant moments without having to worry about your own waterproof camera gear.

Mangrove Point: Quiet Biodiversity

The tour concludes at Mangrove Point, which is praised for its well-preserved mangrove forests and diverse marine life. This site is more tranquil, with a focus on appreciating the ecosystem that supports Bali’s marine biodiversity. Reviewers highlight the colorful coral reefs and the variety of fish swimming freely around you, elevating the experience from just snorkeling to observing an underwater community.

The guides’ local knowledge shines here, often sharing insights about the mangroves’ importance for marine health. Expect to enjoy a peaceful, scenic swim with plenty of opportunities to spot fish and coral.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

What’s Included?

• Snorkeling equipment: Mask, snorkel, fins, and life jacket—ready to use, so you don’t need to bring your own.
• Photos and videos: Taken with a GoPro, giving you lasting memories of your underwater moments.
• Towel: Provided for after your swim.
• Guides: Experienced, professional, and attentive to safety.

What’s Not Included?

• Lunch: You’ll need to arrange your own meal either before or after the tour.
• Hotel transfer: Not provided, so plan your transportation to the meeting point. Many travelers opt for scooters or taxi services, which are affordable in Bali.

Booking and Cancellation

Most travelers book the tour roughly 27 days in advance, signaling good popularity. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility should your plans change due to weather or other circumstances.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 22 travelers, the tour maintains a friendly, intimate vibe. Guides like Ramadana are praised for their professionalism, making sure everyone feels comfortable and well-informed.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

One traveler summed up their experience as “absolutely surreal,” emphasizing the professionalism of the guides and the crystal-clear waters. Another review highlights how the opportunity to swim alongside manta rays was “completely unforgettable,” emphasizing the grace and size of these gentle giants.

Guides are noted to be attentive, with one reviewer mentioning that they felt like the entire trip was “stepping into a dream.” The photos and videos taken during the trip capture moments that are perfect for sharing and reminiscing.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $26.73, this snorkeling trip provides a lot of bang for your buck. The inclusion of quality snorkeling gear, professional guides, and memorable GoPro footage makes it a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers. While it doesn’t include lunch or hotel transfers, the price point reflects its focus on providing an authentic, high-quality underwater experience without unnecessary extras.

The sites visited—Manta Point, Crystal Bay, and Mangrove Point—are each unique and offer contrasting underwater landscapes, making the short tour well-rounded. The chance to swim with manta rays is a rare and memorable highlight, especially given the positive reviews about the professionalism of the guides and the clarity of the waters.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a concentrated, affordable snorkeling experience in Bali. It suits those eager to see marine megafauna like manta rays, as well as anyone looking to explore diverse underwater habitats in a short time. The moderate group size and professional guides make it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a safe, enjoyable adventure.

If you’re comfortable with swimming or snorkeling and want to make the most of a half-day trip, this tour delivers engaging, authentic encounters. It’s also perfect for first-timers who want a guided experience with all the essentials taken care of.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need previous snorkeling experience?
Most travelers can participate, and the guides are experienced in assisting all skill levels. Basic swimming ability is recommended.

Are the waters safe for snorkeling?
Yes, the waters are generally calm and clear, making it suitable for most snorkelers. The guides prioritize safety and provide safety briefings.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. The tour supplies snorkeling gear and photos. Remember to organize your own transport to the meeting point.

Is it suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, but children should be comfortable swimming. Check with the tour provider if you have concerns about age restrictions.

Will I see manta rays?
While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the site is known for frequent manta ray encounters, and many reviewers have seen them during their trips.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of cancellation due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time to the sites.

Are lunch options available?
Not included in the tour. You’ll need to plan for your own lunch after the trip.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Less notice may result in no refund.

Final Words

This snorkeling tour around Nusa Lembongan offers a great mix of wildlife encounters and underwater exploration, all at an accessible price point. The chance to swim with manta rays is the standout feature, supported by the professional guides and pristine waters that reviewers rave about.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a short but impactful underwater adventure, whether you’re new to snorkeling or an experienced marine enthusiast. While you’ll need to tackle your own transportation, the overall value, friendly atmosphere, and diverse sites make this trip a worthwhile addition to your Bali itinerary.

If you crave an authentic, memorable glimpse into Bali’s marine environment without breaking the bank, this tour is hard to beat. Just remember to book in advance, keep an eye on the weather, and prepare for an underwater journey full of surprises.