Nusa Penida by Private Boat – Snorkeling 4 spots, Swim with Mantas + Land Tour

If you’re searching for a comprehensive day trip that combines Bali’s top snorkeling sites with a scenic land tour, this Nusa Penida experience stands out. With a consistent 5.0 rating from thousands of travelers, it’s clear that this trip offers a memorable mix of marine adventure and island exploration.

What we love about this tour is how it balances multiple snorkeling spots, including the chance to swim with giant manta rays, with a well-structured land tour that highlights Bali’s iconic viewpoints. The spacious private boat, guided land excursions, and professional guides keep the experience smooth and engaging. Plus, the added extras like underwater photos and a stylish lunch make it a compelling value. The only potential downside? The full-day schedule can be quite packed, so it’s best suited for those prepared for a busy day.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, snorkelers of all levels, and anyone eager to tick off Bali’s must-see sites in one go. If scenic vistas, marine encounters, and a well-organized itinerary appeal to you, this trip is worth considering.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with land tour, snorkeling, and boat transfers
• Swim with manta rays in a quiet, well-timed environment
• Multiple snorkeling spots showcasing coral reefs, turtles, and vibrant marine life
• Stylish lunch with stunning views and access to an infinity pool
• Knowledgeable guides ensuring safety and fun
• Good value for a full-day adventure, though it’s a long, busy trip

An In-Depth Look at the Nusa Penida Private Boat Tour

The Convenience of a Private, Spacious Boat

Starting your day at the Serangan harbor, the tour kicks off with a warm welcome over a complimentary drink, coffee from % Arabica, or tea, in a comfortable setting. The real highlight here is the upgraded, spacious boat—measuring 12-13 meters—designed to keep everyone comfortable during the roughly 30-minute crossing to Nusa Penida. Multiple reviews confirm that the boat is clean, roomy, and equipped with sun protection and towels, making the journey enjoyable rather than a squeeze.

Travelers frequently mention the luxurious feel of the boat and the benefit of a small group size (max 14 travelers). Such a setup means less crowding and more personalized attention from guides, which adds to the overall value. The crew’s professionalism and friendly demeanor shine through, with reviewers highlighting guides like Ringo, Nyoman, and Gede for their knowledge and helpfulness.

Snorkeling at Four Unique Spots

The tour’s core is the four snorkeling locations, each chosen for their beauty and marine diversity. The first stop is a “secret” Bali Hai Lagoon near Lembongan, characterized by calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike. Expect to see vibrant corals and a variety of fish, with many reviewers mentioning how peaceful and pristine this site is. One said, “The coral gardens near Lembongan Island were incredible, and the waters were so calm.”

Next up is SD Point, a hidden diver’s paradise with current drift snorkeling. This spot is known for its coral gardens, turtles, and abundant fish, making it a favorite among snorkelers. Reviewers appreciated the guides’ assistance in spotting turtles and other marine creatures, even if some mentioned the currents could be strong. The vibrant coral reefs are a highlight here.

The third snorkeling stop is Wall Bay, where you can snorkel next to mangroves and explore vibrant coral reefs. The reviews describe this as a beautiful, lively underwater scene with plenty of marine life, including the chance to see sea turtles and a wide variety of colorful fish.

The final snorkeling site—Manta Point—is where many travelers get the chance to swim alongside giant manta rays. Guides are very selective about timing to avoid crowds and maximize the encounter chances. Reviewers call this experience “breathtaking” and “once in a lifetime”, with some noting that quiet, less crowded conditions** enhance the experience. It’s clear that the guides’ efforts to schedule visits during prime manta viewing times truly pay off.

Scenic Lunch with Unbeatable Views

Post-snorkeling, the tour takes you to Amarta Penida, a stylish restaurant with a well-deserved reputation for its views and food. Expect a buffet-style meal with options like rice, chicken, and crispy soy beans, served in a setting overlooking Mount Agung. The inclusion of an infinity pool and a private white-sand beach makes this a luxe break during an active day.

Multiple reviewers emphasize how this lunch spot exceeds expectations, praising the scenic vistas, delicious food, and relaxing atmosphere. One reviewer remarked, “The lunch was surprisingly great, with stunning views and a peaceful setting after a busy morning.”

Land Tour Highlights

After lunch, a guided car tour takes you to Kelingking Cliff, with its iconic T-Rex shape and jaw-dropping vistas. The guides, such as Jena and Rocky, are praised for their informative commentary and helpfulness. Reviewers say the drive can be nerve-wracking due to narrow, pothole-ridden roads but worth it for the spectacular views.

If time allows, the tour visits Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong — both natural formations perfect for photos. The land part of the tour offers a chance to stretch your legs, take in panoramic vistas, and learn about the island’s unique landscape.

The Marine Encounters: Mantas and Turtles

Swimming with manta rays is a highlight for most. Guides carefully select a quiet, less-crowded spot, often in Manta Bay or Manta Point, depending on ray activity. Reviewers describe the experience as “unforgettable”, with many noting how close they got to these gentle giants. One said, “Morgan and Putu went beyond their duties to find sea turtles and large manta rays, which made the day extra special.”

Apart from manta encounters, snorkelers frequently spot sea turtles and a variety of tropical fish, making each site an underwater spectacle. Guide expertise and timing are key, and reviews confirm that well-informed guides significantly enhance the experience.

Practical Details and Overall Value

The full-day trip, lasting 10-11 hours, includes all entrance tickets, snorkeling equipment, towels, water, and a stylish lunch—a mixed bag of convenience and value. The cost of around $100.89 per person is justified when you consider the multiple snorkeling locations, land tour, lunch with pool access, and photos/videos included.

While the tour is not suitable for children under 8 or pregnant women over 32 weeks, most adults find the experience well-organized and safe. Some reviews mention choppy boat rides and long drives on rough roads—important considerations if you’re prone to seasickness or dislike bumpy rides.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventure lovers, snorkeling enthusiasts, and those wanting a comprehensive tour of Nusa Penida in one day. It’s perfect for travelers seeking good value with an emphasis on marine encounters, scenic viewpoints, and quality food. If you’re comfortable with a long, busy day and enjoy guided land exploration and underwater adventures, this tour will suit you perfectly.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with very young children or pregnant partners, you might want to consider a less intense option. The small group size and personalized guides help ensure a comfortable experience, even for first-time snorkelers.

The Sum Up

This Nusa Penida private boat tour offers a well-rounded, compelling experience that balances scenic land views with marine wildlife encounters. The combination of multiple snorkel spots, including swimming with manta rays, plus a stylish lunch and island sightseeing, provides excellent value for its price. The knowledgeable guides and smooth organization turn what could be a hectic day into a memorable adventure.

If you’re after a full-day, all-in-one Bali escape that minimizes hassle and maximizes sights and sounds, this tour is a top pick. It’s especially well-suited for those craving marine life, iconic vistas, and a taste of Bali’s natural beauty in a single trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered, and the tour starts at a convenient meeting point in Serangan. Additional transfers to various Bali areas are available for an extra fee.

Can I snorkel if I can’t swim?
Absolutely. Snorkeling equipment is provided, and life jackets are available, making it accessible even for non-swimmers.

How long is the boat ride?
The crossing to Nusa Penida takes about 30 minutes, and the entire day’s schedule is approximately 10-11 hours.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, a scenic lunch with views of Mount Agung at a stylish restaurant with pool access is part of the package.

What are the snorkeling spots like?
Expect clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a chance to see turtles, tropical fish, and manta rays, depending on conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8 or pregnant women over 32 weeks due to the activity level and rough roads.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof camera or GoPro for underwater photos.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This tour offers an excellent mix of adventure, scenery, and marine life, making it a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a full-day Bali experience that’s both fun and value-packed.