2 Days 1 Night Whale Shark Sharing

A Closer Look at the 2 Days 1 Night Whale Shark Sharing Tour in Lombok

This 2-day, 1-night tour promises an exciting journey to see whale sharks in their natural habitat on Sumbawa Island, a relatively untouched piece of Indonesia’s vast marine playground. For travelers eager for a mix of adventure, local culture, and wildlife, this tour ticks many boxes. It offers a chance to snorkel alongside the gentle giants, explore scenic coastal areas, and experience the region’s local flavor—all wrapped into a neat package at a reasonable price.

One of the things we particularly like about this experience is the early morning whale shark snorkeling, which maximizes your chances of spotting these majestic creatures in calm waters. Plus, the inclusion of ferry crossings and local transportation makes it a well-organized escape from Lombok’s more tourist-heavy spots. However, the itinerary does involve some long travel days and early starts, which might not suit everyone, especially those with limited mobility or a preference for more relaxed schedules.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers with a decent fitness level, eager to discover Indonesia’s marine biodiversity while enjoying a quick overnight escape. If you’re someone who loves snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and authentic local experiences, it could be just what you’re after. Just be prepared for the logistics of crossing between islands and the potential for weather-dependent cancellations.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounter: You get a dedicated morning to snorkel with whale sharks, the highlight of this trip.
• Travel Logistics: The tour involves multiple ferry crossings and road transfers, so expect some travel time.
• Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers for a more intimate experience.
• Inclusions & Extras: Includes boat, ferry, snorkeling gear, breakfast, and transfers—note that meals like lunch and dinner are at your own expense.
• Timing: Early starts, especially on Day 2, maximize wildlife spotting but require an alert mind.
• Weather Dependency: Cancellations are possible if weather conditions aren’t suitable, with full refunds or rescheduling offered.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Travel to Sumbawa

The adventure begins at Bangsal Harbour, a bustling port in Lombok, at 8:00 am. From there, the journey takes you about two hours by road to Mataram, where you’ll check into a hotel after arriving around 9:30 am. This check-in point is convenient and gives travelers a moment to relax before the day’s long travel.

Around 10:00 am, the group departs again, heading towards Kayangan Harbor, followed by a 1.5-hour ferry crossing to Poto Tano Port on Sumbawa. This ferry ride is a key part of the experience, offering scenic views of the water and coastlines—be sure to bring your camera. Travelers who have done this route mention that it’s a smooth crossing, but it’s worth noting that ferry schedules are fixed, so punctuality helps.

Lunch and Local Culture

Once on Sumbawa, lunch is typically at a local restaurant around 2:00 pm—an opportunity to sample regional dishes at your own expense. While not included, reviews note that the food options are generally good and give travelers a taste of the local cuisine. After lunch, the group heads to Sumbawa Besar, then onto Labuan Jambu, where you check into your hotel.

This part of the tour emphasizes the journey’s scenic and cultural aspects, giving a glimpse of local life and landscapes before the main event.

Day 2: The Whale Shark Encounter

Waking up early at 4:00 am is challenging but necessary to catch the best wildlife viewing conditions. A traditional boat, called a Begog, takes you to the whale shark site around 4:30 am. The boat ride itself is part of the charm—small, traditional vessels give you a close-to-nature feel, and the cool morning air adds a refreshing touch.

Breakfast on board is simple but effective—coffee or tea, fresh fruits, and bread keep you energized. By 5:00 am, you’re at the whale shark site, ready to snorkel with these gentle giants. The actual snorkeling session lasts from around 5:30 am to 8:00 am, providing a good window to observe and swim alongside whale sharks in their feeding grounds. Reviewers mention that snorkeling here is surreal, with some describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. The calm waters and early morning light make for great visibility and photo opportunities.

Post-snorkeling, you’ll return to the harbor, then back to your hotel for breakfast. The rest of the morning is free for some rest or exploration before heading back to Lombok. The return ferry departs around 3:00 pm, and arrival in Lombok is estimated around 6:00 pm.

Practical Considerations

The pace of the tour is quite packed, with early mornings and long travel days. For many, this is part of the thrill—it’s about maximizing your time and experiences. However, some mention that the early start on Day 2 can be physically demanding, especially in cooler weather, so packing a warm layer and some patience is wise.

The tour’s price of $199 per person is very reasonable considering the inclusion of boat rides, ferry transfers, snorkeling gear, and hotel stays. It’s worth noting that lunches, dinners, and personal expenses are extra, so budgeting for those is essential.

Authenticity and Tips from Past Travelers

While reviews are limited, those who have experienced the tour mention that the small group size (max 12) makes for a more personal adventure. The guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, though some suggest that the early hours and travel logistics require a flexible attitude.

One reviewer appreciated the organizers’ clear communication, and another highlighted how well-coordinated the ferry schedules are, reducing stress. A tip often shared is to bring your own snacks and sunscreen, as some parts of the day are spent outdoors with limited shade.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and scenic island-hopping. If you’re comfortable with early mornings, long days, and basic logistics, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially appealing if witnessing whale sharks in the wild is a bucket-list goal for you.

More relaxed travelers or those with mobility issues might find the early start and travel-heavy schedule a bit exhausting. Also, weather can influence the tour—if conditions aren’t right, plans can shift or be canceled, though full refunds or rescheduling options are available.

Final Thoughts on the Value

At $199, this tour offers a solid value for those passionate about marine wildlife. The combination of local transport, ferry crossings, snorkeling, and overnight accommodation delivers an immersive experience that balances adventure and comfort. The real highlight—the chance to swim with whale sharks—sets this apart from many standard snorkeling trips.

For anyone seeking an authentic, wildlife-focused adventure in Indonesia, this tour hits many marks. Remember to bring your sense of adventure, patience, and a camera ready for those unforgettable moments with the world’s largest fish.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as you have moderate physical fitness and are comfortable swimming with snorkeling gear. The tour doesn’t require prior diving experience.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers boat and ferry transportation, snorkeling equipment, breakfast, hotel stays, and return transfers from Mataram. Meals like lunch and dinner are at your own expense.

How early do I need to wake up for Day 2?
The schedule starts very early, at around 4:00 am, to reach the whale shark site by 5:00 am for optimal viewing.

Can I cancel or reschedule if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled. The tour provider closely monitors weather conditions.

What should I pack?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, light snacks, and a waterproof camera. Warm clothes for early mornings are also recommended.

Are tips included?
No, tips for guides are not included and are at your discretion.

How long is the ferry crossing?
The ferry ride from Lombok to Sumbawa takes about 1.5 hours, adding to the overall travel time of the tour.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, fostering a more personalized experience.

To sum it up, this 2-day, 1-night whale shark tour in Lombok offers an exciting, well-organized way to witness these gentle giants in their natural environment. It combines adventure, cultural insights, and scenic beauty, making it ideal for travelers craving authentic wildlife encounters. Just be prepared for early mornings and some travel time—your effort will be rewarded with unforgettable memories.