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

Taking a day trip to Nusa Penida from Bali is one of those adventures that promises a mix of spectacular scenery, marine life encounters, and iconic cliffs. This tour, rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on over 6,400 reviews, offers exactly that—plus a few extras like underwater photography and optional premium upgrades. It’s designed for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What we love most? The diverse itinerary—covering four snorkel spots plus land exploration in one day—and the small group atmosphere that keeps things intimate and flexible. However, potential travelers should note that the day can be long, and some critics mention the boat rides getting choppy or the island traffic being hectic. Still, if you’re after a well-organized, action-packed day with plenty of opportunities for marine encounters and scenic views, this tour ticks many boxes.

It’s perfect for energetic travelers who enjoy a mix of water and land adventures, especially those who don’t mind a packed schedule. Solo travelers, couples, and small groups will find this a fantastic way to see Nusa Penida in a single, well-curated day.

Key Points

Impressive Marine Encounters: Swim with giant Manta Rays, sea turtles, and a variety of colorful fish in calm, quiet spots without crowds.

Diverse Highlights: From snorkeling in coral gardens to visiting iconic cliffs like Kelingking Beach and exploring Angel’s Billabong, there’s a good mix of nature and scenery.

Comfortable and Value-Driven: The tour includes all snorkeling gear, a tasty lunch, and underwater photos, making it a great value considering the number of stops and activities.

Guides and Crew: Known for friendly, knowledgeable guides who go the extra mile—one reviewer mentioned Ringo as a standout, making the day even more memorable.

Flexible Options: Upgrade to premium boats, add extras like private tours, or include diving, jet skis, or drone footage for a more personalized experience.

Considerations: The day is quite full, with long boat rides and some rough seas reported. Tides and weather can influence snorkeling conditions, especially at Manta Point.

Setting Out: What to Expect from the Start

The adventure begins in Serangan, Bali, where you’ll meet at a recently opened office. Expect a warm welcome with free-flowing coffee, tea, pastries, and a refreshing welcome drink—an excellent way to shake off travel fatigue. The check-in process is straightforward, and if you prefer to start from your villa, optional pick-up and drop-off services are available for an additional fee.

Once aboard your boat—typically 12-13 meters in size—you’ll cruise across the Bali Strait in style. Most trips are booked 28 days in advance, reflecting how popular this experience has become. The crossing takes around 30 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and admire views of Bali and Lembongan Island.

The Snorkeling Stops: An Underwater Treasure Trove

The snorkeling component is what truly makes this tour shine. With four different spots, you’ll explore coral gardens, drift along currents, and encounter marine life in various settings.

Secret Bali Hai Lagoon and Coral Gardens: This first stop near Nusa Lembongan is described as a “crystal clear and calm” haven—ideal for beginners or those who want an easy start. Many reviewers, including Brooke_S, highlighted the beauty and tranquility of this spot, noting they saw an abundance of colorful fish and even sea turtles.

SD Point: The next stop is a “divers’ paradise” off the east coast of Nusa Penida. Here, currents create exciting drift snorkeling past vibrant coral reefs teeming with fish, turtles, and sometimes even larger marine animals. Reviewers like Steve_B mention swimming alongside manta rays here, which is often the highlight for many.

Wall Bay: Snorkeling next to mangroves, this spot offers a different underwater landscape filled with reef life. Allison_S loved the variety, remarking that even with no prior experience, guides like Gede made her feel safe—and she saw multiple turtles, which she said was “amazing.”

Manta Point or Manta Bay: The pinnacle of the tour, this secluded area is where you’re most likely to swim with gentle giant Manta Rays. One reviewer called it a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience, emphasizing the quiet, uncrowded environment. Guides Morgan and Putu are praised for their effort in seeking out these majestic creatures, often going beyond to find turtles and other marine life.

Land Tour Highlights: Iconic Cliffs and Scenic Spots

A highlight of this trip is the land portion, which many reviewers say balances out the aquatic adventures. After a hearty lunch at Amarta Penida, with views overlooking Mount Agung and access to an infinity pool, you’ll hop into a small car for a scenic tour.

Kelingking Cliff: The iconic T-Rex-shaped formation is a must-see. The guided visit includes a car ride and a quick stop for photos. Deborah_B, however, noted that the drive can be “scary,” with narrow roads and steep drops, so it’s not for the faint of heart but still worth the effort for the breathtaking vistas.

Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach: If time permits, your guide may take you to these famous sites, offering more chances for impressive photo ops and scenic walks.

The Experience: What It’s Like Day-to-Day

The tour spans approximately 10 to 11 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 5:30-6 PM. Many reviews mention the long day but also highlight how well-organized it feels, thanks to attentive guides and smooth transitions.

Some guests, like Deborah_B, mention that the boat ride home can be choppy—so packing seasickness tablets or choosing the premium boat upgrade (which offers a larger, more stable vessel) might make your journey more comfortable.

Throughout the day, you’ll be accompanied by guides who are praised for their friendliness and expertise. For example, one reviewer called Ringo “a gem,” noting he made the experience extra special. Underwater photos and videos are included at no extra charge, providing a lasting memory of your marine encounters.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $100.89 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the number of stops, inclusion of snorkeling gear, lunch, and underwater photography. Many reviewers expressed surprise at how much they got for the price, especially compared to other tours that might only focus on a single activity or location.

The optional upgrades—such as a premium boat, private tours, or adding extras like jet skis or drone footage—can tailor the experience further but are not necessary to enjoy the core highlights.

Top Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Book in advance—most travelers do so about a month ahead, reflecting high demand.
• Bring layers and waterproof gear—the weather can change, and some snorkeling spots might be windy.
• Pack seasickness remedies—especially if you’re prone to motion sickness, for a smoother boat ride.
• Be ready for a full day—wear comfortable clothing, bring sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
• Consider the premium upgrade if you prefer a larger, more stable boat or want professional photos and welcome drinks.
• Adjust expectations—the land tours and boat rides can be rough or crowded, but the marine life and scenery make it worthwhile.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Many travelers pointed out that guides like Gede, Budi, and Geco went above and beyond—whether it was helping nervous snorkelers or seeking out elusive manta rays. One reviewer mentioned how guides like Jena and Rocky kept everyone safe and comfortable during the land and sea adventures, reinforcing that support and expertise really make a difference.

Several guests also appreciated the delicious lunch, with views of Mount Agung adding to the ambiance. The inclusion of underwater photos and videos, often taken by professional guides or GoPro, turned out to be a highlight for many, providing memorable keepsakes.

This Nusa Penida boat and land tour offers a comprehensive, action-packed day that highlights the best of Bali’s neighboring islands. The combination of diverse snorkeling spots, scenic cliffs, and cultural sights makes it ideal for travelers eager to see as much as possible in one day. The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and knowledge, which adds a layer of reassurance—especially for those new to snorkeling or island exploration.

While the day is long and weather conditions can affect the experience, the overall value and array of activities make this a great choice for adventurous spirits. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of swimming with manta rays, the awe of cliffside vistas, or a taste of Bali’s island charm, this tour delivers.

If you want a well-organized, memorable day that covers underwater marvels and scenic highlights with a trusted crew, this trip could be just what you need. Perfect for small groups and solo travelers alike, it’s an exciting way to make the most of your Bali trip.

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers four snorkeling spots, a land car tour of Nusa Penida, lunch at a scenic restaurant with pool access, snorkeling gear, underwater photos and videos, entrance tickets, towels, and drinking water.

Can I snorkel if I can’t swim?
Yes, you can! Snorkeling equipment includes life jackets, making it accessible even for those who are not confident swimmers.

What is the duration of the tour?
Expect a full day, approximately 10 to 11 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 5:30-6 PM.

Are there any upgrades available?
Yes, you can upgrade to a premium boat, private tour, or add extras like diving, jet skis, or drone footage when booking.

What are the main highlights of the land tour?
The highlight is visiting Kelingking Cliff, the famous T-Rex-shaped formation, along with optional stops at Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach if time permits.

Is the boat ride comfortable?
Most reviews mention the boat is clean and spacious, but some note that the ride can be choppy. Upgrading to a premium boat may provide a more stable experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers under 70, but not recommended for children under 8, pregnant women over 32 weeks, or those with mobility issues due to the land and sea activities.

In essence, this tour is a fantastic way to tick off top Nusa Penida highlights — with plenty of opportunities for underwater encounters, scenic vistas, and memorable moments. Just gear up for a full day of adventure, and you’ll leave with stories to share for years.