Swim with Manta Rays in Nusa Penida – ALL inclusive

Nusa Penida, just a short boat ride from Bali, is famous for its marine life, especially the gentle giants known as manta rays. The tour we’re reviewing promises a full day of snorkeling, exploring four different sites, with the chance (though not a guarantee) to swim alongside manta rays. It’s marketed as all-inclusive, with transportation, meals, and equipment covered, making it an easy, worry-free option for those eager to get in the water and see the ocean’s wonders.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, removing the stress of organizing transport. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, towels, and a simple lunch adds to the value, especially for travelers seeking a hassle-free adventure. However, it’s worth noting that the tours tend to have mixed reviews — some participants love the idea of exploring Nusa Penida’s marine habitat, while others have found the actual experience somewhat disappointing, mainly due to weather and marine conditions.

If you’re someone who enjoys guided trips, appreciates small-group settings, and mainly wants the comfort of everything taken care of, this tour could be a good fit. On the flip side, those with high expectations of guaranteed manta sightings or who prefer more flexible, personalized experiences might want to consider other options or be prepared for some variability.

Key Points

Convenient all-inclusive package with hotel pickup, boat transfer, meals, and equipment.
Small group size of up to 10 travelers enhances a personalized experience.
Four snorkeling stops around Nusa Penida provide diverse marine environments.
Sightings of manta rays are not guaranteed, and weather can influence visibility.
Tour duration is approximately 7 hours, making it a manageable half-day trip.
Reviews highlight mixed experiences, with some travelers disappointed by the lack of manta rays or organizational issues.

What does the tour include?

This snorkeling adventure starts early, with pickups from hotels in Bali at 6:30 am. The tour includes return boat tickets from Bali to Nusa Penida and a speedboat ride that whisks you to the island’s best marine spots. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a welcome mineral water and provided with all snorkeling equipment, including fins, masks, and snorkels, as well as a towel to dry off after your swim.

The tour features a light lunch—a choice of fried rice or noodles—served at a local restaurant. Throughout the day, you’ll have a snorkeling guide instructor to assist, explain marine life, and keep everyone safe. Given the small group size of 10, you’ll likely get personalized attention, which is a plus for beginners or those who prefer a more intimate experience.

Snorkeling at four sites

The itinerary typically includes four stops: Manta Bay, Gamat Bay, Wall Bay, and Crystal Bay. Each offers different underwater scenery, with coral reefs, vibrant fish, and the chance to see manta rays at Manta Bay. The experience is designed to be a half-day trip of about 7 hours, focusing on the best snorkeling spots around Nusa Penida.

What travelers can expect from each stop

Manta Bay is the main attraction, where the hope is to see manta rays gliding gracefully beneath you. However, as some reviews point out, sightings are not guaranteed. One reviewer, Nienke_S, noted that the trip was “a lot of travelling for not so much snorkeling and no manta rays,” especially when waves were too big for effective snorkeling.

Gamat Bay offers a calmer environment with coral gardens and a variety of marine life, making it a good spot for underwater photography. Wall Bay features interesting rock formations and is popular among snorkelers for its vibrant reef ecosystems. Crystal Bay is renowned for its clear waters and abundant marine life, perfect for relaxing swims after the more active stops.

The actual snorkeling experience depends heavily on weather conditions. Some travelers, like Shawn_C, mention that the trip was cut short due to strong currents, and no manta rays were spotted, despite claims of a 90% chance. This variability is worth considering if your main goal is manta ray viewing.

The downsides: what to be aware of

Reviews bring up some valid concerns. Several mention messy organization or a lack of expertise among guides. For example, Nienke_S described the trip as “messy organization,” which can affect overall enjoyment, especially when logistical missteps happen or when the timing feels rushed.

Another important consideration is the weather—big waves can hinder snorkeling and reduce chances of manta sightings. As Shawn_C points out, if you’re not a strong swimmer or not comfortable in rough waters, wearing a life vest is advisable, as the currents can be strong and unpredictable.

The cost of $98 per person is reasonable in terms of what’s included, but the value can vary. If your main goal is to see manta rays, the unpredictable nature of sightings means some might find the trip less rewarding than hoped. Still, the chance to explore four different sites in a guided manner offers a good variety of underwater scenery.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This tour is ideal for travellers who want a straightforward, all-in-one experience without hassle. If you’re cautious about logistics or new to snorkeling, the included gear and small group size help make things easier. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy a guided experience with explanations about marine life and the environment.

However, if you’re specifically after manta ray sightings and want a high chance of seeing them, this tour might not be the best choice due to weather and ocean conditions. It’s better suited for casual snorkelers who are happy with exploring different sites and are prepared for some unpredictability.

This tour also appeals to travelers on a budget of around $100, seeking a comprehensive half-day trip. The lunch and equipment included contribute to good overall value, especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup.

Final thoughts: who should consider this tour?

This snorkeling trip offers a convenient, guided route to exploring Nusa Penida’s underwater scenery, making it a good choice for those who prioritize ease and comfort. The small group setting enhances the experience, providing personalized attention that’s often appreciated by beginners or those unfamiliar with the area.

While the chance of manta ray sightings is not guaranteed, the multiple stops and vibrant marine habitats make it a worthwhile outing for ocean lovers. Be prepared for some variability in the experience, especially considering ocean conditions that can change quickly.

For travelers who want a stress-free, all-inclusive day of snorkeling with a decent chance of seeing manta rays (but no guarantees), this tour hits the right notes. However, if your main priority is guaranteed manta encounters or more personalized, flexible arrangements, exploring other options or private tours might be a better fit.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup in Bali, as well as return boat tickets from Bali to Nusa Penida.

What should I bring for the snorkeling trip?
All snorkeling equipment is provided, along with a towel. However, it’s wise to bring sun protection like sunscreen (not included) and a waterproof bag for personal items.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

Can I participate if I’m not a strong swimmer?
Yes, but it’s recommended to wear a life vest if you’re not confident in the water, especially since currents can be strong.

What marine life will I see besides manta rays?
Expect to see coral reefs, colorful fish, and other marine life, particularly at spots like Gamat Bay and Crystal Bay.

Is the manta ray sighting guaranteed?
No, sightings depend heavily on weather and ocean conditions. Some reviews mention trips with no manta rays observed, especially when waves are high.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

This snorkeling adventure in Nusa Penida offers a practical, all-in-one way to explore Bali’s marine environment. While not always perfect, it provides a solid balance of convenience, value, and marine discovery—ideal for travelers who want a guided, small-group experience with the hope of encountering manta rays in the wild.