Private Guided Snorkeling Tour in Gili Nanggu Sudak and Kedis

Planning a day of snorkeling around Lombok’s Gili islands? This Private Guided Snorkeling Tour promises a full day of underwater discoveries, scenic beaches, and island charm. For $75 per person, you get an 8-hour adventure that includes transportation, snorkeling gear, and visits to three of Lombok’s most appealing Gili islands. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or just looking to dip your toes in, this tour aims to cover the highlights.

One thing we love about this experience is the convenience of private transport and a flexible itinerary that keeps the focus on your group. Plus, the chance to see underwater life like Nemos and turtles adds a magical touch. A possible consideration is that the quality of guides and snorkeling equipment can vary — as one reviewer pointed out, the guide’s English skills and gear might not meet everyone’s expectations. Still, this tour suits travelers who want a straightforward, all-in-one day of island hopping and snorkeling, especially if they prefer the comfort of a private group.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines visits to three Gili islands with snorkeling, lunch, and scenic views.
• Value for Money: For $75, you get transportation, snorkeling equipment, and island access.
• Flexible & Private: Only your group participates, with pickup and drop-off included.
• Underwater Highlights: Coral reefs, Nemo fish, and turtles are often part of the snorkel sessions.
• Some Variability in Guides: Experiences can differ depending on guide quality and equipment.
• Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: Best suited for those wanting a leisurely and guided day on the water.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Gili Nanggu: The Perfect Introduction to Underwater Life

The day begins with a pickup around 9:00 am, and the first stop is Gili Nanggu — a quiet, white-sand paradise famed for its calm waters and vibrant coral reefs. Expect about two hours here—enough time to snorkel and soak up the sun. “We loved the way the snorkel gear was handled, and the clear waters made for easy swimming,” one traveler noted, although another mentioned that the snorkeling equipment could be better.

This spot is ideal for those looking to see marine life like clownfish (popularly called Nemos) and coral formations without the chaos of larger tourist crowds. The shallow waters and gentle currents make it a safe and enjoyable experience for beginners and families.

Gili Sudak: Lunch and Turtle Encounters

Afterward, the boat takes you to Gili Sudak. This island is famous for its relaxed vibe and tasty local lunch options. The tour includes lunch here, giving you a chance to refuel before more water activities. Snorkeling at Gili Sudak often includes a chance to see turtles — a highlight for many. One reviewer shared that they appreciated the timing, as it gave them a good break and fresh perspective for the next snorkeling session.

The island itself is less developed, offering authentic views of Lombok’s coastline. Expect about two hours here, with enough time to swim, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

Gili Kedis: Sun, Snorkel, and Swim

The final stop is Gili Kedis, a tiny, picturesque island with a distinctive heart shape. Here, swimming and sunbathing are leisurely pursuits, but the real treat is the underwater world. Many travelers find Gili Kedis particularly rewarding for snorkeling, with lively coral reefs and abundant fish. According to one review, the underwater scene includes “life under water like Nemos and coral,” making it an ideal place for underwater photography, too.

From Gili Kedis, the boat departs back to Tuan Harbour, where the driver will transport you back to your hotel. The entire day offers flexibility and plenty of time to relax and take in the views.

Practical Details and Experience Quality

Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes private transportation from and back to your hotel, making it a smooth experience. The boat used for island hopping is described as a private slow boat, which isn’t necessarily high-speed but offers a relaxed, scenic ride. The transfer timing and small-group nature mean fewer crowds and a more personalized experience.

Snorkeling Equipment and Guides

Snorkeling gear is included, but reviews indicate that equipment quality can vary. One review specifically mentioned that the guide’s English was limited, which might impact the overall enjoyment if you prefer detailed explanations or safety guidance. The guide mentioned in the reviews, Sul, had minimal English skills and seemed less interested, which could be a downside if you’re looking for a more engaging or educational experience.

Food and Additional Costs

Lunch is included in the stop at Gili Sudak, though the specifics aren’t detailed, and you might want to bring extra snacks or drinks. Bottled water is provided throughout, which is crucial for staying hydrated while under the sun.

Cost and Value

At $75 per person, this tour offers good value considering it covers transportation, snorkeling gear, island visits, and lunch. However, the quality of guides and equipment can influence the overall experience. For travelers seeking a laid-back, guided day with flexibility, this price point is reasonable.

Timing and Booking Considerations

Booking is usually made well in advance — about 164 days on average — which suggests high demand. The tour runs from 9:00 am and lasts approximately 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

Cancellation Policy

It’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, providing peace of mind if plans change due to weather or other reasons. Note that the experience is weather-dependent, and poor conditions could result in rescheduling or refunds.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one day on Lombok’s most scenic Gili islands without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits those seeking relaxing snorkel sessions, with the chance to see marine life like Nemo fish and turtles, in calm waters. If you’re after a private experience that includes transportation and snorkeling gear, this is a good pick.

However, if you’re very particular about guide quality or top-notch snorkeling equipment, you might find the experience somewhat hit-or-miss. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a straightforward, scenic day on the water.

Final Thoughts

This Private Guided Snorkeling Tour offers a balanced mix of underwater discovery and island scenery at a reasonable price. The convenience of private transport, combined with visits to three different islands, means you’ll see a lot in one day. The snorkeling itself is generally well-loved, highlighting coral reefs, Nemo fish, and turtles — the kind of encounters that make snorkeling memorable.

While guide quality and gear may differ, the overall value remains solid, especially for travelers who appreciate flexibility and relaxed exploration. This tour captures the essence of Lombok’s island-hopping charm without breaking the bank or demanding a lot of planning.

If you’re looking to see Lombok’s underwater world with a flexible, guided approach, this experience will tick many boxes. For those seeking more adventure or higher-end gear, it might be worth exploring other options, but for most casual snorkelers, it offers a practical, enjoyable day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the calm waters and shallow snorkeling spots make it friendly for beginners and families.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, parking fees, and a private boat are included. Lunch at Gili Sudak is also part of the package.

Are the snorkeling spots good?
Yes, spots like Gili Nanggu and Gili Kedis are known for coral reefs, Nemo fish, and turtles, providing diverse marine life.

How long do we stay at each island?
Approximately two hours at each stop, giving enough time to snorkel, relax, and take photos.

What is the quality of guides and equipment?
Guide quality may vary, with some reviews mentioning limited English skills and equipment that could be better.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, it’s free to cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, extra snacks if desired, and your personal belongings. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is included during the stop at Gili Sudak, but specifics aren’t detailed.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour includes pickup from your hotel, making logistics simple.

This snorkeling tour delivers a well-rounded, scenic experience with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Lombok’s marine and island scenery. If you’re after a relaxed, guided day with underwater highlights, it’s worth considering. Just keep your expectations about guide interaction and equipment in check, and you’ll probably have a memorable adventure.