Bora Bora: Full Day Snorkeling, Coral Gardens & Motu Lunch

Summary

Snorkel coral gardens see rays & sharks then motu lunch

You’ll snorkel through Bora Bora’s coral gardens with tropical fish swirling around you, swim alongside gentle rays and blacktip sharks, then relax over a fresh Polynesian lunch on Motu Fanfan. Taste local dishes with your feet in the sand and watch island life slow down — this day trip leaves you sun-warmed and smiling.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bora Bora lagoon snorkeling and lunch

• Snorkel at Coral Garden
• Swim with manta rays
• Snorkel with sharks and stingrays
• Enjoy lunch on Motu Fanfan

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment included on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

What kind of lunch is served at Motu Fanfan?

Lunch includes grilled fish and chicken, raw fish with coconut milk, rice, taro, manioc, banana poe, coconut bread, local fruits, juice and water.

Can I swim with stingrays and sharks safely?

Yes, swimming with blacktip reef sharks and stingrays is safe; guides supervise at all times.

Are drinks other than water included?

Juice is included; soft drinks and beer are available for purchase at Motu Fanfan.

How long does the full day snorkeling tour last?

The tour lasts approximately one full day including snorkeling stops and lunch.

Is there a restroom available during the tour?

Yes, there are restrooms available at Motu Fanfan where lunch is served.

Is this tour suitable for infants or young children?

Infants can sit on an adult’s lap; families should consider safety recommendations before booking.

Do I need to be an experienced swimmer to join?

A moderate level of fitness is recommended; basic swimming ability helps for snorkeling activities.

What’s included

Your day includes boat transfers across Bora Bora’s lagoon with a professional guide leading each stop; use of snorkeling gear; bottled water throughout; plus a traditional Polynesian lunch served on Motu Fanfan with options like grilled fish or chicken, raw fish in coconut milk, local fruits and juices. Drinks such as beer or soda can be purchased separately at the motu before heading back in the afternoon.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the water in Bora Bora’s lagoon actually glows — not just blue, but that weird electric turquoise you see in postcards. We hopped onto the boat with a couple from Marseille and our guide, Manu, who grinned like he’d already seen us try to put on fins. He pointed out Mount Otemanu behind us as we sped out; the wind whipped my hair into knots I’m still untangling. The main keyword here is “snorkeling in Bora Bora” — but honestly, nothing prepares you for seeing those coral gardens up close. Fish everywhere, flashes of yellow and neon blue darting around your mask.

I swallowed a little saltwater when a stingray brushed past my leg (not proud of the sound I made). Manu laughed and told me they’re regulars here — he even named one “Mimi.” The blacktip reef sharks circled a bit further off, sleek but not scary. The water was warm enough that you barely notice time passing until suddenly you’re starving. That’s when we headed to Motu Fanfan for lunch. They set out grilled fish and chicken, raw fish with coconut milk (I tried to say “poisson cru” properly; Manu just winked), plus rice, taro, coconut bread, all laid out under these woven palm shelters. There was mango juice too, which tasted like sunshine if that makes sense.

After lunch I wandered barefoot along the sand — it squeaked underfoot, which I didn’t expect — watching clouds drift over the lagoon. Some folks napped in deckchairs or chatted quietly under the trees. There were restrooms tucked away behind some hibiscus bushes (bless). It wasn’t fancy but felt easy and real. Sometimes I still think about that moment when everything went quiet except for waves and laughter drifting over from someone trying paddleboarding for the first time.