Bora Bora: Helmet Dive Lagoon Walk & Coral Garden Photos

Summary

Helmet diving in Bora Bora’s lagoon with coral gardens and tropical fish

You’ll step right into Bora Bora’s lagoon for a guided helmet dive—no swimming needed—and walk among coral gardens filled with tropical fish. Your local guide will point out creatures like parrotfish and clownfish while snapping underwater photos for you to keep. Expect laughter, some nerves (in a good way), and an easy pace that lets you soak it all in.

What’s the experience like?

We climbed into the little boat just off Vaitape, sun already high but not too fierce yet, and I could smell sunscreen mixing with salt air. Our guide—Teva, who grew up on the island—grinned as he handed out bottled water and towels. He explained the helmet dive in this calm, matter-of-fact way that made it all feel less intimidating. I kept glancing at the clear blue water, trying to imagine what three meters down would really be like. Turns out you don’t need to swim or even float; you just walk. That part surprised me.

The helmet itself looked heavier than it felt—once it was on, all I could hear was my own breath and this muffled echo of distant boat engines. We stepped down the ladder one by one, feet sinking into cool sand. Suddenly there were butterfly fish darting around my ankles and these electric flashes of parrotfish nibbling at coral. Teva pointed out a clownfish tucked inside an anemone (I tried to say its name in French; he laughed). The light filtered down in these shifting ribbons—honestly, I still think about that view sometimes when I close my eyes.

Half an hour underwater went by fast. There was this moment where a stingray glided past us so close I almost forgot to breathe. Teva snapped photos with his camera—he caught me mid-laugh with bubbles everywhere—and later handed us a USB with all the pictures before we headed back to shore. My hair was a mess and my towel smelled faintly of seaweed, but I didn’t care much. The whole thing felt oddly peaceful, even with everyone chatting excitedly on the ride back.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Helmet dive in Bora Bora lagoon

• Attend safety briefing
• Put on helmet
• Walk underwater coral garden
• Observe tropical fish and marine life
• Get photos taken by instructor

Top questions

Do I need to know how to swim for the helmet dive?

No, swimming skills are not required for this helmet diving tour in Bora Bora.

How deep do we go during the underwater walk?

You’ll walk about 3 meters (roughly 10 feet) deep in the lagoon.

How long do we spend underwater?

The actual underwater walk lasts around 30 minutes during this day trip.

Are photos included in the tour?

Yes, your instructor takes underwater photos and gives them to you after the activity.

Is pickup included from my hotel?

The tour includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle; check your booking details for specifics.

What should I bring for the helmet diving tour?

Bottled water and towels are provided; bring swimwear and maybe dry clothes for after.

Can pregnant travelers join this activity?

No, this activity is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by air-conditioned vehicle from nearby locations, bottled water to keep you refreshed, a towel for after your dive, use of a briefcase for your belongings, plus souvenir underwater photos taken by your instructor—all before returning comfortably to shore.