Bora Bora: Jet Ski Tour & Shark Ray Snorkel with Lunch

Summary

Circle the lagoon by jet ski then snorkel with rays and sharks before lunch

You’ll circle Bora Bora’s lagoon by jet ski with a local guide, stop for lunch at Lucky House restaurant, then head out by boat to snorkel among rays and blacktip sharks in warm turquoise water. Expect laughter, honest moments with locals, and those little flashes of wonder you’ll keep replaying long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t worry, just follow my wake,” Manu grinned as he handed me the jet ski key. I’d never driven one before — not really — but he made it sound easy, like we were just going for a spin around the block. The lagoon around Bora Bora was this impossible blue, so bright it almost hurt my eyes. We zipped past fishermen waving from their outrigger canoes, salt spray stinging my lips. I could smell sunscreen and something sweet from the trees on shore. My partner shouted something behind me but the wind stole his words.

We stopped on a little motu where Manu showed us how to open a coconut with a rock (I failed spectacularly). He told us about growing up here — how the lagoon’s tides are like a clock for everyone. It was hot enough that even standing still made sweat run down my back, but jumping back on the jet ski felt like flying again. The whole loop took about two hours, though honestly I lost track of time somewhere between laughing too hard and trying not to fall off at sharp turns.

Lunch was at Lucky House, not Bloody Mary’s (which is closed right now). It’s more low-key — plastic chairs, grilled fish that tasted smoky and fresh, and cold Hinano beer if you want it. After eating way too much breadfruit fries, we switched gears for the eco shark and ray snorkel cruise. Our guide Lani kept reminding us: no feeding the animals here. She spotted stingrays before any of us did — their wings fluttering over white sand below. I still remember that weird mix of nerves and awe when a blacktip shark glided past my fins. The water was warm but every so often you’d hit a cool patch that made you shiver.

The ride back was quieter; everyone seemed sun-dazed or maybe just full of new stories to tell later. I caught myself thinking about Manu’s stories of growing up here — how different life feels when you know every tide by heart.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jet Ski tour and snorkel safari

• Learn jet ski functions and safety
• Jet ski tour around Bora Bora lagoon
• Lunch at Lucky House restaurant
• Eco shark and ray snorkel safari
• Return to resort or shuttle base

Top questions

How long is the Bora Bora jet ski tour?

The jet ski group tour lasts about 2 hours around the lagoon.

Is lunch included in this Bora Bora day trip?

Yes, lunch is included at Lucky House restaurant (Fare Manuia).

Do I need previous experience to drive a jet ski?

No experience needed; your guide will explain everything before starting.

What age do you have to be to drive a jet ski?

The minimum age to drive a jet ski is 16 years old; participants must be at least 11 years old.

Are hotel pickups included in this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, all necessary equipment for snorkeling is provided by your guide.

Can pregnant travelers join this tour?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

Do they feed sharks or rays during the snorkel safari?

No feeding takes place; guides focus on respecting marine life and protecting coral reefs.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all necessary gear for both jet skiing and snorkeling, guidance from local experts who know every corner of Bora Bora’s lagoon, plus lunch at Lucky House restaurant with water provided before heading back in the late afternoon.