Bora Bora Lagoon Cruise: Shark & Stingray Snorkeling, BBQ Lunch

Summary

Swim with sharks stingrays and share island lunch in Bora Bora

You’ll glide across Bora Bora’s lagoon with a local guide, swim alongside black-tip reef sharks and gentle stingrays, snorkel through bright coral gardens, and share a barbecue lunch on a private motu while Polynesian music drifts on the breeze. Expect laughter, salt on your skin, and moments that linger long after you’ve rinsed off the sand.

What’s the experience like?

Blue everywhere — that’s what hit me first when we stepped onto the boat in Bora Bora. Our guide, Manu, grinned as he handed out snorkels (mine fogged up instantly, classic). The lagoon felt alive: you could hear little splashes from fish before you even saw them. It’s not silent out there — the breeze has this soft whistle and sometimes you catch the faint smell of coconut oil from someone’s sunscreen. I was nervous about the sharks, honestly. But Manu just laughed and said, “They’re more scared of you.” He was right — they darted around us like curious dogs. The stingrays glided up so close I could see their weird little smiles. One brushed my leg and I almost yelped, but no one seemed to mind.

After snorkeling those coral gardens (so many colors it almost looked fake), we cruised over to a tiny motu for lunch. The sand there is powdery — sticks to your feet even after you try to shake it off. Lunch was grilled fish and fruit under these palm-thatched shelters, with everyone sitting together at long tables. Our hosts played ukulele while we ate; at one point they got us up to try a dance I absolutely did not nail (Manu winked at me — “Not bad for a first-timer”). There was something easy about the whole day, like nobody was in a rush except maybe the little crabs skittering by our toes.

I keep thinking about that quiet moment after lunch when most people went swimming again and I just sat watching the water shift colors every few minutes. You don’t really get that kind of blue anywhere else — or maybe you do, but it wouldn’t feel the same without salty skin and sand stuck everywhere. Anyway, if you’re wondering whether this Bora Bora lagoon cruise is worth it… well, I still think about those stingrays sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full-day Bora Bora lagoon cruise

• Board full-day lagoon cruise
• Snorkel with sharks and stingrays
• Explore coral gardens by snorkeling
• Visit small island for barbecue lunch
• Enjoy Polynesian beachside performance
• View colorful fish and island sights

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Bora Bora lagoon cruise?

Yes, hotel or port pickup and drop-off are included in your day trip.

Will I swim with sharks during this tour?

Yes, you'll have guided snorkeling time with black-tip reef sharks in safe lagoon areas.

Are stingrays dangerous on this tour?

No, the stingrays are gentle and accustomed to people; guides are always present.

Is lunch provided during the cruise?

Yes, a barbecue lunch is served on a small island (motu) during the tour.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?

No, all snorkeling gear is provided as part of your booking.

How long does this full-day Bora Bora cruise last?

The experience lasts around 6–7 hours including all stops and activities.

Is this lagoon cruise suitable for beginners or non-swimmers?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; guides assist beginners in the water.

What should I bring on my day trip to Bora Bora lagoon?

Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, swimwear—and maybe a dry bag for your things.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off in Bora Bora, all snorkeling equipment so you don’t have to pack extra gear, a barbecue lunch prepared by local hosts on a private motu island (with plenty of fresh fruit), plus guidance from an expert who knows every corner of these lagoons before bringing you back comfortably at sunset.