Bora Bora Lagoon: Small Group Snorkeling & Sharks Rays Swim

Summary

Small group snorkeling with sharks rays motu sandbank laughter

You’ll swim with sharks and rays in clear Bora Bora waters, snorkel colorful reefs with a small group, then snack on fresh fruit atop a quiet sandbank motu. With friendly local guides leading you away from crowded spots, this half-day feels more like sharing laughter than ticking off sights.

What’s the experience like?

Li grinned when she handed me my mask — “Don’t worry, the rays are friendly,” she said, and I half-believed her. There were just six of us, plus Li and Manu steering the boat between the west and north sides of Bora Bora’s lagoon. The water was that wild turquoise you only see in postcards but it smelled faintly salty, almost sweet. I kept thinking how quiet it was out here compared to the main beaches; just our voices and the slap of water against the hull.

We stopped where the reef dropped off. I could see shadows gliding below — blacktip sharks, a couple of rays. My heart thudded (I mean, who wouldn’t get a little nervous?) but everyone laughed when Manu slid in first and waved us over. The lagoon felt cool at first touch, then warm as we floated above coral gardens. Fish darted everywhere — yellow stripes, flashes of blue — and at one point a ray brushed past my ankle so gently I almost missed it. Someone tried to name all the fish but gave up after ten.

After that we drifted to a sandbank, bare feet sinking into powdery stuff that stuck between my toes for hours. Li brought out pineapple slices and something like coconut bread (I still think about that taste). We talked about home, about how time moves slower here. A breeze picked up and for a minute nobody said anything — just watching clouds shift over Mount Otemanu in the distance. It wasn’t fancy or dramatic; it just felt real, you know? I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed with strangers.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half-day snorkeling excursion

• Meet small group of six
• Snorkel between west and north
• Observe sharks, rays, and aquatic fauna
• Visit motu and sandbank
• Enjoy laughter and snack
• Avoid rush hour and crowded spots

Top questions

How many people are in each snorkeling group?

The tour is limited to 6 people maximum per group.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

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

Are there sharks and rays on this excursion?

Yes, you’ll have chances to swim near sharks and rays in the lagoon.

How long does the snorkeling trip last?

The experience lasts about 4 hours total.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels except those with poor cardiovascular health.

Are snacks or drinks included during the tour?

A snack is included during your stop at the sandbank or motu.

Does this tour avoid crowded areas?

Yes, your guides try to avoid rush hour and busy spots in the lagoon.

Can service animals join this activity?

Service animals are allowed on this excursion.

Is public transportation nearby for getting to departure?

Public transportation options are available close by.

What’s included

Your half-day includes use of snorkeling equipment plus a snack served on a sandbank or motu along the way; you’ll be guided by locals who steer clear of crowded spots so you can enjoy time with sharks, rays, coral reefs and good company before heading back refreshed.