Bora Bora: Small-Group Lagoon Cruise & Snorkeling Tour

Summary

Circle the blue lagoon by boat, snorkel with rays and fish, Mt Otemanu always in view

You’ll circle Bora Bora’s lagoon by boat with a small group, snorkel among colorful corals and curious fish at “the aquarium,” then meet gentle stingrays up close as your guide shares local stories. Includes drinks, towels, snorkeling gear — plus those quiet moments when Mt Otemanu seems to float just for you.

What’s the experience like?

We were already drifting past a patchwork of blues when our guide, Manu, cut the engine and grinned at us over his shoulder — “Here’s where the magic happens.” I could smell salt on my skin and sunscreen mixing in the air, but mostly I remember how quiet it got. Mt. Otemanu looked like it was floating on a cloud above us. The main keyword for this tour is “Bora Bora cruise with snorkeling,” but honestly, it felt more like being let in on a local secret than any kind of checklist thing.

I slid into the water (awkwardly — fins are always trickier than they look), and suddenly there were fish everywhere. Tiny electric blue ones darting between coral fingers, bigger ones just sort of hanging out and watching us back. Manu pointed out a spot he called “the aquarium” — which sounded cheesy until I saw how many fish actually swarmed around us. He’d hand me a bit of bread to hold underwater and I swear I jumped when something nibbled my finger. The water was warm enough that you forget time for a bit.

After that we moved to shallower water where the stingrays showed up almost on cue. They’re softer than I expected — not slimy at all — and our guide fed them right from his hand while telling stories about their names (one’s called Maurice, which made me laugh). A couple of us tried saying thank you in Tahitian; Manu just shook his head and laughed at our accents. There was soda and bottled water on board if you wanted it, plus towels so you didn’t freeze after climbing back in the breeze. I still think about that feeling of sun on wet skin with nothing but blue all around.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bora Bora lagoon cruise and snorkeling

• Board boat for lagoon trip
• View Mt Otemanu from all angles
• Snorkel at coral gardens
• Explore 'aquarium' snorkeling spot
• Visit shallow site to feed sting rays

Top questions

How long does the Bora Bora cruise with snorkeling last?

This is a half-day tour circling the island’s lagoon.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

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

Are drinks included during the cruise?

Soda and bottled water are available onboard throughout the trip.

Will we see stingrays during this day trip?

Yes, there’s a stop where you can interact with stingrays guided by your host.

Is hotel pickup included in this Bora Bora cruise?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are nearby.

Are infants allowed on this small-group cruise?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

Is lunch included in this snorkeling day trip?

No lunch is provided; only drinks like soda and bottled water are included.

Can pregnant travelers join this tour?

This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your half-day includes use of snorkeling gear so you don’t need to bring your own, fresh towels for drying off after each swim stop, plus cold bottled water and sodas served onboard as you circle Bora Bora’s lagoon with your guide before returning to shore.