Nusa Penida: Private Boat Snorkeling, Manta Rays & Land Tour

Summary

Swim with manta rays snorkel coral reefs lunch on Nusa Penida cliffs

You’ll board a private boat from Bali for a day trip to Nusa Penida, snorkeling in clear lagoons and drifting over coral gardens with a local guide nearby. Swim alongside manta rays at Manta Bay and enjoy lunch overlooking Mount Agung before exploring dramatic cliffs by car—a mix of adventure and quiet moments that’ll stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

Someone hands me a glass of something cold and sweet before I’ve even set my bag down in the little Serangan office—tastes like mango and lime, I think. The sea’s right there, already sparkling, and our guide (Ayu) is laughing about how early her day started. She checks everyone’s snorkel gear twice. There’s no rush—just the low hum of people shuffling pastries and coffee around, plus that nervous excitement you get before a boat leaves. Maybe it’s just me.

The crossing to Nusa Penida is quick—thirty minutes? The salt spray sticks to your skin but it feels good, like you’re already half in the water. First stop is this lagoon near Lembongan where the water is so clear you can see every shadow on the sand. Fish everywhere, bright blue and yellow. Ayu points out a turtle gliding by and grins when I gasp (I mean, honestly—didn’t expect it so soon). At SD Point the current pulls you along gently; I kept drifting past coral gardens while trying not to swallow half the ocean from smiling too much. There’s always someone nearby if you need help—they make sure of it.

Lunch comes after Wall Bay—honestly, I could’ve stayed floating forever but hunger wins out. The restaurant sits above a white beach with Mount Agung just hanging in the distance behind the infinity pool. My plate was spicy grilled fish, rice that smelled faintly of lemongrass, and something green I still don’t know the name of (Ayu tried to teach me; I forgot immediately). Everyone gets quiet for a minute because that view just stops conversation for a bit.

Later we pile into a van for Kelingking Cliff—the T-Rex one you see all over Instagram—but seeing it in person is different. Wind strong enough to steal your hat if you’re not careful. We squeeze in one last swim at Manta Bay; Ayu times it so there are barely any other boats. Seeing those giant manta rays glide under you… well, my heart was pounding so hard I almost forgot to breathe through my snorkel. It’s strange how calm they look compared to how wild you feel watching them.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Nusa Penida snorkeling and land tour

• Meet at Serangan office
• Enjoy welcome drinks and pastries
• Boat crossing to Nusa Penida
• Snorkel at Bali Hai Lagoon
• Snorkel at SD Point
• Snorkel at Wall Bay
• Lunch with Mount Agung views and pool access
• Car tour to Kelingking Cliff
• Swim with Giant Manta Rays at Manta Bay
• Return to Serangan Harbor
• Hot showers available at office

Top questions

How long does the private boat tour to Nusa Penida take?

The crossing from Serangan to Nusa Penida takes about 30 minutes by boat.

Can beginners join the snorkeling part?

Yes, beginners can snorkel—even non-swimmers get life jackets and support from guides.

Is swimming with manta rays guaranteed?

The tour visits Manta Bay or Manta Point depending on conditions; sightings depend on nature but timing aims for best chances.

What’s included in lunch on this Nusa Penida day trip?

Lunch includes local cuisine at a restaurant with an infinity pool and views of Mount Agung; options may vary daily.

Are hotel pickups available for this private boat tour?

Yes, pickups are available from most Bali areas including Kuta, Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, Sanur, Uluwatu, Tanah Lot, Kerobokan, Jimbaran, Denpasar and Nusa Dua.

Do they provide snorkeling equipment?

All snorkeling equipment is included—quality masks, fins, towels and drinking water provided onboard.

Is underwater photography included?

Yes—underwater photos and videos are taken with a GoPro at no extra charge.

What age restrictions apply for this tour?

The tour isn’t permitted for guests under 8 or over 70 years old or pregnant women over 32 weeks.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from most Bali areas if needed, all entrance tickets for both land and sea stops around Nusa Penida and Lembongan, professional English-speaking snorkeling guides who actually hop in with you (not just watch from the boat), quality gear plus towels and drinking water throughout the trip. Lunch is served at a stylish spot overlooking Mount Agung—with access to an infinity pool—and underwater photos are shared free afterwards before returning by evening transfer.