Private Half-Day Snorkeling Tour by Boat

About This Experience

The trip starts with pickup from your accommodation, usually by boat; vacation-rental guests are collected from the most convenient dock. Over 3.5 hours (210 minutes) the guide aims to visit 4 to 5 separate snorkel spots, chosen around what you want to see and the conditions on the day. Because the boat is yours, you decide how long to stay at each spot, with a cruise across the lagoon between stops and a drop-off back at your accommodation at the end.

The usual targets are manta rays, eagle rays, a natural coral garden and a stop on the outer reef where sharks are often seen. Moray eels, barracuda and reef fish are also possible. All animals are seen in their natural setting, and the listing states that the crew does not feed wildlife of any kind. That means sightings depend on the day: one guest describes the captain waiting patiently at a cleaning station until a manta showed up, which is the kind of flexibility a private boat allows, but no species is guaranteed.

This suits couples, families and small groups who want the boat to themselves and a guide who adjusts the route. It is rated 5.0 from 126 reviews. The trade-offs are price and comfort: $650 for the boat is a lot for two people, there is no lunch, and the boat has no restroom on board. The listing asks for at least moderate fitness, and you climb in and out of the water by ladder. If you want the same animals for less, a shared half-day boat costs a fraction per person.

The $650 price covers the boat and guide for up to four people, snorkeling gear, water and light refreshments, round-trip pickup and a 10% discount at Deep Sea Pearls. A small cabin keeps your belongings dry and gives shelter in bad weather.

Highlights

• Set your own pace at 4 to 5 snorkel spots over 3.5 hours
• Look for manta rays and eagle rays at spots the guide picks for the day
• Snorkel a natural coral garden with reef fish and the occasional moray eel
• Stop on the outer reef where reef sharks are often seen
• Cruise across the lagoon between stops at your own pace
• See wildlife on its own terms, with no feeding of any kind

What's Included

• ✓ Private boat and professional guide, English or French
• ✓ Snorkeling equipment
• ✓ Water and light refreshments
• ✓ Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or nearest dock
• ✓ 10% discount on purchases at Deep Sea Pearls
• ✓ Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure

Not Included

• Snacks (listed as an exclusion; light refreshments are included)
• Restroom on board
• Lunch

What to Bring

• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Hat and sunglasses
• Swimsuit and a light cover-up
• Underwater camera
• Any snacks you want during the trip

Good to Know & Caveats

• The $650 price is for the boat with up to four people; check with the operator for larger groups.
• There is no restroom on board, so plan around a 3.5-hour trip.
• Mantas, eagle rays and sharks are aimed for but never guaranteed, and the crew does not feed any wildlife.
• Travelers should have at least moderate fitness; getting in and out of the water is by ladder.
• Infants sit on an adult's lap. The route can change with weather and conditions.

Meeting Point

Pickup is from your Bora Bora accommodation, usually by boat. If you stay in a vacation rental, you are collected from the most convenient dock for your location.