Secret Gili Private Snorkeling Boat Trip: The Coolest Way to Explore Lombok’s Hidden Paradises!
If you think Lombok is only about the famous Gili Trawangan, think again! The southwest coast of the island hides a group of untouched islands known as the “Secret Gilis.”
If you want to skip the crowded tourist spots and feel like you have an entire tropical island to yourself, booking a Secret Gili Private Snorkeling boat trip is the absolute best thing you can do on your vacation. Grab your friends, get your playlist ready, and let’s dive into why this trip is a total must-do!
What is a Private Snorkeling Boat Trip?
Instead of sharing a slow, crowded public ferry with strangers, a private trip gives you your own traditional outrigger boat (called a perahu) and a local captain for the whole day.
You get to choose when to leave, how long you want to spend swimming, and which island you want to visit next. It is completely flexible, super chill, and perfect for snapping aesthetic photos without random people in the background!
The Epic Islands You Will Visit
Most Secret Gili Private Snorkeling boat trips take you on an island-hopping adventure across three main hidden gems:
- Gili Nanggu (The Aquarium). This island is famous for having some of the clearest water in Lombok. The ocean is so calm and packed with coral reefs that as soon as you step into the water, hundreds of colorful fish (and even Nemo!) will swim right up to your goggles.
- Gili Sudak (The Lunch Spot). After working up an appetite from snorkeling, your captain will steer the boat here. It’s a flat, peaceful island where you can eat fresh, grilled seafood with your toes buried in the sand.
- Gili Kedis (The Tiny Paradise). This island is literally the size of a tennis court! It’s a tiny mound of white sand with a couple of trees in the middle of the blue ocean. It is the ultimate spot for epic drone shots or beach relaxing.
Detail itinerary:
- Pick-up will be at the lobby at 08.30 AM
- Drive to Tawun harbor in southwest Lombok for about 2 hours, and enjoy the beautiful landscape along the way
- Boat ride to Gili Nanggu, will see an awesome view from the boat with a little cute house in the middle of the sea.
- Snorkeling and relaxing on Gili Nanggu for 2 hours
- Continue to Gili Sudak, another white sandy beach and lunch will be prepared at a local restaurant
- Heading to Gili Kedis about 5 5-minute boat ride, and available activities are snorkeling or relaxing on beautiful white sand beaches. The island is famous as a honeymoon island
- Return to the harbor then transfer to the hotel
Price IDR 1.200.000 per person ( minimum 2 people to book the tour )
Inclusive of:
- Private car
- Mineral water, season local fruits
- English-speaking guide/driver
- Private boat
- Snorkeling gear (mask and fins)
- Entrance fees
- Parking fee
Price does not include:
- Travel Insurance
- Lunch and soft drink
- Tips and personal expenses
Why Secret Gili Private Snorkeling boat trip is Perfect for you?
- Wild Sea Turtles. If you are lucky, your guide will know the exact secret spots to find wild sea turtles swimming along the deeper reefs.
- Total Privacy. You can blast your favorite music on the boat, jump off the roof into the clear water, and enjoy the day entirely with your family or friends.
- No Crowds. Unlike other famous beaches, these islands are super quiet. It genuinely feels like you are starring in a survival movie on a deserted island!
Quick Tips for the Perfect Trip
- Bring Underwater Cameras: You will definitely want a GoPro or a waterproof phone pouch because the fish here are incredibly photogenic.
- Sunscreen is a Must: You will be out on the open water for 4 to 6 hours, so make sure to protect your skin from the tropical sun.
- Respect the Reefs: When snorkeling, never step on the coral or throw plastic into the ocean. Let’s keep these secret islands beautiful!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Where does the boat trip start from?
A: Most private boats depart from Tawun Harbor or Sekotong beach in southwest Lombok. It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to drive to the harbor from main tourist areas like Kuta or Mataram.
Q: Is snorkeling gear included in the private boat trip?
A: Yes! Standard packages usually include a life jacket, mask, and snorkel. If you need fins (flippers), it’s always a good idea to double-check with your boat coordinator before you set off.
Q: Can we bring our own food and drinks on the boat?
A: Absolutely. Since it’s a private trip, you can pack a cooler with your favorite snacks, soda, and water. You will also stop at Gili Sudak for lunch, where you can buy amazing local seafood.
Q: How long does the whole trip last?
A: A typical secret island hopping tour lasts between 4 to 6 hours. You usually start around 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM to get the clearest water and best sunlight for snorkeling.