If you’re considering a snorkeling trip around the Gili Islands from Lombok, the Ozzy Snorkeling 3 Islands tour offers a lively taste of underwater life and scenic beauty. It’s a quick, half-day adventure that promises to let you float among colorful fish, crawl over ancient statues, and perhaps even share the water with a curious sea turtle or two.
What we really like about this tour is its mix of unique stops—especially the underwater statues at Gili Meno and Turtle Point, which add a touch of surrealism to the snorkeling experience. Plus, the glass-bottom boat aspect means you don’t have to get wet to enjoy some spectacular views from above. However, a potential concern is that some travelers have found the group size large, and the amenities a bit rough around the edges, which might affect your comfort and overall enjoyment.
This experience suits travelers looking for an affordable, engaging introduction to Gili’s underwater scene. If you’re not fussed about private or boutique tours, and you’re happy to share the water with a crowd, then this tour might be just right. For those seeking a more personalized or peaceful experience, it’s worth considering the reviews and comparing alternatives.
Key Points
- Vibrant Snorkeling: Swim in some of the world’s clearest, bluest waters.
- Unique Stops: Underwater statues and sea turtles make for memorable encounters.
- Group Size & Comfort: Expect a large group, which can lead to crowded conditions.
- Value for Money: Affordable price, but amenities and experience vary.
- Duration & Flexibility: The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, with flexible cancellation options.
- Practical Tips: Bring waterproof cameras, cash, and be prepared for a busy, energetic trip.
👉 Check out our guide to the 3 Best Tours In Gili Trawangan
Contents
- Key Points
- The Itinerary: A Deep Dive into the Experience
- Snorkeling at Gili Meno’s Underwater Statues
- Turtle Point: A Chance to Swim with Sea Turtles
- Lunch Break and Blue Coral
- Return Journey & Final Views
- What You’ll Love and What to Watch Out For
- Practical Considerations
- Pricing & Value
- Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?
- FAQs
- Final Thoughts
- Our Top Picks in Gili Trawangan
- More Snorkeling Tours in Gili Trawangan
- More Tour Reviews in Gili Trawangan
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Gili Trawangan we have recnetly reviewed
The Itinerary: A Deep Dive into the Experience
The tour starts at the Ozzy Snorkeling Center in Lombok, where you’ll exchange your voucher. The meeting point is easy to find with coordinates provided, right in the heart of the activity hub. From there, you’ll hop aboard a wooden boat — not a glass-bottom boat as some expect, but one with a small window for water views. Expect a lively ride, often with a sizable group, which means space can be tight.
Ready to dive back in? More underwater adventures we cover in Gili Trawangan
Snorkeling at Gili Meno’s Underwater Statues
The first stop is often the most visually striking: the underwater statues of Gili Meno. We loved the way these sculptures, arranged in a big circle, create a fantastical scene beneath the waves. Swimmers can enjoy floating among these human-like figures, which serve as a fascinating artificial reef. Several reviews mention the statues’ enchanting nature, with one traveler noting it as “really beautiful points of snorkeling.” However, some comments suggest the experience can be crowded, making it tricky to find personal space.
Turtle Point: A Chance to Swim with Sea Turtles
Next is Turtle Point, probably the highlight for many. The waters here are famous for their gentle sea turtles, and many travelers find this stop quite rewarding. You’ll see turtles gliding through the water, often close enough to get a good look. The tour includes time to feed fish and observe natural underwater activity, giving a lively glimpse into marine life. Some reviews point out that the visibility can vary, but overall, this is a genuine chance to witness these graceful creatures in their habitat.
Lunch Break and Blue Coral
After the initial snorkeling, you’ll stop for lunch—at your own expense. It’s straightforward, and many travelers appreciate having the flexibility to choose what they eat. Afterward, the tour aims to visit Blue Coral, a site famed for its expansive coral beds. Unfortunately, some guests have reported that this part was skipped or cut short, which can be disappointing if you’re eager to see vibrant coral formations.
More Great Tours NearbyReturn Journey & Final Views
The last stop is usually the Blue Coral site, where you can gaze at the expansive coral formations and finish your water adventure. The return ride offers a chance to relax and reflect, often with lively chatter about the day’s highlights.
What You’ll Love and What to Watch Out For
What’s great about this tour is the mix of artificial and natural underwater sights. The statues are a surreal addition that adds a different dimension to snorkeling, and the chance to see sea turtles is always a favorite among travelers. The boat ride itself offers excellent water views, and the flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this a low-risk choice.
That said, some reviews highlight issues with the boat’s condition and the crowded nature of the tour. One traveler remarked that the boat was “in very bad shape,” with engines stopping frequently, which could impact comfort and safety. Others noted that the large group made it difficult to enjoy the experience fully, with participants having to contend with flippers and elbows in tight spaces.
Practical Considerations
The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, so it’s a half-day commitment that fits well into a broader itinerary. It’s suitable for most travelers able to handle a boat ride and light snorkeling; however, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or recent surgical recoverers. Children under 1 year and larger guests over 127 kg might also find the experience less comfortable.
Pricing & Value
The tour is priced affordably, offering a budget-friendly way to see some of the Gili Islands’ highlights. While the water activities themselves are the main draw, keep in mind that lunch is at your own expense, and some guests have expressed that the amenities could be better. If you’re looking for a low-cost, social, and somewhat adventurous water outing, this tour delivers decent value.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?
This snorkeling adventure is best suited for travelers who are happy sharing a boat with many others and are looking for an inexpensive introduction to the Gili Islands’ underwater life. It’s ideal if you want to tick off sights like underwater statues and sea turtles without breaking the bank. If you’re someone who values quiet, private, or boutique tours, or if you prefer calm waters and less crowding, then you might want to explore other options.
People who enjoy lively group experiences, don’t mind some rough conditions, and want to maximize what they see in a short time will find this tour engaging. It’s especially good for first-timers or those new to snorkeling, as it covers iconic spots and offers a straightforward, accessible adventure.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable with light snorkeling and boat rides. The tour is designed as an introductory experience with easy access to popular spots.
Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
It’s best to bring a waterproof camera, towel, and cash—the tour supplies are not specified, and having your own gear ensures a comfortable experience.
Can I see sea turtles during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a stop at Turtle Point, where many travelers have had the chance to swim with sea turtles.
Is the boat glass-bottom?
No, the boat is wooden with a small window. The “glass bottom” term may be a misnomer, but you can still enjoy water views from the boat.
How crowded will it be?
Expect a large group, which can make the experience a bit crowded, especially at popular stops like the statues and turtle site.
Are there any restrictions for participants?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility or visual impairments, recent surgeries, babies under 1 year, or those over 127 kg or 136 kg.
What should I do if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Is lunch included?
No, you’ll need to pay for your own lunch at the stops. Many guests find this flexible and appreciate choosing their favorite snacks.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4.5 hours, with departure times depending on availability.
Ozzy Snorkeling 3 Islands Visit Baby Turtles
“we waren met teveel. altijd moeten opletten om geen voet in je gezicht te krijgen. het was echt niet zo aangenaam. bovendien waren er slechts weini…”
Final Thoughts
The Ozzy Snorkeling 3 Islands and Baby Turtles tour offers a lively, budget-friendly way to experience some of the best underwater sights around the Gili Islands. Its highlights — from floating statues to gentle turtles — make it appealing for first-time snorkelers or those wanting a quick, fun adventure. The large group size and some wear and tear on the boat are factors to consider, but for many, the experience delivers enough memorable moments to justify the price.
If you’re seeking a relaxed, personalized experience or have specific needs, it might be worth exploring private tours or smaller operators. But if lively group outings and accessible prices are your priority, this tour could become one of your favorite Gili memories.
In summary, this tour is best suited for travelers wanting an affordable, engaging, and straightforward way to see some of Gili’s underwater highlights. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with some crowding and rougher boat conditions, and you value the chance to swim among turtles and underwater statues in a fun, social setting. Just remember to manage expectations about amenities and consider whether the large group might impact your enjoyment.
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