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Snorkeling in Bora Bora : The Ultimate Bucket List Experience 2023

Let’s Escape to the ultimate tropical paradise and crystal clear waters of Bora Bora. Today we will discuss Snorkeling in Bora Bora. Bora Bora is a snorkeler’s paradise, with its colourful coral reef and rich marine life. Explore the Coral Gardens’ shallow waters, swim with sharks at Shark Bay, or choose a private and peaceful area on the Outer Reef. Bora Bora is the ideal destination for your next snorkeling vacation with Island Vacations, with so many stunning snorkelling spots to select from.

snorkeling in bora bora , best spots and cost

French Polynesia’s Society Islands contain the idyllic tropical island of Bora Bora, which is renowned for its magnificent overwater bungalows, clean waters, and lush surroundings. However, a lot of people are unaware that it’s also a popular snorkeling location.

A magnificent coral reef teeming with a wide variety of aquatic life encircles the island. Snorkeling in Bora Bora has something for everyone, from vibrant tropical fish to spectacular manta rays.

Parrotfish, angelfish, and triggerfish are just a few of the many fish species that may be found in the waters near Bora Bora. During their migration season, you can also see sharks, sea turtles, and even the occasional humpback whale. With a wide variety of bright coral species and an abundance of sea urchins, anemones, and starfish, the coral reef itself is also breathtaking to behold.

About Snorkeling in Bora Bora

The opportunity to snorkel at Bora Bora should not be missed. You’ll be able to appreciate the island’s natural beauty from a different angle while also having the chance to explore the spectacular coral reef and marine life. Everyone can find something to enjoy in Bora Bora’s snorkeling possibilities, regardless of experience level. Bora Bora is the ideal location to explore the undersea world because of its clean water, pleasant climate, and ease of accessibility.

7 Best Snorkeling Spots in Bora Bora

Some of the world’s most breathtaking snorkeling locations can be found at Bora Bora, and each one provides a special and unforgettable experience. There is a spot for you in Bora Bora, whether you’re searching for a straightforward and accessible location or one that requires more effort and adventure. The following is a list of the greatest snorkeling locations in Bora Bora that you should not miss:

snorkeling in bora bora
  1. Coral Gardens : is the ideal location for novice snorkelers or those who want a more laid-back experience. The Coral Gardens are close to the main island and are situated in the lagoon’s shallow waters. An abundance of colourful coral and a huge diversity of tropical fish can be found here.
  2. Shark Bay: Visit Shark Bay for a more thrilling experience. This location is well-known for its shark sightings, as the name would imply. Although there is no assurance that you will see a shark, the possibility of doing so increases the excitement of the event.
  3. Outer Reef: Visit the outer reef for a more private and tranquil snorkeling experience. This area, which is farther from the main island, provides an opportunity to witness a wider variety of marine life, such as bigger fish and dolphins.
  4. The inner reef provides a fantastic opportunity to witness a range of tropical fish species and some of the most stunning coral structures. It is a fantastic destination for snorkelers of all skill levels, including kids and beginners, because of its position.
  5. Anau: This location on the island’s western side provides a more difficult snorkeling experience. The payoff is worth it because you’ll get to observe a variety of marine species, including sharks and rays, despite the fact that the currents here may be rather strong.
  6. Teavanui Pass: A tiny strait between two motus (small islands), Teavanui Pass is renowned as one of the best snorkeling locations in Bora Bora. Here, the water is crystal clear and the marine life is teeming. Manta rays, sharks, and schools of tropical fish can all be seen there.
  7. Lagoonarium: The Lagoonarium is a marine park where snorkelers can interact with various aquatic animals, such as sharks, rays, and turtles. Due to the quiet and shallow water, it’s an excellent location for snorkelers of all skill levels.
best spost to snorkel in bora bora

Both novice and expert snorkelers will love Bora Bora because there are so many excellent places to go snorkeling. Check out as many places as you can while you’re there because each one delivers a distinctive and remarkable experience.

How to reach Snorkeling Spots in Bora Bora

There are many snorkeling locations in Bora Bora, and getting there is generally not difficult.

  1. Boat tours: Taking a boat trip is one of the most common ways to get to the snorkeling locations. These excursions frequently include lodging on the main island, transportation to and from it, equipment rental, and a guide. A picnic lunch or additional activities, like as shark and ray feeding, are included in some boat cruises. You can reserve these tours through a number of tour providers or through your hotel.
  2. Rental gear is available from a number of stores on the main island if you wish to independently explore the snorkeling locations. A few rental businesses also provide delivery services to the various snorkeling locations.
  3. Guided tours: Taking a guided tour is a fantastic way to get to the snorkeling locations. Transportation, equipment rental, and a guide who will show you the best areas and point out the marine species are often included in these tours.
  4. Kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding: You can rent a kayak or a stand-up paddle board and paddle to the snorkeling places if you want to get there on your own and have some fun while doing so.
  5. Private boat: You can rent a private boat with a skipper to take you to the snorkeling locations of your choice if you want a more individualised and intimate experience.
how to reach snorkeling spots in bora bora

In order to have a safe and pleasurable experience, make sure to thoroughly consider your alternatives before choosing how to go to the snorkeling locations.

Snorkeling in Bora Bora Cost

Depending on the kind of experience you want, snorkeling in Bora Bora can cost different amounts. Here is a ballpark figure for the typical cost of a few well-liked choices:

  • Renting snorkeling gear in Bora Bora can cost anything from $10 to $25 per day, depending on the equipment’s quality and the business where you rent it.
  • Guided tours: Depending on the tour company and the type of tour, guided snorkeling tours can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 per person.
  • Boat trips: Depending on the tour provider and the sort of tour, boat tours that include lodging, equipment rental, and a guide can range in price from about $75 to $200 per person.
  • Private boat: The price of a full-day or half-day private boat cruise can range from $1000 to $1500.
  • Standing up or kayaking Paddle boarding: A half-day rental of a kayak or stand-up paddle board will run you $30 to $50, while a full-day rental can run you $50 to 80.
snorkeling gear rental in bora bora cost

It’s important to note that these prices are estimates and could change based on the season and demand. Additionally, you can save money on transportation if you’re staying in an overwater bungalow because certain snorkelling locations are close to your house. Before choosing, it’s usually a good idea to browse about, compare prices, and account for any unforeseen expenses, such as travel to and from the main island, parking fees, or additional activities.

7 Tips for Snorkeling in Bora Bora

The following advice will help you get the most out of your snorkeling trip in Bora Bora:

  1. Safety: Before going out, make sure you’re at ease in the water and that you’re wearing a life jacket. Additionally, it’s crucial to be mindful of the weather and currents while snorkeling, as well as to never go alone.
  2. Marine Life Identification: Carry a book on marine life identification or download an app to your phone. This will assist you in recognising the many fish species and other marine creatures that you come across when snorkelling.
  3. Photography: Invest in a waterproof camera or a waterproof phone case if you intend to snap pictures while snorkeling. Always be aware of your surroundings when taking images and keep in mind that you should never touch or bother marine creatures.
  4. Snorkelers should always be aware of the marine life and their surroundings, avoiding contact with coral and marine life, and respecting the environment by not damaging the natural ecosystem.
  5. If you’re on a guided tour, pay attention to your guide’s directions and suggestions. The best locations and the most intriguing marine life can be pointed out by them.
  6. Go with the flow: Try your best to follow the currents and the tide’s direction as much as you can. Your snorkeling experience will be more pleasurable and less taxing as a result.
  7. When snorkeling, timing is key because the water is clearest and the marine life is most active during high tide. When the tide is low and the water is muddy and difficult to see, try to avoid snorkeling.
snorkeling tips in bora bora

You may maximise your snorkeling in Bora Bora experience by using the advice in this article, and you’ll have a safe, pleasurable, and unforgettable time discovering the island’s stunning coral reef and marine life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bora Bora is a tropical paradise renowned for its magnificent overwater bungalows, clean waters, and lush surroundings. However, a lot of people are unaware that it’s also a popular snorkeling location. The island is surrounded by a lush coral reef that is home to a wide variety of marine life, including majestic manta rays and colourful tropical fish. No matter if you’re an experienced or novice snorkeler, Bora Bora has a variety of snorkeling locations to select from.

The snorkeling locations in Bora Bora are genuinely exceptional and provide a remarkable experience, ranging from the shallow and accessible Coral Gardens to the more difficult and adventurous Anau. Additionally, the Aquarium artificial underwater observatory provides a truly exceptional snorkeling experience that must not be missed.

There are multiple ways to go to the various snorkeling locations, including boat excursions, equipment rentals, guided tours, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and private boats. Although these rates are an approximation, they may change depending on the time of year and demand. The cost of snorkeling in Bora Bora can vary depending on the kind of experience you’re looking for.

You may maximise your snorkeling in Bora Bora experience by using the advice given and have a safe, pleasurable, and unforgettable time discovering the island’s stunning coral reef and marine life. We strongly advise you to arrange your own vacation to this lovely island so you can see the incredible marine life for yourself.

Image Credit @ Pixabay

Faq on Bora Bora Snorkeling

What time of year is best for snorkeling in Bora Bora?

The best time to do snorkeling in Bora Bora is from May to October, when the water is warm and visibility is good. But the island can be seen at any time of the year, and the weather is usually nice all year.

Does Bora Bora offer snorkeling tours with a guide?

Yes, Bora Bora has a lot of snorkelling tours with a guide. Most of the time, these tours include transportation, equipment rental, and a guide who will show you where to go and tell you about the marine life.

What should I bring with me to Bora Bora if I want to go snorkeling?

When you go snorkelling in Bora Bora, you should bring a high-quality mask, fins, and snorkel, as well as reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, and a waterproof camera or phone case.

Is it safe to do snorkeling in Bora Bora with sharks?

Yes, snorkelling with sharks in Bora Bora is safe. Most of the sharks in Bora Bora are reef sharks, which aren’t known to be dangerous to people. But you should keep in mind that these are wild animals and always do what your guide tells you to do.

Are there any places where kids can snorkel safely?

Yes, there are places to snorkel where kids can go, like the Coral Gardens and the Inner Reef. These places are in shallow water and give you a chance to see many different kinds of tropical fish.

Do you need to know how to snorkel to enjoy snorkeling in Bora Bora?

No, you don’t need to know how to snorkel before you go snorkelling in Bora Bora. Many of the snorkeling spots are easy to get to and good for people who have never done it before.

Can you snorkel in Bora Bora from the beach?

Yes, you can snorkel in Bora Bora from the beach. Some of the best places to snorkel from the shore are near the hotels on the main island and on the small islands (motus) that surround the main island.

How much does it cost on average to snorkel in Bora Bora?

How much it costs to snorkel in Bora Bora depends on what kind of experience you want. A boat tour that includes getting there, renting gear, and having a guide can cost anywhere from $75 to $200 per person on average.

Can I rent equipment to snorkel in Bora Bora?

Yes, you can rent the gear you need to snorkel in Bora Bora. On the main island, there are a number of shops where you can rent masks, fins, and snorkels, among other things. Some rental shops will also take you to the different places where you can snorkel.

When I snorkel in Bora Bora, what kinds of marine life can I expect to see?

Bora Bora has a lot of different kinds of marine life, like tropical fish, sharks, rays, turtles, eels, and many different kinds of coral. Some of the most commonly seen fish include parrotfish, surgeonfish, and angel fish.

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