An afternoon with the reef sharks

About this experience

This is a boat trip, with no jet ski. A motorboat takes you across the lagoon to several snorkel stops. One is near the barrier reef, over a coral garden full of fish. Blacktip reef sharks are the highlight, and the listing says later stops can bring sea turtles, dolphins, leopard rays or manta rays, depending on the weather and the season.

It is an eco tour, and the listing is honest about what that means. The crew does not feed the animals, and sightings are not guaranteed. If no animals show up, there is no refund. Blacktip reef sharks are the most common sharks in the lagoon, so they are the best bet. The Bora Bora shark and ray area factsheet also lists pink whiprays, spotted eagle rays and reef mantas.

Food and drinks are included, but the listing does not say what, so think snacks. Mask, snorkel and fins are on the boat. The listing does not give an age limit or a group size, and says the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments.

• Several snorkel stops on an afternoon boat trip
• Blacktip reef sharks and stingrays in their own habitat
• A coral garden near the barrier reef
• A chance of turtles, eagle rays or mantas, by season
• Snorkel gear, food and drinks included

How it runs

1. AfternoonPickup

   Pickup on Bora Bora. The listing asks you to check details for your date.

2. On the boatBriefing

   A safety briefing and your snorkel gear before the first stop.

3. Stop 1Reef sharks and rays

   The boat stops where blacktip reef sharks and stingrays are found, and you snorkel with them.

4. Stop 2The coral garden

   A stop near the barrier reef over a coral garden full of fish.

5. Later stopsWhat the day brings

   Depending on weather and season, turtles, eagle rays or mantas. Nothing is promised.

6. EndBack to land

   The boat returns after about 2.5 hours.

Blacktip reef sharksThe coral garden

What's included

Who it suits

What guests say

Tips before you book

• Book the classic jet ski loop in the morning and this in the afternoon for a full day on the water.
• Keep your hands to yourself in the water. Touching or chasing the animals is not allowed.
• Off Matira, a large reef area is now closed to all activity. Read about the new no-go reserve off Matira.
• Wear a rash vest. The afternoon sun on the water is strong.

Read next:

• Sharks and rays
• Travel essentials

Frequently asked questions

Compare with

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