Gili Trawangan Sunset Tour, The island of Gili Trawangan, nestled off the northwest coast of Lombok in Indonesia, is known for its laid-back island vibe, crystal-clear waters and stunning sunsets. With golden-hour hues painting the sky and ocean, a sunset boat tour around the island becomes more than just an activity—it transforms into a memorable sensory experience. Our customized “Sunset Tour – Gili Trawangan” package invites you to savour the magic of twilight over the sea, add in a bit of snorkelling and island-hopping, and enjoy a seamless, well-organised outing that caters to all ages and experience levels.
Why Choose the Gili Trawangan Sunset Tour
There are plenty of ways to enjoy Gili Trawangan—from beach bars and cycling inland to full-day snorkel trips—but the sunset tour offers a unique mix of relaxation, nature and marine adventure. Here’s why it stands out:
- Spectacular light show. As the sun lowers toward the horizon, the sky around Gili Trawangan shifts through shades of gold, orange, pink and purple, reflecting off the sea and creating dramatic silhouettes of palms, boats and the coastline.
- Water & marine life. Unlike a purely shore-based sunset picnic, the boat tour takes you out onto the water—calm, open, shimmering—immersing you in the sea breeze, gentle waves and unobstructed views of the horizon.
- Snorkelling bonus. Many sunset tours include a snorkel stop or two, allowing you to explore underwater coral, colorful fish and even sea turtles before the light fades.
- Effortless logistics. With transport, equipment and guiding all handled for you, you simply need to arrive and enjoy—as your host manages the details.
- Suitable for everyone. Whether you’re solo, a couple or family with children, the tour can be tailored. The slower pace and shorter timeframe make it ideal even if you’re not a seasoned snorkeler or boater.
Tour Overview & Package Details
Duration & Departure Time
The typical tour lasts about 3 to 4 hours, departing mid-afternoon and returning just after sunset. For example: a 15:30 pickup, snorkel around 16:00–17:30, then sail to the west side of Gili Trawangan for sunset at about 17:30–18:30, returning by approximately 18:30–19:00.
Meeting & Pick-Up
Pickup is arranged from your accommodation on Gili Trawangan (or nearby north-Lombok resorts, depending on the provider). You’ll board a boat (often with a glass‐bottom section) and receive a brief safety and snorkelling introduction before departure.
What’s Included
Typical inclusions:
- Private or semi-private boat with experienced skipper
- Snorkelling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins)
- English-speaking guide
- Mineral water and soft drinks onboard
- Glass-bottom boat viewing section or transparent floor portion for marine views
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off (when booked via local operator)
What’s Not Included / Optional Extras
- Tips for crew/guides
- Dinner or food unless specified (some tours include a light BBQ)
- Personal purchases such as snack bars, photos, drinks beyond basic ones
- Travel insurance or transfer to/from Lombok mainland (if staying there)
Inclusions Example
One package lists: glass-bottom boat, snorkel guide, mineral water, snorkel equipment, tax & service included.
Important Notes
- Minimum participants usually 2 persons.
- Suitable for all ages and any day bookings.
- Weather and sea-conditions may alter itinerary or cause reschedule for safety.
Itinerary – What to Expect
Here’s a sample outline you can tailor for your own website:
15:30 – Pickup from hotel or meet at the harbour on Gili Trawangan. You’ll board the boat, enjoy a safety briefing, and receive snorkel equipment.
16:00–17:15 – Sail over to one or more snorkel spots around Gili Meno or Gili Air (or the north-western waters near Gili Trawangan). Explore underwater statues, coral gardens and sea turtles.
17:15–17:30 – After snorkelling, the boat re-positions to the west side of Gili Trawangan—the perfect vantage point for the sunset.
17:30–18:30 – Enjoy the golden hour: relax on the deck, sip a drink, watch the sky and sea turn magical, take photos from various angles.
18:30–19:00 – Return sail through twilight, drop-off at your accommodation or harbour, and conclude the tour.
You may also include optional stops (depending on boat and group size) such as calm bays for floating or simply absorbing the views before heading back.
Why This Location Works So Well
Gili Trawangan’s west-facing orientation offers prime sunset vistas across the Lombok Strait toward Bali and Mt. Agung’s silhouette. The surrounding coral reefs sit close to shore, making snorkelling accessible without days of travel. The relatively calm sea (in most seasons) and shallow coral-fringed waters provide safe settings for families and casual snorkelers alike.
Also, the boat tour offers a fresh vantage: beyond the beach bars and shorefront, you’ll be out on the water where the horizon stretches wide, the light plays on the waves, and the island’s silhouette becomes a frame for nature’s show.
What You’ll See Underwater
While the highlight is the sunset, the underwater component makes this tour especially appealing:
- Underwater statues and art installations. Some snorkel spots near the Gilis feature submerged sculptures—unique visual interest beneath the waves.
- Coral and reef life. Expect colourful coral gardens, reef fish, and occasionally larger marine species.
- Sea turtles. The Gilis are home to green and hawksbill turtles, often seen gliding slowly above the reef or resting on the sand.
- Glass-bottom boat views. Even for non-swimmers or those who prefer to stay dry, the glass-bottom section gives a peek into the marine world beneath.
Adding snorkelling prior to sunset ensures you get a two-part experience: active exploration followed by relaxing nature-watching as dusk falls.
Best Time to Book & Conditions Gili Trawangan Sunset Tour
- Departure time: Mid-afternoon is ideal (typically 15:00–16:00) so you snorkel while there’s still light, then cruise into the sunset.
- Season: Dry season (April–October) tends to offer calmer seas and clearer water, though the Gilis are enjoyable year-round.
- Group size: Smaller groups (4–6 persons) often mean more personal attention and a quieter atmosphere.
- What to bring: Sunglasses, hat, reef-safe sunblock, camera or smartphone (preferably waterproof), towel, swimwear, and some cash for personal needs or tips.
- Fitness & age suitability: The tour is broadly suitable for families, couples and groups of friends. Non-swimmers can still enjoy the boat and sunset without snorkelling.
- Cancellation policy: Most operators allow full refund if cancelled ahead (e.g., 7 days), some charge partial or full fee with shorter notice.
Suggested Pricing & Customisation
While your own pricing will vary (based on boat size, group size, season), here is a rough guide drawn from local offerings:
- IDR 350,000 per person in a small group (up to 5 persons) for a 3-4 hour tour.
- Up to IDR 750,000 per person for smaller parties or premium private trips.
Custom upgrades you may offer:
- Private boat charter for families or special occasions
- Include light BBQ or snacks during sunset sail
- Combine with island hopping – Gili Meno or Gili Air first, then sunset on Gili Trawangan’s west side
- Add photo/video service with GoPro underwater footage for souvenir
- Extend tour into dusk or night sailing for stargazing
Why Book with snorkeling gili trawangan.com ?
We deliver more than just a boat ride—we provide a full experience:
- Seamless transfers. Pickup/drop-off from your hotel or accommodation on Gili Trawangan (or north Lombok if needed).
- Curated comfort. Boats selected for comfort, safety and good vantage for sunset & snorkel.
- Local knowledge. Our guides are skilled at reading sea/current conditions, selecting premium snorkel spots and positioning the boat for the best sunset views.
- Flexibility for you. You can choose shared or private tours, customise add-ons, and select departure times that suit your schedule.
- Eco-conscious. We follow responsible tourism principles—no reef-damage, minimal noise, no waste dumping—and we encourage guests to respect the marine environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: I’m not a strong swimmer. Can I still join the tour?
A: Absolutely. While the snorkelling component is optional (you can stay on the boat and enjoy the view), you’ll still enjoy the cruise, sunset and marine scenery safely.
Q: What happens if the weather is bad?
A: If sea conditions or weather are unsafe, we will reschedule or cancel with full refund. Safety of participants is always top priority.
Q: Is dinner included?
A: Standard tours include light drinks and snorkel gear. If you’d like a full BBQ dinner on the boat or beachside, we can arrange that as an upgrade.
Q: Will we get to see turtles?
A: Yes, while turtle sightings cannot be guaranteed (they are wild animals), the snorkel spots chosen are known turtle-feeding/resting areas, which greatly improves the chance of seeing them.
Q: How far in advance should we book?
A: For peak season (July–August, holiday periods) we recommend booking at least a few days ahead. But even short-notice bookings are often possible, depending on availability.
Q: Can children join?
A: Yes – the tour is suitable for families with children. We recommend life-jackets for younger kids and ensuring they are comfortable with boat travel and the water.
Final Words
Sunset on Gili Trawangan is more than just an end to the day—it’s a transition into a different kind of beauty: the hush of sea and sky, the changing light, the gentle ride of the boat, and the feeling of being present in the moment. Pair that with a snorkel in warm tropical waters, and you have a half-day tour that marks your island holiday with a highlight.
We invite you to step aboard, relax under the sky’s shifting palette, and capture that picture-perfect moment when sun meets sea. Whether you’re seeking a quiet end to your day, a family outing, or a couples’ romantic sail, our Gili Trawangan Sunset Tour offers the blend of nature, comfort and magic you’ve been looking for.
Drop us a message or call today to secure your spot—and let the golden hour become one of your favourite memories in Lombok.
