Everything you need to know about planning a private Gili Islands charter — vessels, cost, season, diving and logistics — answered by our team.
Frequently asked questions
What is included in a fully-crewed Gili Islands yacht charter?
A fully-crewed charter includes the yacht, professional captain, crew, private chef, all meals, non-alcoholic beverages, agreed fuel, snorkeling gear, and onboard water toys like paddleboards and kayaks[5].
Can I arrange diving excursions during my Gili Islands yacht charter?
Yes, Gili Islands yacht charters include diving excursions to encounter colorful coral landscapes and diverse marine life, with specialist guides arranged on request[5].
What activities besides diving are available on a Gili Islands yacht charter?
Besides diving, you can arrange beach bonfires, shore excursions, snorkeling, and use of water toys like paddleboards, kayaks, and inflatables during your Gili Islands yacht charter[5].
What is the best liveaboard option for Gili Islands diving?
The best liveaboard options are luxury motor ships offering top-of-the-line facilities, including dive decks, nitrox, and expert guides, tailored for all experience levels from beginners to technical divers[1][3].
How does a cabin compare to a private room on a Gili Islands liveaboard?
A cabin is a shared or standard room, while a private room offers exclusive space with enhanced amenities; private rooms are ideal for travelers seeking privacy and comfort during multi-day cruises[1][2].
What is the typical cost and itinerary for a Gili Islands liveaboard cruise?
Costs vary by ship class and duration, with itineraries often including Shark Point, Manta Point, and Komodo Island; cruises typically run 3–7 days, departing from Bali or Lombok via fast boat[1][2][5].
When is the best time to book a Gili Islands liveaboard dive trip?
Book between April and October for optimal dry-season conditions with calm seas and visibility over 25 meters; however, liveaboards operate year-round, especially around Gili Trawangan[5][6].
How do I book a Gili Islands liveaboard and what should I expect?
Book through certified operators like ZuBlu or Barefoot Yachts; expect expert dive advice, flexible terms, and access to sites like Shark Point and Manta Point with turtles and sharks on every dive[3][5].
What dive sites are included in a Gili Islands liveaboard itinerary?
Itineraries include Shark Point (drift dive with sharks), Manta Point (turtles and manta rays), Deep Halik, Deep Turbo, Simons Reef, and Takat Malang for deep dives up to 30 meters[5].
Are Gili Islands liveaboards suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, beginner-friendly sites include Manta Point, Halik, Hans Reef, Turtle Point, Meno Bounty, and Meno Wall, all offering shallow entry points and gradual slopes for safe learning[5].
Can I do night dives on a Gili Islands liveaboard?
Yes, popular night dive locations include Meno Wall and Hans Reef, offering unique marine activity under moonlight with guided supervision for safety and enjoyment[5].
What is the best dive season for Gili Islands?
The best dive season is April to November during the dry season, offering calm seas, strong sunlight, and visibility over 25 meters[1]. Water temperatures stay 27–30°C, ideal for comfortable diving year-round[1].
Where can I see turtles in Gili Islands?
Turtles are seen year-round at Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, especially at Halik Reef and turtle cleaning stations[1]. Green and hawksbill turtles frequent coral gardens and drift dives[1].
Are Gili Islands dive sites suitable for beginners?
Yes, Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air offer sloping reefs, coral gardens, and gentle drift dives suitable for all levels[1]. Sites like Sunset Reef and Halik Reef are ideal for beginners[2].
What marine life can I expect in Gili Islands?
Expect green and hawksbill turtles, reef sharks, rays, cuttlefish, batfish, clownfish, shrimp, parrotfish, groupers, and triggerfish[1][2]. Manta rays appear occasionally at Sunset Reef[2].
Do I need certification to dive in Gili Islands?
Certification is required for scuba diving, but Discover Scuba Diving allows beginners to try without prior certification[4]. Open Water certification is recommended for independent dives[4].
How do I reach Gili Islands for a dive trip?
Arrive via Bali (Ngurah Rai Airport) or Lombok (Lombok International Airport), then take a fast boat to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, or Gili Meno[1]. Short rides depart from Bangsal Harbor in Lombok[1].
What is the visibility like in Gili Islands?
Visibility often exceeds 20–30 meters, especially during the dry season from April to November[1][4]. Calm seas and strong sunlight enhance underwater clarity[1].
Are there advanced dive sites in Gili Islands?
Yes, Deep Turbo (40m depth) and Shark Point (18–30m) are advanced sites with strong currents[2]. These suit experienced divers seeking challenging conditions[2].
Can I snorkel near shore in Gili Islands?
Yes, snorkelers encounter turtles, coral reefs, and tropical fish just meters from shore[4]. Gili Islands are a turtle hotspot for both snorkeling and diving[4].