A few weeks ago, I returned to Gili Trawangan. Although it wasn’t my first visit, this trip with Gili Trawangan Tour and Travel offered a completely new perspective. Gili Trawangan has an infectious energy, and its underwater world remains one of the strongest attractions for anyone who loves the ocean.
The day started around 9:00 AM when I arrived at the agreed meeting point. The staff from Gili Trawangan Tour and Travel welcomed me with warm smiles and snorkeling equipment that was exceptionally clean and well-prepared. While waiting for other participants, we chatted about the current conditions that day a small detail that made me feel safe, as it showed how much they prioritize safety.
At exactly 10:30 AM, we boarded the iconic glass-bottom boat. The vessel was very well-maintained, and the glass panel was so clear that I could already see the seabed even before jumping into the water. As the boat moved away from the busy shores of Trawangan, the sea breeze and the distant view of Mount Rinjani created a truly majestic atmosphere.
The atmosphere on the boat was lively and fun. Our guide was not only knowledgeable but also entertaining. He explained the history of the famous underwater statues and shared useful tips on proper swimming techniques to conserve energy. We also exchanged stories with travelers from different countries, making the short journey to the first spot feel warm and friendly.
Our first stop was the Bask Nest Underwater Statues in Gili Meno. Witnessing 48 life sized human sculptures arranged in a circle beneath the sea was both poetic and magical.
These statues are not just ordinary installations. They were created by Jason deCaires Taylor, a British underwater sculptor known for his works around the world. He designed these sculptures not only for artistic purposes but also as part of marine conservation efforts. The special materials used allow corals and marine organisms to grow on their surfaces, turning the statues into a “new home” for underwater life. Knowing this story made me see the installation not just as a tourist attraction, but as a symbol of harmony between art and nature.
After that, we headed to Turtle Point in Gili Trawangan. It didn’t take long for our guide to spot a large green sea turtle calmly feeding on seagrass at the seabed. Watching it slowly swim to the surface to breathe was a moment that never fails to amaze me.
Finally, we visited the Blue Coral Garden in Gili Air, where rare blue coral formations serve as a habitat for thousands of colorful small fish.
Around 1:00 PM, after spending hours in the water, we docked at Gili Air for a break. Compared to Trawangan, Gili Air feels much more laid-back. We enjoyed lunch at a beachfront restaurant, savoring special fried rice and fresh coconut water. The soft white sand and shaded surroundings made it the perfect place to recharge before continuing the journey.
During our break, I had the chance to chat with several cidomo drivers (the traditional horse carts of the Gili Islands). They shared stories about local efforts to preserve coral reefs through rehabilitation programs. Hearing about their dedication to protecting the environment made me appreciate even more the beauty I had just witnessed underwater.
Although there are many operators on the island, this team stands out because of:
Around 3:30 PM, our snorkeling trip came to an end as we returned to the Trawangan harbor. The journey back was accompanied by relaxing music drifting from the beach. I stepped off the boat with a full heart and slightly sun kissed skin, silently promising myself to return to this little paradise once again.
