The routes worth taking
The best half-day trip from Lekki is a boat from Five Cowries Terminal (Falomo) or Tarkwa jetty across to Tarkwa Bay or Ilashe — 20 minutes each way, $12 to $25 shared, $80 to $150 private return. For a full-day, take a boat down the lagoon to Epe fish market and back, about $180 private for four people, with a stop for grilled catfish at $10 a plate. Sunset cruises around Banana Island run 90 minutes for $60 to $100 per person on shared cruises.
Private charters and party boats
Party boat operators like Tarzan Marine, Boat Ride Nigeria and Wavez do 4-hour charters for $300 to $600 depending on boat size, usually 8 to 20 guests with a DJ, drinks and a stop at a private beach. Sunday is booked out two weeks ahead in dry season. Life jackets — insist on them, some operators skip. Check the boat has a working radio and shade. Go with a driver who tells you no in bad weather, not one who takes your money.
What to watch out for
Do not board at unofficial jetties — the Falomo, Tarkwa and Ikoyi Marina jetties are the safe embarkation points. Weather cancels routinely between June and September; don’t book non-refundable. Bring cash for tips and food at the destination beach, cards do not work on the water. Sunscreen is essential — the lagoon glare adds up quickly and the equator sun burns pale skin in 20 minutes.
Good to know
Can I book a boat trip at short notice?+
For a shared boat to Tarkwa, just show up at the jetty by 10am. For private charters and sunset cruises, book 48 hours ahead via Instagram — most operators run on WhatsApp bookings. Weekend prices are 30% higher than weekday.
Are the boats safe?+
The bigger operators with fibreglass boats and life jackets are fine. Avoid the small wooden boats offered around Lekki Conservation Centre and unofficial jetties, especially in the rainy season. Sea state on the Atlantic side is much rougher than the lagoon.