Boracay: Island Hopping, Snorkeling Tour with Lunch(Joiners)

Introduction

Our review explores a popular Boracay Island Hopping, Snorkeling Tour with Lunch, available for around $28 per person. If you’re looking for a way to explore Boracay’s stunning coastline without breaking the bank, this tour might fit the bill. It promises a mix of beach hopping, marine life encounters, and some fun activities—all wrapped into a manageable half-day experience.

What we like about this tour is its focus on authentic beach experiences and affordable pricing. You’ll visit beautiful beaches like Puka Beach and Ilig-iligan Beach, snorkel in Crystal Garden, and even try some cliff jumping at Magic Island. The inclusion of a buffet lunch and a relaxing hot bath makes it a well-rounded, value-packed outing. That said, a key consideration is that some parts of the experience, such as optional fees for certain sites, might add to the total cost or complicate the schedule.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to see Boracay’s highlights without the fuss of planning every detail. It’s ideal for first-timers, beach lovers, and snorkelers eager to get a taste of Boracay’s marine life and scenic spots in just a few hours. But if you prefer personalized or fully guided luxury trips, you might want to consider other options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price offers good value for a half-day island adventure.
• Snorkeling gear and life vests are included, making it easy to enjoy marine life.
• Multiple popular beaches and attractions are covered in one tour.
• Optional site fees at spots like Crystal Cove and Magic Island can increase total costs.
• Tour includes lunch and a relaxing hot bath, adding to the overall experience.
• Some reviews mention logistical hiccups like delays or extra costs, so flexibility is key.

Exploring Boracay on a Half-Day Tour

This Boracay island hopping tour is designed to give visitors a comprehensive snapshot of the island’s most photogenic and fun spots. It’s a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxed beach time, ideal for travelers on a tight schedule or those who prefer a structured experience.

You’ll start the day with hotel pickup, which is included, but keep in mind some reviews mention initial delays or extra charges for transport. Once on the boat, the pace is relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and take photos. The tour covers several beaches and islands, each with its own unique charm.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Puka Beach and Ilig-iligan Beach

The tour kicks off with a visit to Puka Beach, famous for its shell-studded shores and laid-back vibe. It’s a prime spot for relaxing, soaking up the sun, and collecting souvenirs. Then you’ll move to Ilig-iligan Beach, known for its snorkeling area. While the tour includes snorkeling gear and life vests, you should be aware that snorkeling fees at Ilig-iligan Beach and Crocodile Island are approximately PHP100 per person, payable on-site.

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Coral Garden and Crocodile Island

Next up is the Coral Garden, where we loved the clarity of the waters and the variety of marine life visible just beneath the surface. It’s a good spot for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. The boat then heads to Crocodile Island, another popular snorkeling site, but note that fees apply here as well. The reef is lively with colorful fish and corals, making it a highlight for snorkelers.

Crystal Cove

Crystal Cove is a scenic stop offering stunning views, swimming, and picture-taking opportunities. Entrance fees here are around PHP300, and you’ll want your camera ready for the panoramic vistas. The site provides a view deck, which is perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy shots, and a chance for a refreshing swim.

Magic Island: Cliff Jumping & Swimming

For those seeking a splash of adrenaline, Magic Island is the stop for cliff jumping and swimming. The site is known for its spectacular views and the thrill of jumping into clear waters. Entrance fees are about PHP250, and although optional, many travelers found this to be one of the most memorable parts of the day.

Hot Bath Kawa Experience

After a busy day, the tour concludes with an unusual treat—a hot bath kawa. This traditional Filipino bathing experience involves soaking in a warm, herbal-infused water, perfect for relaxing tired muscles and unwinding before heading back to your hotel.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

While the tour is advertised as lasting 4 hours, actual times can vary based on weather, group size, and the pace of the stops. The entire experience includes free snorkeling gear, life vests, and a buffet lunch designed to diversify your taste buds. The lunch is described as a seafood barbecue, though some travelers have remarked it’s an outdoor buffet, which still offers a decent meal after a morning of activity.

Transportation logistics are important to note: hotel pickup is included, but guests are responsible for e-trike fares, and some reviews mention delays or extra costs. The tour’s live guides speak English and Tagalog, adding a local touch that enhances the experience with cultural insights.

Weighing the Value

At $28, this tour offers a cost-effective way to explore Boracay’s key spots in a short time. Included amenities like snorkeling gear, lunch, and the kawa bath increase its value, especially for budget-conscious travelers. However, additional fees for snorkeling sites and attractions can add up, so budget accordingly.

The occasional logistical hiccups, such as delays or extra charges for transport, remind us to be flexible. Still, the opportunity to visit beaches like Puka and Ilig-iligan, snorkel at Coral Garden, and experience Magic Island’s thrill are all big draws. The tour’s structure means you won’t miss out on Boracay’s highlights, but you should be prepared for some optional costs.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want an affordable, well-organized introduction to Boracay’s beaches and marine life. It’s perfect for those on a tight schedule, first-time visitors, or anyone looking for a family-friendly adventure with a good mix of relaxation and active fun.

If you’re seeking more personalized or exclusive experiences, or if you’re very particular about timing and fees, you might prefer to plan separate activities. But for a manageable snapshot of Boracay’s top spots, this tour hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

This Boracay island hopping tour offers a solid balance of scenic beauty, marine adventure, and cultural experience, all at an accessible price. The stops at beaches like Puka, Ilig-iligan, and Crystal Cove highlight the island’s natural charm, while snorkeling in Coral Garden and Crocodile Island gives you a peek into vibrant undersea life.

The inclusion of lunch and the kawa bath makes it feel like a complete day out, especially considering its affordability. While some travelers report minor hiccups like delays or extra fees, these don’t detract significantly from the overall experience. It remains a great choice for travelers looking for a fun, active, and budget-friendly adventure on Boracay.

This tour is ideal for those who value stunning views, beach relaxation, and a taste of Boracay’s marine world, all wrapped up in a well-organized package. Just remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, and a sense of adventure—and be ready to enjoy one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful islands in a lively, easygoing way.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes snorkeling gear, life vests, a buffet lunch, hot kawa bath, tour guide, and insurance.

Are there additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes. Snorkeling fees at Crocodile Island and Ilig-iligan Beach are PHP100 each per person. Entrance fees at Crystal Cove and Magic Island are PHP300 and PHP250, respectively. A foreign tourist fee of PHP200 also applies.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is advertised as about 4 hours, but actual timing can vary depending on weather and group size.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup is included. However, guests are responsible for e-trike fares, which can vary.

Can non-swimmers join?
Yes, non-swimmers can participate, but they should stay close to the boat and use provided gear for snorkeling.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera for photos.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, altitude sickness, or those over 70-80 years old.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the schedule; some delays or modifications might occur. Refunds are available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

Is lunch suitable for all dietary preferences?
The lunch is a seafood barbecue and outdoor buffet, so check with the provider if you have specific dietary needs.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve online with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your plans.

In essence, this tour offers a practical, fun way to enjoy Boracay’s beaches and marine life without fuss or big expense. It’s a good choice for first-timers, beach lovers, and anyone wanting a lively, scenic day out on this beautiful island.

You can check availability for your dates here: