Boracay: Island Hopping with Lunch, Crystal Cove, Snorkeling

Planning a day around Boracay’s famed turquoise waters and white-sand beaches often involves more than just lounging; exploring its surrounding islands can reveal hidden gems and underwater treasures. This 5-hour island-hopping tour offered by TravelExplr Travel and Tours promises a mix of scenic vistas, vibrant marine life, and a relaxing beachside lunch—all for $75 per person. While the experience offers excellent value and authentic exposure to Boracay’s natural beauty, it also comes with some considerations worth noting. If you’re a traveler eager to see the island’s lesser-known corners without breaking the bank, this tour might be just right.

We particularly like the way this tour balances adventure and relaxation. Visiting Crystal Cove Islands with its dramatic cliffs and caves gives you a taste of untouched natural beauty, while snorkeling offers a close-up encounter with colorful coral reefs. Plus, the included buffet lunch in a tranquil setting makes for a satisfying break. The only drawback? Some reviews hint that the group size can be quite large, which may diminish the feeling of exclusivity for those seeking a small-group vibe. Still, if you’re open to sharing the experience with others, it’s a fantastic way to see Boracay’s aquatic wonders.

This tour suits travelers who want a value-packed day exploring Boracay’s marine and coastal scenery, especially if you enjoy snorkeling and scenic views. It’s also great for those who appreciate authentic local cuisine and are comfortable with a more organized group setting. However, it might not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues, pregnant women, or those seeking a very personalized experience.

Key Points

• Scenic Crystal Cove: Famous for its caves, cliffs, and panoramic views, offering excellent photo opportunities.
• Vibrant Snorkeling: Discover coral gardens and tropical fish in clear waters suitable for all skill levels.
• Relaxing Lunch: Enjoy Filipino dishes in a peaceful beachside setting, adding flavor to your day.
• Group Size and Value: A shared boat experience that provides good value, though it can be crowded.
• Duration and Flexibility: At 5 hours, it’s a manageable half-day outing, with flexible start times based on availability.
• No Hotel Pickup: You’ll need to meet at the designated spot, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Plato D’ Boracay

The tour kicks off right in front of Plato D’ Boracay, on the beachfront near Astoria Station 1. The meeting point is straightforward — look for a guide holding a GetYourGuide sign, near the Yellow Cab and Tiger Sugar. This set-up makes it simple to find your guide without any hassle, which is especially helpful after a morning of travel or before a relaxing day ahead.

Crystal Cove Islands: The Jewel of the Tour

The first stop is Crystal Cove Island, a highlight for many visitors. Known for its striking cliffs, caves, and unspoiled beaches, it’s a favorite for scenic walks and exploring. You’ll get a chance to wander through lush surroundings, discover hidden coves, and take in sweeping views of the surrounding sea.

One of the most praised aspects of this stop is the photo-worthy vistas. The caves are accessible and add a touch of adventure, while the panoramic outlook over Boracay’s coast offers plenty of opportunities for memorable snapshots. According to one review, “we loved the way the caves presented a cool contrast to the lush greenery and azure waters.”

Snorkeling in Vibrant Waters

After the island exploration, the focus shifts to snorkeling. The waters around Boracay are renowned for their vivid coral reefs and diverse marine life. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time, the experience is accessible and rewarding.

Snorkeling gear is provided, along with safety briefings, so you can comfortably swim among the tropical fish, coral gardens, and other sea creatures. One reviewer remarked, “I enjoyed snorkeling at a leisurely pace,” highlighting that it’s suitable for all ages and skill levels. The warm, transparent waters make for an easy and enjoyable underwater adventure.

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Lunch on the Beach

Following the water activity, the tour pauses for a buffet lunch on a tranquil beachside spot. The menu typically features traditional Filipino dishes, giving you a taste of local flavors amid peaceful surroundings. The meal is a great chance to rest, chat with fellow travelers, and soak in the natural beauty.

The inclusion of a serene setting with views of the ocean enhances the value of this part of the tour. It’s a relaxed break, perfect for recharging before the final leg of the excursion.

Return and Reflection

After lunch, the tour concludes back at the original meeting point. The overall experience provides a satisfying blend of scenic views, marine encounters, and cultural flavor—all wrapped up in a manageable five-hour window.

What to Expect and What to Keep in Mind

Group Size and Atmosphere

This is a shared boat tour, meaning you’ll join other travelers on the same vessel. While this keeps costs down and creates a social vibe, it can also mean a busier, less intimate experience. One reviewer cautioned, “The tour itself is fine, but be aware that you’ll join everybody who booked the standard island hopping tour,” which might not be ideal if you’re hoping for privacy or a small-group experience.

Duration and Timing

The 5-hour duration offers a relaxed pace, allowing plenty of time for sightseeing and snorkeling without feeling rushed. Check the availability for start times, as they can vary. It’s best to start in the morning or early afternoon to make the most of the daylight.

Price and Value

At $75 per person, this tour is priced competitively for what it offers. Included are transportation (shared boat), snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, entrance and snorkeling fees, and a professional guide. Given the scenic stops and marine activities, many travelers find this provides good value for money.

What to Bring

To have a smooth day, pack essentials like sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), a sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, a camera, cash for incidental expenses, and closed-toe shoes for walking on island grounds. Note that items like jewelry, high heels, and glass objects are not allowed on the boat, ensuring safety and comfort.

Limitations and Considerations

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or travelers with limited mobility, as the activities and boat access might be challenging. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to coordinate your own transport to the meeting point.

Authentic Experiences Based on Reviews and Details

One traveler shared, “I enjoyed snorkeling at a leisurely pace,” which suggests the activity is well-suited for those who prefer a relaxed underwater experience rather than a strenuous or rushed pace. The views from Crystal Cove are often praised for being photogenic and peaceful, making it a highlight for many.

Conversely, a reviewer was more cautious, calling out that “the tour operator doesn’t provide tours for small groups” and that it’s likely to be crowded. This feedback underscores the importance of managing expectations about the size of the group and the shared nature of the experience.

The tour’s balance of natural beauty, marine exploration, and local cuisine makes it an appealing choice for travelers wanting an authentic and affordable taste of Boracay’s surroundings.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a traveler looking to combine scenic views, underwater adventures, and Filipino flavors without spending a fortune, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. It’s best suited for those who enjoy snorkeling, scenic vistas, and social group activities. It’s also ideal if you want to maximize your day with a manageable, half-day trip that captures Boracay’s highlights.

However, if you prefer a more exclusive or personalized experience or require special accommodations, you might want to consider other options. The lack of hotel pickup and potential crowding are factors to keep in mind.

For adventurers eager to see crystal-clear waters, explore caves, and enjoy a tasty lunch by the sea, this island-hopping trip provides a memorable taste of Boracay’s natural charm—at a price that won’t break the bank.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, allowing enough time for island visits, snorkeling, and lunch without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Plato D’ Boracay, right in front of Astoria Station 1, and returns to the same meeting point.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, travelers are responsible for reaching the meeting point themselves.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes shared boat transportation, snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, entrance and snorkeling fees, life jackets, and a professional guide.

Can I snorkel if I’m a beginner?
Yes, snorkeling gear and briefings are provided, and the waters are suitable for all skill levels.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with limited mobility.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen (biodegradable preferred), swimwear, a hat, change of clothes, camera, cash, and closed-toe shoes.

Are there any additional costs?
Extra personal expenses or souvenirs aren’t included, but the main fees are covered.

Is this a crowded tour?
It can be, as it’s a shared experience with other travelers, which may reduce the sense of exclusivity.

What is the value for money?
Given the scenic stops, snorkeling, and included meal, many travelers find the $75 fee to be reasonable for a full half-day of activities.

This tour offers a balanced introduction to Boracay’s waters and scenery, perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty, marine life, and local cuisine—all bundled into a convenient, affordable package.

You can check availability for your dates here: