El Nido: Private Boat Tour A to Big Lagoon and Beaches

If you’re dreaming of serene islands, striking limestone formations, and crystal-clear waters, a private boat tour in El Nido might just be your ticket. While this specific experience is based in Cavite, Philippines, it captures the essence of what makes island-hopping in El Nido so special—minus the crowds and with a more personalized touch. The tour is designed for those who want to enjoy the natural beauty at a relaxed pace, with the flexibility to customize their day.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are the exclusivity of a private tour—feeling like a VIP on your own nautical adventure—and the chance to see the Big Lagoon early in the day, when it’s quiet and less crowded. That said, a potential consideration is the price: at $110 per person, it’s an investment, but one that offers a tailor-made, peaceful escape. This experience suits travelers who value comfort, privacy, and authentic moments over large tour groups and busy hotspots.

If you’re keen on exploring El Nido’s famous lagoons and beaches with a flexible itinerary and personalized guidance, this tour promises a memorable day on the water. It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups craving an authentic, tranquil experience away from the throngs.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Enjoy the islands without the crowds, with your own guide and boat.
• Flexible Itinerary: Tailor your stops and activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, or relaxing on beaches.
• Early Start Advantage: Begin early to beat the crowds and enjoy calm waters at popular sites.
• Comprehensive Inclusions: All necessary gear, a picnic lunch, and expert guidance included.
• Cost vs. Value: At $110, it’s a premium but highly personalized way to see key sights.
• Authentic and Relaxed: Experience the natural beauty at your own pace, with fewer travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect on This Private Boat Tour

This tour is a well-structured yet adaptable journey across some of the most iconic and lesser-known beaches and lagoons. Starting from Marber’s, a local spot where the adventure kicks off, you’ll be greeted by a licensed guide and a private boat capable of taking you around the islands comfortably. The real highlight is the chance to see these stunning sites early in the morning, when the waters are calm and crowds are thin—something that makes a noticeable difference when you’re trying to enjoy the scenery without the selfie-sticks and tour boats.

Big Lagoon: The Star of the Show

The Big Lagoon is often the centerpiece of any El Nido tour, and for good reason. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and featuring incredibly clear waters, it’s where many visitors snap their most iconic photos. We loved the way the tour allows for guided exploration and kayaking, with an hour allocated for both. As one reviewer put it, “Perfect, the tour was well organized and the meal delicious,” indicating the smooth flow of activities and the quality of the included lunch.

Secret Lagoon and Hidden Beaches

Next, the tour visits a Secret Lagoon, a more secluded spot that feels like your own private paradise. These hidden beaches often bypass large crowds, giving you a peaceful swimming spot or a quiet place to relax. The guided visits ensure you get the most out of each stop, whether it’s appreciating the scenery or learning about the local environment.

Shimizu Island and Snorkeling Stops

The afternoon includes a stop at Shimizu Island, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch—a highlight that many reviewers mention. After fueling up, you’ll have the chance to snorkel over vibrant coral reefs at a secret snorkeling spot, often described as a highlight for underwater lovers. With about an hour set aside, you’ll enjoy the water and the colorful marine life.

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Seven Commandos Beach

The tour wraps up with a visit to Seven Commandos Beach, known for its soft sands and inviting waters. It’s a perfect place for photos, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun. Several reviews commend the well-organized plan that balances activity with relaxation, making sure everyone gets enough time to enjoy each location.

End at Dockyard

Finally, the tour concludes back at the dockyard, where you’ll be transported back to your starting point. The whole experience lasts about six hours, making it a full but not overwhelming day on the water.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Arrange

The tour price covers most essentials: a licensed boat and captain, a knowledgeable local guide, snorkeling gear, life jackets, and a picnic lunch with drinking water. This all-in-one package offers excellent value for those wanting a seamless experience without the hassle of organizing each element separately.

However, there are a few extras to consider. If you want to kayak in the Big Lagoon, expect to pay Php 300 to Php 350 for a kayak, and an environmental fee of Php 400 per person is required, valid for five days. There’s also a lagoon user’s fee of Php 200, which is a one-time charge, plus water shoes if you prefer protection for rocky or coral areas. These additional costs are typical for popular tour sites in the Philippines and should be factored into your budget.

Timing and Booking

Starting early is advised to enjoy the calm waters and avoid crowds. The tour’s flexible schedule means you can ask about different start times if you prefer to go later or earlier, which is a plus for custom travelers. Booking in advance is recommended, especially since the tour is private and limited to your group.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The standout feature here is the private, tailored experience. Unlike large group tours that rush from site to site, this tour allows you to linger, take photos at your leisure, or paddle around in a kayak without feeling hurried. The crystal-clear waters at key stops are consistently praised, and the early start makes a noticeable difference in avoiding the crowds.

Another compelling aspect is the flexibility. If you have specific interests—more snorkeling, less walking, or a particular beach to revisit—you can communicate these preferences to your guide. The ability to reverse the usual route is a plus for those wanting a quieter experience at the iconic Big Lagoon.

The quality of the included amenities—snorkel masks, life jackets, and a picnic lunch—also adds to the overall value, especially considering the personalized nature of the trip.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private boat tour is ideally suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, exclusivity, and natural beauty. Couples seeking romance, families with children (who can enjoy the calm waters and gentle paddling), or small groups of friends wanting a personalized adventure will find it particularly appealing. If you’re a seasoned traveler looking to avoid the crowds and experience the islands at your own pace, this tour offers an excellent balance of guided help and independence.

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues, given the physical demands of boat transfers and snorkeling, or anyone with serious health concerns, as the activity involves some physical exertion and exposure to the outdoors.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This private boat experience offers a fantastic way to see some of the most stunning spots around El Nido with fewer people and more flexibility. The early start, personalized guidance, and all-in-one amenities mean you’ll spend your time appreciating the scenery rather than worrying about logistics.

It’s best suited for travelers who value serenity and authentic encounters and are willing to invest a bit more for a tailored experience. If you’re after breathtaking views and the chance to explore hidden beaches away from the crowds, this tour can deliver.

At $110 per person, the price is reasonable considering the exclusivity and the quality of the experience. It’s a thoughtful, well-organized way to enjoy the natural beauty of El Nido on your own terms, making it an excellent choice for those who want a more intimate, peaceful island adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a licensed tourist boat, a licensed boat captain, a local guide, snorkeling masks and snorkels, life jackets, a picnic lunch, and drinking water.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours, starting early in the morning. Exact starting times can be checked and adjusted upon booking.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the flexible itinerary allows you to reverse the usual route and request specific stops or activities. Just message the organizer if you want to start earlier or later.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, kayak rentals (Php 300-Php 350), environmental fees (Php 400), lagoon user fees (Php 200), and water shoes (Php 100) are extra. These are paid separately during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Generally yes, especially for families with children who can enjoy swimming and relaxed exploration. However, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or serious health issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind when planning your trip.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. No smoking, alcohol, or littering is allowed during the tour.

This private boat tour in El Nido offers an intimate, flexible way to experience some of the Philippines’ most breathtaking waters and beaches. With its focus on natural beauty and personalized service, it’s a must-consider for anyone wanting more than just a busy sightseeing bus.

You can check availability for your dates here: