If you’re headed to Mactan Island and craving a taste of the nearby islands’ natural beauty and local charm, this Island Hopping Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling offers a well-rounded day out. We haven’t personally booked this exact trip, but based on detailed descriptions and traveler reviews, it seems like a fantastic way to see some of the Visayas’ highlights without breaking the bank or complicating your plans.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on authentic experiences—snorkeling in vibrant marine sanctuaries, enjoying a delicious Filipino lunch right on the beach, and visiting charming small islands. It’s a package that combines adventure with relaxation, perfect for travelers who want a taste of everything the Philippines has to offer in one day.

One possible consideration? The tour’s schedule is weather-dependent, so if you’re visiting during a rainy season or expecting rough seas, it might get rescheduled or canceled. Still, savvy travelers can check the forecast beforehand and be flexible. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy being on the water, exploring underwater worlds, and soaking up island life without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

Overall, if you’re after an affordable, organized way to experience the natural beauty of the Philippines’ coastal islands and enjoy some local hospitality, this tour is likely to tick those boxes. It suits couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a curated day of sightseeing without sacrificing authenticity.

Key Points

Mactan: Island Hopping Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling - Key Points

  • Authentic marine experience: Snorkeling at Gilutongan Island’s vibrant sanctuary offers an up-close view of coral gardens and tropical fish.
  • Local flavor: Enjoy a freshly prepared Filipino lunch on Nalusuan Island, often praised for its delicious dishes.
  • Relaxed island visits: Caohagan provides a laid-back vibe, perfect for strolling, chatting with locals, or just soaking up the scenery.
  • Comfort and convenience: Round-trip hotel pickup, private boats, and all entrance fees included mean less stress and more focus on the experience.
  • Flexible leisure: Free time on the islands allows you to relax, explore, or take a quick nap under the palms.
  • Weather dependency: The tour’s schedule hinges on good weather, so check the forecast and plan accordingly.
You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Mactan: Island Hopping Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling - An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Your Day: Pickup and Transfer

Most departures begin with a hotel pickup in Mactan, Cebu City, or Lapu-Lapu City, starting around 10 minutes before your scheduled departure. This is a handy feature that saves you the hassle of organizing transport. From there, it’s about a 45-minute ride to the boat launch point, often Marigondon Wharf or Punta Engaño. During this ride, you can get a quick glimpse of island life and start settling into the laid-back island vibe.

The Boat Ride and First Stop: Gilutongan Island Marine Sanctuary

Your journey begins on a traditional Filipino banca, a boat with outriggers that’s simple, sturdy, and fun for island-hopping. This boat will be your vessel for the day, and it’s usually shared with other travelers or booked privately, depending on your choice.

The first stop is Gilutongan Island, also called Hilutungan. Here, the real highlight is the marine sanctuary, renowned for its clear waters bursting with colorful schools of fish, vibrant corals, and marine life like starfish and sea cucumbers. The guided snorkeling here is one of the tour’s standout moments—expect to be surrounded by underwater activity that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers. Multiple reviews mention the stunning underwater scenery, with one saying, “We loved the way the water was so clear, and the fish seemed to swim right up to us.”

This part of the trip is roughly 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to swim, take photos, and marvel at the lively reef ecosystem.

Exploring Caohagan Island

Next, you’ll visit Caohagan Island, a small, peaceful spot known for its relaxed pace. It’s a place where you can stroll along the powdery white beaches, interact with local fishermen and villagers, or browse the small shops selling souvenirs and fresh seafood.

Many travelers appreciate the chance to connect with locals here, and some even buy freshly grilled seafood from vendors right on the beach—savoring the taste of the catch of the day. One reviewer remarked, “The laid-back vibe and friendly locals made Caohagan a highlight. It’s simple, yet charming.”

This stop usually lasts around 1.5 hours, giving ample opportunity for photos, beach lounging, and perhaps a quick chat with fishermen about their daily routines.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Lunch Break: Nalusuan Island

After the island visits, a highlight for many is the lunch on Nalusuan Island, part of the Olango Island Group. The buffet typically features local Filipino dishes—grilled seafood, rice, vegetables, and fresh fruits—delivered right on the beach. The quality and freshness are often praised, making this a good value for your $138 investment.

The setting is idyllic: tables on the sand, the sounds of gentle waves, and the chance to soak in the scenery while enjoying your meal. Many reviews say the food is “delicious” and “well-prepared,” with some noting it’s a highlight that makes the tour feel worth the price.

Post-lunch, you can relax on the beach, explore the island, or take a short swim. Some travelers enjoy simply lying under the palms, listening to the water, and recharging before the final part of the day.

Final Stop: Nalusuan Island and Return

The last stop is usually about 1.5 hours of free time on Nalusuan, which offers some of the best snorkeling and relaxing opportunities. The marine sanctuary here boasts coral gardens and varied marine life, including the possibility of spotting sea turtles or stingrays if luck is on your side.

As the tour winds down, you’ll head back to the dock, usually around mid-afternoon, for a scenic boat ride back to Mactan. The views of the surrounding islands and waters are often stunning, perfect for photos or just soaking in the beauty of the Philippines’ coastal landscape.

Practical Details and Tips

The entire tour, including transfers, snorkeling gear, lunch, and entrance fees, offers good value at $138 per person. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy being in the water, exploring new environments, and experiencing local culture without the hassle of organizing each activity independently.

Remember to bring essentials: sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), swimwear, a hat, towel, camera, and change of clothes. While the tour provides snorkeling gear, if you’re particular about fins or additional equipment, you might want to bring your own.

The tour is operated by Cebu AATravel and Tour, and it’s a private group experience, meaning you won’t be part of a large, noisy crowd. This makes it more comfortable for those who prefer a more intimate, relaxed pace.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

Since the tour is weather-dependent, check the forecast before booking, especially during the rainy season. Bad weather can lead to rescheduling or cancellations, but the tour provider offers a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, giving you some peace of mind.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

Mactan: Island Hopping Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling - Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This trip is best for travelers who want a balanced mix of snorkeling, relaxation, and local culture. It’s ideal if you’re visiting Mactan and looking for a well-organized day away from busy city streets. It suits couples, small groups, families, or solo travelers eager to see the underwater world and enjoy authentic island life.

Those who appreciate good food—particularly fresh seafood—will find the included lunch a real highlight. If you’re not comfortable in the water, or if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth noting that the day involves some boat transfers and snorkeling.

Final Thoughts

Mactan: Island Hopping Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling - Final Thoughts

This island-hopping tour offers an accessible and authentic way to experience some of the Philippines’ most beautiful islands and underwater sights. The combination of colorful coral reefs, tranquil beaches, and flavorful local dishes makes for a full, satisfying day. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer their adventures organized and hassle-free but still want genuine local encounters.

While weather can be a factor, the proven reliability of the operator and the inclusion of all key costs make this a valuable choice for those wanting to maximize their time in Mactan.

If you’re after a day of discovery, relaxation, and tasty food, this tour is worth considering. It promises a mix of fun, sun, and discovery—just bring your sense of adventure and a little patience for weather changes.

FAQ

Mactan: Island Hopping Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling - FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off, a private boat, snorkeling gear, guided snorkeling at Gilutongan Island, access and leisure time on Caohagan Island, a delicious Filipino lunch, and all entrance fees and taxes.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), and some cash for personal expenses. Fins or extra gear are not included but you can bring your own if you prefer.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the emphasis on snorkeling and water activities suggests it’s best for those comfortable in water. Check with the operator if you have young children or specific needs.

How long is the boat ride to the islands?
The transfer to the first stop takes about 45 minutes, with additional transfers between islands around 15-30 minutes.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent and may be canceled or rescheduled in poor conditions. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The standard tour follows a set itinerary. Any custom requests might incur extra fees, so contact the provider beforehand.

How much free time will I have?
Expect about 1.5 hours at Gilutongan, 1.5 hours at Caohagan, and 1.5 hours at Nalusuan, allowing for swimming, exploring, or relaxing.

Is the tour private or shared?
It’s a private group experience, giving a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

Do I need to be a good swimmer?
While swimming ability is helpful, snorkeling gear and guided tours are provided, and shallow waters mean even beginners can enjoy the marine sights.

The Sum Up

Mactan: Island Hopping Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling - The Sum Up

This Mactan Island Hopping Tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience the Philippines’ stunning marine life and laid-back island atmosphere. It’s especially suited for travelers who value organized, hassle-free days with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, relax, and indulge in fresh local food. For a reasonable price, you get a well-rounded experience that combines scenic boat rides, vibrant underwater scenery, and authentic island life—all with the comfort of private transport and included amenities.

Perfect for those seeking adventure without the stress of planning every detail, this tour makes for a memorable day in the Philippines. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, a good attitude, and a sense of curiosity about the islands’ natural treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: