Palawan: Adventure of Dugong Watching and Island Snorkeling

Palawan, the stunning archipelago in the Philippines, is a true haven for nature enthusiasts. Here, adventurers can embark on an unforgettable journey to witness the gentle dugongs in their natural habitat, followed by an exploration of the vibrant marine life surrounding the island’s pristine beaches. This guided tour offers an intimate group setting, ensuring personalized attention as participants journey to the dugong watching area and later enjoy the underwater wonders of Black Island. With expert guidance and stunning landscapes, this adventure promises an unparalleled experience in this tropical paradise.

Key Points

• Opportunity to witness the elusive dugong in the Palawan region, with a guided expedition and 1-hour observation in their natural habitat.
• Snorkeling exploration of vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life at Black Island, accompanied by knowledgeable local guides.
• Guided cave exploration and sightseeing to discover unique rock formations, hidden chambers, and the island’s diverse natural wonders.
• Comprehensive tour package that includes transportation, meals, snorkeling gear, and all necessary fees, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
• Suitable for adults, with important considerations for certain groups, and essential items to pack for a safe and comfortable adventure.

Activity Overview

This adventure offers the opportunity to witness the captivating dugong, a gentle marine mammal, and explore the vibrant underwater world of the Philippines’ Palawan region.

Priced from ₱15,532 per person, the tour lasts for a day and includes transportation, equipment, meals, and a knowledgeable guide.

Participants can opt for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The experience is limited to 10 people, ensuring an intimate encounter with the natural wonders of Palawan.

Pickup Locations and Transportation

The tour offers pickup from either Coron, Francisco B. Reyes Airport or your hotel/resort lobby. From there, you’ll be transported by van for about an hour to Busuanga Port. Then, a speedboat will whisk you away for 45 minutes to the dugong watching area.

Transportation	Duration
Van	1 hour
Speedboat	45 minutes
Speedboat	30 minutes

After the dugong watching, you’ll explore Busuanga Island on a guided tour for an hour. Finally, a 30-minute speedboat ride will take you to Black Island for snorkeling and cave exploration.

Dugong Watching Experience

Visitors venture out to the dugong watching area, where they’ve the chance to observe these gentle sea creatures in their natural habitat.

The tour includes a 1-hour guided expedition on a speedboat, allowing guests to catch a glimpse of the elusive dugongs. As the guides skillfully navigate the area, they share fascinating insights about the dugongs’ behavior and conservation efforts.

Participants can watch in awe as the dugongs surface to breathe, graze on seagrass, and interact with one another.

This unique experience offers a rare opportunity to witness the majestic dugongs in their untouched marine environment.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

After the dugong watching, participants venture to Black Island for an immersive snorkeling experience.

They’ll explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter a diverse array of marine life, from colorful schools of fish to curious sea turtles. The clear waters provide excellent visibility, allowing snorkelers to fully appreciate the underwater beauty.

Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the local ecosystem and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Spending three hours snorkeling, visitors can leisurely drift along the coast, discovering hidden caves and unique rock formations.

This serene island setting offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, leaving participants with lasting memories of Palawan’s captivating natural wonders.

Cave Exploration and Sightseeing

Following the snorkeling adventure, the tour moves to exploring the captivating caves and scenic landscapes of Black Island.

The guides lead the group on a thrilling cave exploration, showcasing unique rock formations and hidden chambers. Visitors are amazed by the natural beauty of the island’s interior, with its rugged terrain and lush vegetation.

The sightseeing component offers a chance to learn about the island’s geology and ecosystem, providing a well-rounded experience beyond just the marine life.

With the guidance of the knowledgeable tour leaders, participants gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse wonders of Palawan’s island landscapes.

Relaxation and Island Leisure

With the adrenaline-pumping activities out of the way, the tour winds down on the secluded Black Island. Guests are treated to a leisurely afternoon of pure relaxation on the white sandy beaches.

The tranquil atmosphere and clear turquoise waters provide the perfect setting for:

• Sunbathing and soaking up the tropical sun
• Strolling along the shoreline and taking in the picturesque scenery
• Enjoying a refreshing swim in the inviting waters

After an exhilarating day of dugong watching and snorkeling, this peaceful interlude on the island offers a chance to unwind and soak in the beauty of Palawan’s natural wonders.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour package includes a comprehensive set of amenities and services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. From comfortable transportation to delectable meals and top-notch snorkeling gear, every detail is meticulously planned to cater to the needs of the participants.

Amenities	Details
Transportation	Van pick up and drop off, Speedboat transfers
Meals	Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks, Coffee, Bottled Water
Gear	Snorkeling equipment
Guides	Knowledgeable local guides
Fees	Environmental and island entrance fees
Multimedia	Photo and video coverage

The inclusions provide a well-rounded adventure, allowing guests to enjoy the natural beauty of Palawan without worrying about logistics.

Important Considerations

While the tour offers an array of exceptional amenities, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

The activity isn’t suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or those over 70 years of age.

Plus, participants should pack the following essentials:

• Sunglasses, rash guard or wetsuit, and sunscreen to protect against the sun’s rays
• Swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops for comfort during water activities
• A water bottle and beachwear for relaxation on the island

Adhering to these guidelines will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience during the Palawan dugong watching and island snorkeling adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Life Jackets Provided During the Boat Rides?

Yes, life jackets are provided for all boat rides during the activity. The tour operator ensures the safety of participants by providing the necessary safety equipment throughout the entire excursion.

Is There a Surcharge for Larger Group Sizes?

There is no surcharge for larger group sizes. The activity is limited to 10 participants to provide an intimate experience, but the price remains the same regardless of group size.

Can We Bring Our Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Participants are allowed to bring their own snorkeling equipment. However, the tour provides snorkeling gear for those who don’t have their own. Using the tour’s equipment is included in the package price.

Can We Extend the Tour Duration for Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for additional activities. Guests can speak with the tour operator to customize the itinerary and add more time for snorkeling, cave exploration, or other experiences.

Are There Any Medical Facilities or Emergency Services on the Islands?

There are no medical facilities or emergency services on the remote islands. However, the tour guide is trained in first aid and carries a basic medical kit. In case of an emergency, they can quickly transport participants to the nearest hospital on the mainland.

Recap

Palawan’s dugong watching and island snorkeling tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the gentle marine mammals in their natural habitat. Complemented by vibrant coral reefs and hidden cave explorations, this adventure delivers an unforgettable day in paradise. With expert guidance and an intimate group setting, travelers can enjoy the breathtaking wonders of Palawan’s marine ecosystem.