Palawan: Honda Bay Island Hopping Cruise

When considering a day trip in Puerto Princesa, this Honda Bay Island Hopping Cruise offers a chance to escape the city’s busy streets and dive into the stunning waters and tiny islands just a half-hour away. Designed for travelers looking for a relaxed, budget-friendly adventure, this tour combines natural beauty, cultural flavor, and a touch of fun watersports—all wrapped up in a manageable 9-hour package.

What we really appreciate about this trip is the opportunity to visit three iconic islands: Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island. Each of these spots offers unique charms—whether it’s the chance to see starfish up close, lounge on powdery beaches, or snorkel among vibrant coral gardens. Plus, the included Filipino-style lunch ensures you stay fueled without extra expense, giving you more time to enjoy the scenery.

A single possible drawback? Since the tour is shared among other travelers, you might find the group size varies, and the schedule might feel a little tight if you’re hoping for a very leisurely pace. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness, this type of boat trip might not be ideal. Overall, it’s best suited for those eager for a quick, well-organized getaway with plenty of photo opportunities and water-based fun.

Key Points

• Affordable price point offers great value for a full day of island hopping.
• Includes hotel pickup and lunch, saving extra planning and expenses.
• Visit three popular islands known for their natural beauty and marine life.
• Shared group tours foster social interaction but mean some scheduling constraints.
• Water sports and snorkeling are available, but rentals are not included.
• Suitable for travelers eager to experience Puerto Princesa’s marine environment without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This Honda Bay tour is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to explore the scenic islands near Puerto Princesa. It’s especially appealing for first-timers or families who want a straightforward, organized day with minimal hassle. The fact that it includes hotel transfers and a local guide makes it a convenient option, letting you focus on enjoying the scenery and making memories. However, it’s less ideal if you prefer a solo or private experience, or if you’re prone to seasickness, as the boat rides can be quite bouncy.

The tour’s value lies in its simplicity. For just around $37 per person, you get a comprehensive package—transport, island entrance fees, and a traditional Filipino lunch—meaning no hidden costs. The ability to meet other travelers can also add a social element, with reviews highlighting that small groups often lead to a more relaxed experience.

What to Expect on the Day

Morning Pickup and Departure

Expect hotel pickup around the scheduled start time; the guide will call you in advance to confirm. The journey begins with a motorized boat ride out to Honda Bay, which takes roughly 30 minutes. The boat ride itself is a highlight: you’ll get a taste of the open sea with views of the coastline and distant islands.

Stop 1: Starfish Island

Located in the heart of Honda Bay, Starfish Island is famous for its large, colorful starfish, which you can see up close in shallow waters. The clear, calm water makes snorkeling a delight if you rent gear (note, rentals are not included). Many visitors enjoy simply lounging on the white sand beaches or taking photos of the starfish in their natural habitat.

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Stop 2: Luli Island

Luli Island offers a more playful vibe—this tiny sandbar emerges at low tide and is perfect for wading, sunbathing, or taking panoramic photos. The shallow waters here are ideal for children or less confident swimmers. The shallow reef just off the beach allows for easy snorkeling and exploring marine life.

Stop 3: Cowrie Island

This island strikes a nice balance between relaxation and activity; it has a resort vibe with available watersports and a broader beach area. Here, you can choose to relax on the sand, try waterskiing or paddleboarding if you’re feeling adventurous, or enjoy the included Filipino lunch served at a beachside restaurant.

The Lunch Experience

The included Filipino lunch typically features local dishes—think grilled seafood, rice, and fresh fruits—served in a casual, beachside setting. It provides a much-needed break from the sun and activity, and the communal nature of the meal adds to the fun.

Return and Drop-off

After a full day of swimming, sunbathing, and exploring, the boat departs back to the mainland, with a return to your hotel usually within the late afternoon. The entire experience offers a well-paced day suited for most travelers.

Practical Details That Matter

Group size and guide: The tour is operated by Top Ace Island Adventure Travel Services, with live guides speaking English and Tagalog. Reviews mention that the small group size enhances the experience, giving travelers ample time at each island.

Timing: The tour lasts roughly 9 hours; starting times vary based on availability. It’s worth checking in advance and arriving promptly for a smooth start.

Cost and what’s included: For $37, you get hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat ride, entrance fees, guide, and the lunch. That’s quite reasonable for a full day on the water. However, you should budget extra for optional rentals like snorkel gear (~150 PHP) or aqua shoes if you want to explore comfortably.

Additional fees: An environmental fee of 150 PHP per person is payable on-site, and rentals are not included.

What to bring: Pack your swimwear, sunscreen, waterproof bags for your electronics, and a hat. No alcohol or drugs are allowed, maintaining a family-friendly environment.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Recent reviews highlight positive experiences: “Had plenty of time at each stop to enjoy. Small group,” notes one traveler, emphasizing the relaxed pace. Others praise the opportunity to meet fellow travelers and appreciate the included lunch, which allows more time for fun rather than worrying about meals.

Some travelers mention that the schedule is tight, but most agree that the trip balances sightseeing, relaxing, and engaging watersports, making it a solid value overall.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re seeking an affordable, enjoyable introduction to Palawan’s marine wonders, this Honda Bay island-hopping cruise is a smart pick. It’s best suited for those who value organized, hassle-free experiences with the chance to socialize and explore multiple islands in one day. The inclusion of hotel transfers and lunch makes it convenient, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

However, if your priority is luxury, privacy, or very leisurely pacing, you might want to consider private tours or more specialized experiences. Likewise, if you’re sensitive to rough seas, this boat ride could be a concern. Still, for most travelers, this tour offers a satisfying glimpse of the islands’ natural beauty without blowing the budget.

In short, for the price and what’s included, you’re getting a balanced, fun-packed day—a perfect way to enjoy Palawan’s waters and beaches without the fuss.

FAQs

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guide, boat ride, entrance and wharf fees, and a picnic lunch. Rentals for snorkel gear or aqua shoes are not included.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 9 hours, with the exact start time varying based on availability. Expect to spend most of the day exploring and relaxing on the islands.

Is transportation shared?
Yes, the tour operates with shared motorized boats and group transfers, which helps keep costs down and encourages social interactions.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, waterproof bags for valuables, and a hat. Remember, alcohol and drugs are not permitted.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there is a 150 PHP environmental fee payable on-site. Rentals for snorkel gear or aqua shoes are extra, if desired.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it family-friendly, especially since shallow waters and calm beaches are perfect for kids. However, always consider your child’s comfort with boat rides and seasickness.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering some flexibility in planning your trip.

This Honda Bay island-hopping cruise offers a practical, fun, and budget-conscious way to enjoy Palawan’s waters. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it’s a reliable choice for soaking up some of the Philippines’ best coastal scenery in a single, memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: