Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Island Hopping & Optional Massage

Exploring the stunning Honda Bay in Puerto Princesa is a must-do activity for any visitor to Palawan. This island-hopping adventure takes travelers on a journey through some of the region’s most breathtaking natural wonders. From snorkeling at Pambato Reef to indulging in a delightful buffet lunch on Cowrie Island, the tour promises a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. And for those seeking an extra touch of pampering, the option to enjoy licensed massage services at Cowrie Island makes this experience truly unforgettable. With knowledgeable guides and all necessary equipment provided, this tour is the ideal way to take in the beauty of the Philippines’ natural landscapes.

Key Points

1. The Honda Bay island-hopping tour in Puerto Princesa offers a 7-10 hour experience featuring stunning islands, snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing, starting at $28.03 per person.

2. The tour includes visiting Luli Island’s sandbar, Pambato Reef for snorkeling, and Cowrie Island for lunch, swimming, and optional massage services.

3. The tour provides transportation, experienced local guides, snorkeling equipment, and a buffet-style lunch, with an optional massage add-on available at Cowrie Island.

4. Restrictions include suitability for accompanied minors only and a maximum group size of 13 people per van for a personalized experience.

5. The tour has an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on 202 reviews, with praise for the snorkeling experiences, quality of lunch, and attentive guide service.

Tour Overview

The island-hopping activity in Puerto Princesa, Philippines provides visitors with a chance to explore the stunning Honda Bay islands.

This 7-10 hour tour offers a mix of swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing across several islets. Prices start from $28.03 per person, with private or small group options available.

The tour is conducted in Tagalog and English, and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include the sand bar of Luli Island, the snorkeling site of Pambato Reef, and the main stop at Cowrie Island for lunch and massage services.

Convenient pickup and drop-off, as well as all necessary equipment, are included in the tour.

Islands Visited

Visiting the islands during the Puerto Princesa island hopping tour offers a diverse range of experiences.

Luli Island, a sandbar that appears and disappears with the tide, features a cocktail bar and dive platform, allowing visitors to soak up the sun and enjoy refreshing beverages.

Pambato Reef, a snorkeling site with an average depth of 13 meters, is home to an array of coral species and vibrant marine life.

Cowrie Island, the main lunch stop, offers visitors the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and even indulge in massage services.

These three distinct islands provide a well-rounded island hopping adventure, catering to various interests and preferences.

Itinerary Highlights

Puerto Princesa island hopping begins with a 30-minute journey from the city to the Honda Bay Wharf, the starting point of the tour.

Visitors will first explore Luli Island, a sandbar that appears and disappears with the tide, featuring a cocktail bar and dive platform.

Next, they’ll snorkel at Pambato Reef, an average 13-meter deep site home to colorful coral and marine life.

The main stop is Cowrie Island, where guests can swim, snorkel, and enjoy a buffet-style lunch. Optional massage services are available here as well.

The itinerary offers a balanced mix of activities, allowing travelers to relax, explore the islands, and enjoy the natural beauty of Honda Bay.

Included Offerings

What exactly does the Puerto Princesa island hopping tour include? The tour package covers a range of essential offerings.

Pickup and drop-off service are provided, along with air-conditioned transportation by van. Experienced local guides accompany the group, and all necessary boat transfers are included.

Entrance fees, a picnic-style lunch, and an environmental fee of PHP 150 (USD 3) are also covered. Snorkeling equipment and aqua shoes are provided for guests to enjoy the underwater wonders.

While the core tour activities are included, optional massage services are available for an additional charge at Cowrie Island.

Optional Add-ons

Visitors to the Puerto Princesa island hopping tour have the option to add massage services at Cowrie Island for an extra charge.

These rejuvenating treatments can be a welcome respite after a day of exploring the islands. Guests can choose from a variety of massage styles, including Swedish, deep tissue, and traditional Filipino hilot.

The massage services are provided by licensed therapists, ensuring a relaxing and professional experience. While not included in the base tour price, the optional massages offer a chance to unwind and recharge during the island adventure.

Availability is limited, so it’s recommended to book in advance to secure a spot.

What to Bring

After considering the optional massage services, guests should pack a few essentials for the Puerto Princesa island hopping tour.

Swimwear is a must, as swimming and snorkeling are the main activities. A towel will come in handy for drying off and relaxing on the beach. Sunscreen is crucial to protect against the tropical sun.

Guests should also bring water to stay hydrated throughout the day-long adventure. With these items in tow, travelers can fully enjoy the island hopping experience, snorkeling among vibrant marine life and soaking up the sun on the pristine shores of Honda Bay.

Restrictions and Considerations

The Puerto Princesa island hopping tour isn’t suitable for unaccompanied minors, as they require adult supervision.

Cruise ship passengers are also unable to join the tour unless they book the private option.

The tour has a maximum group size of 13 people per van, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Travelers should keep in mind that the tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and alternatives may be available if the tour is canceled due to inclement weather.

It’s essential to come prepared with the necessary items, such as swimwear, towels, and sunscreen, to fully enjoy the day’s activities.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have voiced largely positive feedback on the Puerto Princesa island hopping tour, awarding it an impressive 4.4/5 rating based on 202 reviews. Highlights include the engaging snorkeling experiences, delicious lunch, and attentive guide service. While most customers were satisfied, some suggested a more energetic pace and more time at Cowrie Island. The feedback is summarized in the table below:

Positive Feedback	Areas for Improvement
Snorkeling experiences	More energetic tour pacing
Quality of lunch	Longer time at Cowrie Island
Knowledgeable guide service	–
Beautiful island scenery	–
Value for money	–

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

While the tour includes a picnic lunch, participants can bring their own food and drinks if they prefer. However, any outside items must be carried during the island hopping activities.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for unaccompanied minors, but there are no specific age restrictions. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The maximum group size is 13 people per van.

How Do We Pay for the Optional Massage Services?

The optional massage services at Cowrie Island are available for an extra charge. Participants can pay for the massage services directly at the island upon arrival, using cash or credit card.

Is There a Waiting List if the Tour Is Full?

The tour doesn’t mention a waiting list if it’s full. Guests should book their tour well in advance to secure their spots. If the tour is full, they may need to choose an alternative date or opt for a private tour.

Can We Customize the Itinerary or Activities?

Yes, the tour can be customized to some extent. Guests can discuss additional activities or changes to the itinerary with the tour provider. However, certain restrictions may apply, so it’s best to inquire about the flexibility of the tour.

Recap

The Honda Bay island-hopping adventure in Puerto Princesa offers a unique opportunity to experience the region’s breathtaking natural beauty. With stops at picturesque islands, snorkeling at Pambato Reef, and a delightful buffet lunch, the tour promises a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. The optional massage services at Cowrie Island further enhance the overall experience, making this an unforgettable excursion for visitors to the area.