Boracay: Island Hopping Boat Tour with Crystal Cove Entry

Boracay: Island Hopping Boat Tour with Crystal Cove Entry

If you’re heading to Boracay and want to see its most beautiful spots without feeling overwhelmed, this island-hopping boat tour offers an excellent way to explore. For around $29 per person, you’ll spend about five hours cruising to some of Boracay’s top beaches and snorkeling sites, with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and enjoy delicious local food.

What we really love about this tour is how accessible and straightforward it is. The boat has comfortable seating and a roof cover, protecting you from the sun, and the guides are friendly and energetic—making the journey both informative and fun. Also, the lunch buffet offers more than just the usual fare, with grilled prawns, meats, and fresh fruits that satisfy even the hungriest travelers.

One thing to keep in mind is the extra snorkeling fee of 100 Pesos, payable on-site, which is a small tax for visiting certain areas. Also, the snorkeling spots are in areas with fish but may lack vibrant coral, so if snorkeling is your main goal, you might want to manage expectations.

This tour suits those who want an easy, all-in-one experience—perfect if you’re short on time or prefer a no-fuss way to see Boracay’s highlights. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to combine scenic views with a relaxed day on the water will find this trip well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable boat experience with shaded seating and a friendly guide makes the day enjoyable.
• Visits multiple beaches and sites, including Puka Beach and Crystal Cove, offering diverse scenery.
• Includes a hearty grilled buffet lunch, adding value and convenience.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, though there’s a small additional fee for snorkeling in certain areas.
• Authentic local artifacts and small museum at Crystal Cove add a cultural touch.
• Good for those seeking a balance of relaxation, adventure, and sightseeing in Boracay.

A Deep Dive into the Boracay Island Hopping Experience

The Itinerary: What’s Included and What You’ll See

This five-hour tour begins at the beachfront of Astoria Boracay, Station 1. Meeting point logistics are simple: just hop on an e-trike, find the guide holding a GetYourGuide sign next to Yellow Cab, and you’re ready to go. The experience promises visits to multiple beaches and scenic spots, each with its own charm.

First stop? You’ll cruise past Crocodile Island, a popular drive-by location. While reviews mention it’s mostly a quick look from the boat rather than a full landing, it’s still a fun photo op and a chance to see the island’s distinctive shape. Next, the boat heads toward Puka Beach, famed for its white sands and tranquil vibe. Travelers describe Puka as “truly beautiful,” ideal for a quick swim or just soaking up the scenery.

One of the highlights is Crystal Cove, where you’ll find caves and cliffs that are perfect for exploring. The small museum here adds a cultural element, and the cliffs and beaches are a hit with visitors. A reviewer notes that “the caves on Crystal Cove were great fun,” and another mentions that “the snorkeling was in an area with lots of fish, but no coral of interest,” which is a good heads-up for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Beach Time

Stops for swimming and snorkeling are scattered throughout the tour. You’ll get to dip in Boracay’s clear waters, and the provided snorkeling gear makes it easy—even if you’re not an expert. Expect to pay an extra 100 Pesos for snorkeling, which is a local tax mandated by ordinance. Several reviews mention that guided assistance helps make the experience safer and more enjoyable.

While some reviews say that the snorkeling spots are more about fish watching than coral reefs, they still offer a lively underwater scene. If snorkeling is your main goal, be prepared for a quick visit, as the guide might be on a tight schedule to get everyone through each stop.

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Food and Cultural Experiences

A major plus is the BBQ lunch, which exceeds expectations according to many travelers. The buffet includes prawns, grilled meats, and fresh fruits, providing fuel for the rest of the day. One reviewer pointed out that the meal was “much more than expected,” which helps justify the tour’s value, especially since food is often an overlooked part of short trips.

At Crystal Cove, there’s also the chance to explore the small museum and see some local artifacts, adding a cultural dimension to the trip. This blends natural beauty with a touch of local history, enriching the overall experience.

Guide and Crew

The guides are described as high-energy, friendly, and helpful. Many reviews mention how guides like Jessie and Bam made the day enjoyable with humor, helpfulness, and safety reminders. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and their assistance with photos or extra tips adds a personal touch to the journey.

Some reviews, however, note that the boat crew’s jokes and teasing can make some travelers uncomfortable, especially if they don’t speak the local language or are sensitive to humor. Overall, most felt the guides contributed positively to their experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

The meeting point is convenient, located next to Yellow Cab at Station 1. The duration of 5 hours means you’ll get a taste of Boracay’s highlights without feeling rushed, but it’s good to keep in mind that weather or traffic can influence timing. In heavy rain or stormy weather, the tour offers options to reschedule or get a full refund—so safety is a priority.

What should you bring? Essentials include sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. No water is provided, so bring plenty of your own, especially if you plan on snorkeling or swimming for extended periods.

The tour offers flexibility with a “reserve now, pay later” option, allowing travelers to lock in their spot and decide later. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This island-hopping experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed yet scenic day on the water. If you’re short on time but eager to see multiple beaches and snorkel spots, this trip is ideal. Families with children, first-time Boracay visitors, or anyone wanting an affordable, guided tour that combines sightseeing with local food will enjoy this experience.

Those looking for a full-day, hands-on adventure or dedicated snorkelers seeking vibrant coral reefs might want to consider other options, but for a well-rounded taste of Boracay’s natural beauty and cultural sites, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This Boracay island-hopping boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beaches, cultural insights, and local cuisine, all wrapped in a relaxed 5-hour package. You get to see some of Boracay’s best spots, enjoy a hearty grilled lunch, and snorkel in waters filled with fish—what’s not to like? The guides’ enthusiasm and the convenience of the itinerary make it a reliable choice for many.

While some may wish for more snorkeling or longer beach stops, the overall value for the price and the opportunity to explore Boracay’s highlights with ease make this a worthwhile addition to your trip. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this tour can add a memorable layer to your Boracay experience, especially if you enjoy scenic views, friendly guides, and good food.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, starting and ending at the same meeting point on Astoria Boracay’s beachfront.

What’s included in the price?
You get the island-hopping boat trip, entrance to Crystal Cove, snorkeling gear, and a grilled buffet lunch with prawns, meats, and fruits.

Is there an extra fee for snorkeling?
Yes, snorkeling costs an additional 100 Pesos, payable on-site. This fee is a municipal ordinance tax for visiting certain areas.

Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is next to Yellow Cab at Station 1, Boracay. Look for a guide holding a GetYourGuide sign.

Are transportation arrangements included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point via e-trike or other local transit.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, and you can opt to reserve now and pay later.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. No water is provided, so carry enough for yourself.

Will I have enough time to explore each site?
Most reviewers say the schedule is tight but manageable. Be prepared for quick visits, especially at spots like Crystal Cove where you might need to move swiftly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially since the boat is comfortable and the guides are friendly. Just keep in mind the weather and water conditions.

In all, this Boracay island-hopping tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see some of the island’s best sights. It balances scenic beauty, cultural interest, and good food, making it a fine choice for travelers wanting a taste of Boracay’s natural and cultural treasures without the hassle.

You can check availability for your dates here: