El Nido: Island Hopping and Snorkeling Private Boat Tour

El Nido: Island Hopping and Snorkeling Private Boat Tour is a fantastic way to explore some of the most beautiful and less crowded spots in the Philippines’ top island destination. For $142 per person, you get 8 hours of private boat time through Cavite‘s stunning islands, with visits to Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, and more. With a small group and an expert guide, this tour promises a personalized experience—perfect if you love snorkeling, dramatic limestone formations, and secret beaches you can actually swim to.

What really makes this tour stand out are the diverse scenery and authentic moments—from swimming in crystal-clear waters at Helicopter Island to the thrill of finding the Hidden Beach tucked away behind towering cliffs. We also appreciate the flexibility built into the itinerary, allowing you to explore at your own pace, with the guide ready to tailor stops based on weather or your preferences. The view of the islands from the boat is another highlight, offering excellent photo opportunities and a sense of genuine adventure.

A slight consideration is that weather conditions can sometimes alter the planned stops, which is common in tropical boat trips. It’s worth being flexible and prepared for a day that might shift slightly depending on the sea and wind. Also, if you’re not keen on swimming or kayaking, some stops like Hidden Beach will involve some effort to reach, but the reward is well worth it.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a private, relaxed, yet adventurous day, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and photography. It suits those who appreciate authentic scenic beauty and would enjoy having a guide to enhance their understanding of the islands. Based on reviews, it’s perfect for all ages, especially if you’re looking for a personalized tour with a knowledgeable guide making your day seamless and fun.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Experience the islands without crowds, with exclusive use of the boat for your group.
• Diverse Stops: Includes Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, and Star Beach, each offering unique scenery.
• Snorkeling & Marine Wildlife: The tour visits the best snorkeling spots in El Nido, with snorkeling gear included.
• Flexible & Personalized: The itinerary can be adjusted based on weather and your preferences.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Joshua and Jom receive high praise for their knowledge and friendly attitude.
• Value for Money: At $142, you get a full day of island exploration, lunch, water, and equipment, making it a solid value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the El Nido Private Boat Tour in Detail

A Well-Organized Day on the Water

Starting from Corong Corong, this tour offers a smooth pickup process, with most guests meeting at Blend and Grind before heading out. The 8-hour experience promises a well-paced day that balances activity and relaxation. Expect to be on the water by around 9 AM, with the exact start time depending on availability and weather.

Visiting Helicopter Island

The first major stop is Helicopter Island, which gets its name from the striking shape of its cliffs—resembling a helicopter or a camel, depending on your imagination. From the boat, you’ll get an incredible view of the towering limestone formations contrasted against the rainforest. Here, you’ll enjoy photo stops, guided tours, and snorkeling among colorful marine life in calm waters.

Talisay Beach and Scenic Views

Next, the tour visits Talisay Beach, another scenic spot where you can take photos, relax, or snorkel. The combination of white sand and lush vegetation makes it a perfect place for a quick swim or a leisurely walk along the shore.

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The Highlight: Hidden and Secret Beaches

The Hidden Beach is arguably the tour’s star attraction. It’s a small paradise, accessible only by swimming or kayaking through narrow tunnels. As one reviewer noted, it’s “simply incredible,” with its white sand and calm waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs. The Secret Beach, featured in the “World’s 50 Best Beaches” list and the film “The Beach,” offers an equally thrilling experience—finding it is part of the adventure.

Both beaches are perfect for snorkeling, relaxing, and capturing Instagram-worthy shots. The guide often provides lunch here, allowing you to enjoy a meal in this secluded setting. The one-hour stop is enough time to soak it all in without feeling rushed.

Star Beach and Final Stops

The last stop is Star Beach, another beautiful location for swimming or snorkeling. Here, you can reflect on the day while taking in the view of the surrounding islands and lush coastlines.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes pickup within 1 km of Corong-Corong Beach, a private boat, guide and crew, buffet lunch, water and soft drinks, kayak use, life vests, mask and snorkel, and an environmental fee. You should bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for extras or tips.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Praise

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, like Joshua and Jom, for their friendly attitude and local insights. Levi, for example, appreciated that Joshua made the experience flexible and personalized. Debbie highlighted how Jom and his team answered questions, kept the pace relaxed, and made the trip memorable.

The Value of a Private Tour

Compared to group tours, this private option offers more flexibility—you can adjust stops depending on weather and mood. It’s particularly ideal if you want to avoid crowded spots and enjoy intimate moments with your travel companions. The all-day experience, including lunch and snorkeling gear, makes it a solid value for a full day’s adventure in El Nido.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure a prompt start.
• Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment.
• Prepare for some walking or swimming to reach Hidden and Secret Beaches.
• Keep your camera handy—the scenery is breathtaking at every turn.
• Flexibility is key, as weather may change the planned stops.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide. It suits couples, families, or friends looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and activity. If you love snorkeling, secret beaches, and scenic boat rides, this tour will meet your expectations.

Travelers who value authentic experiences and want to skip the crowds will especially enjoy the private setup. It’s also well-suited for those who want to learn more about the islands from a local guide, as reviews praise the guides for their friendly and informative attitude.

Final Thoughts

This El Nido island-hopping tour offers a rare chance to see some of the most beautiful spots in the Philippines with the comfort and flexibility of a private boat. The stops are thoughtfully selected, balancing iconic sights like Helicopter Island with hidden gems like the Secret Beach. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and a buffet lunch adds to the overall value, making it a well-rounded day out.

If you’re after stunning scenery, marine wildlife, and a tailor-made experience, this tour will not disappoint. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a less rushed, more intimate way to explore El Nido’s islands, with guides ready to make your day memorable.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup near Corong Corong, private boat, guide and crew, buffet lunch, water, soft drinks, kayak use, mask and snorkel, life vests, and an environmental fee.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the schedule is generally fixed, the guide can adjust stops based on weather conditions and your preferences, thanks to the flexibility built into the private tour.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for tips or extras.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most reviews indicate it’s accessible and enjoyable for a broad age range. However, some stops involve swimming or kayaking, so consider your comfort with water activities.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Weather can affect the itinerary, with some stops potentially canceled or changed for safety reasons. Guides will adapt accordingly.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 45 minutes to an hour, giving enough time to swim, take photos, or relax without feeling rushed.

Is this tour environmentally responsible?
Yes, the tour includes an environmental fee, and guests are encouraged to bring biodegradable sunscreen and avoid littering, helping preserve El Nido’s beauty.

This private boat tour combines scenic beauty, adventure, and personalized service—making it a standout way to experience El Nido’s breathtaking islands. Whether you’re snorkeling in clear waters or exploring hidden beaches, the memories will last long after your day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: