Imagine a day where you can snorkel among vibrant marine life, feast on a Filipino-style BBQ, and relax on pristine beaches—all in just half a day. This Panglao Boat Party & Island Hopping Tour offers just that. Starting at Mad Monkey Panglao, this excursion takes you to Balicasag Island for snorkeling, then to Virgin Island for beach games and relaxation. Priced at around $60 per person, it’s a lively, value-packed way to see some of the best spots in the Visayas.
Two things we love about this tour are how it combines adventure with laid-back beach fun—snorkeling in Balicasag’s clear waters, and then unwinding with cocktails, volleyball, and sunshine on Virgin Island. Plus, the crew’s friendly approach and included amenities make it feel more like a day with friends than a typical tour.
One consideration: the schedule and stops depend on weather and tide conditions, so some days might be a little different. Also, the tour is best suited for those comfortable in the water — while non-swimmers might find snorkeling challenging, the boat ride and beach activities are accessible to most.
If you’re a traveler craving a mix of underwater discovery, beach relaxation, and social fun, this tour is a lively pick. It’s especially ideal if you enjoy engaging with fellow travelers and don’t mind a busy half-day itinerary.
Key Points
- Includes everything you need: entrance fees, snorkeling gear, lunch, boat transfers, and a tour host.
- Perfect for snorkeling lovers: Balicasag’s underwater world is highly praised.
- Relaxed beach activities: Virgin Island offers beach volleyball, swimming, and lounging.
- Flexible scheduling: Dependent on weather and tides, so expect some variation.
- Value for money: At $60, it covers a lot of ground—including food, drinks, and marine fees.
- Suitable for active travelers: Non-swimmers and those with back problems might find some parts less comfortable.
A Deep Dive into the Panglao Boat Party & Island Hopping Tour
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The Beginning: Meeting at Mad Monkey Panglao
Your adventure kicks off around 9:30 AM at the Mad Monkey Panglao bar, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. The briefing is straightforward but essential — safety instructions, waiver signing, and a quick overview of what’s ahead. The meeting point’s location makes it easy for travelers staying nearby, and arriving 30 minutes early ensures you’re ready to go when departure time rolls around.
The Boat Ride: Setting Sail for Balicasag Island
At 10:00 AM, everyone boards a boat for the ride to Balicasag Island. The boat transfer itself is part of the fun — a chance to enjoy the breeze and scenic views of the sea. The boat is typically well-equipped with life jackets and gear, and the crew is friendly and helpful, often offering tips for snorkeling or marine spotting.
The boat ride lasts about 40 minutes, during which you’ll likely see local fishermen, colorful watercraft, and perhaps some dolphins if luck’s on your side. It’s a comfortable, enjoyable way to kick off the day and get excited about what’s to come.
Snorkeling at Balicasag Island: An Underwater Wonderland
Once on Balicasag, the highlight is snorkeling in crystal-clear waters brimming with colorful fish, coral reefs, and maybe even a sea turtle or two. The inclusion of snorkeling gear makes this accessible, and the vibrant marine life draws many travelers back again and again.
Reviewers rave about the stunning views beneath the waves: “We loved the way the fish swarmed around us; it felt like swimming in an aquarium,” one traveler shared. Others mentioned how the coral formations are impressive and well-preserved, making it worth the effort to bring an underwater camera.
The crew often encourages a friendly “Aye, aye” as a nod to your underwater buddies, adding a playful touch. The snorkeling session typically lasts until noon, giving you enough time to enjoy the water without feeling rushed.
More Great Tours NearbyFilipino BBQ Lunch: A Feast on the Beach
At around noon, everyone gathers for a filipino-style BBQ on the island. This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience—sometimes called a “boodle fight”—where shredded chicken, grilled fish, rice, and local vegetables are served buffet-style. The crew takes pride in preparing fresh, flavorful dishes that give you a taste of Filipino cuisine.
Reviewers appreciate the generous portions and tasty flavors, noting it’s a satisfying break after snorkeling. The lunch is usually served with one included drink—be it a cold soda, juice, or local beer—allowing you to relax and refuel.
Transition to Virgin Island: Beach Games and Relaxation
After lunch, you’ll head to Virgin Island — a small, sandy paradise. While access is sometimes restricted by the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources), when open, it’s a favorite spot for beach fun. Here, you can play volleyball, football, or just lounge on the sand.
Many travelers enjoy the laid-back vibe and the opportunity to dip in the clear waters. “Playing beach volleyball on Virgin Island was a highlight; it felt like summer camp,” one guest remarked. The shallow, calm waters make it ideal for swimming, while the wide sandy beaches provide plenty of space to relax with a drink or a good book.
Afternoon Activities and Return Journey
Around 2:30 PM, the crew hosts beach games and drinks, creating a cheerful atmosphere. If you brought an underwater camera, this is your chance for some fun shots of the scenery and your group. The boat departs Virgin Island around 4:00 PM, heading back to Mad Monkey Panglao.
Throughout the day, the crew is attentive, ensuring everyone’s safety and enjoyment. The entire experience typically lasts about six hours, but the flexible schedule means some days may vary slightly.
What the Tour Includes and Excludes
Included in the price of $60 per person are:
- Entrance, environmental, and snorkeling fees
- Snorkeling gear
- Lunch and one drink
- Boat transfers
- A friendly tour host from Mad Monkey
What’s not included? Gratuity is optional but appreciated if you feel the crew went above and beyond.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Bring plenty of sunscreen, a waterproof underwater camera if you want to capture marine life, and a change of clothes. Pack a towel, some snacks, extra drinks, and your swimwear. Keep in mind that non-swimmers and those prone to seasickness might find parts of this tour challenging, so plan accordingly.
The Experience: What Travelers Say
Many reviewers highlight how stunning the snorkeling site is, with one describing it as “an underwater wonderland filled with colorful fish.” The friendly crew and well-organized schedule receive praise for making the day smooth and enjoyable. Others appreciate the value for money—considering everything included, it’s a practical way to explore without hidden fees.
Some note the weather dependency — rough seas or overcast skies can impact the experience, especially snorkeling and beach activities. Still, most report that the tour adapts well and delivers a memorable day.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This Panglao Island Hopping experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of water activities and beach relaxation. It’s perfect for those wanting a social, fun-filled day with fellow explorers, especially if snorkeling is a highlight on your travel wish list. Non-swimmers or travelers seeking a quieter, less busy day might prefer other options, as this tour is lively and fast-paced.
Final Thoughts
The Panglao Boat Party & Island Hopping Tour offers a lively, affordable way to experience some of the most beautiful spots in the Visayas. It combines the thrill of snorkeling, the joy of a beachside feast, and the relaxed fun of beach games on Virgin Island—all in a well-organized half-day trip.
If you’re after a good mix of adventure and socializing, and you enjoy being in or near the water, this tour will likely meet your expectations. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, lunch, and boat transfers makes it a great value for anyone looking to maximize their time in Panglao without breaking the bank.
FAQ
Is there any age limit for this tour?
While there’s no specific age restriction, the tour is most enjoyable for active travelers comfortable in the water. Small children or elderly travelers with health issues should assess their comfort level beforehand.
Do I need to be a good swimmer?
Not necessarily, but snorkeling in Balicasag requires some swimming ability. Non-swimmers might find the snorkeling challenging, but the boat ride and beach activities are more accessible.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a waterproof camera, swimwear, a towel, extra clothes, snacks, and drinks. Don’t forget your underwater camera if you want to capture marine life.
Can I join if I don’t want to snorkel?
While snorkeling is a key part of the trip, you can choose to relax on the boat or on the beaches. Just let your crew know, and they’ll accommodate your preferences.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch is provided, featuring Filipino dishes served on Balicasag Island, along with one drink. You can bring extra snacks or beverages if you wish.
Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Smoking, littering, touching marine life, and touching plants are not allowed to preserve the environment. The tour is dependent on weather and tide conditions, which can affect the schedule.
How flexible is the scheduling?
The itinerary may vary based on weather and tide conditions, so some departure or stop times might shift slightly, but the core experience remains the same.
In the end, this tour combines the best of Filipino island life: stunning underwater scenes, convivial beachside fun, and a taste of local cuisine—all for a fair price. It’s a lively, friendly way to explore Panglao’s marine and coastal beauty, perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, active day.
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