Boracay Sunset Cruise

If you’re visiting Boracay and crave a peaceful yet lively way to catch the island’s famous sunset, the Boracay Sunset Cruise offers just that. For around $16.42 per person, you get about two hours of water-based fun, including stops for snorkeling at Balinghai Wall, paddleboarding, relaxing in water tubes, and enjoying live music onboard. Starting at 3:30 pm from Astoria Boracay Boat Station, the cruise takes you along White Beach, giving you a fresh perspective on this postcard-perfect island.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it is for beginners—guides are available to help with snorkeling and paddleboarding—and the variety of activities packed into such a short trip. Watching the sunset while floating in the calm waters of Boracay is genuinely special, and many reviews highlight how memorable and relaxing this cruise can be.

That said, a potential consideration is the limited duration—two hours might feel a bit short if you’re hoping to linger in the water or enjoy a full sunset experience. Also, if you’re expecting an upscale yacht experience, this tour takes a simpler route, but for most travelers, that simplicity is part of its charm.

This cruise is best suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone looking for a laid-back, affordable way to appreciate Boracay’s natural beauty while enjoying some water activities. Whether you want to paddle, snorkel, or just sit back with a drink and watch the sky change colors, this tour offers genuine value.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just over $16, it offers great value for a sunset experience with multiple activities.
• Beginner Friendly: Guides are on hand to assist with snorkeling and paddleboarding, making it accessible regardless of skill level.
• Flexible Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, water tubes, and relaxing in the water provide options for every mood.
• Stunning Views: The boat’s vantage point offers incredible, unobstructed views of Boracay’s iconic White Beach sunset.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with reviews praising its relaxed, inclusive atmosphere.
• Good Vibe & Entertainment: Live music and welcoming crew add a lively, convivial feel to the cruise.

What to Expect When You Book

Booking is straightforward, with most travelers securing their spot around three weeks in advance, which speaks to its popularity. The meeting point, at Astoria Boracay Boat Station 1, is near public transportation, so getting there shouldn’t be a hassle. The tour kicks off in the mid-afternoon, giving you plenty of time to soak in the sights before the sun dips below the horizon.

The cost includes landing and facility fees plus free use of water tubes, snorkeling masks, and stand-up paddleboards. Be aware that snacks and alcoholic beverages are not included, but a selection of drinks is available for purchase onboard. Many reviews mention bringing extra water shoes and towels—these small accessories can make your experience more comfortable, especially if you’re planning to snorkel or paddle.

The Itinerary: A Mix of Relaxation and Play

The cruise begins with a gentle ride along White Beach, a stretch of powdery white sand that is visually stunning from the water. As the boat cruises, you’ll enjoy the sounds of tropical waters and soft live music, setting a calm yet joyful mood.

The first stop is at Balinghai Wall, a popular snorkeling site rich with colorful corals and marine life. Guides are available to assist beginners, and many reviewers remarked on how welcoming and helpful the crew was—making snorkeling accessible even for first-timers. You’ll get a chance to explore the underwater world in a calm, protected environment, with the gear provided.

Next, you can choose to stand-up paddleboard at the tip of Boracay near the Hilton Hotel, where the waters are crystal-clear and calm—perfect for newbies. For those who prefer to stay dry, water tubes are also available free of charge, perfect for lounging or floating lazily while watching the sunset.

Throughout the trip, guides might offer some local commentary or live music. One reviewer loved the lovesong singer onboard, describing it as a lovely touch that made the experience even more romantic and memorable.

Authentic Experiences That Shine

Many guests praise the friendly guides and crew, describing them as welcoming and attentive. Abbey, one reviewer, noted that her group enjoyed multiple activities while waiting for sunset, from snorkeling to massages on board. Fraser called it “incredibly good value” and highlighted the live music and snorkeling as standouts.

Another highlight for many is the sunset itself. As the sky shifts from blue to hues of pink, orange, and purple, you’ll have a perfect backdrop for photos or simply soaking it in. Several reviews mention the slight frustration that the cruise often ends just as the sky turns pink, suggesting a brief extension after sunset could make the experience even better—something to consider if capturing the perfect shot or enjoying the last few moments of light matters to you.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

Pros include the affordable price, wide range of water activities, and friendly guides. The laid-back vibe and good mix of relaxation and fun make it a hit with families and first-timers alike. Many reviewers mention that the cruise is suitable for all ages, with some noting children especially enjoyed paddleboarding and snorkeling.

Cons might be the short duration—two hours is enough for a taste but might leave some wanting more, especially if they wish to extend time in the water or watch the sunset longer. Plus, some travelers expected a more upscale yacht experience based on their online impressions, but this is a simple, relaxed boat ride, not a luxury cruise.

The Experience’s Real Value

At $16.42, the tour offers excellent value—especially considering the included gear and friendly assistance. Many guests feel they received their money’s worth through the combination of activities, scenic views, and the fun, laid-back vibe. The free use of water tubes, snorkeling masks, and paddleboards adds to the value, allowing you to indulge in multiple water activities without additional costs.

The informal atmosphere and live music onboard create a convivial environment where you’re encouraged to relax, chat, or simply enjoy the environment. The guides’ helpfulness and attentiveness also add peace of mind, especially for those new to water sports.

This cruise is ideal for families with children, couples looking for a romantic yet fun experience, or first-time visitors eager to see Boracay from the water without breaking the bank. If you’re seeking a laid-back, friendly atmosphere with opportunities for snorkeling and paddleboarding, you’ll probably find this cruise hits the spot. It’s also perfect for those who want to watch the sunset with a drink in hand and some light music in the background.

Conversely, if you’re after a luxury yacht experience or a longer tour, you might find this one a bit simple. But for most travelers craving authentic, affordable fun, it’s hard to beat.

What time does the tour start?
The cruise begins at 3:30 pm, giving you ample time to enjoy the water before sunset.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s described as family-friendly and suitable for most ages. Water activities and guides making it accessible for beginners.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers snorkeling gear, water tubes, stand-up paddleboards, and landing and facility fees. It also includes bottled water but not snacks or alcoholic beverages.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own drinks and snacks if you prefer, as many reviews mention.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately two hours, which is enough to enjoy activities and catch the sunset.

What should I wear?
Swimwear is ideal if you plan to snorkel or paddleboard. Bring water shoes and a towel for comfort.

Is there a guide or crew onboard?
Absolutely. The crew is friendly and helpful, often praised for their attentiveness and good humor.

The Boracay Sunset Cruise is a delightful way to wind down after a day of exploring the island. It offers a great mix of water activities, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere, all at a very reasonable price. The friendly guides and inclusive gear make it accessible for beginners, while the live music and beautiful sunset elevate the experience to something memorable.

If you’re after an authentic, laid-back water adventure that won’t break the bank and suits all ages, then this cruise should definitely be on your Boracay list. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate simplicity, friendly service, and stunning natural views—a perfect way to end any vacation on this tropical island.

In essence, the Boracay Sunset Cruise offers a genuine, value-packed experience, blending local hospitality with the island’s breathtaking scenery. Whether you want to paddle, snorkel, or just relax and watch the sunset, it’s an easy choice for a memorable Boracay evening.