Coron Water Ride Thrills: A Splash of Adventure on Busuanga Island
When you think of Coron, the first images that come to mind might be stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful beaches. But if you’re craving something a little more energetic and fun-filled, the Coron Water Ride Thrills tour offers exactly that—an active, water-based adventure just a short boat ride from Coron Harbor. For $37 per person, you get about three hours of lively activities on Royal Island, with options to choose from five water rides — including banana boats, flyfish, and glass-bottom kayaking.
What we love about this experience is how flexible it is—you can pick and choose which rides excite you most or indulge in all, making it perfect for families, groups of friends, or even solo thrill-seekers. The inclusion of clear-bottom kayaks is a real bonus, giving you a chance to peer beneath the surface while paddling around. Plus, the roundtrip speedboat transfer from Coron Harbor is smooth and straightforward.
However, it’s worth noting that reviews are mixed. While some travelers praise the guides and the fun they had, others have reported last-minute cancellations which can be frustrating, especially if you’ve made specific plans around this tour. So, flexibility and patience might be necessary.
This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a quick, energetic change of pace, and those comfortable with group activities. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with kids over 4, or if you love trying multiple water rides in one go. But if you’re after a more relaxed, less structured day, this might not be the perfect fit.
Key Points
- Flexible Water Activities: Choose from five options, or do them all.
- Family-Friendly: Minimum age for banana boat is 4; other rides are suitable for older kids and adults.
- Inclusive Kayaking: All packages include clear-bottom kayaks, perfect for snorkeling-like views.
- Transfer Options: Round-trip boat transfer is included, but hotel pickup isn’t.
- Variable Experiences: Guides are attentive, but reviews note some management issues like cancellations.
- Cost-Effective: At $37, it offers a quick dose of water fun without breaking the bank.
An In-Depth Look at Coron Water Ride Thrills

Planning more time in Busuanga Island? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Getting There and Starting Out
Your adventure begins at Coron Harbor Square, a common and convenient meeting point in Coron town. From there, a speedboat whisks you away to Royal Island, a spot known for its beautiful shoreline and calm waters. The ride itself is quick, usually about 20 to 30 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and seabird views en route.
Once on the island, a brief safety orientation and activity overview set the stage. The guides, whose helpfulness is frequently praised, will show you how to use each water craft properly, emphasizing safety — a key feature especially if kids or first-timers are involved.
The Water Rides: What’s on Offer?
You have five water activities to choose from. The most popular seem to be the banana boat, flyfish, and glass-bottom kayaking. The banana boat, suitable for kids aged 4 and up, is a classic for quick adrenaline and laughs. The flyfish, a larger inflatable that pulls you behind the boat, is available for those aged 18 and above and promises a bumpy, exciting ride. The donut and glider are other options, both catering to older kids and adults.
One of the notable highlights is the inclusive nature of the glass-bottom kayak—a wonderful way to enjoy the underwater world without needing snorkeling gear. The clear bottom allows viewers to observe fish and corals beneath, adding a layer of fascination to your paddle.
What to Expect During the Experience
The three-hour duration offers plenty of time to try multiple rides or just relax and soak in the scenery. Since the activities are at your leisure, you can spend as much or as little time on each as you like. Typically, the tour includes a short safety briefing upon arrival, which helps especially first-timers feel confident.
Reviews reveal that the guides are helpful, assisting with getting in and out of rides, taking videos, and ensuring everyone has fun. One reviewer noted: “The guides made sure to help us in and out of the water rides and took videos and photos of us while on the different rides.” That personal touch can really enhance your experience, making it more memorable.
The Cautions and Considerations
While many travelers report having a fantastic time, a few cautionary notes are worth mentioning. The most significant issue is cancellation problems; one reviewer described how their booking was canceled just two hours before the scheduled ride without explanation, ruining their day. This highlights the importance of confirming your booking and being flexible if plans change.
On top of that, no hotel pickup or meals are included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Coron Harbor Square and plan for snacks or meals afterward. The insurance is also not part of the package, so consider whether you want to purchase additional coverage, especially if participating in more adventurous rides.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience suits active travelers, families with children over four, and groups eager to maximize water fun in a limited time. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, energetic escape from beach lounging, this delivers just that. But if you prefer a more relaxed, scenic, or private experience, you might want to consider other options.
The Value of Coron Water Ride Thrills

At $37 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to get your adrenaline pumping and experience the sea in a new way. The cost covers the speedboat transfer and the use of kayaks, which means you’re paying mainly for the activity time. The additional activities, like banana boats and flyfish, are included in the package, so there are no surprise fees once you’re on the island.
In terms of value, the ability to do multiple rides at your own pace makes this a good deal, especially considering guide assistance and safety briefings are included. However, travelers should weigh the potential for cancellations and the lack of included meals or hotel transfers.
Final thoughts on what this tour provides
You get a fun, lively water adventure in a beautiful setting, with the flexibility to tailor your time on the water. It’s ideal if you want a quick adrenaline shot or a family-friendly activity that doesn’t require too much planning. But if your trip is tightly scheduled or you’re after a quiet, scenic excursion, this might not be the best fit.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous spirits looking to add some splashy fun to their Coron itinerary without spending too much. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with kids over 4, or if you’re a group that enjoys trying multiple water rides.
Those who appreciate helpful guides and don’t mind the possibility of last-minute cancellations will find this a good value. But travelers seeking a more relaxed, solitary experience might prefer other activities or a different part of Coron.
FAQs

Can I participate if I’ve never tried water sports before?
Yes, the safety briefing and guided assistance ensure you understand how to enjoy each activity, making it accessible even for beginners.
Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup is not included in this tour. You’ll need to make your way to Coron Harbor Square on your own.
What is the minimum age for the banana boat?
The minimum age for the banana boat ride is 4 years old. Other rides like the donut and glider are for 10+ and 18+ respectively.
Are the water activities safe?
Yes, safety regulations are explained during the briefing, and guides are attentive to help you through each ride.
How long is the boat transfer?
The speedboat ride from Coron Harbor Square to Royal Island typically takes around 20-30 minutes.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.
In the end, Coron Water Ride Thrills offers a lively, affordable way to enjoy the sea with family or friends. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or just want to try something new, it’s a short, fun-filled splash of activity in beautiful surroundings. Just keep an eye on the weather and booking confirmations, and you’re set for a memorable water adventure.
