Cebu’s waters are some of the clearest, most inviting in the Philippines, making it a top spot for boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re after a peaceful Loboc River cruise, an adventurous island hop to snorkel or dive, or a romantic sunset yacht experience, Cebu offers a variety of options to suit every interest. The Bohol countryside tours are particularly popular, combining natural wonders like the Chocolate Hills and playful Tarsiers with scenic river cruises—and the fact that many of these tours include roundtrip transfers makes exploring hassle-free. One highlight we love is the chance to see Bohol’s iconic sights in a single day, making the most of your time and budget.
If you’re a fan of underwater adventures, the diving and snorkeling options around Mactan Island bring you face-to-face with vibrant marine life. For those seeking a relaxed, scenic experience, the Mactan Sunset Cruise offers a perfect blend of beautiful vistas and good food. Whatever your style, Cebu’s boat tours promise memorable moments on the water, with options for every budget and schedule.
1. From Cebu City: Bohol Countryside Tour w/ Loboc Cruise Lunch
This full-day small-group tour from Cebu takes you across the sea to explore Bohol’s most famous sights, including the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier Sanctuary. Starting with pickup options from Cebu City, Mandaue, or Lapu-Lapu, the journey begins with a scenic ferry ride that lasts about 2 hours — a highlight in itself, offering views of the Cebu Strait. Once on Bohol, the tour visits Baclayon Church, one of the oldest in the Philippines, and takes a quick walk through the Man-Made Forest, where towering Mahogany trees form a natural tunnel.
The real star is the Loboc River cruise, which combines a delicious buffet lunch with live music and floating scenery. The cruise is a relaxing way to enjoy Bohol’s lush landscape without the need for strenuous activity. The tour also includes a visit to the Blood Compact Monument — a significant historical site — and an opportunity to see Chocolate Hills up close, with plenty of photo stops. This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see Bohol’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides — the price of $149 per person reflects a comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a well-rounded day of culture, nature, and good food in comfort and convenience.
2. Bohol Countryside Day Tour From Cebu City | Lunch at Loboc River Cruise
For around $145, the Bohol Countryside Day Tour offers a more intimate look at Bohol’s natural and cultural sides. This tour emphasizes comfort, with air-conditioned vehicle transport and a small group size, which means more personalized attention. The tour kicks off with a visit to the Chocolate Hills, where you can climb the viewing deck and enjoy panoramic views. Next, you’ll explore the Bilar Mahogany Forest, a scenic stretch of tall trees, perfect for photos.
The Tarsier Conservation Area is a major highlight, showcasing the world’s smallest primates in their natural habitat. Then, the Loboc River cruise provides a buffet lunch, complete with traditional music and dance, floating through lush greenery—a truly relaxing experience. The tour ends with a visit to Baclayon Church, rounding out an enriching day.
Guests often comment on the smooth organization and comfortable transport, making this ideal for those who want a dedicated day exploring Bohol’s highlights without rushing. At $145, it’s good value for the included meals and all entrance fees, especially if you prefer a smaller group experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, well-organized day with a focus on nature and local culture.
3. Fun Boat Dive for Certified Diver
If diving is your passion, Scotty’s Dive Center offers a straightforward boat dive experience right from Mactan Island. For $36, you get approximately an hour of underwater exploration at sites close to the resort—within 5 to 25 minutes by boat. This tour is perfect if you’re a certified diver looking to maximize your time underwater with minimal hassle. The diving spots are known for their vibrant marine life, so you can expect colorful corals, schools of fish, and maybe even a friendly turtle or two.
The small-group setup means personalized attention, and the staff is experienced with both beginners and seasoned divers. It’s a good choice for those staying nearby on Mactan Island who want a quick, quality dive without complicating their schedule or travel plans. The short duration makes it easy to add on to a day of sightseeing or relax afterward.
Bottom Line: Great for certified divers wanting a quick, well-organized dive experience with expert guides.
4. Cebu: boat diving two dive tour in Olango island
This two-dive tour from Cebu is a fantastic underwater adventure that takes you just 10 minutes by speedboat to Olango Island. For $94, you’ll spend about four hours exploring the clear, colorful waters filled with tropical fish and corals. Olango Island is well-known for its rich marine biodiversity and calm waters, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced divers alike.
The tour is flexible, with scheduled trips at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM, allowing you to fit it into your day easily. The operator welcomes first-time divers as well, providing gear and guidance. Marine life here includes an abundance of fish, corals, and occasionally larger creatures like rays or turtles, making each dive an exciting encounter. The proximity to Cebu means less travel time and more underwater exploration.
Guests frequently praise the friendly staff and marine variety, which makes it a top pick for anyone wanting to see Cebu’s vibrant underwater world without traveling far.
Bottom Line: A worthwhile choice for all skill levels, especially if quick access to beautiful coral reefs is a priority.
5. Snorkeling at San Vicente with speed boat
For those who prefer to stay afloat rather than dive deep, the snorkeling trip to San Vicente is a perfect half-day adventure. At $105 per person, you’ll head to Nalusuan Island, a man-made resort in Cebu Strait, about 20 to 40 minutes by boat. Here, the marine sanctuary offers a safe, accessible underwater garden teeming with marine life—including giant clams, starfish, and stingrays.
The trip includes snorkeling equipment, so you can explore the shallow waters at your own pace. It’s especially suited for families or anyone new to snorkeling, with enough marine diversity to make the experience memorable. The island itself has facilities for relaxing after your underwater tour, and the boat ride is quick, meaning you get plenty of time in the water.
Reviews note that the underwater scene is lively, and the tour is a fun, educational activity. It’s an excellent way to see Cebu’s marine environment without the need for extensive training or equipment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families and beginners wanting a relaxed, educational look at Cebu’s underwater life.
6. Mactan Sunset Cruise Ultimate Yacht Experience
There’s something special about watching the sunset from a yacht. For $142, the Mactan Sunset Cruise offers a three-hour journey aboard a luxurious yacht around Mactan Island. You’ll glide past Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway and enjoy stunning vistas as the sun dips into the water. The cruise includes a sumptuous dinner, often with local dishes, while the vessel serenades you with live music.
This cruise is perfect for romantic evenings or a relaxed outing with friends. The reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and well-organized experience, with many guests praising the friendly crew and the chance to connect with fellow travelers. It’s a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing and enjoy Cebu’s natural beauty in style.
In short, this cruise offers value for money for those looking for a scenic, intimate experience with dinner and live entertainment included.
Bottom Line: A top pick for couples or anyone wanting a relaxing, scenic evening on the water.
7. Private Day Trip Cebu to Bohol w/ Chocolate Hills & Loboc Cruise
At number 7, this private tour for around $285 per person combines the best of Bohol in one day. It features door-to-door transfers, ferry rides, and visits to iconic sites like the Chocolate Hills, Blood Compact Monument, and Baclayon Church. The Loboc River cruise is a highlight, with a buffet lunch on a floating restaurant, and the tour often includes a visit to the Tarsier Sanctuary.
What makes this tour unique is its customized nature, giving you a flexible schedule and personalized attention. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a comprehensive, private experience that covers a lot of ground. Reviews praise the professional guide and the smooth logistics, making it an easy way to see Bohol’s main attractions without stress.
Just note that the tour can last from 6 to 13 hours, so it’s suited for those with a full day and plenty of energy. The value is high considering the included ferry, entrance fees, and private transfers.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a tailored, hassle-free exploration of Bohol’s key sights.
8. From Cebu: Bohol Countryside Private Tour & Loboc River Cruise
This private Bohol tour costs about $139 per person and offers a relaxed, intimate experience. After hotel pickup, you’ll be transported in air-conditioned comfort to visit the Tarsier Sanctuary, walk through the Man-Made Mahogany Forest, and cruise down the Loboc River for a buffet lunch. The tour emphasizes personalized service with an experienced driver-guide who shares insights along the way.
Participants appreciate the careful organization and the opportunity to explore Bohol at their own pace. The tour covers both nature and culture, making it a good choice for travelers who want a more customized experience without joining large groups. It’s suitable for families or couples who want to explore Bohol’s highlights comfortably.
However, some reviews mention the tour lasts about 12 hours, so it’s best suited for those with a full day to spare. The inclusion of entrance fees and lunch adds to the overall value.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a flexible, private day exploring Bohol’s top sights with personal service.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour or Cruise in Cebu
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time available, and what experience excites you most. If you want an all-in-one cultural and natural trip, the full-day Bohol tours (like the From Cebu City: Bohol Countryside Tour) are excellent. For underwater lovers, the diving options (Fun Boat Dive and Olango Island tours) provide quick, high-quality marine experiences. Families or beginners should consider the snorkeling at San Vicente or the smaller-group tours for a more tailored approach. If a romantic or relaxing evening on the water appeals, the Mactan Sunset Yacht Cruise is a top pick.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons like December to April. Check the level of physical activity involved—some tours involve walking or boat transfers—so pick based on your fitness and interest level. And remember, whether you’re after a full-day adventure, underwater exploration, or a scenic sunset cruise, Cebu’s waters are ready to deliver.
In sum, Cebu offers a wide range of boat experiences, from quick snorkel trips to full-day cultural tours. Two or three standout choices include the From Cebu City: Bohol Countryside Tour w/ Loboc Cruise Lunch for a comprehensive cultural day, or the Mactan Sunset Cruise for a relaxing evening. If underwater adventures are your preference, the Olango Island dive tour provides excellent value, with just enough time to explore vibrant coral reefs. Whatever your travel style, booking early ensures you get the best seats on Cebu’s beautiful waters.