Manila might be a bustling, traffic-choked metropolis, but it offers some surprisingly memorable Boat Tours & Cruises that showcase the region’s natural beauty and cultural highlights. Whether you’re looking to cruise around the world’s smallest active volcano or explore the historic streets from the water, Manila’s waterways provide a refreshing perspective. One of our favorite options is the Amazing Taal Volcano Tour [], which combines an easy boat ride with scenic views of one of the most iconic volcanoes in the Philippines. It’s perfect for avoiding Manila’s notorious traffic while still experiencing nature’s power.
If you’re after a more immersive experience in the local culture, the Villa Escudero shore excursion [] offers a taste of Philippine rural life, complete with buffalo-drawn carts and a farm-to-table buffet. And for those who want a taste of Manila’s modern vibrancy, the Shared Manila Old and New City Tour [] combines historic Intramuros with a scenic cruise. Here’s a quick overview of the best boat tours in Manila to help you find your perfect match.
1. Amazing Taal Volcano Tour (Boat Included)
Rating: 5.0/5 (15 reviews)
Price: $125.00 per person
Duration: 5 hours (approx.)
Location: Manila, Philippines
This tour hits the top of our list thanks to its combination of scenic boat rides and cultural sites. The adventure begins with door-to-door transfers so you skip the Manila gridlock, a major plus given the city’s notorious traffic jams. Once in Tagaytay, you’ll visit the People’s Park in the Sky, an unfinished palace that offers panoramic views of Taal Lake and the volcano. The boat ride around the island is the centerpiece, providing close-up views of Taal Volcano, one of the most active in the world.
What makes this tour stand out? The two-hour boat tour offers detailed explanations of the volcano’s activity and history, with guides who are both knowledgeable and friendly. You also get the chance to see fishermen at work and learn about local livelihoods. The highlight is the zipline at the park, adding a thrill to the day. The reviews sing praises for the guide’s friendliness and the breathtaking scenery, with one saying, “Highly recommended!” and noting that the boat driver took extra time for photos.
Perfect for: travelers short on time but eager to experience Philippine nature and culture without the hassle of organizing transport. The review highlights the value for money, considering the comprehensive itinerary and round-trip transfers.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, scenic, and hassle-free trip that blends nature with local culture, ideal for first-timers or those craving a quick escape.
2. Private Tour: Tagaytay Midlands & Taal Volcano Boat Ride
Rating: 4.5/5 (15 reviews)
Price: $125.00 per person
Duration: 6 to 8 hours (approx.)
Location: Manila, Philippines
This private full-day tour offers a thorough exploration of Taal Volcano and the Tagaytay area. Starting with a hotel pickup, the tour includes a boat ride across Taal Lake to the volcano island, which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. The boat cruise itself lasts over two hours, allowing you to see the volcano’s sulfur emissions and crater lake from close range.
The tour’s unique touch is the visit to the Palace in the Sky and the scenic Tagaytay ridge. The guide takes you to the scenic Silang area for lunch, where you can enjoy local cuisine overlooking the lake. A highlight for many is the peaceful Korean temple that offers a calming break from the tour’s activity. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the convenience of free hotel pickup and entrance fees included.
What makes this tour special? The personalized experience and the opportunity to see the volcano from multiple perspectives. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a more private, relaxed day with plenty of time for photos and questions.
Bottom line: A full-day, personalized adventure perfect for those who want to combine natural beauty, cultural sights, and comfort.
3. Tagaytay Adventure: Volcano Views, Countryside, Market & Cruise!
Rating: 4.5/5 (12 reviews)
Price: $160.00 per person
Duration: 10 to 12 hours (approx.)
Location: Manila, Philippines
Looking for a relaxed, all-in-one day trip? This small-group tour offers a casual way to see Tagaytay’s best spots—without much walking. You’ll visit the People’s Park in the Sky for sweeping views, then cruise across Taal Lake on a boat to get close to the volcano. The tour includes a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and a scenic stop at Lake Taal for photos and quiet contemplation.
The tour’s flexible, easy pace makes it good for families or travelers with limited mobility. Reviews highlight the personalized attention and the chance to taste local produce at Tagaytay Point. It’s considered an affordable full-day experience, blending nature, culture, and local flavor.
Bottom line: A good choice if you prefer a less hectic, intimate experience with plenty of scenic viewpoints.
4. Cruise Shore Excursion of Villa Escudero with Lunch
Rating: 5.0/5 (1 review)
Price: $190.00 per person
Duration: 9 hours (approx.)
Location: Manila, Philippines
This private shore excursion is perfect for travelers with limited time who want to experience Philippine rural life. The Villa Escudero is a working plantation where you’ll tour by buffalo-drawn cart, see artifacts in the museum, and listen to traditional Filipino music. The highlight? A lunch served on bamboo tables over a flowing spillway from the Labasin Dam.
Guests love the personalized attention and the chance to learn about local culture in a rural setting. The buffalo ride and the museum visits are highlights, along with the delicious buffet featuring local dishes like grilled tilapia and kaldereta.
What sets this apart? The combination of cultural insight and scenic lunch experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. Good for: travelers seeking an authentic taste of the Philippines in a tranquil setting.
Bottom line: A relaxing, culturally rich experience that combines nature, history, and delicious food.
$190.00 per person
5. Shared Cruise Shore Excursion of Manila Old and New City Tour
Rating: 4.0/5 (8 reviews)
Price: $110.00 per person
Duration: 4 hours (approx.)
Location: Manila, Philippines
For those with limited time, this shared city tour offers a quick but comprehensive look at Manila’s historic Intramuros and modern landmarks. Starting with pickup at the cruise terminal, you’ll visit the San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and walk through Fort Santiago, where the Filipino resistance once fought.
The tour also includes a visit to the American Memorial Cemetery, honoring WWII fallen soldiers. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the short but rich itinerary comfortable, with reviews praising the enthusiastic guide and the efficiency of the trip. It’s ideal for history buffs and travelers who want a snapshot of Manila’s past and present.
Bottom line: A compact, convenient way to get a taste of Manila’s history and culture without missing your cruise departure.
6. Manila: Walking Tour, Balsa River Cruise with Lunch
Rating: (reviews needed)
Price: $299 per person
Duration: (details not specified)
Location: Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines
This tour offers a blend of heritage exploration, river cruising, and cultural activities. It includes a guided walk through a Spanish-era town, a kalesa ride (horse-drawn carriage), and a Balsa River Cruise on a bamboo raft. The highlight is the lunch at Hotel de Oriente, a historic building styled as the first luxury hotel in the Philippines.
If you want to combine history, local cuisine, and relaxing river scenery, this could be your pick. The optional stop in Pampanga adds a culinary twist. While details on reviews and duration are limited, the itinerary promises a rich, immersive experience.
Bottom line: A cultural and leisurely outing suited for those who want a multi-layered day of heritage and nature.
$299 per person
7. Subic: Sunset Dinner Yacht Cruise from Manila & Clark
Rating: 4.3/5 (reviews needed)
Price: $223 per person
Duration: 8 hours (check availability)
Location: Pampanga, Philippines
Looking to celebrate a special occasion? The Sunset Dinner Yacht Cruise in Subic is designed for romantic or memorable moments. You’ll start with pickup from multiple locations, then cruise through hidden bays and quiet coves while watching the sunset.
The experience includes photo stops, a guided tour, and onboard entertainment, culminating in a two-hour yacht cruise. Reviewers mention the breathtaking views and the enchanting ambiance, making it a popular choice for proposals and birthdays.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious, scenic evening on the water, with the bonus of a sunset view.
$223 per person
8. Tagaytay and Taal Volcano Boat Ride Adventure Tour
Rating: 0/5 (0 reviews)
Price: $160.00 per person
Duration: 8 hours (approx.)
Location: Manila, Philippines
This tour combines viewpoints of People’s Park in the Sky with a boat ride across Taal Lake. You’ll get stunning panoramic views of Taal Volcano, especially from the scenic overlooks, and the chance to take a boat to the island itself. The visit includes stops at scenic overlooks and crater lake views.
While still new and unrated, it promises a comprehensive experience for nature lovers and view seekers. It’s suited for those who want a full day out but prefer to stay close to Manila’s core attractions.
Bottom line: A promising option for a balanced mix of land and water views of Taal Volcano, especially suitable for travelers wanting a complete day experience.
$160.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Manila
When selecting a boat tour or cruise, consider your interests and time constraints. For quick trips that avoid Manila’s traffic, the Amazing Taal Volcano Tour offers a well-rounded experience. If you prefer a more private, in-depth adventure, the Private Tagaytay Midlands & Taal Volcano Boat Ride suits travelers seeking a customized day.
For those craving culture with scenery, the Villa Escudero shore excursion here offers a unique rural experience. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the shorter Old and New Manila City Tour here, which covers Manila’s historic highlights quickly.
Lastly, if you’re celebrating or want an extra special experience, the Sunset Dinner Yacht Cruise here promises romance and memorable views. Always check availability and book early, especially during peak seasons.
In summary, Manila’s waterways offer a variety of options—from active volcano boat rides to cultural cruises—that cater to different tastes and schedules. Whether you want a quick scenic escape or a full-day culture, there’s a boat tour in Manila waiting for you. Pick the one that fits your interests, and start planning your water-based adventure now.