Tagaytay offers a surprising amount of water-based fun for travelers. While much of its charm lies in the stunning views of Taal Volcano and the lush highlands, a boat tour can add a memorable twist to your visit. Whether you’re after a peaceful cruise on Taal Lake or a private adventure exploring the volcano’s crater, Tagaytay’s boat tours bring a unique perspective to this iconic landscape. I particularly enjoyed the chance to sail near the volcano’s rim or relax at Tiktikan Lagoon, a quiet spot perfect for swimming and unwinding. For a full overview of what’s available, check out our list of the best Boat Tours & Cruises in Tagaytay.
While each tour offers something different—ranging from private excursions to shore-based cruises—what’s clear is that Tagaytay’s boat experiences allow you to see Taal Volcano from a new angle, making your trip richer and more personal. So, whether you want a quick scenic ride or a full-day adventure, there’s a cruise that fits your style.
Quick Overview
Our list covers three top boat tours, each offering a distinct way to enjoy Taal Lake and its volcano. From the all-inclusive Tagaytay: Taal Lake Cruise & Tagaytay Day Private Tour to the more affordable and shorter Tagaytay Bliss Private Taal Volcano Adventure with Boat Ride, and the comprehensive Cruise Shore Excursion of Taal Volcano with Lunch, you’ll find options for different budgets, schedules, and interests. All these tours showcase the region’s beauty from the water or include boat rides as part of a broader sightseeing experience.
Now, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Tagaytay: Taal Lake Cruise & Tagaytay Day Private Tour
At number 1 on our list, this full-day private tour combines a scenic cruise with cultural and natural highlights around Tagaytay. For around $248 per person, you’ll escape Manila’s urban rush and venture into the cool highlands with a personalized guide. The tour includes a cruise along Taal Lake, where you can marvel at the volcano from close-up. The highlight is the Lake Cruise, which offers a peaceful journey on the water with panoramic views of Taal Volcano.
The trip also visits Tiktikan Lagoon, a tranquil two-hectare spot that’s perfect for swimming or relaxing. Afterward, enjoy a delightful lunch at Naquiawit Island, one of Siargao’s most scenic beaches, which is a bit of a surprise in this itinerary. The tour is ideal for travelers who want an in-depth experience combining boat time, nature, and local cuisine.
What makes this tour stand out? Its flexibility and all-inclusive approach make it perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day without the hassle of organizing transportation or meals. With a 5/5 rating based on two reviews, it’s clear that many visitors find this trip memorable.
Bottom line: Excellent for those looking for a private, all-in-one day trip that combines boat travel with scenic stops and a good meal.
2. Tagaytay Bliss Private Taal Volcano Adventure with Boat Ride
This 6-hour private tour offers a more intimate and flexible way to explore Taal Volcano and its surroundings for just $128 per person. The adventure kicks off with a scenic drive from Manila to Tagaytay, followed by a private boat ride on Taal Lake—a chance to get up close to the volcano. The boat ride is a highlight, allowing for excellent photo opportunities and a peaceful cruise near the volcano’s crater.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of a Jeepney ride—a classic Filipino mode of transport—and a visit to a Korean temple, providing cultural contrast and unique photo ops. The itinerary also includes a local Filipino lunch featuring Tagaytay’s famous Bulalo soup, which many consider a highlight of the region’s cuisine.
Guests praise the personalized service, as the guide tailors the schedule, including scenic stops and time at a local farm or café. One reviewer shared, “During sunset, the views of the skyline are at their best so it’s worth timing the tour right.”
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a private, flexible adventure that combines boat riding with cultural and culinary experiences.
$128 per person
3. Cruise Shore Excursion of Taal Volcano with Lunch
For those arriving by cruise ship, this 7-hour private shore excursion is perfect for maximizing your time in Tagaytay. Costing about $160 per person, it’s a well-rounded day that includes a guided tour to Taal Volcano, visiting Museo Orlina, and exploring Peoples Park in the Sky—the former presidential retreat offering sweeping views of the volcano.
The tour also features stops at Gourmet Farms for a farm tour, where you can see how vegetables, herbs, and coffee are grown, adding a distinctly local flavor to your visit. The highlight is the boat ride on Taal Lake, which takes you close to the volcano’s rim. The tour provides a traditional Filipino lunch with soft drinks and bottled water, making it convenient for cruise travelers with limited time.
Rated 4.5/5 from four reviews, this tour offers a customizable schedule with a local guide who tailors the timing to your ship’s arrival and departure. Guests appreciate the opportunity to learn about jeepneys—a Philippine icon—and enjoy scenic views from People’s Park.
Bottom line: Great for cruise passengers wanting an efficient yet comprehensive experience that mixes boat time, sightseeing, and cultural highlights.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, schedule, and interests: if you prefer a private, all-inclusive day with swimming and island lunch, the Tagaytay: Taal Lake Cruise & Tagaytay Day Private Tour is a standout. For a shorter, more cultural adventure with a local vibe, the Tagaytay Bliss Private Taal Volcano Adventure with Boat Ride fits well. Cruise travelers or those on a tight schedule should consider the Shore Excursion of Taal Volcano with Lunch for efficiency and variety.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred date and time. For full day trips, starting early ensures you make the most of your time, whether you’re interested in relaxing, sightseeing, or cultural experiences.
Final Thoughts
Tagaytay’s boat tours offer a fantastic way to see Taal Volcano from a fresh perspective. If you’re after a luxury private day, the first tour delivers with its combination of scenic cruising, swimming, and a scenic island lunch. Budget travelers or those seeking a flexible day might prefer the Private Taal Volcano Boat Adventure, with its cultural stops and personalized itinerary. For cruise visitors, the shore excursion provides a well-organized, comprehensive day that peaks with an incredible volcano view.
Whatever your travel style, these tours make it easy to incorporate Taal Lake into your Tagaytay trip, creating memories on the water that will last long after you leave. Don’t forget to book early—these popular options fill quickly, especially during peak season.