Bohol: Loboc River Buffet-Lunch Cruise with Private Transfer

Bohol: Loboc River Buffet-Lunch Cruise with Private Transfer
Location: Visayas, Philippines
Country: Philippines
Price: $60 per person
Rating: 1.8/5 (based on 5 reviews)
Supplier: CTPH TOUR
Duration: Approximately 4 hours, check availability for start times

Quick overview for travelers
Imagine cruising along Loboc River, gliding past lush greenery and local villages, all while enjoying a generous buffet and live music. For around $60 per person, this tour offers a mix of scenic views, cultural entertainment, and convenient transportation.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the authentic setting of the floating restaurant, which gives you a real sense of how locals dine on the water, and the live traditional performance that often features local children showcasing singing and dancing. These moments can truly bring the Philippines’ vibrant culture to life.

A potential downside worth considering is the value for money, as some reviews suggest the experience might not fully meet expectations in terms of quality or service. Plus, the private transfer is included, but some guests have reported that drivers may request extra tips or fees, which can be frustrating.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, cultural performances, and local cuisine — particularly those who are okay with a modest level of service and are looking for a straightforward, scenic outing on Loboc River.

Key Points

• Scenic Cruise: Travel along Loboc River while enjoying views of local villages and lush natural surroundings.
• Cultural Entertainment: Watch traditional singing and dancing performed by local children during the cruise.
• Local Buffet: Indulge in a buffet of local Filipino dishes, with unlimited water and juice included.
• Convenient Transfers: Private hotel pickup and drop-off within Panglao or Tagbilaran make logistics easier.
• Limited Value Feedback: Some reviews mention concerns about the worth of the experience relative to the price paid.
• Experience Duration: The tour lasts around 4 hours, ideal for a half-day activity that combines sightseeing and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Loboc River Buffet-Lunch Cruise

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting with a hotel pickup, the journey to Loboc River is smooth and hassle-free, especially if you’re staying in Panglao or Tagbilaran. The private transfer ensures you avoid the chaos of shared transport, although some guests have noted that drivers may ask for extra tips — so be prepared for that.

Once at Loboc River, you’ll board what is essentially a floating restaurant — a modern boat equipped with amenities designed to make your lunch comfortable and enjoyable. The staff are generally described as professional and friendly, offering warm service as you settle into your seats.

The highlight here is the buffet lunch, set to live background music. We loved the way the local guitar-playing singer creates a relaxed atmosphere, blending music with scenic views of green trees and tranquil waters. The buffet features local dishes, which might include rice, seafood, vegetables, and traditional Filipino fare. However, some reviews mention that the buffet may not be as extensive or fresh as hoped, and at least one guest noted the absence of juice during their meal, despite claims otherwise.

The Cultural Performance and Photo Opportunities

Midway through the cruise, the boat stops at a performance platform where local children showcase traditional singing and dancing. This is a charming feature, giving travelers a chance to see authentic Filipino culture in action. As one reviewer mentioned, you should take ample photos while enjoying unlimited fruit juice — a small but pleasant touch.

It’s worth noting that some visitors find the performances to be somewhat staged or short, but they do add a cultural layer to the experience. If you’re into local traditions or families with children, this part is likely to be a highlight.

The Return and Drop-off

The cruise concludes with a gentle ride back to your starting point. The transfer back to your hotel is included, but as mentioned, some guests report that drivers may ask for additional fees or tips. This can be a minor annoyance but worth being aware of so you’re not caught off guard.

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Honest Feedback from Reviewers

While some travelers, like Benoît, found the service “nice” and appreciated the driver, they also felt the price wasn’t justified, mainly due to the extra requests for tips. Carin, on the other hand, was disappointed with the lack of juice and considered the buffet not worth the cost.

These reviews highlight that the experience’s value largely hinges on expectations. If you’re looking for a scenic, cultural outing with decent food and don’t mind a modest level of service, you might find this worthwhile. But if premium quality or a more refined experience is your goal, this cruise might fall short.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: Expect about 4 hours, including transfers.
• Comfort: The boat is described as modern and equipped, but amenities may vary.
• Price: $60 per person, which is reasonable if you value the scenic cruise and cultural elements over gourmet cuisine or impeccable service.
• Group Size: Usually a shared experience, so expect other travelers on board.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour appeals most to travelers looking for a relaxing, scenic cruise with a focus on local culture and cuisine. It’s suitable for those who want an affordable way to see Loboc River without strenuous activity or long excursions.

If you prioritize authentic local entertainment and beautiful river scenery over a gourmet meal or polished service, this cruise might be a good fit. However, if you have high expectations for quality or are sensitive to extra tips or modest amenities, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Loboc River Buffet-Lunch Cruise with private transfer offers a laid-back way to experience some of Bohol’s natural beauty and cultural charm. Its biggest strengths are the beautiful river setting, the local performances, and the convenience of door-to-door transport.

However, the experience’s overall value is mixed, with some guests feeling the meal and service could be better for the price. It’s a tour that delivers a straightforward, scenic outing but might leave travelers wanting more in terms of quality or authenticity.

This cruise makes sense for families, cultural enthusiasts, or first-time visitors who want a simple, scenic activity that combines nature, local food, and music, all in a few hours. Just keep your expectations in check, and you’ll likely enjoy the peaceful ride along Loboc River.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the transfer private or shared?
Your transfer is private, meaning you’ll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel without sharing with other groups.

What is included in the tour?
Included are private hotel pickup and drop-off within Panglao or Tagbilaran, a sightseeing cruise with live music, and a buffet lunch with unlimited water and juice.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including transfers and the cruise itself.

Is the boat accessible for everyone?
No, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider your mobility needs before booking.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the outdoor parts of the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the buffet meal worth it?
Guest reviews suggest the buffet may be underwhelming or lacking in variety, so consider whether a simple local meal suits your expectations.

In summary, the Loboc River Buffet-Lunch Cruise is a decent, budget-friendly way to see Bohol’s river scenery and enjoy local culture, especially if you’re not expecting luxury. If you value convenience and a peaceful river ride over gourmet food or top-tier service, this experience might just be what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: