Boracay: Island Hopping with Snorkeling and Crystal Cove

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and scenic island vistas, this Boracay island-hopping tour might be just what you need. For about $31 per person, you spend around five hours exploring nearby islands, snorkeling amidst colorful fish, and enjoying a local buffet lunch with panoramic views. Led by friendly guides, this experience offers a genuine taste of what makes Boracay special.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines relaxing beach time with adventure and discovery. We loved the way it takes you beyond Boracay’s busy White Beach, revealing hidden coves and less-traveled spots. Plus, the inclusive snorkeling gear and the well-organized itinerary make it straightforward and enjoyable.

A possible consideration is that some entrance fees, such as Crystal Cove and Magic Island, aren’t included in the base price, and you’ll need to cover those separately. Also, if you’re not comfortable on boats or have pre-existing health issues, it’s worth considering. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and local cuisine—ideal for those who love exploring the outdoors but value comfort and guided assistance.

Key Points

• Affordable and Value-Driven: For just $31, you get several hours of boat trips, snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, and guided tours.
• Authentic Local Experience: Friendly guides ensure you enjoy the best spots and learn about the surroundings.
• Beautiful Scenery and Marine Life: Expect clear waters, vibrant fish, and scenic island views.
• Flexible and Easy to Join: The tour sets off from Bolabog Beach Resort with options to reserve and pay later.
• Nice mix of activities: Swimming, snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing on beaches.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees like Crystal Cove and Magic Island are extra, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of What to Expect

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour begins at Bolabog Beach Resort, a well-known spot in Boracay’s mainland area. Meeting your guide, who will be holding a purple sign, is straightforward—look for the sign in front of Moksha Cafe Bolabog. It’s helpful to arrive a little early to get your gear and settle in. The departure times vary, so checking availability will help you plan.

The Itinerary: What Are the Highlights?

Stop 1: Crystal Cove
This is the main star of the trip. The entrance fee is included in your ticket, which is great because Crystal Cove is often praised for its clear waters and beautiful rock formations. Many reviews highlight how well the guides manage the timing here so everyone gets a good chance to snorkel or just relax on the sand. Expect vibrant marine life and plenty of underwater sights.

Stop 2: Nearby Islands and Snorkeling
Next, the boat takes you to nearby islands for more swimming and snorkeling. The snorkeling gear is free to use, and the guides are attentive, helping those who are less confident in the water. Several reviews emphasize how the guides, such as Mona and Lynne, go above and beyond—helping with photos, sharing local tips, and making the experience more personal. Expect to see schools of fish and perhaps some coral formations.

Stop 3: Scenic Sightseeing and Sailing
The tour also includes sightseeing and sailing, giving you a chance to just soak in the views and enjoy the breeze. Some travelers mention how relaxing it is to sit back and watch the islands drift by with a drink in hand.

Final Return
You’ll finish back at your starting point, Bolabog Beach Resort, after about five hours of activity. This makes it a manageable half-day adventure, leaving plenty of time for other parts of your Boracay stay.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are the snorkeling gear, the buffet lunch featuring grilled pork, chicken, fish, vegetables, and tropical fruits, and the Crystal Cove entrance fee. The friendly guides ensure you’re well looked after throughout.

Extras are hotel pickup and drop-off, which aren’t included but you can arrange separately, and additional entrance fees like Magic Island (Php 250) and snorkeling fees (Php 100). Reviewers note that these additional costs are typical but worth budgeting for.

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The Food and Atmosphere

Lunch is served onboard, and many find it satisfying and filling. The menu offers a mix of local flavors, with grilled meats, vegetables, and fresh fruits. While some reviews mention the food could be better, most appreciated the convenience of having lunch included and the scenic setting.

Guides and Group Size

The guides, such as Mona and Lynne, are repeatedly praised for their attentiveness and friendliness. They’re fluent in English and eager to make sure everyone’s questions are answered. The group size seems manageable, with many reviews mentioning a friendly, personalized vibe.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Multiple reviewers have described it as “fantastic” and “well-organized”. One said Mona was a “fantastic guide,” and others appreciated how guides helped with photos and answered questions. The marine life at Crystal Cove is consistently described as vivid and full of life, making snorkeling a highlight.

The scenery at the islands, with their rocky formations and turquoise waters, is frequently called breathtaking, offering a visual feast. The combination of swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing makes this a well-rounded experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick but comprehensive taste of Boracay’s surroundings. It suits adventure seekers who enjoy water activities and don’t mind basic additional costs like entrance fees. It’s also perfect for families or groups who appreciate guided experiences and a bit of local flavor in their meals.

However, those with pre-existing medical conditions or who are pregnant should consider safety and consult their doctor first. The boat rides, while generally smooth, can be bumpy depending on weather, and the additional fees might be a surprise if not budgeted in advance.

The Sum Up

This Boracay island-hopping tour strikes a good balance between affordable price, scenic beauty, and engaging activities. It offers a chance to see Crystal Cove’s striking underwater world, explore nearby islands, and enjoy a laid-back yet lively day on the water.

If you’re looking for a guided, hassle-free way to explore beyond Boracay’s main beaches, this tour delivers an authentic, memorable experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who value good guides, tasty local food, and scenic vistas.

While it might not include every extra fee upfront, the value of the snorkeling, sightseeing, and friendly guides makes it a worthwhile outing. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this adventure will likely leave you with plenty of stories and photos to cherish.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, giving you enough time to explore, snorkel, and enjoy your lunch without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Bolabog Beach Resort and concludes there as well, making it easy to plan your day.

Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes, you can freely use the snorkeling gear provided during the trip.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance to Crystal Cove is included, but fees for Magic Island and snorkeling are extra and should be budgeted separately.

Is food provided?
A buffet lunch with grilled pork, chicken, fish, vegetables, and fruits is included, and many find it satisfying.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, a waterproof bag, a camera, water, and beachwear for a comfortable day.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities are generally suitable for families, provided children are comfortable on boats and in water.

Are guides attentive?
Yes, multiple reviews praise guides like Mona and Lynne for their attentiveness, helpfulness, and friendly approach.

Do I need to worry about safety?
Guides help ensure safety, but you should be cautious if you have pre-existing health conditions or are pregnant.

This Boracay island-hopping tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day on the water, perfect for those seeking adventure and authentic island experiences without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: