El Nido Islands: Private Paraw Sunrise Sailing

Imagine waking up before dawn, slipping into your warm clothes, and heading out to a traditional Paraw sailboat in the calm waters of Bacuit Bay. For $128 per group (up to 5 people), you’ll spend two hours enjoying a private sunrise cruise that promises a blend of serene scenery, light adventure, and unforgettable views of El Nido’s limestone cliffs. The experience begins early, around 5AM, so you’ll want to pack an extra layer, some towels, and a sense of adventure.

Two things we love about this tour are its exclusivity and the chance to witness the bay’s dramatic limestone formations against the rising sun. There’s something special about being on a small boat that feels like your own private escape, and the tranquil hours of dawn are perfect for soaking in the natural beauty without crowds. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and crystal kayaks makes it easy to add water fun into your morning, giving you a glimpse of the marine world that surrounds you.

One possible consideration is the early start time—it might be tough for some travelers to wake up so early, especially if you’re jet-lagged or not naturally a morning person. Also, the tour is weather-dependent; bad weather could lead to rescheduling or cancellation, so it’s good to keep flexible plans around the weather forecast.

This experience suits those who crave a peaceful, intimate encounter with nature, especially if you prefer small groups over large tour buses. It’s ideal for couples, small families, or friends looking for a memorable but relaxing start to their day in El Nido. If you’re after big crowds or a more active tour with multiple stops, this might not be your best fit. But for genuine tranquility and personalized attention, it’s hard to beat.

Key Points

• Private, small-group experience perfect for intimacy and personalized service.
• Early morning timing allows for viewing stunning sunrises and avoiding crowds.
• Includes snorkeling gear and kayaks to add water-based fun and exploration.
• Spectacular limestone cliffs and seascapes make for dramatic photo opportunities.
• Weather-dependent, so flexibility is important.
• No hotel pickup, so plan your transportation accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Private Paraw Sunrise Sailing Tour

Setting the Scene: An Early Start for an Unforgettable Morning

Joining this tour means waking up early—around 5AM—to catch the dawn light creeping over Bacuit Bay. This timing isn’t just about beating the crowds; it’s about experiencing the bay’s serene beauty at its quietest. As we arrived 15 minutes before departure, the air was still cool, and the water was perfectly calm, reflecting the starry sky and the outline of towering limestone formations.

Our guide, whose name I didn’t catch but who was friendly and attentive, explained that this is a private cruise for small groups—up to five guests—which means you won’t be squeezed into a large boat with strangers. That intimacy is a big plus, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply value peace and quiet.

The Traditional Paraw: A Cultural and Scenic Highlight

The boat itself is a traditional Paraw—a Filipino sailboat with two outriggers—adding a touch of local flavor to your journey. We loved the way the boat glided silently through the water, with the soft sounds of the wind filling the sails. It felt authentic and peaceful, a perfect way to connect with the area’s maritime culture.

Scenic Highlights: Limestone Cliffs and Vibrant Waters

As we set sail, the breathtaking limestone cliffs of Bacuit Bay came into view. These towering formations, some with caves and overhangs, create a dramatic backdrop that looks like something from a fantasy film. The early morning light cast a golden hue on the rocks, making every photo seem almost surreal.

The guide pointed out Ipil Beach and Papaya Beach, stopping briefly at each for a chance to stretch your legs or hop into the water. These beaches are pristine, with soft white sand and clear waters—perfect for a quick dip or some beach photos.

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Water Activities: Snorkeling and Kayaking

Included in the tour are snorkeling gear and access to crystal kayaks. We took advantage of the snorkeling equipment to explore the vibrant marine life just below the surface—schools of colorful fish, coral formations, and perhaps even a sea turtle if luck is on your side. The kayaks allowed us to glide over the calm waters, offering different perspectives of the bay’s beauty.

The reviews echoed these features, with one traveler saying, “The snorkeling gear was a highlight, and I loved paddling around the calm waters, getting close to the marine life that calls Bacuit Bay home.”

Food and Comfort: What’s Included

The tour package includes a sumptuous lunch, which we enjoyed on deck after a couple of water activities—fresh fruit, local dishes, and drinks. Although the tour doesn’t specify the menu details, previous comments suggest it’s a well-prepared meal that complements the experience.

Remember, there’s no hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation to the departure point in Cavite. It’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent; if storms or heavy rain occur, the trip might be postponed or canceled, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Authenticity and Value: Does It Live Up to Expectations?

This tour is about the experience rather than ticking off multiple stops. The private setting allows for a relaxed, personalized adventure—something you won’t get on larger tours. Reviewers repeatedly mentioned how stunning the scenery was and appreciated the early wake-up call, describing it as “a magical way to start the day.” The price of $128 might seem high for two hours, but considering the inclusions—private boat, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and a lovely setting—it’s quite reasonable for such an intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a peaceful, authentic way to see Bacuit Bay at sunrise, this tour delivers. The combination of spectacular views, small-group intimacy, and water activities makes it a worthwhile choice. Just be prepared for the early start and flexible with the weather.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples, small groups, or families who want to enjoy the natural beauty of El Nido without the hustle of larger tours. It’s especially appealing if you value quiet mornings, personalized service, and stunning scenery. Those seeking a more active or multi-stop adventure might prefer other options, but for a tranquil morning out on the water, this one is hard to beat.

FAQs

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts for two hours, starting at around 5AM. Be sure to check the schedule for availability.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transportation to the departure point in Cavite.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, extra clothes, and biodegradable sunscreen to protect the marine environment during water activities.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather can affect the schedule, so flexibility is advised.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a sumptuous lunch is provided. Drinks are usually part of the package, but check with the tour operator for specifics.

Is this suitable for kids?
Yes, with supervision; the water activities are gentle, and the small boat is suitable for children comfortable with the water.

To sum it up, the Private Paraw Sunrise Sailing in Bacuit Bay offers an intimate, scenic, and peaceful way to start your day in El Nido. It’s a perfect choice if you want to witness the bay’s stunning limestone cliffs at their most tranquil, enjoy water activities in a small group, and experience the local sailing tradition. While the early start and weather dependence are considerations, the overall value and authentic atmosphere make it a memorable part of any trip to this beautiful part of the Philippines.

You can check availability for your dates here: