If you’re dreaming of cruising around El Nido’s iconic limestone islands, turquoise lagoons, and pristine beaches, this Half-Day Seasation Premium Speedboat Tour might just be your ticket. For about $83 per person, you’ll spend roughly three hours on a luxury twin-engine speedboat exploring some of Palawan’s most photogenic spots, with the chance to snap memorable photos and enjoy snacks in the sunshine.
What sets this tour apart? First, we love the personalized touch — guides like Sheng, Jas, and Jan are praised for their helpfulness and enthusiasm, and the boat is described as fast and comfortable, making the journey more enjoyable. Second, the access to exclusive beaches and private lagoons offers a calmer, more intimate experience compared to larger, crowded tours.
One thing to keep in mind: weather can be unpredictable. If the skies turn foul, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled, so flexibility is handy. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a short but immersive taste of El Nido’s natural beauty, especially if you appreciate a well-organized, guided experience with a focus on stunning scenery and authentic beaches.
Key Points
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- Personalized guides and fast, comfortable boats enhance the experience
- Visit at least three islands, including private beaches and lagoons
- Includes snacks, refreshments, towels, and safety gear—all about convenience and comfort
- Suitable for those with limited time but wanting a comprehensive taste of El Nido’s highlights
- Weather-dependent — flexibility or alternative plans may be needed
- Not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues due to the boat ride
What to Expect from the Half-Day Seasation Premium Speedboat Tour
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Planning more time in El Nido? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An Overview of the Experience
From the moment you arrive at the Corong-Corong Pier, you’ll notice the professional setup, with your guide wearing a distinctive red polo shirt bearing the El Nido Yachting Club logo. The tour operates twice daily, with options at 9:00AM-12:00NN or 1:00PM-4:00PM, making it flexible to fit your schedule. You’ll need at least two guests to book, which keeps the group intimate enough for personalized attention.
The Itinerary: A Snapshot of the Islands and Lagoons
The tour covers at least three islands, with the specific stops varying based on the day and the Department of Tourism restrictions. Common highlights include:
- Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon — Both are natural marvels, with calm waters perfect for pictures or a quick swim. These lagoons are signature landmarks, renowned for their towering limestone walls. You’ll love the way the sunlight filters into these secluded spots, making for stunning photos.
- Shimizu Island — Known for its beautiful white-sand beach, it’s a great place to relax, swim, or snorkel. The reviews rave about the gorgeous beaches here, and many mention how the guides take photos, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery.
- Star Beach (Private Beach) — As a private spot accessible only through tours, this beach offers a peaceful break from more crowded places. It’s a perfect spot to unwind, sip refreshments, or take a walk along the shore.
- Hidden Beach, Entalula Beach, and Cadlao Lagoon — Each offers unique vistas and tranquil waters. The Hidden Beach, with its secret entrance, is a particularly popular photo spot.
- Other notable stops like Helicopter Island or Seven Commandos (available on certain days) add variety and more opportunities for snorkeling or relaxing.
What Makes These Stops Special?
Each location offers a different flavor of El Nido’s beauty. The lagoons and beaches boast crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming or kayaking — although, note that kayak rentals are considered an add-on. The private beaches give you a chance to enjoy the scenery without the crowds, which many reviews highlight as a plus.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Highlights: Why Travelers Love It
Multiple reviews mention the knowledgeable guides—like Sheng and Jas—who go above and beyond, even taking photos and videos to capture your moments. The speedboat itself is praised for its speed and comfort, making the journey feel more like a fun ride than a tedious boat trip.
Enjoying snacks and refreshments onboard adds to the relaxed vibe, and towels and life jackets are provided, making swimming safe and convenient. The inclusion of the environmental fee (ETDF) shows attention to sustainability, which eco-conscious travelers appreciate.
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The Downside: Considerations for Travelers
While many love the tour, some mention the short duration of just three hours — Franck noted that “3 hours is a bit short,” and would have appreciated more time for exploring and walking. If you’re craving a full-day experience, this might feel rushed; however, for those with limited time or looking for a quick taste of El Nido’s highlights, it hits the spot.
Weather can also be a factor—if the skies turn rough, the trip could be canceled, which is understandable given safety concerns. Booking with flexibility in mind is recommended.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits travelers who prefer a guided, hassle-free outing that hits the key sights without the need for full-day commitments. It’s especially good for those who want a taste of El Nido’s lagoons and beaches with knowledgeable guides and a comfortable boat. It’s less ideal if you’re seeking a long, leisurely exploration or have mobility issues, as the boat ride and short stops may be limiting.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning or Afternoon Departure
The tour kicks off at the Corong-Corong Pier, where the guide greets you with professionalism and warmth. Depending on your chosen schedule, you’ll head out on the luxury twin-engine speedboat, which is praised for both speed and smoothness.
First Stop: Lagoon Exploration
You’re likely to start with either Big Lagoon or Small Lagoon. These spots are often the first stops because of their iconic status and natural beauty. Expect towering limestone walls framing tranquil waters perfect for kayaking, swimming, or just soaking in the scenery. Many visitors appreciate how the lagoons are less crowded early in the day, offering a more personal experience.
Beach Breaks and Snorkeling
Next, the boat visits Shimizu Island, renowned for its white-sand beaches. Here, you might snorkel among vibrant coral reefs or simply relax on the shore. The guides are helpful and take photos for you—many reviews mention how these personal touches make a difference.
Private Beaches and Hidden Spots
The Private Beach of Star Beach offers a quiet spot to unwind. Guests often comment on how the peaceful environment makes it feel like a private retreat. The tour also includes visits to other lagoons and beaches like Entalula, known for its calm waters and beautiful scenery.
Wrapping Up: Return to Pier
After visiting three or more islands, the boat heads back to Corong-Corong Pier. The entire experience lasts about three hours, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules or traveling with children.
The Experience from Reviews
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Robin’s comment captures what many feel: “Really enjoyed our tour! From the transport to the tour guide, they even took photos and videos for us.” The guides’ attentiveness and the well-maintained boat make a noticeable difference.
James emphasizes the value of the experience, noting that “the guides were excellent and the boat was fast and comfortable. All the stops were so much fun,” suggesting that the journey is worth the price.
Linda highlights the beauty of the lagoons and the private beach, while Sachin praises the quality of the food, guides, and overall experience. Franck mentions the pleasant visiting conditions and the short duration, which many see as a trade-off for a quick, efficient tour.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
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- Bring your passport or ID for registration.
- Pack swimwear, a change of clothes, and towels.
- Consider purchasing insurance since the tour recommends it.
- Be aware that internet may be limited during the trip.
- Avoid bringing large bags or plastics to keep the beaches pristine.
- Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard, but bring your own if you prefer.
- If you need special pickup services, note there’s an extra fee—best to clarify when booking.
- The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues due to the boat ride and walking involved.
The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?
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This Half-Day Seasation Premium Speedboat Tour offers a compact, high-quality taste of El Nido’s best sights. It’s perfect for short-term visitors eager to see the lagoons and beaches without committing to a full day. The personalized guides, comfortable boat, and exclusive beaches make it a memorable, hassle-free adventure.
If you value good value for money, stunning scenery, and a well-organized trip with helpful guides, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid large crowds, love quick stops at iconic locations, and appreciate a personal touch in their island-hopping experience.
However, if you’re seeking a longer, more leisurely exploration, or have specific mobility needs, you might want to look for alternative options. Regardless, this tour provides a wonderful introduction to Palawan’s natural treasures and is a solid choice for nature lovers and first-time visitors alike.
FAQ
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How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, from 9:00AM-12:00NN or 1:00PM-4:00PM, depending on your chosen schedule.
What islands are visited?
You’ll visit at least three islands, typically including lagoons, beaches, and private or less crowded spots like Shimizu Island, Entalula Beach, and Star Beach.
Is food provided?
Snacks and refreshments are included, but meals are not. Many reviews mention enjoying the provided snacks onboard.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, a change of clothes, towels, and sun protection. Avoid large bags and plastics.
Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkeling is possible at some stops, but kayak rentals and additional activities are extra.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While suitable for most, the tour involves boat rides and walking, which may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
What about weather cancellations?
The tour may be canceled due to poor weather. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Does the tour operate on all days?
It runs on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 9:00AM-12:00NN, and on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday at 1:00PM-4:00PM.
Are guides available in languages other than English?
The tour is conducted in English; no other languages are specified in the provided info.
In summary, if you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and intimate island-hopping adventure in El Nido, this trip offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s especially enjoyable for those who want a taste of the lagoons and beaches without the full-day commitment, and who appreciate friendly guides and a smooth ride.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in El Nido
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