Island Hopping Experience: Snorkeling & Bamboo Cottages!

Island Hopping Experience: Snorkeling & Bamboo Cottages! — A Complete Guide

Imagine leaving behind the hustle and bustle of Manila for a tranquil day by the sea. This island hopping tour takes you from the city to the calm waters of Calatagan, where you’ll experience floating bamboo cottages—a truly unique way to enjoy the coast. Priced at $180 per person, with a duration of just 1 to 2 hours, this trip offers plenty of bang for your buck, especially if you’re craving a quick escape to nature. Tour guides are known for their knowledgeable hospitality, making the experience both fun and educational.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines relaxing scenic views with active snorkeling—perfect for families or anyone seeking a laid-back, authentic experience. The delicious grilled lunch on board and the chance to explore Little Boracay, Starfish Island, and the snorkeling area makes it a well-rounded day. Plus, the scenic drive through Tagaytay with views of Taal Volcano offers a bonus landscape of volcanic beauty, making this tour multifaceted.

One thing to consider is the timing and weather—since part of the experience relies on tides and good weather, your day might shift slightly depending on conditions. Also, the group size is capped at 20, so booking in advance (usually around 22 days ahead) is advised to secure a spot. This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic local scenery, enjoy snorkeling, and are looking for a family-friendly outing that’s easy to access from Manila.

Key Points

• Convenient transfers from certain parts of Metro Manila make planning simple.
• Multiple stops include a sandbar, snorkeling site, and starfish haven, offering a variety of experiences.
• Guided by local experts who share insightful stories and keep the trip lively.
• Delicious family-style BBQ lunch adds a satisfying culinary touch.
• Ideal for families or first-time visitors looking for a relaxed, scenic day trip.
• Weather-dependent; good weather ensures a smooth experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Calatagan: A Coastal Haven

Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel, followed by a scenic drive to Calatagan. This lesser-known spot along the Philippine coast offers a peaceful alternative to the crowded tourist beaches. Once there, you’ll hop aboard a floating bamboo cottage, which sets the tone for a truly unique travel experience—imagine gliding over the water aboard a traditional-looking bamboo vessel, with the sea breeze in your hair.

Little Boracay: The Sandbar

The first stop takes you to Little Boracay, a charming sandbar that emerges during low tide. It’s a perfect spot to swim, sunbathe, or just relax with friends or family. As one reviewer put it, “the sand bar is great for swimming with friends and family or just chilling.” It’s a straightforward, scenic stretch of sand that offers a different kind of beauty compared to the crowded islands—more intimate and laid-back.

Snorkeling Area: Underwater Worlds

Next up is the snorkeling zone—an area teeming with marine life. Snorkel gear and life vests are included, so you don’t need to bring your own equipment unless you prefer it. Expect to see a variety of colorful fish and perhaps even coral formations, depending on the tide and water conditions. As one traveler shared, “the guides were very kind and informative,” making the underwater adventure enjoyable even for beginners.

Starfish Island: A Close Encounter

The final stop is Starfish Island, famous for its large number of starfish that are safe to observe up close. This part of the trip is often a highlight, with visitors marveling at the large, colorful starfish that thrive in these shallow waters. One review called it “a truly captivating experience,” especially for kids and nature lovers.

Scenic Drive to Tagaytay

On your return leg, you’ll pass through Tagaytay, offering breathtaking views of Taal Volcano and Taal Lake. This quick side trip provides a scenic contrast to the beach, giving you a chance to appreciate the volcanic landscape and take some photos before heading back to Manila.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes all transfer arrangements from select parts of Metro Manila, along with all fees and taxes, making it quite straightforward. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the transfer, and the lunch—a grilled seafood feast prepared on the boat—is widely praised for its quality.

However, dinner is not included, so plan to eat beforehand if you’re hungry after the tour. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, a rainy or stormy day might lead to rescheduling or cancellation—your guide will advise accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families with kids, given the shallow waters and safe snorkeling spots. It’s also ideal for first-time travelers looking for a hassle-free escape outside Manila, thanks to the organized transfers and small group size. If you enjoy sea adventures, scenic views, and authentic local scenery, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Travelers who cherish delicious food, informative guides, and relaxing scenery consistently mention the lunch and guide as highlights. And with reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, it’s clear this tour delivers on its promise of a memorable day.

The Value of This Experience

While $180 might seem modest for a full day of activities, it’s important to consider what’s included: transport, snorkeling equipment, a delicious meal, and guided commentary. The convenience of hotel pickup and the ability to see multiple sites—from a sandbar to starfish island—adds to its value. Plus, the small group size ensures personalized attention, making the trip feel intimate rather than rushed.

The tour’s structure, combining scenic drives, beach time, and underwater exploration, offers a good balance of relaxation and activity. Many reviewers, like Beth, have noted that “everyone from ages 12 to 77 enjoyed themselves,” making it a flexible choice for different travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Island Hopping Tour offers a rare blend of authentic Filipino coastal scenery with easy access from Manila. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxing day out, enjoy snorkeling, or just experience a different side of the Philippines without overplanning. The guides’ local knowledge, the scenic boat rides, and the delicious BBQ lunch make it stand out.

While weather can be a factor, the overall experience provides excellent value, especially for families or first-time visitors eager to see more than just the city. If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and hassle-free escape, this tour checks many boxes.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned vehicle transfers from designated parts of Metro Manila.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 1 to 2 hours, not including travel time to and from Manila.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 22 days in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, snorkeling equipment and life vests are included, making it accessible for beginners and kids.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera to capture underwater moments.

Are meals included?
Yes, a delicious grilled lunch is part of the package, prepared on the boat.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

What is the maximum group size?
The experience caps at 20 travelers, promoting a more personal and relaxed environment.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Absolutely, especially since the shallow waters and gentle marine life appeal to children and older adults alike.

How do I find out more?
Visit the provider’s page or contact Yolo Travel Philippines at +639760002308 or [email protected] for additional info.

This island-hopping experience offers a wonderful slice of coastal life, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or just a scenic day out, this tour makes for a memorable escape from Manila’s busy streets.