Siargao Tri-Island with Drone & Mermaid Tail: A Practical, Authentic Adventure in the Philippines
The Siargao Tri-Island Tour offers a full day of exploring some of the most picturesque islands of the Philippines. Priced at just $37 per person and lasting around 8 hours, it takes you from the lively shores of General Luna to the tranquil sands of Naked, Daku, and Guyam Islands. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides, this tour is a chance to see stunning beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, and indulge in a classic boodle fight lunch. You’ll also have some fun extras, like free mermaid tails to play with and drone footage to capture your trip from above.
Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the carefully curated stops—each island offers something special—and the value for money. The inclusion of a delicious local lunch and free extras makes it a well-rounded experience. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the initial chaos at the start of the tour, which some travelers found disorganized. If you’re someone who needs a smooth start to your day, this is worth knowing.
This tour suits travelers who love beach days, enjoy authentic local food, and want a taste of island life without breaking the bank. It’s especially great if you appreciate guided insights and want memorable photos, thanks to drone footage. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and eager to explore multiple islands, this trip could be just what you’re looking for.
Key Points
- Affordable Price: At $37, it offers excellent value for a full day of island-hopping.
- Multiple Islands: Visit Naked, Daku, and Guyam Islands, each offering unique scenery and beach vibes.
- Authentic Food: The included boodle fight lunch is a highlight for many travelers, showcasing local flavors.
- Extras: Free use of mermaid tails and drone footage add a fun, memorable twist.
- Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with helpful insights.
- Timing & Logistics: The tour departs at 8 AM from General Luna, lasting around 8 hours, with some reviews noting initial disorganization.
A Closer Look at the Siargao Tri-Island Tour
When we think about a day spent on islands in the Philippines, we imagine warm sun, gentle waters, and the chance to truly relax. This tour hits those marks, but it also offers more: a chance to see three very different islands, each with its own personality.
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Starting Point: General Luna
The tour begins with pickup from your accommodation within General Luna, which makes it convenient. If your hotel is outside this area, be prepared for a small extra charge. The boat departs at 8:00 AM, so it’s wise to be ready early and prepared for a full day out. The group tends to be a mix of fellow travelers, which can be a social bonus or a minor challenge if you’re seeking solitude.
Naked Island: The Sandbar Jewel
The first stop is Naked Island, a tiny sandbar surrounded by clear waters. It’s essentially a stretch of white sand with no trees or structures—just perfect for lounging or wading. Its simplicity is part of the charm, and you’ll love the way the water laps around your feet. Reviewers mention that they enjoyed the guided tour here, with the guide helping to point out the best spots for photos or quick swims.
Daku Island: The Largest and Most Developed
Next, you head to Daku Island, the biggest of the three, with a larger beach area and a handful of local shops. This stop is ideal for swimming, relaxing, and exploring. The three-hour stay allows enough time for a proper beach day, as one reviewer noted, “most of your time on the island,” which is perfect if you want to unwind rather than rush.
Daku has a lively vibe, with opportunities to buy snacks or souvenirs. The highlight for many is the lunch, a boodle fight—a communal feast that’s both fun and filling. The food is described as delicious and well-presented, a big plus for travelers tired of bland or overcooked meals.
More Great Tours NearbyGuyam Island: The Picturesque Retreat
The third stop, Guyam Island, is small but stunning. With a beautiful beach, it’s perfect for relaxing after lunch, taking photos, or simply soaking in the scenery. The one-hour free time there is enough for a quick swim and some selfies. Several reviews mention that Guyam is the prettiest island, with shops available, making it a favorite for many visitors.
Hidden Gem & Secret Island (Tide-dependent)
A highlight mentioned in the itinerary is a photo stop at a secret or hidden island, which depends on the tide. This is a brief visit but offers some fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to snap shots of the lush surroundings or try a quick swim.
Return Journey: Back to General Luna
After a full day, you’ll head back to General Luna around 4 PM. The overall experience is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Siargao’s coastal beauty without feeling rushed.
The Extras That Make It Special
The free mermaid tails activity is a playful addition, especially for families or those who want a fun photo opportunity. The drone footage is another standout, capturing the islands’ beauty from above—perfect for sharing with friends or keeping as a memory.
Authentic Local Flavors: The Boodle Fight
The lunch is a true highlight—a traditional boodle fight, which involves a spread of local dishes served on banana leaves. This communal style of eating fosters a sense of camaraderie and gives you a taste of real Filipino hospitality. Reviewers rave about the delicious food and the well-organized presentation, making it more than just a meal but an experience.
Tour Guides & Group Size
Guides are licensed and friendly, adding insights about each island or the local culture. Many reviews praise guides like Erwin for being accommodating and helpful, which enhances the overall experience. Since it’s a group tour, expect a lively, social atmosphere, but the guide helps keep things organized.
Potential Drawbacks & Considerations
Some travelers have noted that the start of the tour can be a bit chaotic, with some feeling the initial organization was lacking. The boat engine can be noisy, but this is usually mitigated with provided headphones. The timing is tight, and if you prefer a more relaxed pace or less structured day, this may not be ideal.
The price covers most essentials—lunch, boat fees, entrance fees, guide, and extras—but you should bring snorkeling gear if you wish to snorkel at the islands, as it is not included.
The tour not being suitable for non-swimmers, babies under 1 year, or people prone to seasickness is an important note. The boat ride, while generally smooth, could be challenging for sensitive travelers.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is best for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of Siargao’s key islands. If you love beach days, authentic food, and fun extras like drone footage and mermaid tails, you’ll find it worthwhile. It’s also a good pick for those who enjoy organized group tours that cover a lot of ground in one day.
If you’re seeking serenity and solitude, you might find the group aspect a little busy. Likewise, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore at your own speed, consider a private tour or doing individual island visits.
Final Thoughts
For just $37, this full-day island-hopping adventure in Siargao offers a fantastic mix of scenic beauty, local culture, and added fun. The stops at Naked, Daku, and Guyam Islands are all distinct and memorable, each providing a different flavor of island life. The inclusion of lunch, drone footage, and mermaid tails elevates the experience from simple sightseeing to a playful, authentic Filipino adventure.
While it’s not perfect—some initial disorganization and a busy schedule—most travelers leave satisfied, with plenty of photos and stories to share. It’s an experience best suited for active, curious travelers eager to see Siargao’s best islands in one go, especially if you appreciate good value and lively guided tours.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
This tour is generally not recommended for non-swimmers, as it involves swimming and being on boats. If you’re not comfortable in the water, consider other options or ask the guide for specific safety measures.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water. These essentials help you stay comfortable and capture memories during the day.
Are the boat rides safe?
Yes, the boats are operated by licensed guides and operators. However, the boat engine can be noisy, so headphones are provided.
How long do we stay at each island?
You will spend about 1 hour at Naked Island, 3 hours at Daku Island, and 1 hour at Guyam Island. The itinerary allows for swimming, relaxing, and photos.
What if I want to extend my stay at an island?
The tour has fixed durations, but if you want more time, you may need to arrange a private tour or discuss options with your guide beforehand.
Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a boodle fight lunch featuring local delicacies, which is often highlighted as a delicious and authentic part of the experience.
What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
In all, this Siargao island-hopping tour presents a practical way to see the highlights of the islands—beautiful beaches, local food, and fun extras—at a very reasonable price. Whether you’re after Instagram-worthy photos, a day of swimming, or just soaking up island vibes, it’s a trip worth considering.
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