Tagbilaran City isn’t just a gateway to Bohol’s famous sights—it’s also a lively hub for exploring the water in ways that suit all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise past the Chocolate Hills or eager to snorkel alongside sea turtles, Bohol’s waters offer memorable moments. We especially like the Chocolate Hills Tour with Loboc River Cruise & Lunch for combining scenic beauty with a delicious buffet, and the Private Firefly Watching Cruise for a peaceful, intimate experience that captures the magic of Bohol’s night skies. These tours give you a taste of the island’s natural charm from a boat, making the water part of your adventure.
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive day trip, the Cebu: Bohol Countryside and Loboc River Cruise Day Tour offers a full itinerary from Cebu City, including the Chocolate Hills, the Tarsier Sanctuary, and a floating restaurant lunch. For wildlife lovers, the Turtle Sanctuary Snorkeling and Boat Tour lets you get close to sea turtles and dolphins, while the Shared Firefly Watching Cruise provides a tranquil way to end your day gazing at thousands of glowing fireflies along the Loboc River. No matter your style or budget, these boat experiences are a fantastic way to see Bohol’s natural beauty from the water.
1. Bohol: Chocolate Hills Tour with Loboc River Cruise & Lunch
At number one, this organized day trip offers a well-rounded look at Bohol’s most iconic sights, starting with the world-famous Chocolate Hills and ending with a leisurely Loboc River cruise. The tour includes visits to the Blood Compact Monument, Baclayon Church, and the Tarsier Conservation Area, making it ideal for travelers who want a snapshot of Bohol’s highlights. The Loboc River buffet lunch is a highlight, with live entertainment aboard the boat while you enjoy local dishes. The tour lasts about 8 hours and costs around $64 per person, which is reasonable considering the comprehensive itinerary.
This tour’s unique feature is the combination of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences in one day. Reviews praise the smooth transportation and friendly guides, though some mention the touristy nature of the Loboc River cruise. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a reliable, all-in-one highlights tour. The Chocolate Hills viewing can be crowded, but the scenic vista remains impressive. The Tarsier Conservation Area is smaller than some expect but still a captivating encounter. Bottom line: a solid choice for those wanting an efficient, enjoyable overview of Bohol’s must-sees.
2. Cebu: Bohol Countryside and Loboc River Cruise Day Tour
This full-day excursion from Cebu City is perfect for travelers looking for a convenient, all-inclusive experience. For $142, the tour takes you directly from Cebu to Bohol, skipping the hassle of planning transport yourself. You’ll see the Chocolate Hills, visit the Tarsier Sanctuary, and enjoy a hearty lunch on a floating restaurant on the Loboc River. The tour also includes stops at the Blood Compact Shrine, Baclayon Church, and St. Peter’s Ruins, making it a comprehensive day out.
This experience stands out for its seamless logistics and the chance to see several key sites with minimal planning. The floating restaurant lunch is a relaxing way to enjoy local food amid scenic surroundings. The single review rates it a perfect 5/5, emphasizing the value of the hassle-free, guided journey. It’s ideal for travelers short on time or those who prefer a worry-free package that covers the highlights in one go. Bottom line: a great pick for those wanting a stress-free, full-day Bohol experience from Cebu.
$142 per person
3. Bohol Island Countryside Tour with Buffet Lunch River Cruise (Cebu or Bohol)
Number three on our list offers a similar mix of land and water highlights, with the added flexibility of starting from either Cebu or Bohol. For around $135, you get a full day of sightseeing, including the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier viewing, and a buffet lunch on a Loboc River floating restaurant. This tour is known for its convenient hotel or airport pick-up, making it especially suitable for travelers arriving in Bohol or Cebu.
The focus here is on ease and variety, providing a well-paced itinerary that covers the island’s top sights in about 8 hours. Reviewers mention the smooth coordination and the delicious buffet, making this a reliable choice. Its value lies in the all-in-one package that minimizes planning and maximizes sightseeing. It’s best suited for visitors who want a straightforward, guided tour with no surprises. Bottom line: an excellent option for those prioritizing convenience and a full, curated experience.
$135.00 per person
4. Bohol: Private Firefly Watching Cruise
This tour offers a private, intimate experience that’s perfect for couples or small groups wanting a quiet, magical evening. The firefly cruise on the Abatan River costs around $100 per person and lasts about 6 to 8 hours. You’ll be picked up from your hotel or resort in Panglao or Tagbilaran and taken to a traditional outrigger boat, where thousands of fireflies light up the mangroves. You can even upgrade to include a gourmet dinner at Bohol Bee Farm Restaurant on Panglao Island.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized nature—you won’t be sharing your boat with strangers—and the chance to learn about mangrove ecology from your private guide. Reviewers highlight the peacefulness and the stunning starry skies, making it perfect for nature lovers and romantics. The dinner upgrade adds a special touch, turning an already enchanting experience into a memorable night. The main drawback is the higher price and the need to book in advance. Bottom line: a beautiful, quiet way to enjoy Bohol’s night environment, ideal for those seeking a private, nature-focused activity.
$100.00 per person
5. Bohol: Turtle Sanctuary Snorkeling and Boat Tour with Lunch
For around $43, this half-day adventure takes you to the Balicasag Island, where you can snorkel with sea turtles and dolphins (season-dependent). The tour includes hotel pickup within Panglao Municipality and a boat ride to Balicasag Reef, with opportunities to see dolphins (though sightings are not guaranteed). You’ll transfer onto paddleboats guided by local islanders, visiting the turtle sanctuary and coral reefs, with ample time for snorkeling and relaxing on the beach.
This tour appeals to underwater enthusiasts and families keen to see marine life closer up. The snorkeling at Balicasag Reef is the main draw, and reviews mention the friendly guides and the fun of the dolphin spotting (seasonal). While dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, the chance to snorkel around colorful reefs and see turtles makes it worthwhile. It’s good for travelers on a modest budget who want a quick, active outing. Bottom line: a solid, affordable choice for underwater discovery, with the caveat that marine sightings depend on nature.
6. BOHOL Tour 2025 – Chocolate Hills, Tarsier and River Cruise Lunch
This 8-hour guided tour provides a classic Bohol experience at about $65 per person. It combines visits to the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Conservation Area, and includes a river cruise with a Filipino buffet lunch. What sets this apart is the inclusion of live entertainment during the cruise and a stop at the Bilar Mahogany Forest. The itinerary is quite similar to other tours, but the focus on local dances and songs during the river cruise gives it a lively local flavor.
Reviews mention how smoothly the tour runs, with some noting the short but scenic climb to the Chocolate Hills’ observation deck. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive day of sightseeing with cultural entertainment. The value is good, given the multiple sites and included lunch. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of local culture mixed with natural wonders. Bottom line: a reliable, culturally engaging tour that balances nature and tradition.
7. Famous Bohol Chocolate Hills Loboc River Cruise Tarsier Tour
For travelers seeking a private, personalized experience, this full-day tour offers visits to the iconic Chocolate Hills, Bilar Forest, and a lunch cruise on the Loboc River with live music. The tour includes an up-close look at pythons and tarsiers at conservation centers, making it ideal for wildlife lovers.
The benefit of a private guide is the ability to customize the pace and focus on areas that interest you most. The itinerary includes historical sites like the Blood Compact Site and Baclayon Church, with a highlight being the lunch cruise. The reviews commend the personalized attention and the comfortable transportation. It’s best suited for travelers wanting an intimate, flexible tour with a deeper dive into Bohol’s flora, fauna, and history. The main downside is the higher cost, but you get a tailored experience. Bottom line: the perfect choice for those who want a private, in-depth day with flexible stops.
8. Shared Firefly Watching Cruise on Bohol’s Scenic Loboc River
This budget-friendly shared firefly cruise costs just $26 and lasts around 3 hours. It’s a simple yet magical activity, perfect for travelers on a tight budget or those wanting a relaxed, nature-based evening. Pickup is available from Panglao or Tagbilaran, with tours starting at 6:00 PM, giving you a chance to witness thousands of fireflies lighting up the mangroves.
While reviews are mixed—some mention the tour being less intimate due to the shared nature—the firefly glow is undeniably enchanting. It’s a straightforward, no-frills experience ideal for those seeking a short, peaceful evening activity. It’s best for travelers who want to experience Bohol’s natural beauty without breaking the bank. Bottom line: a charming, affordable way to end a busy day with a touch of natural wonder.
$26 per person
How to Choose Your Best Boat Tour in Tagbilaran City
When picking your ideal boat experience, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you have. If you want a full-day adventure with cultural highlights, the Famous Bohol Chocolate Hills Loboc River Cruise Tarsier Tour or the Tour 6 give you a mix of everything. For a romantic, quiet evening, the Private Firefly Watching Cruise is perfect. Budget travelers will enjoy the Shared Firefly Cruise, while snorkelers and wildlife fans should look at the Turtle Sanctuary Snorkeling and Boat Tour.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and activity. Also, think about whether you prefer a guided group tour with multiple stops or a private experience that allows more flexibility. Each tour offers a different way to experience Bohol’s waters, so match your choice to what excites you most—scenery, wildlife, or local culture.
Final Thoughts
From the scenic Chocolate Hills to tranquil firefly cruises, Tagbilaran City offers a diverse set of boat tours suited to many interests. If you’re after a comprehensive day trip, the Bohol: Chocolate Hills Tour with Loboc River Cruise & Lunch is hard to beat. For a more personalized, romantic night, the Private Firefly Watching Cruise stands out. Budget travelers can enjoy the simple magic of fireflies for just $26.
Whatever your choice, remember that booking early will help ensure you get your top pick. Bohol’s waters are calling—ready to turn your trip into an aquatic adventure you’ll remember.