Private Expedition · Palawan
Private El Nido to Coron Boat Tour
your way.
A fully private, multi-day island-hopping adventure through the remote islands between El Nido and Coron — customized around your pace, interests and preferred accommodation.
Between two icons,
a world few ever see.
Leave the crowds behind and explore the remote islands, coral reefs and secluded beaches between El Nido and Coron.
Your route is built around you — your pace, interests, preferred accommodation and number of days. Travel in either direction with the freedom to linger wherever the day feels right.
the destination.
More adventure.
Less arranging.
From your first meal to your final swim, the essentials are covered — so you can be fully present for the experience.
Private boat & crew
Travel at your own pace with a dedicated captain, guide and crew.
3 meals every day
Fresh, customizable meals, drinking water, soft drinks and ice.
Island stays
Choose beach camping, native huts, air-conditioned lodges or resorts.
Everything arranged
Standard entrance fees, snorkeling equipment and route planning included.
personally taken care of.
We’re Karel and Mel, a small family team helping travelers plan private journeys between El Nido and Coron. We share honest local advice and shape each trip around the people taking it.
- Direct contact from your first message to the final trip details
- Local knowledge and flexible, personal planning
- A real family business behind every booking
perfect escape.
Tell us a little about your plans. We’ll help shape the right route, boat and experience for your group.
Why Choose a Private El Nido–Coron Boat Tour?
Unlike a fixed group expedition, a private tour gives you your own boat and crew and much more freedom over the journey. We can tailor the trip around your interests, preferred pace, accommodation and number of days.
- Your own private boat and crew – ideal for couples, families and groups of friends.
- Flexible itinerary – spend more time snorkeling, relaxing on beaches, exploring islands or visiting local communities, depending on your personal preferences.
- Travel either direction – El Nido to Coron or Coron to El Nido.
- Choose your trip length – from fast one- and two-day options to relaxed three-, four- or five-day expeditions and longer custom trips.
- Remote islands away from the crowds – explore the quieter Linapacan region between the two major tourist destinations.
- Excellent snorkeling – coral reefs, turtles and other marine life can be incorporated according to conditions and your interests.
- Flexible accommodation – beach camping, bamboo huts, simple hotels or upgraded island resorts.
- Meals and logistics arranged for you – specify any culinary or any other preferences.
- Your trip can be adjusted along the way – weather, wind, tides and sea conditions may determine which beaches and snorkeling sites are best on a particular day. Boat captain knows best.
You can also extend your multiday tour to include the many sites to the west of Coron, or combine it with some quality diving.
Here is a drone video by one guest on a boat trip through this magical area:
Wakeboards and speargun available on request. You can even stay on a deserted island and polish your survival skills! Or learn from the locals how to catch a fish with line in hand and a piece of bread.
Private Tour Prices & Instant Quote
Our private El Nido–Coron expeditions are customized according to the number of guests, number of days, boat type, accommodation and optional upgrades.
As a general guide, a 4-day private expedition for 2 people starts from around $2,500. Longer trips, larger groups, upgraded boats, resort accommodation and special activities will affect the final price.
Get an instant customized quote for your private tour →
You can also see our full private boat tour price guide for more detailed pricing information.
Sample El Nido–Coron Itineraries
Every private expedition can be customized, but our sample itineraries are a useful starting point if you are not sure how many days to choose or which activities and destinations to prioritize.
We have prepared sample 1-day to 5-day itineraries covering different travel styles, including snorkeling-focused trips, relaxed beach itineraries, faster transfers and more adventurous expeditions.
Browse our private El Nido–Coron sample itineraries →
The routes are examples rather than fixed schedules. Your captain may adjust the itinerary according to weather, wind, sea conditions and the interests of your group.
Boat Options for Your Private El Nido–Coron Tour
The boat can be matched to the size of your group, preferred travel speed and the type of experience you want. Our standard multi-day expeditions normally use a traditional Philippine banca, while faster and more luxurious boats are available as upgrades.
- Traditional banca – the classic and most economical choice for a relaxed multi-day island-hopping expedition. Its slower pace is part of the experience and gives you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery along the way.
- Larger banca – suitable for larger groups or guests who might be more prone to sea sickness, as the larger bancas are more stable when it is wavy (usually around January).
- Fast boat – useful for shorter itineraries or travelers who want to cover more distance and visit more sites in less time. A fast boat is generally required if you want to complete the route in only one day or those wishing to see more of the Coron sites to the west.
- Catamaran or premium yacht – available for guests looking for greater comfort and a more luxurious private expedition.
For most 3–5 day expeditions, the traditional banca offers an excellent balance between cost, comfort and time spent exploring the islands. If you tell us your group size, number of days and priorities, we can recommend the most suitable boat.
See more information about our boat options →
How Many Days Should You Choose?
The ideal trip length depends on how much time you have and whether you want a fast transfer or a relaxed island-hopping expedition. For most travelers, 3–5 days gives the best balance between travel time, snorkeling, beaches and overnight stops.
- 1 day – the fastest option and normally requires a fast boat. This is mainly for travelers who need to get between El Nido and Coron quickly while still seeing a few places along the way.
- 2 days – possible, but still quite rushed. A faster boat can help you include more snorkeling and sightseeing stops.
- 3 days – a good minimum for a proper expedition, with enough time for several remote islands, snorkeling and overnight accommodation.
- 4 days – our most balanced option for many guests, allowing a comfortable pace and a good variety of beaches, reefs and island stops.
- 5 days – ideal for travelers who want a more relaxed journey with extra snorkeling, remote islands and flexibility along the route.
- 6–7 days or longer – best for highly customized trips, slower travel, resort extensions, diving or exploring additional areas around Coron or El Nido.
These are only general guidelines. The route can be customized according to your interests, group size, preferred accommodation and boat type.
Compare our sample El Nido–Coron itineraries by trip length →
El Nido to Coron or Coron to El Nido?
Our private expeditions can operate in either direction, so you can travel from El Nido to Coron or from Coron to El Nido depending on your wider travel plans.
There is no universally better direction. The best choice usually depends on where you are arriving from, where you want to continue afterward, your accommodation plans and the weather and sea conditions at the time of your trip.
- El Nido to Coron – convenient if you are already exploring southern or central Palawan and want to continue north toward Coron.
- Coron to El Nido – ideal if your trip begins in Coron and you want to continue south toward El Nido and the rest of Palawan, or fly out to Boracay, as there is no direct flight from Coron.
- Either direction can be customized – the same general islands, snorkeling areas and overnight options can usually be incorporated, although the exact route may change according to wind, currents and the captain’s judgment.
Because these are private tours rather than fixed group itineraries, we can help arrange the route around your preferred starting point, finishing point and number of days.
What Is Included in a Private El Nido–Coron Tour?
Our standard private multi-day expeditions are designed to include the main practical arrangements needed for the journey, so you can focus on enjoying the islands rather than organizing each stop separately.
- Private boat and crew for your group
- Captain, guide and cook for the expedition
- Three meals per day during the multi-day trip
- Drinking water and basic refreshments
- Standard overnight accommodation along the route
- Snorkeling equipment
- Entrance and environmental fees for the standard itinerary
- Customized route planning based on your interests, available time and local conditions
Optional upgrades such as larger or faster boats, resort accommodation, diving, manta-ray excursions and other special activities can be added for an additional cost.
If you have particular dietary requirements, accommodation preferences or activities you would like to include, let us know when requesting your quote.
Snorkeling, Beaches & Activities
The journey between El Nido and Coron is much more than simply traveling from one destination to the other. A private expedition gives you time to explore remote islands, coral reefs, quiet beaches and small communities throughout northern Palawan.
Your itinerary can be adjusted according to the activities your group enjoys most:
- Snorkeling – explore coral reefs, tropical fish and marine life at numerous sites along the route.
- Beach stops – relax, swim or have lunch on remote white-sand beaches that receive far fewer visitors than the main tourist areas of El Nido and Coron.
- Turtle watching – we can include areas where turtles are regularly seen when conditions are suitable.
- Cliff jumping – optional at suitable locations for guests looking for a little more adventure.
- Fishing and spearfishing – available on selected trips and subject to local conditions, equipment and regulations.
- Kayaking and paddle activities – possible depending on the boat, equipment and itinerary.
- Local island communities – some routes can include small villages and settlements between El Nido and Coron.
- Diving and manta-ray excursions – specialist diving activities can be arranged as optional upgrades with our partner suppliers.
Because sea conditions vary throughout the year, the captain may recommend different snorkeling sites, beaches or anchorages depending on the wind, currents and visibility. This flexibility is one of the advantages of a private expedition.
Best Time of Year for the El Nido–Coron Expedition
Private boat expeditions between El Nido and Coron operate throughout much of the year, but sea conditions can vary considerably depending on the season, wind direction and local weather.
In general, the drier months offer a greater chance of calm seas and clear snorkeling conditions, while other times of year can bring stronger winds, rain or rougher crossings. Even during favorable months, conditions can change from one day to the next.
- Calmer conditions usually make it easier to visit exposed beaches, reefs and snorkeling sites.
- Wind direction matters because a beach that is perfect one day may be uncomfortable or difficult to approach when the wind changes.
- Snorkeling conditions vary with currents, visibility and waves, so the captain may recommend alternative reefs or sheltered areas.
- Private tours are flexible – because you are not tied to a fixed group itinerary, the route can be adjusted to make the most of the conditions during your trip.
Your captain has the final say on the daily route for safety and comfort, and may substitute beaches, snorkeling sites or overnight stops when conditions make another location more suitable.
More on best time to visit the Philippines, our weather forecast page, the gov’s typhoon warning page.
Should You Choose a Private or Group El Nido–Coron Expedition?
Both private and group expeditions can be a great way to explore the islands between El Nido and Coron, but they offer quite different experiences.
- Choose a private tour if you want your own boat and crew, more control over the pace, greater flexibility with snorkeling and beach stops, and accommodation or activities tailored to your group.
- Choose a group expedition if keeping the per-person cost lower is more important and you are happy to travel on a more fixed schedule with other guests.
- Families and groups of friends often find a private tour particularly attractive because the cost can be shared among several people while the entire boat remains exclusively yours.
- Couples often choose private tours for the privacy and freedom to create a more relaxed or romantic itinerary.
If a private expedition is outside your preferred budget, we also organize group expeditions between El Nido and Coron, and in some cases we can help travelers form a group to share costs.
What Should You Bring on an El Nido–Coron Expedition?
You do not need to pack heavily for a multi-day island-hopping expedition, but a few practical items will make the journey much more comfortable.
- Swimwear and quick-drying clothes – you will spend a lot of time in and around the water.
- Sun protection – bring reef-friendly sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and preferably a long-sleeved rash guard.
- Dry bag or waterproof pouch – useful for phones, cameras, passports and other valuables while transferring between the boat and shore.
- Light footwear – sandals or water shoes are useful for beaches, rocky shorelines and village stops.
- Personal toiletries and medications – supplies can be limited on the smaller islands along the route.
- Camera or waterproof phone case – there are plenty of opportunities for underwater and island photography.
- A light jacket or dry shirt – useful after sunset or during windy crossings.
Try to keep your luggage reasonably compact, especially if you are using a smaller banca or fast boat. If you are traveling with large suitcases, let us know in advance so we can recommend the most suitable boat and storage arrangement.
How Does Booking a Private El Nido–Coron Tour Work?
Because every private expedition is customized, the booking process starts with a few basic details about your group, preferred dates, number of days and the type of trip you would like.
- Tell us your travel plans – let us know your preferred dates, group size, starting point, number of days and any special interests such as snorkeling, diving, fishing or upgraded accommodation.
- Choose your boat and itinerary – we can recommend the most suitable boat and suggest a route based on your available time and priorities.
- Confirm availability and accommodation – once the boat and overnight arrangements are available, we can finalize the trip details.
- Secure the booking – a deposit is normally required to reserve the boat and begin confirming the remaining arrangements.
- Finalize the balance and details – the remaining payment and final trip arrangements are completed before departure according to the agreed booking schedule.
Start with our instant private-tour quote and trip questionnaire →
You can also
otherwise most customers just contact us and we are happy to chat to determine the best possible package for you and your loved ones:
Where Do You Stay During an El Nido–Coron Expedition?
Accommodation depends on the route, your budget and the type of experience you prefer. A private expedition can range from simple island accommodation and beach camping to comfortable hotels and upgraded island resorts.
Most guests combine different accommodation styles during the journey, especially on longer trips. We can arrange the overnight stops around your preferred level of comfort and the route chosen for your expedition.
Our multi-day boat tour expedition trips can include overnight stays on remote islands. Imagine falling asleep under the stars with the sound of waves lapping on the shore or waking up to a sunrise over an untouched beach.
Camping on the Beach
Enjoy privacy on a secluded beach or deserted island with freshly grilled seafood and a bonfire under the stars. You can even spice things up further by taking part in our survival program.
Bamboo huts on the beach
Up your game and comfort a bit while maintaining that rustic feel. Many such sites along the way, with varying sized huts, some having solar powered fans, all with mattresses, clean sheets, pillows and mosquito nets.
Simple Aircon Hotels
Around the halfway point you have the opportunity for greater comfort, some rooms having aircon, although the roosters in this smaller rural town might not be quite to your pallet.
Island Eco-Lodges
Upgrade to greater comfort in some of the fancier bamboo hut island resorts.
Fancy resorts
Glide through the area in total style. Most of these places are closer to Coron along our multiday boat tour expeditions there. These can become an extension of your multiday tour between El Nido and Coron (check out Premium Tour), and if you’d rather skip the simple accommodation in the Linapacan area while still seeing the beautiful sites along the way, we can arrange a faster boat.
For a more complete list of all your accommodation options, check out that pdf file. We are also happy to guide you through the decision process in order to design the best package for you.
Sites You Can Visit Between El Nido and Coron
The journey between El Nido and Coron is often hailed as one of the most scenic routes in the Philippines, offering travelers an unparalleled experience of Palawan’s stunning seascapes. While ferries and flights may be faster, they miss the true magic hidden between these two iconic destinations. Opting for a boat tour expedition instead not only transforms the journey into an adventure but also unlocks the beauty of 82 remote islands, pristine beaches, and untouched lagoons that few travelers get to explore.
Map of the El Nido–Coron Island-Hopping Route
Interactive map: Click any marker to see the destination name, photo and a link to our detailed page about that island or stop. You can also expand the map for a larger view.
The stretch between El Nido and Coron is dotted with a string of 82 spectacular islands, many of which remain untouched by mass tourism. A boat tour expedition trip gives you exclusive access to these hidden gems, which you’d otherwise miss by taking a ferry or flying.
Following are some of the main islands to see (going in direction El Nido to Coron, but the opposite is easily possible), but even just passing them on the slow, traditional banca is a dreamy experience. How many you get to visit depends on how many days trip you choose for your expedition tour, but generally a four day tour (the most popular) can take you to 3-4 sites per day.
Sibaltan
After we drive you from El Nido to this starting point in a private van, you start your expedition tour in the archeological village of Sibaltan. But this quaint and quiet village is more than just a starting or end point of the tour, it is well worth exploring as well, and has nice accommodation! Or you can enjoy some simple scuba diving, which we can also incorporate into your tour.
Binulbulan Island
This will take you to your first coral reef experience in these crystal clear waters. So clear in fact that that there is now a pearl farm in the area, as at several points along your journey to Coron, since pearls require such clear water to grow.
Maosonon
Your next stop on your trip could be Maosonon Island, which we also use for our deserted island castaway experience. The fun part of Maosonon is, if the tide is low enough, you can walk ankle deep along the sandbar to the neighbouring island!
Magransing Island
After Maosonon it’s a little skip and a hop over to Magransing Island, just another beautiful white beach to stroll along. Like Maosonon, Magransing has even a longer sandbar and it is nice to see the waves lapping from both sides when the tide is shallow enough.
Pical Island
Pical island is not one of our usual stops along our expedition tours, but if your trip is longer, you can get a taste of local life, and if you are lucky you might even run into “the captain of all captains”!
Takling Island
After that, Takling Island is a usual stop, with more great snorkeling and a potential overnight camping site on deserted island.
CalaCala Island
After that and as we get closer to Linapacan Island, CalaCala Island has some decent snorkeling as well, although the current can be strong, and a nice stretch of beach to explore.
Cliff Diving
And for a fun change of pace, climb up a limestone rock face with the aid of a rope and jump into the glorious water below.
Eli Cave
Not one of our usual expedition stops, but if you are really into caves, you can make an exception, since it is your custom tour! Eli Cave is usually guided by a local Japanese war veteran, so it can be fun meeting him. Nice snorkeling off shore if any in your group are not keen on the cave.
San Miguel
San Miguel is about halfway to Coron and the largest town between El Nido and Coron. Good place if you’d like to pick up some more beers, nice snorkeling off the pier, and there are even a few simple hotels you can sleep at overnight if you want to take a break from beach huts.
Patoyo Island
Further along your trip we have Patoyo Island, a place which to some degree holds a tender spot in my heart because it is here that I first started my build-a-resort aspirations. But it can serve as a worthwhile venture for those who like hiking through the jungle. And as usual, great snorkeling can be easily found and very interesting rock formations.
Dimancal Island
Dimancal Island is also not one of our regular expedition boat tour stops but just another beautiful island with beautiful snorkeling to be found, and where my build-a-resort idea came to full fruition.
Mangligad Island
Just across from Dimancal is Mangligad island, one of the boat tour spots we usually stop at because the coral developments are quite unique, as can be seen in this video on our youtube channel.
Bolina Island
Also across from Dimancal is Bolina Island, where it is possible to sleep overnight on a deserted island, nice beach, not much snorkeling, but a great beach during some times of the year to launch kitesurfing in pristine, virgin territory.
Turtle Island
Also nearby, unfortunately no photos or videos for. That will have to wait until next time we pass through the area, equipped with better equipment so we can thoroughly document the variety of absolute beauty that can be discovered here. Sea turtles are truly a pleasure to experience.
Araw Beach
For a lovely relax, Araw Beach is a great beach from the bouncy waves because it is nestled in between two islands and sheltered from the wind. For 10 pesos a local will be happy to climb up a coconut tree for you to cut open a fresh coconut.
Banana Island
After Araw beach it is a longer and usually bouncier ride to the next string of islands, in the Malcapuya area. Banana Island is interesting to explore because of its long, curved sandbar in the shape of a banana.
Bulog Dos
Bulog Dos also has a long, but this time snaky winding sandbar which can even take you to a neighbouring landmass.
Malcapuya Island
Malcapuya Island is the most favoured of these three in the string, for its extensive beach and also interesting rock formations.
Atwayan Beach
After the Malcapuya string of islands, it will be another longer and bumpier ride until there is an explosion of sites on the north face of Coron Island, before reaching Coron town. Atwayan Beach is not on our usual expedition tour stops, depending on your preference or how long your tour is.
Smith Point Beach
Smith Point is a quaint beach nestled in the belly of jagged limestone cliffs, another popular tour site to visit.
Banol Beach
Banol Beach is somewhat off the beaten path but that much better because it is less frequented so you can enjoy the beautiful sites to yourselves.
Coral Gardens
Another beautiful beach, but this time the real treasure lies under the water surface in the coral gardens, a diver’s and snorkeler’s paradise.
Twin Lagoons
Twin Lagoons is one of the most popular boat tour sites to visit and definitely one of our usual expedition stops, unless you really want to avoid the crowds. But that also depends on the time of year.
Barracuda Lake
Barracuda Lake is a treat for divers and snorkelers alike as the temperature changes from cold to warm to cold again as you descend into the dark depths of this mysterious cove.
Kayangan Lake
Kayangan Lake is the recognized most famous tour spot of the bunch and much visited, as we are now getting quite close to the busy tourist town on Coron. A significant climb up and down to get to the other side, where the lake is located, but the climb alone is worth it for the world famous view along the way.
Siete Pecados
Siete Pecados, a group of seven small islets located not far from the town of Coron, has a mystical legend behind its name which has into a sanctuary for marine life.
This will mark your last possible stop on your journey past 82 islands in the beautiful, remote area between El Nido and Coron. But don’t fret, there is still much more to see in the Coron area, for example if you extend your multiday boat tour expedition to the Premium Package.
This will allow you to deviate from the usual, thick dashed green trip route straight from El Nido to Coron and take a detour west to some of the many sites found there.
One option is to stay in Coron and take single day private boat trips around Coron, but since the town has no beaches and is more of an industrial town for locals, we find it more alluring to continue your island hopping experience with a multiday boat tour expedition of the Coron area while enjoying fancier accommodation not readily found in the remote region around Linapacan Island, halfway between El Nido and Coron.
World-Class Snorkeling and Diving
A boat tour between El Nido and Coron allows you to explore some of the Philippines’ richest marine ecosystems. You’ll visit snorkeling and diving spots that are inaccessible to ferries, giving you the chance to swim with tropical fish, explore vibrant coral reefs, and even encounter manta rays and sea turtles.
- Twin Lagoon: An underwater wonderland in Coron that’s perfect for snorkeling.
- Coral Gardens: Found in many islands along the way, these reefs are teeming with marine life.
- Wreck Diving: Some tours include stops at Japanese WWII shipwrecks near Coron, a bucket-list experience for divers.
Intimate and Uncrowded Experience
Unlike ferries, which can be crowded, or flights, which are impersonal, boat tours offer an intimate and personalized experience. You can travel with a small group of like-minded adventurers, your tour customized to fit the preferences of the group, or completely customize for your own personal group or family with a private tour.
- Private Beaches: Stop at secluded beaches where you’ll have the place entirely to yourself.
- Flexible Itinerary: Spend more time at the spots you love, whether it’s snorkeling, swimming, or simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery.
Food:
These experiences add an adventurous and romantic touch to your trip, creating memories that a ferry ride or flight simply cannot provide.
Incredible Scenery Throughout the Journey
The route between El Nido and Coron is blessed with dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald-green waters, and towering karst formations. A boat tour lets you soak in these stunning vistas every step of the way, turning the journey itself into a visual feast.
Iconic Landscapes to Watch For:
- Bacuit Archipelago: Near El Nido, this area is known for its towering limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons.
- Linapacan’s Crystal Waters: Often referred to as the clearest waters on Earth.
- Coron’s Dramatic Limestone Cliffs: A preview of the beauty awaiting you in Coron.
Cultural Encounters with Local Communities
If you like your boat tour can include stops at small fishing villages, giving you a chance to meet the locals and learn about their way of life. Or the crew will happily teach you how they catch fish using a piece of old bread and fishing line dangling from their hand! These interactions provide a deeper connection to the region, something you’ll miss if you opt for a ferry or flight.
- Traditional Fishing Villages: Learn about the Palawan locals’ sustainable fishing practices.
- Culion Town: A stop here on our Premium Package might include a visit to the local museum, showcasing the island’s unique history as a leper colony.
Eco-Friendly and Immersive Travel
Traveling by boat is a more sustainable way to explore the islands compared to taking a flight. As is dear to locals, we also emphasize eco-friendly practices, such as proper waste disposal and reef-safe snorkeling policies, helping to preserve Palawan’s natural beauty.
A True Adventure for the Bold Traveler
Taking a boat tour between El Nido and Coron transforms what could be a simple transfer into an epic adventure. From snorkeling with tropical fish to camping on deserted islands, every moment is packed with excitement and discovery.
Ideal for:
- Adventure Seekers: Looking for unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences.
- Nature Lovers: Passionate about exploring pristine ecosystems.
- Couples and Groups: Perfect for romantic getaways or bonding with friends.
Why Not the Ferry or Flight?
While ferries and flights are quicker, they skip all the incredible destinations in between El Nido and Coron. A ferry ride offers limited views of the sea, and flying means missing out on the chance to explore the remote islands. If time allows, a boat tour with us is undoubtedly the superior choice for travelers who want to experience the full beauty of Palawan.
Is the El Nido–Coron Boat Tour Safe and Suitable for Families?
Yes, private El Nido–Coron expeditions can be a very good option for families, couples and mixed-age groups because the pace and itinerary can be adjusted around the people traveling.
The captain and crew choose stops according to weather, sea conditions, currents and the swimming ability of the group. If a snorkeling site is too exposed or the current is too strong, a calmer alternative can usually be chosen instead.
- Families with children can request shorter snorkeling sessions, more beach time and easier swimming locations.
- Older travelers or weaker swimmers can avoid stronger-current sites and spend more time at sheltered beaches and calm lagoons.
- Confident swimmers and adventurous groups can include more snorkeling, cliff jumping and other active stops when conditions allow.
- Private tours offer more flexibility than fixed group expeditions because your group does not need to follow the pace or preferences of other travelers.
As with any sea journey, the exact route may change for safety reasons. The captain has the final say on which crossings, beaches and snorkeling sites are suitable on the day.
Conclusion and Booking
A boat tour between El Nido and Coron is more than just a transfer—it’s an immersive journey through one of the most beautiful regions in the world. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to exploring remote islands and camping under the stars, this adventure is the ultimate way to experience Palawan’s unparalleled beauty.
So, skip the ferry and forget the flight. Instead, embark on a boat tour and discover the hidden gems that make the journey between El Nido and Coron truly unforgettable.
Experience the thrill of island hopping in the Philippines
Below are some pics of the area when I first arrived around 2014.
Frequently asked questions
How do I book a private or group tour?
Simply send us a message through our contact channels and we’ll respond promptly with available dates, pricing, and customization options for your adventure.
When is the best time of year to take this boat tour?
The best time to explore Palawan by boat is during the dry season, from November to May. Tours still run during the rainy season (June to October), but itineraries may change due to weather.
How much does a boat tour between El Nido and Coron cost?
Prices depend on the number of days and people, but for 2 people a 4 day private and fully customizable tour would cost $2,600usd total, or $2,400 for 3 days. We also offer joiner group tours which are 16,500 pesos per person.
What should I bring on the boat tour?
Bring swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a dry bag, snorkeling gear (optional), insect repellent, flashlight, towel, and a power bank. We also recommend cash in small bills for island purchases and tips.
Is the boat tour safe and suitable for children or older travelers?
Absolutely. We have had families with children, seniors, and even honeymooners join our expeditions. Life jackets and safety briefings are provided. Let us know of any special needs in advance, including culinary preferences.
Are meals and accommodations included on the tour?
Yes! All packages include home-cooked meals (fresh seafood, vegetables, fruits, and rice) and basic accommodations in nipa huts or tents on remote islands. Drinking water is also provided.
How many people are on the boat tours?
We offer private tours for couples, families, or small groups, as well as shared group tours with around 8–15 guests, depending on the boat capacity. Smaller boats offer a more intimate experience. Larger and faster boats are also available. Then you would have the captain plus a crew of about 4 to help steer the boat, cook and tend to guests.
Is it better to start the boat tour in El Nido or in Coron?
The experience is magical in either direction! Many travelers choose the direction based on their overall itinerary, but we prefer El Nido to Coron, as you would start from a more remote and quiet area. The scenery and stops are very similar regardless of the starting point.
What will I see on the island-hopping tour between El Nido and Coron?
You’ll explore pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, coral reefs, fishing villages, and uninhabited islands in the Linapacan group—considered some of the clearest waters in the world.
How long is the boat tour from El Nido to Coron?
The multi-day boat tour between El Nido and Coron typically takes 3 to 5 days, depending on the itinerary. Each day includes island hopping, snorkeling, and overnight stays on remote islands or in traditional beach huts.
Reviews on this page
* some of the below reviews were sent to us by email
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The tour was very cool despite the rain during the afternoon (but it was part of the game during this season 😉 ). Gene and the crew did a wonderful job: the food was good, the snorkeling experience in the corals was amazing, and the night spots were cool so overall we are very happy!
Finally, we would also like to thank you for the global organization and for proposing this kind of service. It was our first island hopping but not the last I hope!
Yes, can be splashes of rain during September but I do recall some nice sunny periods and overall we are happy you had a nice time 🙂
Just to let you know Gene and his crew did an amazing job with us. They went over and beyond our expectations.
We had a great time! Gene was fantastic and Jeremy’s cooking was amazing, I had a horrible reaction top nip nip bites and Gene was able to source allergy medicine for me. He was really caring and the kids loved all the fishing the jumping and climbing on the boat!
Absolutely unforgettable! The boat trip from El Nido to Coron was the highlight of our Philippines adventure. From the moment we set sail, it was clear this journey would be something special. The turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and hidden lagoons created a landscape straight out of a dream.
Our guide Gene was knowledgeable, safety-conscious, and full of great stories about the region’s history and marine life. He knew all the best spots and made sure everyone in our group had an amazing time, whether snorkeling, relaxing on deck, or jumping off the boat for a swim
This trip perfectly balanced adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. If you're looking for an epic island-hopping journey with world-class snorkeling, great fishing, delicious food, and a top-tier guide, this El Nido to Coron boat trip is an absolute must. 10/10—would do it all over again in a heartbeat.
A quick email to say that we were very happy with Gene and his crew. They were very diligent, friendly, easy to work with and the food by his cook Jeremy was delicious. You should keep working with him.
Sorry for the delayed reply, ive tried to disconnect from devices all holiday so only my husband had service.
Our boat trip was wonderful, we all loved the trip! Gene was an amazing guide and the crew were excellent, very helpful, kind and caring!
Special mention to Jeremy our cook, who we thought did an amazing job cooking all our meals; everyday we got to experience different dishes and they were all delicious!
There was only one issue, it appears that Gene was not told we'd hired a wake board for the trip, I didn't want to make him feel bad so I didn't mention anything until the 2nd last day after I saw a wake board in the hull of the boat and asked if this was the wake board we'd hired. As noted above Gene said he was not made aware that we had hired a wake board but said i could have a go of the one on board, which i did but unfortunately there was no opportunity for the kids to have a go as the trip was ending in Coron after we'd visited the sites.
Glad you enjoyed your tour Lisa and sorry for the misunderstanding. Gene started working with us only recently and I guess he did not understand the procedure with the wakeboards, but all that is now sorted.
The tour was fantastic. Ralph and the whole crew were very welcoming and attentive to our needs. They always made sure we were comfortable. Thank you for the amazing experience. 🙂
What a sensational experience. Even got to see whalesharks!
the trip was great… the people are very friendly and the cook is excellent. We all had a wonderful time. Thank you so much for everything.
Overall it was a good trip! The food was epic and the snorkeling was fun.
- Gene was excellent - strong English and very helpful
- Crew also good especially the chef
- Boat I felt in end was right size as you are on it a lot
- Particularly like Coron day one
- Coco Beach I like more of the hosels
we had an amazing five days thank you - the staff we had were all incredible and Albert was an amazing chef! We felt very well looked after and would definitely recommend them to others.
We didnt get the second christal kayak, we used the one we had on the boat.
Overall the tour was very nice. It was not exactly what we expected since we thought we would be camping on deserted islands.
Richard did a great job getting us away from the crowd when we asked him.
The first two camps were nice and small but the last camp was very crowded and a lot of noise with six boats full of tourists and each have its own karaoke.
The food was very good!
The snorkle masked were very bad quality.
And we had an adventure since my husbands phone and wallet was stolen on the first camp.
The boat broke down on the last day, but another boat was quickly arranged.
Overall was a great trip!
Sorry to hear that Margo. Yes, New Years Eve can be a zoo sometimes and hard to avoid the big group operators during this absolute busiest time of the year, unless you upgrade your accommodation to some of the available resorts. We now use much better snorkel gear and sorry to hear about your mishaps, but glad you overall enjoyed yourselves!
The boat crew were really excellent throughout.
Despite the forecast predicting continuous rain, we were fortunate — over the three days, we avoided any downpours.
The only downside was the accommodation. Even our backpacking kids found it far too basic, and while one night we had the camp to ourselves, the other night was disrupted by noisy guests playing drinking games late into the evening.
If we were to do the trip again, we’d skip the island hopping and instead base ourselves in El Nido and Coron for a few days each, taking day trips from there I think - that way we’d not have the large groups in the same place/accommodation issue.
All in all though a unique experience 🙂
Sorry to hear that Brian. Yes, the large group operators can sometimes throw a wrench into matters, but for guests specifically asking to avoid that, the accommodation can be upgraded and some places are generally better than others. Glad you enjoyed it overall though.
The trip was extremely good. Albert and his crew are amazing. We have lovely memories. Food is also amazing.
We will suggest to friends coming to Philippines 🙂
Tour was amazing and your staff Albert, Alex and June are such lovely persons: very kind, very professional and very available.
And as you said Albert is an excellent cooker!!
Plans are made to be proven wrong, right? we changed the program day by day and it went very well; Albert knows the area very well, and it is definitely worth relying on his advice rather than on my long google researches ☺️
It was absolutely phenomenal! Definitely unlike anything we've ever experienced. Albert was beyond fantastic! He really went above and beyond for us. The food was great, the crew was friendly and so helpful, accommodations were great. Thanks so much for arranging it!!!
Tour was fantastic.
Thanks for asking. Albert was very good to be with and had the right attitude all day. He even came over from Silbaltan with the van to pick us up. Nice gesture. Weather was really good till about 2 or 2:30 when the clouds got thick and the wind and waves picked up dramatically. Tacling and Cobra were the best spots but Gintu was also good.
We had a very delicious lunch on Lacalaca island. Fresh Grilled chicken over a coal fire with shrimp…..
We did not go to catayatan, Barangonan Island, or Bulawit. Albert said bulawit and barangonan were just villages….no good for snorkeling.
The boat ride back from Gintu to Little Maosanon did in my wife who after that stop didn’t go in for the last stop at Binulbulan which was pretty rough and too deep to see much.
All in all glad we did it. Thanks for your help.
Everything went great, we’ve done a looot of snorkeling, the accommodation worked out nicely, the food was good, Alex did a great job guiding and the crew did a great job running the boat.
Thank you for setting this up. It was an unforgettable honeymoon.
It was great!
Thanks Karel it was great. Albert and the crew were fantastic.
The trip worked out great and Albert and team were great. Albert sorted everything out so I'm not sure on cost. He fed us lunch and dinner on the first day and sorted out the accommodation.
We had an amazing trip.
Albert Alex and the rest of the crew were brilliant.
We went to some really beautiful snorkeling spots and all but one night our accommodation was great. We just had a party boat turn up one night who were a very loud group but other than that the huts were fine.
Thank you for organising everything for us we will certainly recommend you to our friends and family
It was fantastic, thank you so much! Alex and the team we great, and we loved the stops. The chef was great, and his spring rolls were amazing.
We did have a few issues with the snorkels and masks leaking but we still got some great snorkelling and shared the masks that did work so it was all fine.
Thank you for the feedback Laura and we now use much better snorkeling equipment.
Everything went fine during our traverse. Alex was great on all fronts and made us feel very at ease. The tour was amazing! It included the most pristine, healthy and beautiful coral we have ever seen, and Robert and I have seen quite a bit of coral in many different places. We enjoyed camping at Araw Beach and staying at the Linapacan Tourist Camp, where we ended up staying for 2 nights as we scrapped the night camping in Tacling Island. The food provided was also very good. I was impressed how they could cook so much food in such a small space!
Hi Karel! We loved our tour thank you so much for all the help and patience! Linda and the boys were absolutely wonderful and so much fun! We loved pical and all the snorkeling! The only part we found to be a bit off was banana island as the employees were a bit rude and the rate ended up being higher than expected but ultimately nothing to ruin our mood! Highest compliments to Linda and Theresa very happy with our new year adventure. Thank you again! I will be sure to post and tag you guys in the next coming week or so!
Thank you for your feedback Chloe. We've had several problems with Banana Island and decided not to work with them anymore. Glad you enjoyed your trip.
We had a wonderful time, and the islands, snorkelling , beaches were awesome, Robinson our tour guide could certainly cook as well.
But I am somewhat disappointed concerning the accommodation. Robinson informed us that we did not have enough time to get to BRC, so he took us to some beach huts.
Whilst Robinson was very apologetic, and I understand you were not there (we had no signal) you need to ensure that this does not happen in the future.
Let me emphasize, the islands are amazing, and it was only the accommodation that let us down. FYI, I am involved in accommodation industry and a good night sleep is imperative to enjoying the next day.
Please take this as constructive criticisms and not a whinge. I do not believe Robinson will take any tourist back to that beach in the future.
Again, I want to be very very clear, that it is an amazing part of the world and we enjoyed it.
Overall, we had a great time, a unique experience in a beautiful location. The crew did a great job and Jake was a friendly and helpful guide.
Some suggestions. As I discussed with you during the booking process, guests from overseas who have never travelled to this region cannot filter through all of the this information on your website and come up with their own plan. I see you have added my sample itinerary, which is fine, but I think you should lead customers through this process more simply rather than saying “its your tour its up to you”, you should ask some key questions like what are your preferences (beaches or snorkelling or fishing) and what is the age and demographic and plan the “perfect” trip for them. I see you have made some changes to the website in this regard.
The crew were incredible nice and helpful. The food was amazing, absolutely beautiful!!!! We would have preferred a bit more options than just Coke (and a bottle of Sprite) to drink though especially in the morning some fruit juice would be fine.
I hope you understand that we did have a great time with the kids and Ryan was excellent with them, taking taking them fishing and spearfishing.
Everything was perfect 🥰 Thank You So Much
We just arrived at the airport erveything went really good and we had a great time in the islands.
It was fantastic! Thank you very much for putting it together. We both loved the trip and seeing more of this beautiful part of the world. The sea was a bit rough yesterday but only added to the adventure. Would have loved to have seen a bit more of the Linapacan Islands but think the weather meant we had to go a bit further on the first day and couldn’t stay at Bolita Island. The crew were all fantastic and the food incredible.
The tour was amazing! The crew was great, the locations beautiful !
Everything was perfect 🙂 thanks for organising.
That was the best experience we had in the Philippines by far, so thank you again.
Thank you for your email! It was amazing! We really enjoyed it! The crew was great! Well organised! Food was really good and a lot of it!!! Thank you very much!
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We are a family operation managing private custom boat tours in the beautiful Palawan area, and are happy to help travelers with their plans through the country, having traveled a lot of it ourselves and planning to visit it all.