Mactan Island Hopping

When it comes to unearthing the hidden gems of the Philippines, Cebu and its surrounding isles offer a wealth of sun-soaked adventure and breath-taking natural beauty. Among these, Mactan Island holds a special place, offering a unique blend of historical intrigue, rich culture, and stunning beaches. One of the most exhilarating ways to experience this paradise is through Mactan Island hopping boat tours, a sure-fire way to unlock the enchanting allure of this tropical haven.

Unfurling the Beauty of Mactan Island

Mactan Island, often referred to as the historic resort city, is a tropical utopia that has seamlessly blended its historical roots with luxurious, modern resorts. It’s located just a few kilometers from Cebu, making it an easily accessible getaway. The island is replete with historical sites, such as the Magellan Shrine, and stunning marine biodiversity, making it a captivating destination for both history buffs and nature enthusiasts.

The Charm of Island Hopping Boat Tours

Island hopping tours are arguably the most immersive way to explore Mactan Island and its surrounding archipelago. These tours offer an up-close and personal experience with the serene azure waters, vibrant marine life, and secluded beaches, giving visitors an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Philippines’ natural beauty.

Various tour operators offer different island-hopping packages, providing a range of options to meet the varying preferences and budgets of visitors. A standard tour usually starts in the morning and includes visiting two to three nearby islands, allowing ample time for snorkeling, swimming, and beach relaxation.

Popular Stops Along the Way

The charm of these boat tours lies in the diverse islands you’ll get to explore, each with its unique allure. Some of the most popular destinations include:

1. Nalusuan Island: A marine sanctuary, Nalusuan Island is a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, although more on the expensive end. Its abundant and vibrant coral gardens are home to a variety of fish species, creating a captivating underwater world. You can stay overnight in rooms and suites for 4,000p or more. It is also known for its abundance of sea cucumbers, its locals coining it the name Kalusuan, which means “place for penises”.
2. Hilutungan Island: Another marine sanctuary, Hilutungan Island (also known as Gilutongan, Hilotongan, or Lutungan island), offers crystal clear waters that provide excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving. The vibrant marine life here is truly breathtaking, making it a favorite spot for underwater photography.
   
3. Caohagan Island: Known for its powdery white sands and lush greenery, Caohagan Island is a tranquil getaway perfect for a relaxing beach picnic. The island is also surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, offering yet another fantastic snorkeling site.
4. Olango Island: A visit to Olango Island gives a unique opportunity to witness the rare migratory birds that inhabit the Olango Wildlife Sanctuary. The island also boasts serene beaches and a fascinating mangrove forest, as well as several resorts and places to stay overnight.
5. Pandanon Island: For an extra 1,000p you can also venture farther, towards Bohol, and visit this island, potentially the most beautiful of them all. Once traveling that far, you also have the option of camping there overnight or stay in any number of cottages.
   
6. Cabul-an Island: another option.
7. Sulpa Island: Privately owned and camping allowed, cottages for your afternoon snack.

A Day of Adventure and Relaxation

The boat tours don’t just offer an opportunity to explore the stunning islands but also a chance to partake in various water activities. Snorkeling and diving are the prime attractions, giving guests the chance to swim alongside colorful tropical fish and marvel at the intricate coral formations. The tours usually provide snorkeling gear, so there’s no need to worry about bringing your own.

Apart from the thrill of exploration and water sports, there’s plenty of room for relaxation. Whether it’s sunbathing on the boat’s deck or lazing on a pristine sandy beach, there’s no shortage of peaceful moments.

Conclusion to Mactan Island Hopping

Mactan Island hopping boat tours offer an unforgettable experience of Cebu’s marine treasures. With each stop revealing a new facet of the archipelago’s beauty, it’s truly a journey of continuous discovery. So, whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for your next adventure or a tranquility-seeker yearning for serene landscapes, the boat tours of Mactan Island promise an experience that caters to every desire.

For water sports lovers, you can also enjoy parasailing and see the ocean from above, ride a jet ski over the waves, and chill out in a banana boat.

For the island tours, you can try this company:

or here are some options on Tripadvisor.

Or if you are ever in the Palawan area, we organize private and group tours in El Nido, Coron and between the two. Idyllic multiday tours in a beautiful and remote area.

Experience the thrill of island hopping tours in the Philippines

Island Hopping in the Philippines

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Lou Pratali

11:04 25 Jul 23

This is a must to do!!Super ultimate tour is the best with Kayangan and barracuda lake, twin lagoons (my favorite), coral garden (blue fabulous coral) were the best. It’s really worth it to pay for private tour (3500 to 4000 PHP). You will also have to pay for entrance fees (150 to 200PHP by location) and eventually shopping at the market - must do (count 300 for 2 for fish, pork, fruits and vegetables, water).

Gérard BENOIT

16:11 07 Feb 23

I was looking for a personalized excursion to the beautiful Gulf of Bacuit.Seeing the comments, I contacted Mel.Very responsive, very efficient and perfect organization.The flight attendants were very friendly and very helpful.And I'm not even talking about the meal on board...a marvel.In all fairness, this excursion will remain an excellent memory and I cannot recommend Mel and his team highly enough.A big thank-you.

Alyse Tarbotton

23:48 30 Aug 22

This tour went well above all our expectations! I couldn't recommend this enough! The boat crew, captain and tour guide were nothing but amazing, everyone was so kind, helpful and friendly. The crew knew the best spots to visit that weren't overcrowded with tourists, 3 times we were lucky enough to have whole islands to ourselves! It was my partner's birthday while away and everything went above and beyond, bonfire, cake, birthday card, singing and celebrating with us.If you love camping this is definitely a tout you should do, it has been the highlight of our trip!!

Danish Kayani

10:24 31 Oct 19

Coron is the best place i have ever seen.. picturesque. Beautiful. Peaceful

LAURA MARIAROSA BAECHLER

10:24 14 Mar 18

We booked a 4 days/3 nights private boat trip from Coron to Sibaltan. The organization went very well from the beginning, the owner answered to all my questions, and we were able to choose which islands to visit and where to sleep. The first night we slept in a bungalow in Banana Island, the second we camped in Araw beach and the last we slept in a seafront bungalow builded on a tree in Pical on Iloc Island.The islands in that area are the most beautiful islands I have ever seen, with clear water, lots of coral reef and fishes to see, white sand and almost deserted. The crew was very friendly and polite and they organize every single meal and for camping they give you a tent which was just perfect! This was our highlight in our 2 weeks in the Philippines and I wish I had booked a longer trip. A private trip gives you the freedom to decide where and when to go.

Espinosa Kosmans

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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.