Boracay: Island Hopping with Buffet Lunch & Helmet Diving

Boracay: Island Hopping with Buffet Lunch & Helmet Diving — A Complete Review

Planning a day in Boracay and wondering about the best way to experience its stunning islands? This Island Hopping tour with a buffet lunch and helmet diving offers an exciting blend of relaxation and adventure. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the highlights, enjoy good food, and try something uniquely fun beneath the waves.

What we like most about this tour is how it balances scenic stops with interactive activities. We appreciate the opportunity to explore Crystal Cove Island and Puka Beach, both renowned for their beauty. The buffet lunch promises a satisfying break and a taste of local flavors, while the helmet diving provides an unusual, safe way to enjoy underwater sights—no swimming skills required.

A possible consideration is the shared group format, which might mean waiting during certain stops or adjusting to the group’s pace. Also, some optional fees like entrance and snorkeling charges aren’t included in the base price, so keep that in mind when budgeting.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a group setting, families looking for safe yet fun aquatic activities, and anyone eager to see Boracay from a different perspective without spending a fortune.

Good To Know

• Balanced experience with beach relaxation and active underwater exploration
• Includes a generous buffet lunch featuring local and international dishes
• Helmet diving offers a safe, non-swimming way to see marine life
• Multiple picturesque stops, including Crystal Cove Island and Puka Beach
• Transport and guides are included, making it a hassle-free day out
• Optional fees apply for certain sites and activities

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Boracay Island Hopping Tour

Starting Point and Season-Dependent Meeting Locations

Depending on when you take this tour, your meeting point varies. During the Amihan season (November-May), it’s at Astoria Station 1, while in the Habagat season (June-October), it’s at Bolabog Beach. The guides send detailed instructions a day prior, and arriving 30-40 minutes early is recommended.

This flexibility is helpful because weather and traffic can influence the schedule, but it’s reassuring that the tour guides are attentive and clear about the arrangements. The guides, who assist you throughout, are fluent in English and provide helpful insights, making the experience more engaging.

Itinerary Breakdown: What Makes Each Stop Special

Stop 1: Bolabog Beach Resort — Your journey begins here, with a shared boat that whisks you across the waters. The boat ride itself offers a chance to settle in, enjoy the sea breeze, and get excited about what’s ahead.

Stop 2: Puka Beach — Known for its powdery white sands and a laid-back vibe, Puka Beach is perfect for a relaxing stroll or simply soaking up the sun. It’s a guided stop, so you’ll hear interesting tidbits about the area, plus plenty of free time to snap photos and breathe in that tropical air. Reviewers mention that the views here are memorable, with one calling helmet diving “a wonderful experience,” highlighting how this stop enriches the overall trip.

Stop 3: Crystal Cove Island Resort — This is the star of the tour. The island’s striking rock formations and clear waters make for fantastic photo opportunities. It’s a guided stop, offering insights into the area’s natural beauty. A review notes that the Crystal Cove entrance fee (~Php 350) is optional but worth considering if you want full access.

Stop 4: Return to Bolabog Beach — After your adventures, you head back to your starting point, feeling satisfied with a day well spent.

What to Expect at Each Stop

You’ll enjoy stunning views at each location, with ample time to relax, explore, or take pictures. The guides are informative, sharing local stories and pointing out interesting features, ensuring you get a richer experience than just the sights.

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The Buffet Lunch: A Delicious Break

The buffet lunch is a highlight—offering a variety of local and international dishes. It’s well-prepared and plentiful, providing a much-needed energy boost after some water activities. Many reviews praise the lunch for being satisfying and tasty, with no one leaving hungry.

Helmet Diving: A Unique Underwater Experience

The helmet diving activity is what we love about this tour. Guided by trained professionals, you walk on the ocean floor wearing a helmet that supplies air, so you don’t need to be a swimmer. Reviewers repeatedly mention how “helmet diving was awesome” and “a wonderful experience,” emphasizing its safety and fun.

This activity offers close-up views of colorful corals and tropical fish, creating memories without the need for complex gear or swimming skills. The guides assist throughout, making it accessible even for non-swimmers.

Additional Costs and Optional Fees

While the tour price is $85 per person, keep in mind that certain fees aren’t included:

• Snorkeling fee (~Php 100) if you wish to swim in designated areas
• Crystal Cove entrance fee (~Php 350) for full access
• Magic Island fee (~P250) is optional but might be tempting if you want more adventure options

These costs are reasonable for the value and experience provided, but it’s good to budget extra cash.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $85 for a five-hour adventure, this tour packs in a lot—multiple stops, boat transfers, a hearty buffet, and the chance to try helmet diving. The reviews confirm that the experience is well-organized, with an attentive guide helping you make the most of each activity.

The shared boat might mean some waiting or adjusting to a group, but it also fosters a friendly atmosphere. Plus, the professional guide (whose name is often mentioned in reviews) adds a layer of confidence and knowledge that enriches the day.

The helmet diving experience, in particular, stands out as a highlight. Several reviews describe it as “awesome” and “wonderful,” especially for those who want an underwater encounter without the complexity of snorkeling or diving.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or even solo travelers looking for a well-rounded day in Boracay. It suits those who enjoy scenic beaches, want to snorkel or walk on the seafloor, and are comfortable with group activities.

It’s a great choice if you value local cuisine and want a convenient, guided experience that takes the hassle out of organizing your day. If you’re after adventure but prefer a safe, guided approach, this is a reliable pick.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For the price, this tour provides an excellent balance of relaxation, exploration, and fun. You’ll visit some of Boracay’s most beautiful spots, enjoy a hearty lunch, and experience the thrill of helmet diving—all in a well-organized itinerary.

The stunning views at each stop make it clear why Boracay remains a top destination, and the sense of safety and professionalism from the guides is reassuring. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this trip offers a memorable way to see the island’s highlights without feeling rushed.

Best for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day with a mix of chilling on the beach and trying out unique underwater activities. It’s especially perfect for those who want to keep the experience simple but impactful, with plenty of photo-worthy moments and fun stories to tell.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, with starting times available based on season and availability.

Where do I meet the tour guide?
During the Amihan season, at Astoria Station 1; in Habagat, at Bolabog Beach. Guides will send detailed instructions beforehand.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes shared boat transportation, buffet lunch, helmet diving, life jackets, snorkeling gear, and a professional guide.

Are there extra costs I should know about?
Yes, optional fees include Php 100 for snorkeling, Php 350 for Crystal Cove entrance, and P250 for Magic Island.

Can non-swimmers enjoy helmet diving?
Absolutely. It’s designed to be safe and accessible for non-swimmers, with guides assisting throughout.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 or those over 95 years old.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, camera, and some cash for optional fees and souvenirs.

What happens if the weather is bad?
In extreme weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund. Weather can influence the schedule, so flexibility is key.

In summary, this Boracay island hopping tour offers a delightful mix of scenic beaches, a satisfying buffet, and an engaging helmet diving experience. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a memorable, well-organized day in paradise—without breaking the bank. With friendly guides, clear safety measures, and plenty of picture-worthy moments, it’s a solid choice for just about anyone eager to see the best Boracay has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby