El Nido: Premium Adventure Island Hopping Cruise

Introduction: A Fun-Filled Day on the Water

If you’re dreaming of tropical paradise, the El Nido Premium Adventure Island Hopping Cruise promises a full day of excitement, stunning scenery, and local flavors. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews highlight its lively atmosphere, good value, and well-organized stops—making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and comfort.

What we love most are the fun onboard features like a giant jumping board and water slide, the delicious Filipino cuisine, and the chance to explore iconic lagoons and hidden coves. However, it’s worth noting that personal gear like masks and snorkels aren’t included, so you’ll want to bring or rent those in advance. This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a vibrant, all-in-one day experience on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and take memorable photos.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Lively atmosphere with onboard activities like jumping and sliding
• All-inclusive fees save time and avoid extra costs
• Diverse lagoon stops and beach time to satisfy every explorer
• Great value for money considering the amenities, food, and fees included
• Family-friendly with fun features and a relaxed vibe
• Not ideal for travelers with mobility issues due to boat access considerations

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

The Boat and Group Experience

You’ll step aboard a spacious, modern boat designed for comfort and fun. The reviews mention a lively crew and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for socializing or simply relaxing with fellow travelers. Since it’s a joiners tour, expect a group size that encourages camaraderie without feeling overcrowded. The licensed local guide will share stories and tips, adding context to each scenic stop.

Lagoon Adventures and Hidden Coves

Once underway, the crew navigates towards El Nido’s famous turquoise lagoons, such as the Big Lagoon or Small Lagoons, where the photos are postcard-worthy. These stops offer stunning limestone formations rising dramatically from the water and calm, crystal-clear lagoons perfect for swimming and photo sessions.

Many reviews mention the convenience of having fees included—that covers environmental and lagoon entry fees—saving you time and preventing queues. This makes the experience more streamlined, especially during peak seasons when lines can get long.

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Beach and Snorkel Stops

After the lagoons, expect to visit secluded beaches and snorkel spots. Though gear isn’t included, you might find options to rent masks, snorkels, fins, or aqua shoes. Some guests note that bringing your own gear enhances the experience, as it allows more freedom to explore reefs or float along the shoreline.

Onboard Fun: Jumping and Sliding

One of the standout features is the 12-foot jumping board and 8-foot inflatable water slide. These add a splash of playful energy to your day and are perfect for those who enjoy a thrill or just want to cool off in style. Reviewers have shared that these features turn a typical island-hopping trip into a memorable adventure, especially for younger travelers or the young at heart.

Lunch and Refreshments

The Filipino buffet lunch is a highlight, with a variety of dishes and snacks served on deck. The scent of grilled food mingling with saltwater creates a festive vibe. Throughout the day, refreshing drinks keep everyone hydrated, making the experience comfortable even under the tropical sun.

Duration and Timing

The tour runs from morning until around 4:20 PM, providing about six hours of water-based fun. This is enough time to visit multiple stops without feeling rushed, though it’s a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing.

Additional Tips

• Bring your own mask, snorkel, towel, and water shoes for maximum enjoyment
• Use sun protection—sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential
• Confirm pickup details ahead of time, especially if you’re staying outside designated hotels
• Expect a lively, energetic atmosphere, so if you prefer a quiet, laid-back cruise, this might not be your best fit

Value and Cost Analysis

Considering the tour includes environmental and lagoon fees, a buffet lunch, and onboard activities, it offers fair value for those wanting a comprehensive day out. Unlike private tours, which can be pricier and more exclusive, this group experience balances affordability with a wide array of attractions and amenities.

The tour’s inclusive fees mean no surprise expenses at the lagoons or other stops, which is particularly helpful during busy seasons. Plus, the addition of fun features like the water slide and jumping board elevates the experience beyond standard island-hopping. However, if you’re an avid snorkeler or diver, you’ll need to plan separately for gear rentals to make the most of the reefs and underwater scenery.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

• Very good value considering all costs are included
• Lively, friendly crew and guide
• Fun onboard features that appeal to all ages
• Well-organized, with environmental fees taken care of upfront
• Plenty of time to explore lagoons and relax on beaches

Cons:

• Personal gear like masks and snorkels are not included, so additional rentals are necessary
• The tour might be crowded during peak season, affecting tranquility
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues due to boat access

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for adventurous travelers and families looking for a day packed with fun, sightseeing, and Filipino hospitality. It’s perfect if you want a lively atmosphere with friendly guides and a variety of activities—without the hassle of organizing individual lagoon or park fees.

If your priority is a relaxed, quiet escape, or if you need accessible facilities, you might want to consider other options. However, for those seeking a full, action-packed day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, jump, and indulge in local flavors, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour provides boat transportation, a Filipino buffet lunch, drinks, and covers environmental and lagoon fees. Personal gear like masks or snorkels is not included.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 7 hours, from morning until around 4:20 PM, offering ample time for all the stops and activities.

Are pickup options available?
Yes, some hotels in El Nido serve as pickup points. If your accommodation isn’t listed, the team will advise the nearest pickup location or confirm availability.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water shoes. Consider bringing your own snorkel gear for better underwater exploration.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the onboard features like the water slide and jumping board appeal to families, but note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour date. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

What kind of boat is used?
A spacious, modern boat designed for comfort and fun, with a lively crew to ensure an energetic atmosphere.

Are there other similar tours?
Yes, there are various other island-hopping options in El Nido, from private cruises to full-day yacht tours, offering different experiences and price points.

Final Thoughts

The El Nido Premium Adventure Island Hopping Cruise offers a fantastic way to explore some of the most stunning parts of Palawan’s famed waters. With its combination of lively onboard activities, delicious local food, and memorable lagoon visits, it provides excellent value for travelers wanting an engaging and well-rounded day.

While it’s not the quietest or most tranquil option, it excels in creating a fun, social atmosphere with plenty of options to swim, relax, and snap those perfect vacation photos. If you’re after an energetic, all-inclusive day on the water that balances adventure with comfort, this tour is a solid choice.

For the right traveler—active, social, and eager to experience the best of El Nido’s natural beauty—this cruise delivers a memorable, lively day out at a reasonable price point. Just remember to pack your gear and sunscreen, and get ready for a splashy, flavorful, and fun-filled adventure.

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