Private Honda Bay Tour for 2 Persons

Exploring Honda Bay: A Private Tour for Two

If you’re dreaming of escaping to the tropical paradise of Honda Bay near Puerto Princesa, this private tour offers a tailored way to see some of Palawan’s most picturesque islands. Although I haven’t personally been, the details suggest an experience packed with stunning scenery, relaxing beach time, and engaging marine activities.

What I love about this tour is its focus on exclusivity — the private setting means no crowded boats or noisy groups. You’ll enjoy a personalized guide, a flexible itinerary, and the chance to really soak in the natural beauty at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious lunch and a private cottage makes for a comfortable, fuss-free day.

However, one thing to consider is that you’ll need to bring your own snorkel gear, as masks and snorkels are not included. Plus, the environmental fee of PHP 150 is an extra cost, so budgeting for that beforehand is wise.

This tour is ideal for couples or friends wanting an intimate, authentic island-hopping experience with plenty of scenic photo opportunities and marine fun. It’s perfect if you value personalized service and a relaxed pace, making it a great fit for anyone wanting to enjoy the natural beauty of Honda Bay without the hassle of large tour groups.

Good To Know

• Private experience ensures personalized service and flexibility.
• Includes a full day of island hopping with stops at Cowrie Island, Pambato Reef, and Luli Island.
• Snorkeling gear is not included, so bring your own or rent locally.
• Cost of $253 per group offers good value for a private tour, especially with lunch and entrance fees included.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for some guests with limited mobility.
• You’ll need cash for additional expenses like the environmental fee and snacks.
• Timing varies; check availability for the most suitable starting times.
• Ends back at the starting point, making it a convenient day trip.
• Perfect for lovers of scenic views, marine life, and exclusive trips.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Closer Look at Honda Bay

Starting the Day: Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, which you’ll need to specify at the time of booking. This detail is crucial—timing can be flexible, but check with the operator for the exact starting hours. The entire process is hassle-free; just relax and get ready for a day full of island adventures.

A licensed guide accompanies the trip, providing insights into each destination, local culture, and marine life. The transportation is by boat, and because it’s a private charter, the boat is reserved solely for your party of two. This means you can enjoy the trip without worrying about strangers, and your guide can customize the stops or pace based on your preferences.

Exploring Cowrie Island

Your first stop might be Cowrie Island, a popular spot thanks to its white sandy beaches and calm waters. From reviews, visitors love the chance to sunbathe, swim, and take photos of the vibrant surroundings. The island offers a cottage for resting or having snacks, and the shallow waters make it ideal for snorkeling and wading.

While some travelers mention that the island can get lively with day-trippers, your private setup means you can enjoy the scenery without the crowds. The shallow reef around Cowrie Island is perfect for beginners wanting to try snorkeling, though you should bring your own mask and snorkel for the best experience.

Snorkeling at Pambato Reef

Next, the boat takes you to Pambato Reef, a highlight for marine life enthusiasts. The reef is known for its vibrant coral formations and colorful fish, making it a great spot for snorkeling if you’ve brought your gear. The reviews highlight how the reef’s shallow waters and clear visibility make it easy to spot marine creatures and appreciate the underwater landscape.

Plus, with the guide’s tips on snorkeling spots and behavior, even first-timers can enjoy observing marine life safely. Expect to see schools of tropical fish and possibly some tiny sea creatures darting around the corals.

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The Charm of Luli Island

The last major stop is Luli Island, renowned for its sandbar that appears during low tide—creating a perfect setting for photos and relaxing walks. Reviewers appreciate the opportunity to bask in the sun and take unique shots of the island’s changing landscape.

Luli Island is also a good spot for sunbathing and wading, and you can hop from the island to the boat easily. The shallow waters offer a safe environment for swimming, and the island’s natural beauty makes it a memorable finale to your day.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $253 for a private group of two, this tour presents a competitive price considering the inclusions. The price covers boat transportation, a licensed guide, lunch, entrance fees, and a cottage — all essential for a smooth, enjoyable day.

Compared to group tours, the private experience minimizes crowds and maximizes flexibility. You can spend more time at the spots you love and skip the ones less appealing. Plus, the personal guide can share insights and answer questions about the islands, marine life, or local culture, enriching your understanding of Palawan’s natural environment.

While snorkeling gear isn’t included, bringing your own or renting locally ensures you’re ready to explore underwater treasures at Pambato Reef. The environmental fee of PHP 150 adds to your costs but helps preserve these beautiful islands for future visitors.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Bring cash for snacks, souvenirs, and the environmental fee.
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—the tropical sun can be intense.
• Snorkeling gear isn’t provided, so bring your own or plan to rent nearby.
• Wear swimwear and bring a towel—you’ll want it for swimming and sunbathing.
• Arrive early to maximize your time at each stop and avoid afternoon crowds.
• Waterproof your valuables in a sealed bag to protect electronics and essentials.
• Check the weather forecast beforehand, as tours may be delayed or canceled in bad weather.
• Hotel pickup is included, but confirm your pick-up details in advance.
• Be mindful of the environmental fee and add it to your budget.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Honda Bay trip is ideal for couples, small groups, or friends looking for an intimate escape. It’s a fantastic choice for those who value flexibility, personalized service, and stunning scenery.

If you’re eager to snorkel, relax on quiet beaches, or take memorable photos without the hustle of large tour groups, this tour suits you perfectly. It also works well for travelers with mobility considerations, thanks to wheelchair accessibility.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a structured schedule or doesn’t want to manually bring snorkeling equipment, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This private Honda Bay tour offers a well-rounded, relaxed way to explore Palawan’s scenic islands. The focus on exclusivity, combined with the inclusion of a guide, lunch, and entrance fees, makes it a good value for a truly personalized experience.

The stops at Cowrie Island, Pambato Reef, and Luli Island deliver a variety of activities—sunbathing, snorkeling, and picture-perfect moments—that appeal to nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.

While it’s not a full-on adventure or deep marine expedition, it balances comfort, scenic beauty, and marine exploration in a way that makes for a memorable day. If you’re after a laid-back, intimate island-hopping trip with stunning views, this tour is worth considering.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts around 8 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private experience for only 2 persons, offering personalized service and flexibility.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private boat service, a licensed tour guide, lunch, entrance fees, and a cottage.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling gear is not included, so bringing your own mask and snorkel is recommended for the reef stops.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, an environmental fee of PHP 150 is payable, plus extra for snacks or souvenirs.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for some guests with mobility needs.

Where do I meet the guide?
You’ll need to provide your hotel details during booking; the tour starts from your hotel and ends back there.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on snorkeling and beach activities suggests it’s best for older children or teens comfortable with water activities.

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