Manila’s most worthwhile boat excursions center around scenic Taal Lake and its active volcano. The best tours combine crater views with authentic Filipino food tastings – a perfect blend of natural wonder and local flavor. For history buffs, half-day harbor cruises showcase the city’s colonial past while gliding past modern Manila’s skyline.
We especially love the comprehensive Taal Volcano tours, which include convenient hotel pickup and give you plenty of time to photograph the otherworldly crater landscape. The intimate countryside tours are another favorite, offering a perfect mix of lake views and local market visits without feeling rushed.
Check out these top-rated Manila boat tours that deliver the best value and experiences:
Key Points
- Taal Volcano Tours offer scenic views, local cuisine sampling, and knowledgeable guides for an intimate group experience starting at $140 per person.
- Taal Volcano Boat Experience provides a scenic boat tour around the volcano, with optional zipline and door-to-door transportation for a maximum of 10 travelers.
- Shared Cruise Shore Excursion offers a comprehensive tour of Manila’s history and modern attractions for up to 15 travelers at SEK 1,227.95 per person.
- Private Transfers to Manila Cruise Port provide air-conditioned, easy-to-book transportation with a driver meeting travelers in the arrival hall.
- Countryside Sightseeing and Market Tour includes a visit to Peoples Park in the Sky, a relaxing boat cruise, and a small-group experience starting at $160 per person.
Small-Group Day Tour With Boat Ride: Taal Volcano (Feb )
Offering a unique opportunity to experience the natural wonder of Taal Volcano, this small-group day tour takes travelers on a scenic journey from Manila.
With 97 positive reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, the tour is operated by Yolo Travel Philippines and priced at $140 per person.
Highlights include a boat ride across Taal Lake, stops at Tagaytay and Agoncillo for breathtaking views, and chances to try local cuisine and visit markets.
Knowledgeable guides provide historical context and cultural insights, enhancing the overall experience.
Travelers consistently praise the tour’s organization, intimate group size, and memorable activities like swimming under waterfalls.
A must-do for visitors to the Philippines, this tour showcases the region’s natural beauty and local charm.
Read our full review: Small-Group Day Tour With Boat Ride: Taal Volcano (Feb ) Review
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Taal Volcano Boat Experience and Lake Sightseeing From Manila
The Taal Volcano Boat Experience and Lake Sightseeing From Manila allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes surrounding the Philippines’ iconic volcanic lake.
This small-group day tour includes a jeepney ride to the People’s Park in the Sky, a tour of the Aguinaldo Shrine, and an optional zipline experience.
The highlight is a scenic boat tour around the Taal Volcano, offering stunning views of the crater and the surrounding lake.
With a maximum group size of 10 travelers, door-to-door transportation, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides an enriching escape from Manila.
Travelers have consistently praised the tour’s flexibility, friendly guides, and memorable experiences.
Read our full review: Taal Volcano Boat Experience and Lake Sightseeing From Manila Review
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For those exploring Manila on a cruise stopover, the Shared Cruise Shore Excursion of Manila Old and New City Tour offers a rundown of the city’s rich history and modern attractions.
Priced at SEK 1,227.95 per person, the tour accommodates up to 15 travelers and includes air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a bottled water.
Highlights include visits to the American Cemetery and Intramuros.
While the tour generally receives positive reviews for its knowledgeable guides and insightful historical details, some travelers have faced organizational issues, such as incorrect meeting points and long traffic delays.
Read our full review: Shared Cruise Shore Excursion of Manila Old and New City Tour Review
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Private Transfer From Manila Airport (Mnl) to Manila Cruise Port
Travelers arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport can conveniently arrange a private transfer to the Manila Cruise Port. This service includes an air-conditioned vehicle and private transportation, with all fees and taxes included.
The driver will meet travelers in the arrival hall, holding a signboard with the lead traveler’s name. The drop-off point is the Port of Manila.
Booking is easy, with a confirmation received at the time of booking, a lowest price guarantee, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
The transfer isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and service animals are allowed, and infant seats are available. Most travelers can participate, as this is a private tour for the group.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From Manila Airport (Mnl) to Manila Cruise Port Review
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Private Transfer From Manila City Hotels to Manila Cruise Port
Conveniently, travelers can arrange a private transfer from their Manila city hotels to the Port of Manila.
The air-conditioned vehicle provides comfortable transportation 24/7. Customers can confirm the pickup time with the local provider and include their cruise ship name and terminal number during booking.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and there’s free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience.
The service isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly, allows service animals, and has infant seats available.
Prices start at €72.00 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From Manila City Hotels to Manila Cruise Port Review
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Manila Countryside Sightseeing Tour Market Tour Boat Cruise
Embarking on a Manila countryside sightseeing tour and market tour, visitors can then cap off their experience with a relaxing boat cruise.
The Tagaytay Adventure Tour offers a comprehensive package that includes a visit to Peoples Park in the Sky for scenic views, exploration of Lake Taal and Tagaytay Point with volcano views, and a boat cruise.
Ideal for families and travelers with mobility limitations, the small-group tour with a maximum of 10 travelers is highly recommended, with a 5.0 overall rating based on reviews.
The tour includes all fees, taxes, air-conditioned transportation, lunch, and tips, starting at $160 per person. Free pickups are available from select areas, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered.
Read our full review: Manila Countryside Sightseeing Tour Market Tour Boat Cruise Review
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Cruise Shore Excursion of Villa Escudero With Lunch
Visitors can embark on a captivating cruise shore excursion to the renowned Villa Escudero in Manila, Philippines. This all-inclusive tour provides air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a delightful lunch inside the resort.
Travelers can enjoy a carabao-drawn carriage ride around the picturesque grounds and sip on complimentary iced tea or soda during the meal. The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 people, ensuring an intimate experience.
Cruise ship passengers must provide their ship details upon booking. With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this shore excursion offers flexibility and convenience for those seeking to explore the best of Manila’s countryside.
Read our full review: Cruise Shore Excursion of Villa Escudero With Lunch Review
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Common Questions
What Is the Average Duration of a Manila Boat Tour?
The average duration of a Manila boat tour is typically 2-3 hours, providing visitors ample time to explore the city’s waterways and landmarks. Tours often include sightseeing along the Pasig River and scenic views of the Manila Bay.
Are Life Jackets Provided During the Boat Excursions?
Life jackets are typically provided for passengers during boat excursions, ensuring their safety and comfort throughout the journey. Boat operators take necessary precautions to prioritize the well-being of their guests.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boats?
Passengers can typically bring their own food and drinks on the boats. However, it’s important to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure there aren’t any restrictions or guidelines regarding outside food and beverages.
What Kind of Photography Equipment Is Allowed on the Boats?
Photography equipment like cameras, tripods, and lenses are generally allowed on boat tours and cruises, though it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. They may have specific restrictions or guidelines regarding the use of equipment for safety and passenger comfort.
Do the Boat Tours Have Any Age or Disability Restrictions?
Most boat tours and cruises don’t have strict age or disability restrictions, but it’s best to check with the operator beforehand. They may have guidelines or accommodations to ensure all guests can safely enjoy the experience.
The Sum Up
Manila offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to explore the city’s historical sites, natural wonders, and local culture. These range from day trips to Taal Volcano to shared city tours and private transfers to cruise ports. Whether you’re looking for a scenic lake cruise or a culture, Manila has plenty of options to suit your interests and budget.