Boracay Island Hopping with Buffet Lunch & Helmet Diving

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

Imagine a day spent cruising around one of the Philippines’ most famous islands, exploring hidden beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and enjoying a hearty buffet lunch—all in just four hours. That’s exactly what this Boracay Island Hopping tour promises. With a mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and fun water activities, it offers a well-rounded experience for travelers eager to see the best parts of Boracay without the lengthy commitments of multi-day excursions.

What really makes this tour stand out are three elements: the stop at Crocodile Island for snorkeling, the inclusive buffet lunch, and the chance to try helmet diving—a unique activity that often surprises first-timers. While the tour offers great value at $47 per person, keep in mind that some additional fees for entrance and snorkeling gear might apply, and weather conditions can influence which beaches are accessible.

This tour is ideal for those who want an efficient, fun-filled day with plenty of opportunities for swimming and sightseeing. If you’re looking for a low-stress, all-in-one adventure that introduces you to Boracay’s highlights, this experience could be just perfect. But travelers expecting a private, exclusive experience should note that group sizes can be larger, and some stops depend on weather conditions.

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Good To Know

• Affordable and well-rounded: At $47, it’s a good deal considering the inclusions and activities.
• Wide variety of stops: From relaxing beaches to snorkeling at Crocodile Island and exploring Crystal Cove.
• Includes a buffet lunch: A hearty meal to keep you energized for the day.
• Suitable for water lovers: Snorkeling gear, helmet diving, and swimming spots ensure plenty of aquatic fun.
• Weather-dependent stops: Some beaches, like Puka Beach, depend on weather conditions, so plans may change.
• Group tour with safety measures: Includes safety gear, insurance, and a guide, but not suited for those with mobility issues.

A Closer Look at the Boracay Island Hopping Experience

The Booking and Meeting Process

The tour is organized by H&H Holidays Travel and Tours, with a flexible booking policy. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, which is helpful if your plans are still up in the air. The activity lasts about 4 hours, and you have options for pickup from your hotel for an extra fee, or you can meet at Astoria Station 1 or Bolabog Beach by 9:00 AM. The guide, easily recognizable in purple Diaries uniform, is friendly and knowledgeable, making the start of your adventure seamless.

The Itinerary: A Mix of Relaxation and Adventure

Habagat Season (June-November)

During the rainy season, the tour begins with a visit to Ilig-iligan Beach or Puka Beach. Both are known for their fine sands and calming waters, ideal for swimming or simply soaking up the views. Weather often influences the choice, and guides aim to maximize beach time based on conditions.

The second stop is Crocodile Island, a popular snorkeling spot. It’s a tiny island that’s often crowded with marine life, thanks to its vibrant coral reefs. Reviewers highlight the snorkeling here as “a highlight,” with some mentioning that the coral is lively and fish are abundant. The guide, in some reviews, is praised for pointing out different marine creatures and making sure everyone is comfortable in the water.

Lunch comes next, a buffet that’s usually served on the boat or at a designated area. While some mention the food as basic, it’s generally considered enough to satisfy hungry explorers after a morning of activity.

The final stop is Crystal Cove Island, a scenic spot with coves and caves perfect for a brief walk or more swimming. The boat then returns to the starting point, concluding the four-hour adventure.

Amihan Season (December-May)

In the dry season, the route shifts slightly, with stops at Coral Garden for snorkeling and Balinghai Beach—known for its clear waters—before Puka Beach. The sequence may vary, but the focus remains on mixing snorkeling, swimming, and scenic beach visits. The weather during this time typically allows for longer, more relaxed stops.

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What’s Included and What You’ll Pay Extra For

The tour price covers a lot: a boat for 4 hours, buffet lunch, a tour guide, individual life jackets, snorkeling gear, and passenger safety insurance. Plus, you get to enjoy the hot kawa bath, which many reviews mention as a delightful, relaxing treat after the water activities.

However, some expenses are not included. You’ll need to pay separately for snorkeling fees, goggles, and entrance fees to places like Crystal Cove and Magic Island, which can add up. Reviewers suggest bringing some cash just in case.

Practical Tips and Important Details

• Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and waterproof footwear to protect yourself during stops.
• Weather can affect your plans; some beaches or stops might be skipped if conditions aren’t favorable.
• The tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility issues, as some stops involve walking or swimming.
• Cancellation is flexible—you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, making it low-risk if your plans change.

What Past Travelers Say

Reviewers often mention the friendly guides who keep the group safe and entertained while sharing local insights. Some note that the snorkeling gear provided is functional, but bringing your own goggles might improve the experience. The buffet lunch sometimes receives mixed reviews—simple but filling seems to be the consensus.

Many appreciate the opportunity to see different beaches and reefs in a short time, especially since the stops are well-organized and run smoothly. The helmet diving, in particular, surprises first-timers with how accessible and fun it is. One reviewer mentioned, “It was nearly impossible not to smile while helmet diving—such a quirky way to see underwater life without getting soaked.”

The Sum Up

This Boracay Island Hopping tour is a solid choice for travelers seeking a quick, activity-packed day that showcases some of the island’s best beaches and snorkeling spots. The buffet lunch and safety features add value, making it a hassle-free way to explore without planning multiple excursions. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided, social experience with plenty of water activities, rather than a private or secluded retreat.

While weather can influence which beaches are visited, the stops at Crocodile Island and Crystal Cove offer memorable aquatic encounters, and the opportunity to try helmet diving adds a dash of excitement. Just be prepared for some additional costs if you want to access certain sites or rent gear.

This tour offers a balanced, fun, and affordable way to enjoy Boracay’s natural beauty on a busy schedule. If you love beaches, snorkeling, and good food, it’s a reliable choice that delivers a snapshot of the island’s highlights.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

Where do I meet the guide?
You can meet at Astoria Station 1 or Bolabog Beach by 9:00 AM. There’s an option for hotel pickup for an extra fee.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, waterproof footwear, and some cash for optional fees like snorkeling gear or entrance charges.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable in water and mobile enough to do some walking or swimming. It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments.

Are the stops weather-dependent?
Yes, some beaches like Puka Beach or Balinghai Beach depend on weather conditions and may be skipped if the weather isn’t suitable.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Yes, snorkeling fees, goggles, and entrance fees to places like Crystal Cove and Magic Island are not included in the main price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

Is helmet diving included?
It’s an optional activity that surprises many first-timers—it’s fun and accessible, but check if it’s available on your tour day since the description highlights it as part of the experience.

This Boracay Island Hopping tour combines the essential sights and activities into an engaging, budget-friendly package. Perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a taste of Boracay’s waters and beaches—all in just a few hours.

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