Boracay: Island Hopping with Lunch and Crystal Cove Island

Exploring Boracay: Island Hopping with Lunch and Crystal Cove Island

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, hidden caves, and pristine beaches, a tour like this is just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken it, this Boracay island-hopping experience promises a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic local flavors. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this day out offers a chance to see more beyond the main strip, all at an accessible price point.

What draws us in most? First, visiting Crystal Cove Resort’s caves and lagoons sounds like a one-of-a-kind experience. Second, the snorkeling opportunities in vibrant coral reefs promise underwater sights worth capturing. And third, the lunch onboard, featuring fresh seafood and Filipino specialties, makes the trip feel like a true taste of local life. The only real consideration? The tour duration is around 4.5 hours — so it’s a good fit for those who enjoy a packed but relaxed schedule. Overall, it’s ideal for travelers who want immersive island scenery with a dash of cultural flavor.

Good To Know

• Affordable price point offers good value considering the included activities and lunch.
• Visit Crystal Cove Island’s caves and lagoons for a unique scenic experience.
• Snorkeling gear and life vests are provided, making underwater exploration accessible.
• Includes a local-style buffet lunch with seafood and Filipino dishes.
• Tour duration is around 4.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.
• Suitable for most travelers except those with mobility restrictions or specific health concerns.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details of the Boracay Island Hopping Tour

This tour from Denn Travel and Tours is designed to give you a taste of Boracay’s lesser-explored areas while keeping the experience relaxed and enjoyable. Starting from either Astoria Boracay Station 1 (for the Amihan season) or Bulabog Beach (Habagat season), the day is organized to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Starting Point at Bulabog Beach
This choice of departure point offers easy access to the boat and a chance to start the day with a splash of island life. If you’re staying near Station 1, the Astoria pick-up makes for a quick and convenient start.

Stop 2: Puka Shell Beach (15-minute guided tour)
A short but sweet stop at Puka Shell Beach allows you to stretch your legs, admire the shell-strewn shoreline, and take quick photos. It’s a popular spot for those wanting the classic Boracay vibe without the crowds.

Stop 3: Crystal Cove Island (2-hour exploration)
This is the highlight for many. The tour includes visiting caves and lagoons, which are often described as peaceful and photogenic. Reviewers mention the “beautiful, hidden caves,” and the chance to snorkel along coral reefs. One traveler noted, “The caves were surprisingly cool and spacious, with lagoons perfect for swimming.” It’s a great spot to explore nature’s hidden corners.

Stop 4: Lunch onboard (1 hour)
After exploring Crystal Cove, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch featuring fresh seafood and Filipino dishes. This is a wonderful opportunity to indulge in local flavors, with some noting the lunch as a “highlight” of the trip. The meal is served comfortably on the boat, allowing you to relax and chat with fellow travelers.

Stop 5: Return to Bulabog Beach
The tour wraps up after roughly four and a half hours, bringing you back to your departure point. Most reviews mention the timely return, allowing for a relaxed afternoon or further exploration of Boracay.

What’s Included and Not

The tour includes a professional English-speaking guide, snorkeling gear, and a local-style buffet lunch. Snorkel equipment, including fins and snorkel tubes, are available for use—though some reviews suggest bringing your own fins if you’re a serious snorkeler.

However, extras like entrance fees to Magic Island (PHP 250) or additional snorkeling fees (PHP 100) are optional and not included. It’s worth noting that the tour does not cover hotel pick-up/drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange transportation to the meeting points.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Crystal Cove’s caves and lagoons are often highlighted as the tour’s biggest draw. The caves are described as “surprisingly spacious” and “cool to explore,” offering a sense of adventure and discovery. The lagoons provide calm, clear waters perfect for a relaxing swim after some cave exploration.

Snorkeling in vibrant reefs is another favorite aspect. Reviewers frequently mention the crystal-clear waters and colorful marine life, making it an excellent choice for snorkelers of all levels. The inclusion of snorkeling gear helps newcomers feel comfortable, while experienced snorkelers appreciate the easy access to reef spots.

The onboard lunch gets rave reviews, often described as “delicious,” with fresh seafood and Filipino favorites. It’s a great way to enjoy the local flavors in a relaxed setting, with some travelers noting the portions are generous and satisfying.

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Practical Considerations

Timing-wise, the 4.5-hour duration makes this tour ideal for those who want a taste of Boracay without spending the entire day. Since it’s a group activity, expect a moderate-sized group, which strikes a good balance between social vibe and personal space.

Weather and season matter — during the Amihan season, the tour meets at Astoria Boracay Station 1; during Habagat, the meeting point shifts to Bulabog Beach. Always check availability, as starting times may vary, and weather conditions can impact sea activities.

What to bring is straightforward: sunglasses, sun hat, change of clothes, waterproof camera, beachwear, and some cash for optional fees or souvenirs. Remember, alcohol and drugs are not permitted on the tour, aligning with safety and conservation efforts.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This island-hopping experience is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed yet adventurous half-day out. Families, couples, or solo travelers who want to explore Crystal Cove’s caves and lagoons will find plenty to enjoy. Snorkelers will appreciate the reef spots, and food lovers will value the included lunch.

It’s especially suitable if you prefer a guided tour with a local touch, rather than self-organized island visits. However, those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or specific health concerns should consider the physical aspects of cave exploration and swimming.

The Sum Up

This Boracay island-hopping tour offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting a taste of the island’s natural beauty, underwater life, and local cuisine—all at an accessible price. The visit to Crystal Cove’s caves and lagoons makes for memorable pictures and quiet moments away from the crowds, while the snorkeling opportunities allow you to get close to Boracay’s vibrant marine life.

The onboard lunch is a thoughtful addition, providing a taste of Filipino flavors in a relaxed setting. With a manageable schedule of around 4.5 hours, it’s perfect for travelers who want a half-day adventure that combines exploration and relaxation.

While it doesn’t include hotel transfers or some optional fees, the tour’s overall value, guided support, and scenic stops make it an excellent choice. Whether you’re seeking new underwater sights, hidden caves, or just a break from the busy beach scene, this island-hopping trip fits the bill.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts about 4.5 hours, making it a comfortable half-day trip.

Where does the tour start?
It starts either at Astoria Boracay Station 1 during the Amihan season or Bulabog Beach during the Habagat season, depending on the schedule.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a professional English-speaking guide, snorkeling gear, a local buffet lunch, and the island hopping activities.

Are snorkeling fins provided?
Yes, snorkeling fins and snorkel tubes are included, though some travelers might prefer to bring their own for a better fit.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included; you need to meet at the designated starting point.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, change of clothes, waterproof camera, beachwear, and cash for optional fees and souvenirs.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
It’s best to enjoy the provided buffet lunch; outside food or drinks are generally not included but check with the tour provider if bringing snacks is allowed.

Are there any additional fees?
Optional entrance fees like PHP 250 for Magic Island and snorkeling fees of PHP 100 are not included and need to be paid separately if you choose to visit or snorkel there.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, very young children under 1 year, or those with mobility or health restrictions.

What about the weather?
Sea conditions and weather can impact the tour; always check the forecast and confirm the schedule before booking.

This Boracay island-hopping tour offers an excellent blend of scenic adventure and cultural cuisine, perfect for those looking to see more of the island’s natural treasures without a full-day commitment.

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