Kalanggaman & Malapascua Island W/ Lunch & Transfer fr Cebu

Planning a trip to the Philippines often means dreaming of crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands, and coral reefs teeming with life. This tour to Kalanggaman and Malapascua Islands promises just that—a day of idyllic island bliss, hassle-free travel, and authentic local experiences. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gathered plenty of insights and reviews to give you an honest, detailed look at what you can expect.

What truly stands out are the seamless transfers, the generous inclusion of lunch plus water activities, and the opportunity to explore two striking islands in one day. However, keep in mind that the tour requires quite a bit of travel time from Cebu City, and it’s best for those who enjoy full-day adventures on the water. If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed island trip with a focus on natural beauty and marine discovery, this tour could be a perfect choice.

Three things we love about this experience: the comfort of private transfers, the variety of activities like snorkeling and water sports, and the chance to relax in a peaceful island setting. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the long drive from Cebu City, which might be tiring for some travelers. This tour suits adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a comprehensive island day without the hassle of planning every detail.

Good To Know

• Seamless transfer arrangements from Cebu City to the islands, saving time and hassle.
• Includes lunch and water—a great value for a full day out.
• Multiple snorkeling spots offering a chance to see baby blacktip sharks and coral reefs.
• Flexible activities like kayaking, jet skiing, and banana boat rides available.
• Balance of guided and free time on islands for exploring or relaxing at your own pace.
• Ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty in one trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from this Island Hopping Tour

The Journey Begins: From Cebu City to Maya Port

The adventure kicks off early, with a private transfer from Cebu City that takes about 3.5 hours to reach Maya Port. This may sound lengthy, but it’s a comfortable ride, often with scenic views of the Cebu countryside. Having a private transfer means you avoid the unpredictability of public transport, and you get to start your day relaxed.

Malapascua Island – A Hidden Gem

Once you arrive at Maya Port, a private boat whisks you over to Malapascua Island. Here, the atmosphere shifts from city hustle to tropical calm. Malapascua is known for its laid-back vibe, warm breeze, and vibrant marine life. The island itself is a quiet spot, perfect for a quick exploration or just soaking up the sun.

Guests have shared that the Malapascua portion of the tour includes a 3-4 hour itinerary featuring visits to four snorkeling sites and a popular beach. This gives you a good mix of underwater adventures and downtime on the sands. The snorkel spots are especially appreciated for the chance to see baby blacktip sharks at Tepanee and a Japanese shipwreck, promising a memorable underwater experience.

Kalanggaman Island: A Dreamlike Sandbar

The highlight for many is the visit to Kalanggaman Island—a true postcard-perfect sandbar stretching into the sea, fringed with swaying palm trees. It’s described as feeling like a “secluded utopia,” and you’ll likely agree when you step onto the powdery white sands. The tour includes a hearty island lunch with fruits, sodas, and bottled water, served in a shaded cottage—perfect for refueling after swimming or exploring.

Guests have noted that the island is a peaceful spot, ideal for lounging, taking photos, or just listening to the waves. The calm, clear waters are inviting for swimming or snorkeling, where you can marvel at marine life surrounding the island.

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Water Activities and Free Time

Besides snorkeling, you have options to rent jet skis, kayaks, or banana boats. While these are not included in the package, many guests find renting them worthwhile for extra fun. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, simply lounging in the cottage or strolling along the endless sands provides pure relaxation.

Return Trip and End of the Day

After a day filled with sun, sea, and adventure, the boat returns to Maya Port around 2 pm, followed by the private transfer back to Cebu City. The entire experience typically lasts from early morning to late afternoon, making it an easy day trip for travelers based in Cebu.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are all transportation arrangements between Cebu City, Maya Port, and Malapascua, as well as boat fees, fuel, and staff such as guides and crew. The package covers accommodation overnight at Malapascua, with a comfortable 2-3 star air-conditioned resort, and all island fees—entrance, environmental, ecological, and docking.

The tour also provides lunch on Kalanggaman Island, boat fees, life vests, and guide services. For the return, breakfast on Day 2, plus transfers back to Cebu City, are included.

Extras you’ll need to cover include snorkeling masks (if you prefer your own), additional water sports, and any other meals outside the provided lunch and breakfast.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Bring essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, towel, and your own snorkeling gear if desired.
• Consider packing a light jacket for cooler evenings.
• Expect a long travel day, so comfortable clothes and snacks are recommended.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, non-swimmers, or people prone to seasickness.
• For the best experience, arrive prepared for a full day of fun and relaxation.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

The overall value of this tour lies in its organized, all-inclusive approach—meaning less time stressing over logistics and more time enjoying the natural beauty. The combination of two stunning islands in a single day offers excellent value, especially with well-planned transfers and a generous lunch.

Guests mention the professionalism of the crew, with guides and boatmen making the trip smooth and enjoyable. The snorkeling spots are praised for their vibrant marine life, and the peaceful atmosphere on Kalanggaman makes it a true highlight.

However, keep in mind the long travel times and the possibility of feeling tired after a full day of water activities and sun exposure. It’s best suited for those who love adventure, are comfortable in a group setting, and enjoy diving into new environments without a lot of fuss.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a comprehensive and hassle-free way to experience two of Cebu’s most iconic islands, combining scenic beauty, marine encounters, and relaxing beach time. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of guided activities and free exploration, all wrapped up with the convenience of transfers and meals included.

If you’re after a memorable day of island hopping with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and unwind, this trip delivers on all counts. Just be prepared for an early start and a full schedule—your best memories will come from the stunning scenery, vibrant sea life, and the simple joy of being on these untouched islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to take this tour?
The tour runs year-round, but the best weather is during the dry season from November to May when seas are calmer and skies clearer.

How long is the travel from Cebu City to Maya Port?
It takes around 3.5 hours by private transfer, so plan for a comfortable and scenic ride.

Are there snorkeling equipment available on the tour?
Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own masks if preferred for a better fit.

Can I do water sports like jet skiing or kayaking?
Water activities like jet skiing, kayaking, and banana boat rides are available but are not included in the tour price.

Is there free time on the islands?
Yes, you can explore or relax at your own pace after the guided activities, especially on Kalanggaman Island.

What should I bring for this trip?
Pack sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, hat, water, snacks, comfortable clothes, and your own snorkeling gear if you own one.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s not ideal for non-swimmers, as snorkeling and swimming are key parts of the experience.

Can I cancel the tour if plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

In summary, this all-inclusive island-hopping adventure from Cebu offers a fantastic way to see some of the Philippines’ most iconic spots with minimal fuss. Whether you’re into snorkeling, relaxing on pristine sands, or simply exploring new horizons, this trip has a lot to offer—delivering value, comfort, and a touch of tropical magic.

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