Palawan: Honda Bay Island Hopping Cruise

Planning a day of island adventures in Palawan? This Honda Bay Island Hopping Cruise promises a scenic escape just 30 minutes from Puerto Princesa, with great options for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on white sandy beaches. While it’s a popular choice for those seeking a taste of tropical paradise, it’s not without a few considerations—mainly the shared boat setup and potential crowds during peak season.

What makes this tour stand out? We love how it combines authentic island experiences with convenience, from hotel pickup to included lunch. The chance to explore three iconic islands with a small group adds a friendly, relaxed vibe. On the flip side, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer private tours, this might not be your best fit. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a well-rounded, affordable day on the water with a chance to mingle and explore.

Good To Know

• Accessible Day Trip: Just 30 mins from Puerto Princesa, ideal for a quick escape.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Hotel pickup, boat transfers, entrance fees, and lunch included.
• Group Size: Shared tours with other travelers, fostering friendly interactions.
• Snorkeling & Watersports: Equipment rentals available, but not included.
• Relaxed Pace: Around 9 hours with plenty of time at each stop.
• Ideal For: Beach lovers, families, and travelers seeking an authentic, budget-friendly adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Honda Bay Island Hopping Cruise

If you’re dreaming of white beaches, vibrant marine life, and a laid-back day out on the water, this tour hits all those marks. We’ll walk you through what’s in store—like visiting three of Honda Bay’s most famous islands, enjoying Filipino cuisine, and making memories with watersports.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Hotel Pickup & Guide Introduction
The day kicks off with hotel pickup—most tours start early, so expect to be ready by the morning. The guide from Top Ace Island Adventure Travel Services is usually fluent in English and Tagalog, providing friendly commentary along the way. As you board the motorized boat, you’ll notice the small group size (a few dozen), which helps keep the vibe intimate and manageable.

First Stop: Starfish Island
This is the spot where you’re most likely to see starfish—hence the name—scattered on the soft sand or visible in shallow waters. The shallow reefs and calm waters make it perfect for snorkeling, although gear rental isn’t included. The reviews mention that “there’s plenty of time at each stop to enjoy,” which means you won’t feel rushed to leave once you’ve had your fill of the underwater gardens.

Luli Island
Next, the boat takes you to Luli Island, a tiny sandbar that appears at low tide and becomes a perfect spot for lounging, swimming, or just soaking up the sun. The shallow waters are great for wading and taking photos, making it a favorite for families or couples looking for a peaceful break. Our research indicates visitors appreciate the “small group” setup, which prevents the area from feeling crowded, even during busy days.

Culinary Break & Lunch
Midday, you’ll head to Cowrie Island where a buffet-style Filipino lunch awaits. Expect traditional dishes, possibly including grilled seafood, rice, and local flavors—all included in the price. Reviewers love that the meal is “plenty of time to enjoy,” and it’s a great chance to chat with fellow travelers. The included lunch provides good value, especially considering the overall cost of $37 per person.

Optional Watersports & Free Time
After lunch, some tours offer the chance to rent masks, snorkels, or even aqua shoes—though these extras aren’t included, they’re affordable and available at each island. The tour’s flexible hours mean you can relax, take photos, or play in the water as long as desired.

Return & Drop-Off
The tour wraps up in the late afternoon with a smooth boat ride back to Puerto Princesa, and the guide ensures everyone is safely returned to their hotel. The total duration is about 9 hours, so it’s a full day but not overwhelming.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

What We Love About It

Convenience and Accessibility
The hotel pickup and drop-off make this tour easy to fit into a busy schedule. It’s especially convenient for travelers staying in Puerto Princesa who want a hassle-free day of island hopping without renting a boat or organizing transport.

Authentic Island Vibes
Visiting three islands—Starfish, Luli, and Cowrie—means you get a well-rounded taste of Honda Bay. Each has its unique charm: starfish and coral gardens, a tiny sandbar perfect for photos, and a resort-style island with facilities and food.

Inclusive Pricing
The package includes all entrance and wharf fees, plus a fully catered lunch. This transparency helps travelers avoid surprise costs. The only extra expenses are optional rentals like masks or aqua shoes, which you can decide on the spot.

Small Group Atmosphere
Unlike large, crowded tours, this experience consistently receives positive feedback for the small group size, which fosters a more personal and relaxed environment. As one traveler said, “Had plenty of time at each stop to enjoy. Small group.”

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Possible Drawbacks

Shared Tour Dynamics
Since the tour is shared with other travelers, it might feel crowded during peak times, especially on popular islands. If you prefer private trips or more secluded experiences, this may not be ideal.

Limited Water Sports Included
While snorkel gear and aqua shoes are available, they are not part of the included package. If you’re eager to snorkel extensively or try other watersports, you’ll need to rent gear separately.

Seasickness Considerations
The tour isn’t recommended for those prone to seasickness, as the boat ride between islands, though relatively short, can be bumpy for sensitive travelers.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

For travelers who want a cost-effective, well-organized day trip that offers a mix of relaxation, marine discovery, and local food, this tour hits all the right notes. Its balance of structured activities and free time makes it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers keen on exploring without the hassle of planning every detail.

The tour’s focus on small group interactions creates a friendly atmosphere, perfect if you’re looking to meet other travelers. Plus, the inclusion of Filipino cuisine for lunch adds a local touch, elevating the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This Honda Bay island hopping tour offers a convenient and authentic way to experience Palawan’s marine beauty without breaking the bank. Its value lies in the simple pleasures—beautiful beaches, friendly guides, and a relaxed pace—all wrapped into a straightforward package.

If you’re after a fun, social, and scenic day out, and don’t mind sharing space with other travelers, this trip will serve you well. It’s especially suited for those eager to tick off multiple islands in one day while enjoying a taste of Filipino hospitality and natural wonders.

However, if privacy, extensive snorkeling gear, or seclusion are your top priorities, you might want to explore other options or private tours. Still, for most, this cruise delivers a memorable slice of tropical paradise at a very reasonable price.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a hassle-free experience from Puerto Princesa.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 9 hours, with starting times varying based on availability.

What is included in the price?
The package covers guide services, boat transfers, entrance and wharf fees, and a buffet lunch featuring Filipino dishes.

Can I rent snorkeling gear?
Snorkel masks and aqua shoes are available for rent at the islands, but they are not included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially since there’s plenty of shallow water and beach time. However, consider seasickness or the age of your children before booking.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a waterproof bag. Avoid alcohol or drugs, as they’re not permitted on the tour.

To sum it up, this Honda Bay Island Hopping Cruise offers a fantastic way to experience Palawan’s marine life and beaches in a relaxed, budget-conscious style. It’s perfect for those who want a friendly environment, local food, and the chance to explore multiple islands with ease. For travelers craving a straightforward, memorable day on the water, this tour checks all the boxes.

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