Palawan: Honda Bay Island Hopping Cruise

If you’re dreaming of a day spent amidst sun, sand, and sea in the Philippines, the Honda Bay Island Hopping Cruise offers a solid choice. While it’s based in Cavite, the tour takes you to scenic islands near Puerto Princesa, meaning you’ll experience some of the best that the region has to offer without leaving the city behind.

This 9-hour adventure is packed with stops at three renowned islands, water activities, and Filipino cuisine, all at a reasonable price.

What we love about this tour is its social aspect—small groups and shared boat rides mean you’ll likely meet fellow travelers, adding a friendly vibe to your day. The inclusion of lunch allows you to savor local flavors without extra effort, a real plus for those who want to keep things simple and authentic.

However, a possible consideration is that the tour duration and timing may not suit everyone, especially those with tight schedules or seeking a more leisurely experience.

This tour best suits adventurous travelers eager to explore multiple islands efficiently and enjoy watersports and marine life.

Key Points

• Shared group experience offers a fun, social atmosphere.
• Includes lunch, ensuring you don’t need to plan meals separately.
• Visit three scenic islands—Starfish, Luli, and Cowrie—each with unique attractions.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics.
• Marine-rich environment with opportunities to see fish, corals, and giant clams.
• Cost-effective at around $37 per person, considering boat, fees, and lunch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to Honda Bay Island Hopping

This tour is a great pick for travelers who want a quick escape from city life to enjoy some of the Philippines’ beautiful islands without the hassle of planning each detail. The tour’s main draw is the chance to visit three different islands in one day, each offering unique sights and activities—from lounging on pristine beaches to snorkeling with marine life.

Two things we find particularly appealing: First, the tour’s all-in-one package—hotel pickup, boat rides, entrance fees, and lunch—means you can relax and focus on the fun. Second, the small group size highlighted in reviews, such as one traveler mentioning “plenty of time at each stop to enjoy” and “small group,” promises a more intimate experience compared to large, impersonal tours.

On the flip side, one consideration is that seasickness might be an issue for some, as the tour involves a motorized boat ride between islands. Also, the timing could be tight for travelers wanting more relaxed exploration. Still, if you’re looking for efficient, value-packed day trips that combine sun, sea, and socializing, this cruise hits the right notes.

Exploring the Itinerary

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, usually arranged to coincide with your morning schedule. Expect to be greeted by a knowledgeable guide who will lead the way and keep the group organized. The boat ride itself is a core part of the experience, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and scenic views en route to the islands.

Starfish Island

Your first stop is likely Starfish Island, famed for its abundance of marine life. While the provided info doesn’t specify the exact activities here, the name hints at a highlight: the chance to see starfish in their natural environment. This is a fantastic opportunity to snorkel and get close to vibrant sea creatures, especially if you rent mask and snorkel (note that rental isn’t included).

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Luli Island

Next is Luli Island, known for its white sandy beaches and shallow waters. Travelers often mention “plenty of time at each stop to enjoy,” which suggests you’ll have a good window for swimming, sunbathing, or taking photos. Its tranquil environment makes it an ideal spot for relaxing and soaking up the sun.

Cowrie Island

Your final stop is Cowrie Island, which hosts resorts and offers watersports. Expect to find options like kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply lounging by the beach. The review remarks that the experience “had plenty of time to enjoy,” indicating a generous amount of leisure time at each location.

What to Expect at Each Island

The three islands collectively offer a mix of beach relaxation, marine encounters, and watersports. They are relatively close, about 30 minutes from Puerto Princesa, making the trip practical and manageable, especially if you’re short on time. The marine environment is rich with fish, corals, and even giant clams, promising vibrant underwater sights if you decide to snorkel.

The tour includes entrance fees and wharf fees, removing some of the hassle of additional expenses, though an environmental fee of 150 PHP per person is not included. You might find this fee payable on-site, so be prepared for small extra costs.

Water Activities

While the tour package includes mask and snorkel rental as an optional extra, the actual rental isn’t included in the base price. If snorkeling is your thing, bringing your own gear or renting locally might be worthwhile. Aqua shoes are also not included and could enhance comfort when walking on rocky or coral areas.

The Experience and Reviews

As one traveler noted, the experience offers “plenty of time at each stop to enjoy” and was enjoyable partly because of the small group size. This makes the experience more personal and less rushed. The guide plays a key role in making the day smooth, sharing insights, and helping you make the most of each island.

The value of around $37 per person is quite reasonable given the inclusions—boat, guide, lunch, and fees. It’s especially attractive for travelers who want to see multiple islands without the stress of independent travel or multiple bookings.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour might not be ideal for seasick-prone travelers, as the boat ride can be choppy depending on the weather. Also, if you prefer a longer, more leisurely exploration, the 9-hour duration might feel a bit rushed.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a waterproof bag to keep your valuables safe and dry.
• Consider renting a snorkel or mask if you want to explore underwater life more closely.
• Be prepared for some small additional costs like the environmental fee.
• Arrive dressed for water activities and comfortable in your footwear.
• The tour is not suitable if you’re prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.
• Check the availability for your preferred date, as starting times vary.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This adventure is perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a fun-filled and social day. It suits those who want to maximize island visits in a short time, enjoy watersports, and sample Filipino cuisine in a scenic setting. If you’re after a relaxing, slow-paced day or want to explore off-the-beaten-path islands at your own pace, this might feel a bit hurried. But for active travelers eager for marine sights and island fun, it hits the right balance of value, convenience, and adventure.

The Sum Up

The Honda Bay Island Hopping Cruise offers an affordable, well-organized way to experience some of the most beautiful islands near Puerto Princesa. With hotel pickup, a guide, included lunch, and visits to three diverse islands, it provides a practical and enjoyable way to cram in a day of sun, sand, and marine life. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy social group tours, watersports, and quick escapes from city life.

While it may not be ideal for travelers seeking luxury or leisurely exploration, it offers solid value and authentic experiences for most visitors. Expect lively group interactions, plenty of time on the beach, and chances to witness vibrant underwater ecosystems—all in one memorable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can be suitable for children, especially since it includes relaxing beach stops and watersports. Just keep in mind that the boat ride might be choppy for some, and young children should be supervised closely in the water.

How long are the stops at each island?
While the exact time isn’t specified, reviews mention “plenty of time at each stop to enjoy,” suggesting around 1 to 2 hours per island, enough for swimming, sunbathing, and photos.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a waterproof bag for valuables, and optional snorkeling gear. Comfortable water shoes are recommended but not included.

Are meals included?
Yes, a picnic lunch is provided, giving you a taste of Filipino cuisine while you relax on the beach or enjoy watersports.

How much does the environmental fee cost?
The fee is 150 PHP per person, which is not included in the base price and payable separately.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This Honda Bay island-hopping tour offers a lively, value-packed option for those eager to enjoy the Philippines’ marine beauty without a lot of fuss. Whether you’re after snorkeling, relaxing on sandy shores, or just soaking up the sun, it’s a dependable choice for a memorable day in Palawan’s nearby waters.

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