Philippines Island Hopping with Boat Expedition

Philippines Island Hopping with Boat Expedition

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Philippines Island Hopping with Boat Expedition

13 Days Starting in Manila, Philippines and ending in Coron, Philippines

Visiting: Puerto Princesa, Port Barton, El Nido, Island Special Stay, Island Beach Camp, Coron

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

PIPX24

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

0 - 50

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Activities:

Snorkeling

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Philippines Island Hopping with Boat Expedition tour. This journey takes you from the bustling cityscape of Manila to the pristine beaches of Palawan, offering a perfect blend of nature and culture. Experience the awe-inspiring Underground River in Puerto Princesa, snorkel with turtles in Port Barton, and explore the stunning beaches and waterfalls of El Nido via a private Jeepney. Support local conservation efforts during your Island Special Stay, and dive into vibrant marine life at the Island Beach Camp. The tour culminates in Coron, where you can explore intriguing World War II shipwrecks. With included flights, private boat transfers, and stays at charming hotels and beach camps, this tour promises a unique and immersive experience in the heart of the Philippines. Enjoy delicious local meals and the chance to connect with fellow travelers as you explore this tropical paradise.

Highlights

  • Puerto Princesa: Experience the stunning beauty of Palawan with an included flight from Manila.

  • Underground River: Cruise through the Subterranean River National Park and explore limestone caves.

  • Port Barton: Enjoy island hopping, snorkeling, and possibly swimming with turtles.

  • El Nido: Take a private Jeepney tour to explore beautiful beaches and waterfalls.

  • Island Special Stay: Support local marine conservation while enjoying beach-side views.

  • Island Beach Camp: Dive into vibrant coral reefs and explore historical caves.

  • Coron: Discover intriguing Japanese World War II shipwrecks.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Manila To Puerto Princesa

Location: Puerto Princesa

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Palawan Uno Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

Breathtaking beaches. Spectacular seafood. Rustic marine rendezvous. Welcome to Asia’s Pearl of the Orient, packed with some of the BEST views of your lifetime! There’s so much to see, and there’s no time to waste. You’ll meet your crew in Manila before we zip through the skies straight to our very first white-sand destination. Feel the beach vibes hitting you already? Same. Nothing’s better than a free evening to spend on one of the most pristine islands here, Palawan. But first, we feast. Exchange proper hellos with your fellow travellers over a welcome dinner. And for a prime local experience, you can end the night at a Tiki bar with Filipino tunes and cocktails. Today might be over, but this is just beginning…

Day 2: Puerto Princesa To Port Barton Via Underground River

Location: Puerto Princesa

Accommodation Name: Ferellee Beachfront Inn (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning, sunshine lovers! Today’s the first full day on this wonderful island, so you know we’re starting with a bang. You’ll grab some breakfast at the hotel and head straight to the Subterranean River National Park for a fascinating underground endeavour. Ready? Put on your neon helmets. For your very first adventure, you’ll float through an aquamarine river into one of the most complex cave systems in the world. Surrounded by intricate limestone formations (some of them egg-shaped too!) - you’ll have no doubt about why this glorious landscape is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bet your eyes are pleased with those gorgeous views. Now it's time to please our tummies - as part of a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. You’ll stop by at Nanay Elena’s House for a traditional Filipino meal, made using only the freshest ingredients (that she grows in her own farm!). Afterwards, drop your bags at our beachfront hotel. Relax on the shore. Explore the tiny town. The night is still young, and it’s all yours!

Day 3: Port Barton

Location: Port Barton

Accommodation Name: Ferellee Beachfront Inn (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Need your beauty sleep? Or just need to spend some time on the sandy beach? Today’s the day you can do anything you want. Dive into the crystal blue waters. Grab a book and soak in the sun. Go on a morning hike to check out the rocky hills. Or make your own rings & bracelets in a local workshop. Either way, sublime beach vibes are guaranteed here.

Day 4: Port Barton

Location: Port Barton

Accommodation Name: Ferellee Beachfront Inn (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Ocean-lovers, unite! Today, we’re going island hopping in our very own private boat. You’ll swim with sea turtles. Snorkel along the vibrant reefs. Grab a scrumptious locally-cooked meal. Dodge waves at the beach. And chill at a starfish sandbar (with your newly-made best friends, of course) as the sun sets over the serene sea. Is this island exploration done right or what?

Day 5: Port Barton To El Nido

Location: El Nido

Accommodation Name: Coral Cliff (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

It’s time to bid farewell to our (now) favourite island stop. But don’t worry, there are plenty more destinations here to give it competition. You’ll start the day with some breakfast at the hotel and with no time to waste, head to the next turquoise-tinted spot. A free afternoon to spend in another wonderful tropical paradise? How lucky are we? Taste the local street food. Or check out the unique shops around town. Oh, and please don’t forget to charge your camera!

Day 6: El Nido

Location: El Nido

Accommodation Name: Coral Cliff (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Rise and shine folks. It’s time to hit the road (just like the locals) in a wonderfully colourful, classic Jeepney. First stop? The beautiful Lio Beach. Enjoy the peaceful views and walk the wooden footpath that leads into the ocean. And it doesn’t end there. Next, we’ll head to Bulalacao Waterfalls. It’s gonna be really hard to stop yourself from taking a plunge into the enigmatic milky-white water. The day is not complete yet, we’ll head to the most popular beach in all of Palawan (and maybe even the Philippines, if you ask us) - Nacpan Beach. Finally, we'll end the day at Las Cabanas - one of the best sunset points in the ENTIRE country.

Day 7: El Nido

Location: El Nido

Accommodation Name: Coral Cliff (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

It’s not often you get an entire day in a palm tree paradise to spend just the way you please. But the stars must’ve aligned, because today is one of them! You can explore the pristine white-sand beaches while the sun’s out and spend the night chilling with your crew. It’s a ‘you do you’ kinda day.

Day 8: El Nido To Island Special Stay

Location: El Nido

Accommodation Name: The Isla Experience

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Mabuhay, travellers! The sun has risen, and so has the opportunity to explore another destination with crystal clear water. Munch on your final El Nido meal before we catch a boat-transfer. This is what you’ve been waiting for. You’ll drop your bags off at our Special Stay, our next MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience where we'll spend time exploring local culture - something straight outta a storybook. Afterwards, you’ll snorkel under the crystal blue water and explore a local shipwreck! We’ll then head to another authentic Filipino experience. Delicious local food served on a long banana leaf across the table devoured with your hands AKA a boodle fight. Finally, we'll light up a soothing bonfire and end the day resting on the shores (next to our rustic beach huts).

Day 9: Island Special Stay To Island Beach Camp

Location: Island Special Stay, Island Beach Camp

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Island Beach Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Are ya ready, sea-seekers? Our adventure is about to get wilder. Dine on a wholesome breakfast and bid your farewells, before we set out to our first destination of the marine safari. The next 3 days are packed with rustic adventures. You’ll be visiting close to 15 islands on a private boat. Camping on white-sand beaches. And watching the sunset from the most tranquil spots in the Philippines. Today, you’ll be visiting reefs and watching the breathtaking corals that are home to hundreds of fish (let’s hope the weather gods are on our side). Next, you’ll head to a remote island to get a spectacular view of the white sandbars over turquoise waters. Then, we’ll end the night with a campfire, dinner and music (and a wondrous view of the sparkling galaxy decorating the night sky). Note: The actual itinerary today will be confirmed once on board the boat as it is dependent on weather & sea conditions, the above is a guide only.

Day 10: Island Beach Camp

Location: Island Beach Camp

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Island Beach Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Another day, another adventure. Today, we'll continue exploring the sapphire seas. You’ll start the day with some snorkelling. Who knows? You might just spot some turtles (and occasionally sting rays too). If thriving coral reefs and breathtaking beaches are your thing, you're going to love our next stop. And finally, you’ll explore mind-boggling rock formations & visit secret caves that used to be Japanese hiding spots during World War II.Note: The actual itinerary today will be confirmed once on board the boat as it is dependent on weather & sea conditions, the above is a guide only.

Day 11: Island Beach Camp To Coron

Location: Coron

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Vienna Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

If you thought yesterday was the end of our island exploration, you’re in for a surprise. You can start the day with a scenic walk through the dense tropical mangroves and then head to another fringing reef. Keep your eyes peeled - you might spot some Giant Groupers and the occasional Dugongs too. All that snorkelling calls for some relaxation, so you’ll stop by for some lunch and drinks next to a sandbar. Then, we’ll head to (probably) the most clear lake you’ve ever seen. And finally, end the evening with some more snorkelling (can you ever get enough?) What a long (but satisfying) day it’s been! There are plenty of places around town to grab some dinner. You’ll then head back to the hotel to finally rest those travel-tired limbs.

Day 12: Coron

Location: Coron

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Vienna Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

It’s our last full day in this land of serene seas. And guess what? How you spend it is all up to you! Fancy a scuba dive? It’s your lucky day. Coron is known around the world for its intriguing Japanese World War II shipwrecks. Or you could choose to take a tricycle ride to the many beautiful beaches. And if you’re feeling like ditching the cool ocean water for something extra relaxing - the hot springs nearby might just be exactly what you need. Praying this day doesn’t end? Same.

Day 13: End Coron

Location: Coron

Meals Included: Breakfast

After many enticing days of sea, sun, dining and snorkelling - it’s time to say goodbye. Make the most of your last free meal in this wonderful marine ecstasy. Don’t forget to exchange deets with your new best friends. After all, no one can keep away from exciting sea adventures (with amazing company) for too long.

What's Included

  • Flight to Palawan

    An included flight from Manila to Palawan.

  • Underground River Tour

    A cruise through the Subterranean River National Park.

  • Island Hopping in Port Barton

    A day trip to two tropical islands with snorkeling, swimming, and dining.

  • Jeepney Tour in El Nido

    A private Jeepney tour of the beaches and waterfalls in El Nido.

  • Island Special Stay

    Support for local marine conservation, education, and eco garden with beach-side views.

  • Island Beach Camp

    Camping on white-sand beaches with activities like snorkeling and exploring historical caves.

  • Coron Shipwreck Exploration

    Exploration of Japanese World War II shipwrecks in Coron.

  • Meals

    Meals included as per the itinerary: breakfast, lunch, and dinner on specific days.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation at various hotels and beach camps as per the itinerary.

  • Transportation

    Transportation includes an included flight from Manila to Palawan, private Jeepney tours, tricycle rides, and private boat transfers for island hopping and marine safaris.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from the Philippines are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees for entry into the Philippines are not included.

  • Tips and Gratuities

    Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

Mode of Transport

Transportation includes an included flight from Manila to Palawan, private Jeepney tours, tricycle rides, and private boat transfers for island hopping and marine safaris.

Accommodation

Accommodation includes stays at various hotels and beach camps, such as Acacia Tree Hotel, Ausan Beachfront, Coral Cliff, The Isla Experience, and Vienna Hotel, offering a mix of comfort and beach-side views.

Dining Summary

  • 4 Dinner (D)
  • 12 Breakfast (B)
  • 7 Lunch (L)

FAQs

  • Manila: What type of luggage should I bring on this trip? Are there any weight restrictions? We recommend that you bring: - One suitcase or backpack with a max weight of 20 kgs (only coz you'll be flying from Manila to Puerto Princesa!). We’d recommend a backpack instead of a suitcase (for ease when you're getting on & off boats).- An overnight bag for when you visit Isla Experience Special Stay on Darocotan Island.
  • Manila: Will some departures have a different itinerary? Yes, some departures (see below) visit the Isla Experience Special Stay before visiting El Nido. All other inclusions, meals and locations will remain exactly the same. Here are those departures: - 9th Nov '24 - 23rd Nov '24 - 30th Nov '24 - 12th Apr '25
  • Manila: What are the facilities at the Isla Experience Special Stay? The Isla Experience Special Stay is in a remote island in the Philippines. You'll stay in simple beach huts with a bed, fan, mosquito net, towels and bedding. The showers and toilets are in a shared facility that's separate from your room. There's free Wi-Fi too, but it can be slow & there are the occasional power cuts. Best part? Almost everything here runs on solar energy! The bar & communal area is equipped with charging ports, water, tea & coffee stations. You can start a drinks tab and pay on departure (but please remember to get cash, no cards are accepted here!).
  • Manila: What are facilities like during the Boat Expedition?  The facilities are perfect for a digital detox. The islands you'll be visiting are super remote - so please remember to bring anything you might need - like meds - for 3 nights. You'll stay in beach campsites and huts with shared bathrooms, and no aircon or internet. But hey, you've got plenty of sea breeze and jaw-dropping island views to keep you company.

Included Experience

  • Puerto Princesa: Soar over the Manila skyline and aquamarine waters to one of the most beautiful islands in the country - Palawan, in an included flight.
  • Underground River: Cruise through the serene Subterranean River National Park into a kaleidoscope of pointy limestone caves. Don't miss the chance to watch the 8.2 km long river flow directly into the ocean.
  • Port Barton: Wanna get a taste of Grandma’s home-cooked food the Filipino way? Join Nanay Elena for a traditional meal made from locally-grown ingredients.
  • Port Barton: Want some Filipino keepsakes that you’ll never wanna take off? Here you'll have the chance to support a local workshop in Port Barton and learn how to make your own rings and bracelets.
  • Port Barton: Snorkel, swim, and dine - get your ocean fix on this island hopping day trip. You’ll visit two tropical islands, gorge on delicious seafood. And possibly even swim with turtles!
  • El Nido: Not riding on the colourfully chaotic Jeepney when in the Philippines? Now that should be considered a crime. Hop onto a private Jeepney for a tour of the wonderful beaches and waterfalls.
  • El Nido: Take a walk on the perfectly curved Nacpan Beach. Sink your feet into the golden-white sand. Or dip them into the cool water - it's a feast for your eyes, feet and soul.
  • El Nido: Watch the shiny smooth water tearing through the rocky hills of Bulalacao. Don’t forget your swimsuit. This spot is famous for its insta-worthy pictures.
  • Port Barton: Cameras at the ready! Be prepared to witness the bewitching beauty of the sunset at Las Cabanas - arguably one of the best sunset spots in the Philippines.
  • Island Special Stay: Support the locals with marine conservation, education and their eco garden while you get irresistible beach-side views. Talk about a win-win!
  • Island Special Stay: Love sea exploration? You're going to love this shipwreck site that is just off the coast of our island home. Here, you'll discover the history and secrets of WWII ships.
  • Island Special Stay: It’s time to get dirty (in the best way possible). Join a traditional Kamayan or a boodle fight, where you'll eat a communal feast served on long banana leaves with your hands.
  • Island Beach Camp: Dive into the brightly colourful world of corals and fishes. It’s an underwater exploration you won’t ever forget!
  • Island Beach Camp: Hop on our private boat for a stopover at the white-sand beaches of remote islands. It’s the perfect spot to get bronzed up under the sun.
  • Island Beach Camp: Put your bags down at your camp on the beach. Enjoy a sea-side dinner (with a bonfire, of course!). Vibe to local tunes. And end the night stargazing with your crew.
  • Island Beach Camp: Put on your swimsuits and dive straight into the cool blue waters of the Turtle Islands. It’s Finding Nemo in real life.
  • Island Beach Camp: Explore the underwater life thriving along the white-sand beaches.
  • Island Beach Camp: Need to fuel up for some more sea exploration? We’ve got you. Dine on some fresh Filipino food onboard our private boat. Onto the next adventure!
  • Island Beach Camp: They come in every shape and size you can imagine. And they’ll keep you wanting more of this geological wonder.
  • Island Beach Camp: Explore historical caves tucked away in a remote island. Who knows what secrets you might uncover there!
  • Island Beach Camp: Stroll off the beaten path into the kaleidoscope of dense and wonderfully lush mangroves. Don’t forget to capture the sight of the wooden bridge suspended over the small lagoons.
  • Island Beach Camp: Test your marine observation skills at a breathtaking reef. Keep your eyes peeled. You might spot the rare ‘sea-cow’, or Dugong if you’re lucky!
  • Island Beach Camp: Lay down your footprints (if the tide gods are on our side) on the white sandbar that peeks over the emerald waters.
  • Island Beach Camp: Prepared to be absolutely stunned? Visit the crystal blue Kayangan Lake, surrounded by impressive rock formations decorated with green plants.
  • Island Beach Camp: Discover the underwater world of blooming corals at the Coral Garden. Clear blue water. Multi-coloured reefs. And a golden opportunity to experience some submarine enigma.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of luggage should I bring on this trip?

    We recommend that you bring one suitcase or backpack with a maximum weight of 20 kgs, as you will be flying from Manila to Puerto Princesa. A backpack is preferred for ease when getting on and off boats. Additionally, an overnight bag is suggested for the Isla Experience Special Stay on Darocotan Island.

  • Will some departures have a different itinerary?

    Yes, some departures will visit the Isla Experience Special Stay before visiting El Nido. All other inclusions, meals, and locations will remain the same. The specific departures with this itinerary change are on 9th Nov '24, 23rd Nov '24, 30th Nov '24, and 12th Apr '25.

  • What are the facilities like at the Isla Experience Special Stay?

    The Isla Experience Special Stay is located on a remote island in the Philippines. Accommodations are simple beach huts with a bed, fan, mosquito net, towels, and bedding. Showers and toilets are in a shared facility separate from the rooms. There is free Wi-Fi, though it can be slow, and occasional power cuts occur. Most facilities run on solar energy. The bar and communal area have charging ports, water, tea, and coffee stations. A drinks tab can be started and paid upon departure, but only cash is accepted.

  • What are the facilities like during the Boat Expedition?

    The facilities during the Boat Expedition are ideal for a digital detox. The islands visited are very remote, so it is important to bring any necessary items, such as medications, for the 3-night stay. Accommodations are in beach campsites and huts with shared bathrooms, without air conditioning or internet. However, there is plenty of sea breeze and stunning island views to enjoy.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

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Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

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Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

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Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

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  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 60 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.

    At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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