Coron Island Hopping Tour B with Skeleton Wreck & Barracuda Lake

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with stunning vistas, colorful marine life, and intriguing shipwrecks, the Coron Island Hopping Tour B promises just that. This relatively affordable tour (around $32 per person) packs in a solid 6 to 8 hours of exploring some of the most captivating sights around Busuanga Island. From the famous Skeleton Wreck to Barracuda Lake’s unique thermocline, it’s an itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and a touch of history.

What we especially like about this tour is how it offers a comprehensive taste of Coron’s underwater gems without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of a well-prepared lunch and entrance fees makes it a convenient option for travelers looking to maximize their day. One thing to consider is that this tour might not suit travelers seeking a private experience, as it generally operates with a group of up to 30. Still, for those open to a lively, shared adventure, this tour hits a sweet spot.

Designed for active travelers who enjoy snorkeling, exploring lagoons, and discovering historic wrecks, this tour is perfect for those wanting to see a variety of iconic spots in one day. It’s especially suited for anyone with a moderate physical fitness level who appreciates a good mix of nature, history, and local hospitality.

Key Points

• Affordable and Value-Driven: At $32 per person, including entrance fees and lunch, it offers good value for a full day of exploring.
• Diverse Destinations: From lagoons and beaches to a WWII shipwreck and a unique lake, the tour offers a well-rounded experience.
• Snorkeling and Adventure: Destinations like Skeleton Reef and Barracuda Lake are ideal for snorkelers at all experience levels.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life throughout the trip.
• Convenience: Pickup and drop-off are offered, making it easier to access the tour starting point.
• Group Size and Flexibility: The tour typically accommodates up to 30 travelers, making for a lively but manageable group.

A Deep Dive into the Coron Island Hopping Tour B

This tour is a great choice if you’re eager to see Coron’s top highlights in one day. It strikes a nice balance between adventure and relaxation while providing enough information to enjoy each spot thoroughly. The itinerary is carefully curated, allowing you to soak in the stunning natural scenery and explore underwater sites that are both scenic and historically interesting.

Starting Point and Early Morning Vibes

The tour kicks off at Lualhati Park in Coron Town Proper at 9:00 am, with pickup options available. This is a practical starting point for most visitors, especially those staying nearby. The tour group size caps at 30, which helps keep the experience intimate enough for personalized attention but lively enough to enjoy a social atmosphere.

Barracuda Lake: A Must-See for Thermocline Fans

The first stop on the agenda is Barracuda Lake. According to reviews, this site offers a distinctive experience thanks to its thermal layering—a rare natural phenomenon that creates a surreal swimming environment. The clear, turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling and underwater exploration. The vibrant marine life, including barracudas, adds a dynamic element to the lake’s otherworldly landscape.

Guests report that the scenery is spectacular, with featuring towering limestone cliffs and pristine waters. The underwater terrain consists of interesting rock formations, caves, and tunnels, making it a favorite for those wanting a bit of adventure beneath the surface.

Smith Beach: A Quiet Beach Retreat

Next, the group heads to Smith Beach, which offers a peaceful stop for sunbathing and relaxation. The powdery white sands and calm turquoise waters make it an ideal spot to unwind. Reviewers appreciated the ability to simply lounge under the shade of coconut trees or snorkel over the nearby coral reefs brimming with colorful marine life.

If you’re feeling active, you might rent a kayak to paddle around, or simply enjoy a leisurely swim. The tranquility of Smith Beach is a welcome contrast to the more adventurous stops and provides a perfect photo opportunity.

Skeleton Wreck: A WWII Underwater Relic

The highlight for many is Skeleton Reef, where a Japanese WWII shipwreck rests just beneath the surface. Thanks to its shallow depth and clear waters, it’s accessible for snorkelers and novice divers alike. The wreck itself is an evocative reminder of the past, adding a historical dimension to the trip.

Reviewers mention the abundance of marine life, including tropical fish and sea turtles, swimming among the rusted remains and coral-covered hull. It’s a chance to see history while floating over vibrant coral gardens. The site also offers the chance to explore the structure if you’re with a guide or have the appropriate gear.

Twin Lagoon: A Natural Wonder

The last major stop is Twin Lagoon, famous for its limestone cliffs and tranquil waters. Accessing the second lagoon is a fun challenge—at low tide, you can swim through a narrow opening to reach a quieter, more secluded spot. Many reviewers find the scenery here to be absolutely breathtaking, with clear waters perfect for snorkeling and kayaking.

This spot feels like a true escape, with towering cliffs and calm waters that make for picture-perfect moments. Whether lounging in the lagoons, passing through the opening, or exploring the underwater scenery, this is a highlight of the trip.

Lunch and Rest

Midday, the crew prepares a delicious local-style lunch, which is served at one of the stops. The reviews emphasize that the lunch is well-prepared, offering a chance to refuel with local flavors. It’s a nice touch that adds to the overall value of the tour.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

• Duration: The entire trip lasts around 6 to 8 hours, including travel time and stops.
• Price: At $32 per person, it covers all entrance fees, the crew’s service, and lunch, making it an economical choice for a full day.
• Snorkel gear and kayak rentals are available for about US$25 if you want to extend your underwater exploration.
• Meeting point: The tour begins at Lualhati Park, with pickup options, and ends back at the same location.
• Group size: Usually up to 30 travelers, creating a lively but manageable experience.
• Physical fitness: Moderate fitness is recommended, especially for passing through narrow crevices or doing light swimming.

Review Insights: What Past Travelers Say

Among the eight reviews, many praise the quality of snorkeling spots and the friendly, competent boat crew. One reviewer highlighted the “good service on board and a great lunch,” while another noted the “Filipino hospitality at its best.” These comments reinforce that the tour is well-organized and culturally warm.

Some travelers mention the importance of checking that life vests are in good condition, which is always a smart move before water-based activities. The overall rating of 4.1 suggests that while most guests had a positive experience, some minor issues such as equipment quality or group size could be factors to consider.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Coron Island Hopping Tour B offers an efficient way to see a diverse mix of highlights, from natural lagoons to historical wrecks, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time. The affordable price point combined with the variety of stops creates excellent value, especially considering the included entrance fees and lunch.

If you’re someone who admires scenic views, enjoys snorkeling, and loves combining history with nature, this tour will suit you well. The groups are lively but manageable, and the stops are carefully chosen for their visual and experiential appeal.

However, if you prefer a private, customizable experience or are very particular about gear quality, you might want to explore private options or bring your own equipment. The tour is generally suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some spots require a bit of swimming or passing through narrow openings.

All in all, this tour promises a day filled with stunning scenery, lively marine encounters, and a taste of Coron’s fascinating history. It’s an accessible, engaging adventure for anyone wanting to make the most of their time on Busuanga Island.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes lunch and entrance fees for all stops. Pickup is offered, and the tour ends back at the starting point.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 6 to 8 hours, including travel time, stops, and lunch.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Snorkel gear can be rented separately for about US$25, but it’s recommended to bring your own if possible for comfort and hygiene.

Can beginners snorkel at Skeleton Wreck and Barracuda Lake?
Yes, both spots are suitable for beginners thanks to their shallow depths and clear waters, but some experience is helpful.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, a hat, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and perhaps a light dry bag for valuables.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
This tour is not designed for cruise ship guests; contact the operator for private options if needed.

This Coron Island Hopping Tour B strikes a balance between affordability, adventure, and cultural insight, making it an excellent choice for most travelers eager to see Coron’s natural and historical treasures with ease.