Bohol: Island Hopping

Exploring Bohol by boat can be an exhilarating way to see some of the most beautiful sights the island has to offer. This full-day island hopping adventure takes you from the lively shores of Alona Beach to the waters teeming with dolphins, colorful fish, and coral reefs, finishing with some peaceful cultural and natural highlights.

One of the standout features of this tour is the chance to witness dolphins in the wild, along with a variety of snorkeling spots that promise vibrant marine life. The inclusion of tranquil stops like Isola di Francesco adds a calming, reflective element to the day. However, a possible consideration is that the itinerary can be quite packed, and some might prefer a more relaxed pace or additional time at each stop.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love nature and wildlife, want to see marine biodiversity, and are eager to explore the scenic islands of Bohol in a single day. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided excursions, snorkeling, and a mix of adventure and cultural experiences.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters: Dolphin sightings are a highlight, with the chance to see these graceful creatures swim freely.
• Snorkeling and marine life: The fish sanctuary offers colorful coral reefs and abundant tropical fish.
• Cultural stops: Isola di Francesco provides a peaceful retreat with spiritual and artistic elements.
• Convenience: Includes round-trip transportation and a local guide, making logistics easier.
• Value for money: At $125 per person, it offers a comprehensive day with diverse experiences.
• Expert guides: Well-reviewed guides like Rose enhance the experience with attentiveness and local knowledge.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Alona Beach

The tour kicks off at Alona Beach, a popular hub packed with resorts and lively beach bars. Here, you’re picked up (if your package includes hotel or port pickup), and the day begins with anticipation. The boat ride from this starting point sets the tone for an adventure that combines relaxation with discovery.

Tip: Arrive early to soak in the beach vibes before heading out—this spot gets busy, but it’s worth it for the scenic start.

Dolphin Watching at Balicasag Reef

The highlight for many is the dolphin encounter. The boatmen take you to a spot where dolphins swim around naturally, and once you’re close, the engines are turned off to avoid disturbing these intelligent creatures. Reviewers like Alvin_D describe it as “incredibly lucky to see the dolphins, turtles, and even swimming with fishes,” which underscores how special these moments can be.

Expect about 20 to 30 minutes of boat ride to reach the reef, with the actual dolphin sighting lasting a few minutes. Some travelers mentioned that the dolphins sometimes leap out of the water and swim close to the boat—truly a sight to behold. The experience is unplanned and based on the animals’ natural behavior, which makes it all the more authentic.

Snorkeling at Balicasag Island

After the dolphin excitement, you’ll move to Balicasag Island, a favorite among snorkeling enthusiasts. The island hosts a fish sanctuary where you can feed the fishes and marvel at vivid coral formations. The waters here are reportedly quite rocky due to the coral structures, so wearing aqua shoes is recommended, especially for the shallow feeding areas.

Reviewers like Carol_G mention how the guide’s attentiveness made the snorkeling particularly enjoyable, guiding them to the best spots for seeing colorful fishes. Expect about two hours in this area, providing plenty of time to snorkel, relax, or even enjoy a quick lunch (if your package includes it).

The island itself has a laid-back vibe, with a lighthouse and several spots to grab a snack or drink. The fish sanctuary is a highlight, and many find that the underwater scenery surpasses expectations.

Pungtud (Virgin) Island

Next, the tour takes you to Pungtud Island, often called Virgin Island, a small crescent-shaped patch of sand and rocks. This stop is perfect for photos, swimming, or just soaking in the scenery. Because of its shallow waters and occasional submersion, it offers a sense of being in a secret paradise.

Many visitors appreciate the brief stop here as a peaceful break before the final part of the day. The island’s uninhabited nature makes it a quiet spot to connect with nature.

Isola di Francesco

The last cultural and spiritual stop is Isola di Francesco, accessible via a short ten-minute boat ride from Panglao. It’s home to a statue of St. Pio of Pietrelcina and a recently opened Natures Art Museum, which features items made solely by natural elements—no human alterations allowed.

The holy mass held on the 23rd of each month adds a spiritual dimension to this tranquil island. Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and the meaningful experience of connecting with nature and faith simultaneously.

Practical Aspects and Value

Transportation and Convenience

The tour includes complimentary round-trip transportation from your hotel or port, which removes the hassle of arranging logistics. The boat rides are generally smooth, and the guides, like Rose, are praised for their attention and knowledge.

Duration and Pacing

Clocking in at roughly 9 hours, this is a full day packed with activities. It’s designed to maximize exposure to Bohol’s natural beauty, but some may find the pace a bit brisk. Reviewers appreciated the well-organized itinerary and the timely transitions between stops, but those seeking more leisure time at each location might wish for longer stays.

Cost and Value

At $125 per person, the tour offers good value considering the multiple stops, inclusion of lunch (for some packages), and transportation. Compared to the cost of individual activities, this all-in-one experience simplifies planning and ensures you don’t miss out on key sights.

Food and Additional Costs

Lunch is included in selected packages, which is convenient. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, so if you want to toast the day’s adventures, bring some extra cash.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many guests like Alvin_D and Jiyon_O highlight the expertise of their guides and the spectacular wildlife sightings. For example, Alvin was especially pleased with the GoPro rental, which he felt was worth every peso for capturing these moments—something to consider if you want to preserve memories of your trip.

The dolphin sightings are notably described as “truly amazing,” with guides knowing precisely where to go, making the experience feel personalized. Attentive guides like Rose seem to elevate the overall experience, helping travelers make the most of each activity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This island hopping trip is perfect for nature lovers, snorkeling enthusiasts, and travelers eager to see dolphins in their natural habitat. It’s also suited for those who want a comprehensive day of exploring without the hassle of organizing multiple activities separately.

If you’re interested in a mix of wildlife, cultural stops, and stunning island scenery, this tour will meet your expectations. However, if you prefer a slower pace or more free time at each stop, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

The Sum Up

This Bohol island hopping tour offers a well-rounded experience that highlights the island’s marine biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and peaceful cultural sites. The dolphin sightings alone make it worth considering, especially for those who love wildlife encounters. The inclusion of snorkeling, island stops, and the spiritual retreat at Isola di Francesco ensures a variety of impressions in one day.

The guides’ local knowledge and attentiveness are frequently praised, which enhances the overall value. At a reasonable price point, this trip provides a good balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration, making it ideal for travelers seeking an active, engaging day in Bohol.

In short, if you’re after a day packed with memorable moments and stunning vistas, this tour is a solid choice—just be ready for a busy but rewarding journey through some of Bohol’s most captivating sights.

FAQ

How far in advance should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 43 days ahead, though it can be booked closer to the date if available. Booking early ensures better availability.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers complimentary hotel or port pickup and drop-off, depending on your location.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour is approximately 9 hours, making it a full-day adventure from morning to late afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
The package includes round-trip transportation, a local guide, bottled water, and lunch if you select the appropriate package. Some stops also have admission tickets included.

Are snorkeling and diving both available?
Yes, snorkeling is included in the itinerary, and diving is an optional activity for those interested in exploring the underwater world even more.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What should I bring?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, aqua shoes for rocky snorkeling areas, a waterproof camera or GoPro if you want photos, and cash for extra purchases.

What if I don’t want to go snorkeling?
You can relax on the beaches or enjoy the scenic views. The tour is flexible enough for you to spend more time at certain stops if you prefer.

This Bohol island hopping tour combines wildlife encounters, relaxation, and cultural insights into a memorable day. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting an authentic look at what Bohol’s waters and islands have to offer.