Boracay Sunset Cruise

This Boracay Sunset Cruise offers a delightful way to wind down after a day of exploring the island’s vibrant beaches. For just around $16, you get approximately two hours of water-based fun—snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxing in water tubes—while enjoying stunning views of the famous White Beach as the sun dips below the horizon. With attentive guides, live music, and plenty of opportunities for fun, it’s a popular activity that balances adventure with relaxation.

One of the things we love most about this tour is how inclusive it feels. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or simply want to lounge in the water, there’s something for all. The friendly guides are on hand to help newcomers, making it ideal for beginners. The sunset views over Boracay are truly spectacular and make for a memorable evening. However, a potential consideration is the timing—starting at 3:30 pm means you’ll want to plan around the weather, as the experience is weather-dependent and can be canceled in poor conditions.

This experience is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, value-packed activity that combines scenic beauty with a bit of water fun. Families, couples, and solo travelers all find it appealing, especially those who enjoy a laid-back vibe with friendly guides and easygoing activities.

Key Points

• Stunning Sunset Views: The main highlight is watching Boracay’s White Beach glow as the sun sets over the ocean.
• Variety of Water Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxing in water tubes provide options for different comfort levels.
• Helpful Guides: Guides are friendly and assist with snorkeling and SUP, making it beginner-friendly.
• Affordable Price: At just over $16, this tour offers excellent value, including gear, water, and facility fees.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: The cruise has a calm, laid-back vibe, perfect for unwinding.
• Flexible Options: You can enjoy live music and optional activities, making it more than just a boat ride.

An In-Depth Look at the Boracay Sunset Cruise

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting at Astoria Boracay Boat Station 1, the tour begins in the mid-afternoon, with a start time around 3:30 pm. This timing is perfect for catching the sunset, which is the main event. As you board the boat, you’ll notice a lively but relaxed atmosphere—many guests are there to unwind and enjoy the water.

The cruise takes you along White Beach, offering views from the water that are often missed when just lounging on the sand. This perspective gives you a fresh appreciation for Boracay’s beauty, from the stretch of powdery white sand to the emerald waters.

Once underway, the guides introduce the different activities available. The crew is known for being accommodating and friendly, with some reviews mentioning staff like John and Arnie, who are particularly praised for their helpfulness. They will assist with snorkeling and paddleboarding—key activities that allow you to explore the vibrant underwater world and get your balance on a SUP.

Snorkeling at Balinghai Wall

The highlight for many is snorkeling at Balinghai Wall, a twin reef system where the marine life is surprisingly colorful and diverse. Reviewers mention the guides being very welcoming and helpful, especially with beginners. You’ll get snorkeling gear included in your package, and the guides will help you safely explore the reef. Some have noted how much their kids enjoyed the experience, with one saying the kids “enjoyed paddleboarding, snorkeling, and swimming so much.”

Water Activities and Leisure Time

After snorkeling, you can switch to stand-up paddleboarding or simply relax in the provided water tubes. The guides are always nearby to lend a hand or give tips, making it good for those new to these activities. Many reviewers have appreciated the option to relax—”chilling out in the water tubes” or taking a swim—adding a carefree element to the cruise.

Sunset and Music

As the sun begins to dip, the boat slows down to let everyone soak in the changing sky. Many describe this as a “magical” moment, with the sky turning shades of pink and orange. The onboard live music—often acoustic or pop—adds a soothing soundtrack to this sunset spectacle. One reviewer mentioned a guitarist singing love songs, which really enhanced the romantic or peaceful vibe.

Additional Perks

Guests are often surprised by the welcoming atmosphere and extra touches like the option to bring snacks and drinks, or enjoy the live music. Some reviews highlight how the crew helps with photos, making sure families and couples capture the moment. Water bottles and towels are not included but are recommended for comfort, especially after water activities.

The Value and Overall Experience

At just $16.42 per person, the cruise is considered extremely good value. It includes snorkeling masks, water tubes, paddleboards, and facility fees—additional costs for these would be hard to match elsewhere. The price point makes it accessible for most travelers, especially considering the variety of activities and the stunning sunset views.

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention some downsides—like the loud volume of music or the possibility of the trip being too short if you want to linger after sunset. One reviewer expressed dissatisfaction when they found out the cruise was on a regular boat and not a yacht, and felt the experience fell short of expectations. This emphasizes the importance of reading the description carefully and managing expectations, especially regarding the type of vessel.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise appeals to a broad range of travelers. Families with kids will love the safe, inclusive environment and gentle water activities. Couples looking for a romantic sunset experience will find the live music and scenic views enchanting. Solo travelers can enjoy the relaxed pace and friendly guides, while groups of friends will appreciate the social, laid-back atmosphere.

It’s especially great if you want a low-stress activity that showcases Boracay’s natural beauty without requiring much effort or prior experience. The tour’s flexible nature also makes it suitable for those with varying interests, whether you want to snorkel, paddle, or just sit back and enjoy the scenery.

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended—most travelers book about 3 weeks ahead.
• The activity lasts around 2 hours, starting at 3:30 pm.
• The meeting point is at Astoria Boracay Boat Station 1, which is close to public transportation.
• The tour is friendly to most travelers, with a maximum group size of 100 people.
• Included: snorkeling masks, water tubes, paddleboards, and facility fees.
• Not included: snacks, alcoholic beverages, bottled water (though water is available on the boat).
• Weather considerations: the tour is weather-dependent. Poor weather can lead to cancellations, but a full refund or rescheduling is offered.
• What to bring: towel, water shoes, sunscreen, and water.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Many travelers emphasize how friendly and helpful the guides are, often mentioning staff like John and Arnie who go out of their way to assist, making even beginners feel comfortable. The scenic sunset is consistently praised as a “magical” experience, with some saying it’s the perfect way to end a trip to Boracay.

Reviewers also love the diversity of activities—from snorkeling at the reef to paddleboarding—and appreciate the value for money. The live music adds a special touch, turning an ordinary boat ride into a memorable experience. Families highlight how kids enjoy snorkeling and swimming, while couples appreciate the romantic setting.

On the flip side, some guests have expressed disappointment when the experience did not meet expectations—such as the boat being a standard vessel instead of a yacht, or the loud volume of music. These points underline the importance of checking what’s included and managing expectations, especially if you’re looking for a more upscale experience.

The Sum Up

The Boracay Sunset Cruise offers a fantastic way to enjoy the island’s beauty without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for those who want a blend of relaxation, water fun, and stunning scenery. The inclusion of helpful guides, diverse activities, and a peaceful sunset makes it a worthwhile addition to your Boracay itinerary.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, this cruise provides a laid-back yet engaging experience. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking great value, friendly service, and memorable views. Just remember to dress comfortably, bring water shoes, and be ready for a peaceful sunset adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 3:30 pm, making it ideal for catching the sunset.

Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes, snorkeling masks are provided as part of the package.

Can I bring my own drinks?
While bottled water is not included, you can bring your own drinks and snacks onboard.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention kids enjoying the snorkeling, paddleboarding, and water tubes. It’s suitable for most ages.

What should I bring with me?
A towel, water shoes, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone for photos.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the cruise?
Approximately 2 hours, starting in the mid-afternoon and ending back at the meeting point.

How many people usually join?
The tour can host up to 100 travelers, with most trips being comfortably sized to foster a relaxed vibe.

Is the boat a yacht?
Most reviews clarify that it’s a regular watercraft—not a yacht—so manage expectations accordingly.

The Boracay Sunset Cruise strikes a wonderful balance between affordability, scenic beauty, and fun activities. It’s a relaxed, friendly way to soak up Boracay’s famous sunset, making it a memorable part of your island adventure.