PRIVATE El Nido Tour D Island Hopping

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to Palawan and are drawn to the picture-perfect beaches and crystal-clear waters of El Nido, the Private El Nido Tour D Island Hopping might sound like a promising way to explore some of the area’s highlights. This tour offers a full day of cruising, beach lounging, and panoramic views, promising a personalized experience with a dedicated guide—at least in theory.

One aspect we particularly like about this tour is its inclusion of key attractions like Ipil Beach and Paradise Beach, paired with the convenience of an all-inclusive package that covers boat fees, entrance costs, and a hearty lunch. However, it’s worth noting that there have been some less-than-stellar reviews, especially concerning logistics and customer service, which could impact your experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, guided day on the water with a smaller group setting — perfect if you value comfort over crowds and are okay with the possibility of some bumps along the way. Now, let’s explore what you can really expect from this tour, beyond the glossy brochure promises.

Key Points

• Includes popular beaches like Paradise Beach and Ipil Beach, with entrance fees covered.
• Guided experience with a licensed tour guide, enhancing safety and local insights.
• All-in-one price that covers boat fees, environmental charges, and lunch.
• Potential issues with customer service, as some reviews mention poor communication and missed pickups.
• Group size limited to around 8-10 travelers, promoting a more intimate atmosphere.
• Duration of about 7-8 hours makes it a full but manageable day trip.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Timing

The adventure kicks off at El Nido Port at 9:00 am, with the experience ending back at the same spot. Starting on time is crucial, especially if you’re coordinating with other plans later in the day. The tour lasts roughly 7 to 8 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Stop 1: Ipil Beach

Our first stop, Ipil Beach, is a quiet stretch of sand ideal for a quick dip or just unwinding in the sun. The tour includes 30 minutes here, and the admission fee is covered. Expect calm waters and soft sand—great for a brief break before heading to the next highlight.

Stop 2: Paradise Beach

The highlight for many travelers is Paradise Beach, where you’ll spend about an hour. The beach is often praised for its stunning scenery, and since the admission fee is included, you won’t need to worry about extra costs. This is where you’ll get a taste of the famous Palawan beaches, with clear waters perfect for swimming or just reclining on the sand.

Additional Considerations

While these stops are beautiful, some travelers have expressed disappointment about the overall experience. One reviewer mentioned that “no one ever picked me up at my pick up point and then I was called a liar”, highlighting issues with customer service and communication. This points to the importance of confirming pickup details beforehand and keeping expectations flexible.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

• Licensed Tour Guide: Knowledgeable guides can make or break your experience, offering insights into local spots and safety tips.
• Boat Fees and Licensed Boat: Ensures your transportation is official and safe.
• Life Vests and First Aid Kit: Basic safety gear, which is comforting, especially if you’re new to island hopping.
• Lunch: A key perk—expect a substantial meal to fuel your day of exploring.
• Environmental and Entrance Fees: Covering these upfront means fewer surprises along the way.

Not Included

• Snorkeling Equipment: You’ll need to bring or rent your own if you want to explore underwater.
• Kayak: Not available on this tour, so if kayaking is your thing, other tours might suit you better.
• Tricycle: Transportation to or from the meeting point isn’t included, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from El Nido Port at 9:00 am, located on Serena Street, a central spot in town. The activity ends back at the same location, making it convenient for those staying nearby. It’s important to arrive a little early to ensure a smooth start, especially given the past issues with pickup arrangements noted in reviews.

Additional Info and Considerations

• Confirmation is immediate upon booking, so you can plan ahead.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 10 participants, guaranteeing a more personal experience.
• The tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions might lead to cancellations, with full refunds or rescheduling options.
• The price of $1,065 per group (up to 8 people) might seem steep, but it includes many costs—boat fees, entrance fees, lunch—potentially offering good value if you’re traveling with a group.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One review highlighted a “horrible service and rude operator,” with the reviewer feeling disappointed due to poor communication and missed pickups. This underscores the importance of confirming arrangements beforehand or choosing a reputable operator. Conversely, many travelers appreciate the stunning views and the knowledgeable guides who make the journey more enjoyable and informative.

What to Expect on the Water

When you’re on the boat, you’ll likely feel a sense of tranquility, with the warm sun overhead and the gentle sway of the vessel. The included life vest and safety gear give peace of mind, especially if you plan to swim or snorkel. The included lunch is usually served on the boat or a designated beach spot, providing a much-needed break from swimming and sunbathing.

The Experience of the Beaches

Ipil Beach offers a quiet, less crowded spot perfect for an undisturbed swim or lounging, while Paradise Beach is more picturesque—ideal for photos and splashing in the clear waters. Some travelers mention that the beaches are “beautiful but crowded,” so arriving early can help secure a more peaceful experience.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

This Private El Nido Tour D offers an authentic chance to see some of Palawan’s celebrated beaches with the comfort of a guided, all-inclusive day. The inclusion of entrance and environmental fees simplifies budgeting, and the small group size enhances intimacy. However, the experience hinges heavily on the professionalism of the tour operator, and past reviews suggest that some travelers encountered challenges with punctuality and customer service.

For those who prioritize stunning scenery combined with the convenience of guided logistics, and who are prepared to manage expectations, this tour can be quite rewarding. It’s especially suitable for groups of friends or families seeking a relaxed, manageable day without the hassle of planning individual transport or meal arrangements.

If you’re a solo traveler or a couple, check whether the per-group price fits your budget—sometimes other tours or shared options could be more economical. Also, if snorkeling or kayaking are priorities, look for other packages that include those features.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but always consider the physical comfort of children or elderly family members, especially since the day involves boat travel and beach stops.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, snorkeling gear if you have it, waterproof camera, and a towel. Remember to wear comfortable clothes suitable for swimming and sunbathing.

How long are the stops at each beach?
Ipil Beach gets about 30 minutes, and Paradise Beach has approximately 1 hour—perfect for swimming, relaxing, or taking photos.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch is provided, which is a great perk on a day that involves a lot of outdoor activity.

What 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.

Can I snorkel during this tour?
Snorkeling equipment is not included, but you can bring your own or rent elsewhere. The tour stops are good for a quick swim and snorkel if you’re prepared.

How many people are usually in the group?
The maximum is around 10 travelers, making it more intimate than large group tours.

What if I miss my pickup?
Reviews indicate some past issues with pickup arrangements, so confirm your details in advance and be punctual to avoid missing out.

The Sum Up

The PRIVATE El Nido Tour D Island Hopping offers a well-rounded taste of Palawan’s famed beaches, with the comforts of a guided, all-inclusive experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized day that covers key sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. While there are some concerns about customer service, the stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides can make this a worthwhile adventure if you manage expectations.

This tour shines when it comes to views and convenience, making it a good choice for those new to island hopping or travelers who prefer a more curated experience. Just remember to confirm your pickup details and be prepared for the possibility of weather-related adjustments. Overall, it’s a solid option for groups seeking a hassle-free, scenic day with a taste of Palawan’s renowned beaches.

###