Philippines Island Hopping West with Boat Expedition

Philippines Island Hopping West with Boat Expedition

21 Views
13 Days From

$2625

$2257

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Philippines Island Hopping West with Boat Expedition" tour. Begin your adventure in Manila and fly to the stunning island of Palawan, where breathtaking beaches and delicious seafood await. Explore the UNESCO-listed Subterranean River National Park and snorkel with sea turtles in Port Barton. Ride a classic Jeepney to discover El Nido's pristine beaches and waterfalls, including the famous Nacpan Beach. Experience a marine safari, visiting 15 islands and camping on white-sand beaches. Dive into the vibrant underwater world at the Coral Garden near Coron. Enjoy traditional Filipino meals, participate in local workshops, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of the Philippines. This tour promises a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Breathtaking beaches and seafood in Palawan, starting from Manila.

  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Subterranean River National Park.

  • Island hopping and snorkeling with sea turtles in Port Barton.

  • Ride a classic Jeepney to explore El Nido's beaches and waterfalls.

  • Visit the stunning Nacpan Beach and Bulalacao Waterfalls in El Nido.

  • Experience a marine safari with visits to 15 islands and camping on white-sand beaches.

  • Discover the underwater world of corals at the Coral Garden near Coron.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Manila to Puerto Princesa

Location: Manila, Puerto Princesa

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… ...more ...less

Day 2: Puerto Princesa to Port Barton via Underground River

Location: Puerto Princesa, Subterranean River National Park, Port Barton

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. 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: Lio Beach, Bulalacao Waterfalls, Nacpan Beach, Las Cabanas

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: Darocotan Island

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: Darocotan Island

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.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 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 by heading 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 afternoon 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 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

  • Included Flight

    Enjoy an included flight from Manila to Palawan, one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines.

  • Underground River Tour

    Cruise through the serene Subterranean River National Park into a kaleidoscope of pointy limestone caves.

  • Traditional Filipino Meal

    Experience a traditional meal made from locally-grown ingredients at Nanay Elena's House.

  • Local Workshop

    Participate in a local workshop in Port Barton to make your own rings and bracelets.

  • Island Hopping Day Trip

    Snorkel, swim, and dine on an island hopping day trip, visiting two tropical islands.

  • Jeepney Tour

    Hop onto a private Jeepney for a tour of the wonderful beaches and waterfalls in El Nido.

  • Island Special Stay

    Support local marine conservation and education while enjoying beach-side views.

  • Shipwreck Exploration

    Discover the history and secrets of WWII ships at a shipwreck site off the coast of our island home.

  • Kamayan Experience

    Join a traditional Kamayan or boodle fight, a communal feast served on long banana leaves.

  • Private Boat Adventures

    Explore close to 15 islands on a private boat, including camping on white-sand beaches.

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What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional activities, and meals not specified are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as scuba diving and tricycle rides are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel includes a flight from Manila to Palawan, private boat expeditions for island hopping, and local transport like the classic Jeepney for exploring El Nido.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at the Palawan Uno Hotel, Ferellee Beachfront Inn, Coral Cliff, and Vienna Hotel, with options for rustic beach huts and island beach camps for a unique experience.

Dining Summary

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

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: 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.

FAQs

  • Bangkok: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of transportation is included in the tour?

    The tour includes a flight from Manila to Palawan, private boat expeditions for island hopping, and local transport like the classic Jeepney for exploring El Nido.

  • What types of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    You will stay in comfort at the Palawan Uno Hotel, Ferellee Beachfront Inn, Coral Cliff, and Vienna Hotel, with options for rustic beach huts and island beach camps for a unique experience.

  • What activities are included in the island hopping experience?

    The island hopping experience includes snorkeling, swimming with sea turtles, dining on a locally-cooked meal, and visiting two tropical islands. You will also have the opportunity to explore vibrant reefs and relax on a starfish sandbar.

  • What is the Kamayan experience mentioned in the tour?

    The Kamayan experience, also known as a boodle fight, is a traditional communal feast where delicious local food is served on long banana leaves and eaten with your hands.

  • What can I expect from the marine safari during the tour?

    During the marine safari, you will visit close to 15 islands on a private boat, camp on white-sand beaches, and watch the sunset from tranquil spots. The itinerary includes snorkeling at reefs, exploring corals, and enjoying campfires with dinner and music.

  • Are there any unique cultural experiences included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a visit to a local workshop in Port Barton where you can make your own rings and bracelets, and a traditional Filipino meal at Nanay Elena's House made from locally-grown ingredients.

  • What is the significance of the Subterranean River National Park visit?

    The visit to the Subterranean River National Park allows you to cruise through a serene aquamarine river into one of the most complex cave systems in the world, surrounded by intricate limestone formations. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • 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!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
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 ...more ...less

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Saturday - Thursday

Jan 03, 2026 - Jan 15, 2026
$2625 (USD)

Saturday - Thursday

Jan 17, 2026 - Jan 29, 2026
$2625 $2257 (USD)

Operator discount: -$368 (USD)

Saturday - Thursday

Jan 24, 2026 - Feb 05, 2026
$2625 $2257 (USD)

Operator discount: -$368 (USD)

Saturday - Thursday

Jan 31, 2026 - Feb 12, 2026
$2625 $2257 (USD)

Operator discount: -$368 (USD)

Prices last published on 17-Mar-2025

Book with Confidence

  • 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 200 USD 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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Philippines Island Hopping West with Boat Expedition

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

Visiting: Manila, Puerto Princesa, Subterranean River National Park, Port Barton, El Nido, Lio Beach, Bulalacao Waterfalls, Nacpan Beach, Las Cabanas, Darocotan Island, Coron ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

PIPX25

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Camping, Sailing

Activities:

Snorkeling

From: $2625 $2257 (USD) Operator discount: -$368 -14%

NB: Prices correct on 17-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

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