Island hopping trips on Boracay
Crocodile Island offers superb snorkelling
Among the most popular water activities on offer to tourists on Boracay, and certainly the best way to see as much of the surrounding area as possible, is to book an island-hopping tour. This way, visitors can enjoy sailing on the crystal clear waters while partaking in some fun sports such as snorkelling, or simply chilling out with a nice cool beer.
One of the most popular Boracay island-hopping options is the half-day trip, which is normally offered by the boatmen loitering around the beach area. This is certainly a good choice for those on a tighter budget and, while there are full day trips available, they both tend to visit many of the same places.
The itinerary of a half-day island tour is made up of Crocodile Island, Puka Beach and Crystal Cove. If staying in the popular White Beach area, it is possible to take a five-minute tricycle ride to the docking point in order to meet your boatman at the agreed time. This will be where your vessel will be waiting.
This memorable day on the pristine waters begins with a 15-minute mini-voyage to Crocodile Island. Tourists can enjoy the cool sea breeze as they marvel at the incredible scenery all around. Everyone will also be provided with a life vest as a safety measure.
Upon docking at Crocodile Island, there will be the option of swimming with tropical fish, exploring the wild surrounds or simply lazing around on the boat while topping up the tan. The island is one of Boracay’s hotspots for diving and snorkelling due to the clear conditions in the water. The boatman usually gives around 15 minutes to enjoy Crocodile Island before gathering the troops and setting sail for Crystal Cove. More on beaches.
Crystal Cove boasts awe-inspiring caves
It is another 15-minute boat trip to reach Crystal Cove. After washing up on the shores of this gorgeous little island, tourists will most likely spot, and want their photo taken next to the sign which welcomes them to this tranquil piece of paradise.
Those who want to get off the boat and explore the island will have to pay around Php200,000 (US$4) as an entrance fee, which includes use of all the island’s facilities. Tourists are also advised to bring their life vests with them just in case. More on day trips.
Crystal Cove boasts two intriguing caves to explore. It is a 10-minute trek to reach the first one and there is plenty of picturesque scenery to enjoy. At the cave you must put your life vest on and you are also advised to take any footwear off as climbing down barefooted is easier due to the slippery conditions.
As soon as you enter the cave, the first thing which can be heard is the loud sound of the waves crashing against the rocks outside. Perhaps the highlight of being in the cave is the chance to swim and snorkel in this eerie but breathtaking environment.
Next up is a slightly longer 15-minute trek to the second cave. It is certainly worth it, but be prepared to work off some calories as this vigorous uphill then downhill path is far from a piece of cake. However, once more there is some lovely scenery on view.
Upon finally reaching the entry point, you must pass through a water trail which will eventually reach a tunnel. Cave two is situated at the end of this tunnel, and here you can also enjoy swimming and snorkelling as well as take advantage of the perfect opportunity to take some holiday snaps.
Gorgeous views of Puka Beach
Tourists will take the same route back to the entry point, from which your guide will take everyone on a much shorter trail back to the shore. Prior to departing Crystal Cove, it is possible to buy a drink or take a few last photos of the island.
The final leg of the trip sees you glide over the water to Puka Beach. This beach is renowned for its puka shells which have been bleached white by the sun. In addition, the bay is very small and not visited so much by the majority of tourists on Boracay.
Unsurprisingly, the locals’ main livelihood is the puka shells, from which they make jewellery. Tourists can simply relax on the shingle, swim in the sea or haggle with the jewellery sellers over the memorabilia on display.
Next, the boatman will take everyone back to Boracay’s White Beach area, where you may wish to head to one of the small restaurants at the docking area or freshen up before enjoying the evening entertainment. More on nightlife.
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