Mactan Cebu Island Hopping With Lunch – Gilutungan, Caohagan, Nalusuan

Mactan Cebu’s island hopping tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking beauty of the region. From the vibrant coral reefs of Gilutungan to the serene sandy beaches of Caohagan, this 6-hour excursion promises an unforgettable adventure. With a delicious barbecue lunch at the Nalusuan Marine Sanctuary, travelers can savor the stunning views and relish in the picturesque setting. With friendly crew service and a range of activities, this tour caters to a variety of interests, leaving adventurers eager to uncover the wonders that await.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Lunch Experiences In Cebu.

Key Points

• The 6-hour tour includes private boat transportation, snorkeling gear, towels, and round-trip hotel transfers, with a barbecue lunch at Nalusuan Island.
• The tour highlights snorkeling adventures at Gilutungan Island, beach relaxation at Caohagan Island, and a visit to the Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary.
• Pickup locations are available in Cebu City, Mandaue, and Mactan, with a convenient meeting point at the Cordova RORO Port for boarding the private motorized boat.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.0 from 78 reviews, with praise for the friendly crew and lunch quality, but some concerns about equipment quality and tour guide engagement.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and may pose challenges for pregnant travelers, with potential issues regarding boarding the boat and the condition of the snorkeling gear.

Tour Overview

The Mactan Cebu Island Hopping with Lunch tour offers a comprehensive exploration of three picturesque islands – Gilutungan, Caohagan, and Nalusuan – complete with snorkeling adventures, relaxing beach time, and a delightful barbecue lunch.

Priced from $101, this 6-hour excursion includes private boat transportation, snorkeling gear, towels, and round-trip hotel transfers.

Guests can expect to encounter vibrant coral reefs, soft sandy beaches, and the Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary.

The tour has received an overall rating of 4.0 from 78 reviews, with praise for the friendly crew and delicious lunch.

However, some concerns have been raised about equipment quality and engagement from the tour guide.

Destination Highlights

This island hopping tour allows guests to explore three distinct islands – Gilutungan, Caohagan, and Nalusuan – each offering its own unique charm and natural wonders.

Gilutungan Island is known for its vibrant coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and spotting a diverse array of marine life.

Caohagan Island boasts a tranquil beach with soft white sand, providing an idyllic spot to relax and unwind.

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Nalusuan Island, home to a stunning marine sanctuary. Here, travelers can indulge in a delicious barbecue lunch while surrounded by the island’s serene beauty.

Each destination offers a distinct experience, making this tour a well-rounded exploration of Cebu’s captivating island landscape.

Activity Itinerary

The tour begins with a pickup from the guest’s hotel in Cebu City, Mandaue, or the Mactan area, followed by a transfer to the Cordova RORO Port, which serves as the meeting point.

From there, the private motorized boat sets off to the first destination, Hilutungan Island, where guests can explore the vibrant coral reefs through snorkeling.

Next, the boat takes visitors to Caohagan Island, offering a chance to relax on the soft sand beaches.

The final stop is Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary, where guests enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch while taking in the stunning views.

Throughout the tour, the crew provides snorkeling gear, towels, and access to shower facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Pickup and Meeting Point

Guests’ hotel pickups in Cebu City, Mandaue, or the Mactan area precede the transfer to the Cordova RORO Port, which serves as the meeting point for this island hopping tour. Once at the port, visitors can board the private motorized boat that will take them to the three beautiful islands on the itinerary.

Pickup Location	Pickup Time
Cebu City Hotels	7:30 AM
Mandaue City Hotels	8:00 AM
Mactan Area Hotels	8:30 AM
Meeting Point: Cordova RORO Port

The conveniently scheduled pickups and central meeting point ensure a seamless start to this exciting day of island exploration.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Guests have shared a mix of positive and negative feedback about their experiences on the Mactan Cebu Island Hopping tour.

Many praised the friendly crew, beautiful islands, and delicious lunch. Reviewers enjoyed the vibrant reefs during snorkeling and the relaxing time on the beaches.

However, some noted issues with the tour guide’s engagement and communication. A few reported concerns about cleanliness and food safety, as well as scams from local vendors. There were also complaints about equipment problems, like broken snorkeling gear.

The tour company appears to address these concerns and aims to improve based on customer feedback to provide a high-quality experience.

Accessibility and Safety

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

Safety concerns have been raised regarding the quality of boat access and equipment used during the island hopping activities. Travelers should be aware of the following:

• Boat access may be challenging, with guests needing to step over gaps or unstable surfaces to board and disembark.

• Snorkeling gear, such as masks and fins, has been reported to be in less-than-ideal condition, posing potential safety risks.

• The operator’s adherence to safety protocols and equipment maintenance has been a point of concern for some previous guests.

While the tour offers a scenic island experience, customers should carefully consider their physical abilities and comfort levels before booking this activity.

Booking and Flexibility

Travelers can reserve the island hopping tour now and pay later, with the ability to confirm their pickup location up to 24 hours prior to the experience. This booking flexibility allows travelers to plan their trip with ease, without the need to make upfront payments.

The tour operator also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts, providing customers with peace of mind and the freedom to adjust their plans if necessary.

With these convenient booking options, visitors can focus on anticipating the exciting activities and breathtaking scenery that await them on the Mactan Cebu island hopping adventure.

Additional Recommendations

For those seeking to capture the beauty of the islands on camera, management recommends inquiring about renting GoPro cameras, which can provide superior photography and videography compared to standard smartphone or point-and-shoot cameras.

These compact and rugged devices can withstand the elements, allowing guests to document their snorkeling adventures and stunning island landscapes with ease.

Some additional tips to enhance the experience include:

• Packing lightweight, quick-drying clothing and reef-safe sunscreen to prioritize comfort and environmental sustainability.

• Bringing a waterproof phone case or pouch to keep devices secure while navigating the islands.

• Staying hydrated and applying sun protection throughout the day to maintain energy and avoid discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling gear for the tour. The tour includes snorkeling equipment, but using your own may be more comfortable. Just be sure to check that it’s in good condition before the trip.

How Strict Is the Weight Limit for the Boat?

The weight limit for the boat is typically strict, as it’s necessary to ensure the safety and stability of the vessel. Guests are advised to inquire about the specific weight limit prior to booking to avoid any issues during the tour.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

Based on the information provided, there don’t appear to be any additional fees or taxes not included in the tour price. The price covers the private boat, lunch, snorkeling gear, and round-trip transfers as listed in the inclusions.

Can I Request Specific Dietary Requirements for the Lunch?

Yes, you can request specific dietary requirements for the lunch. The tour provider is usually accommodating of various dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or halal options, if informed in advance. Just let them know your preferences when booking.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, customers can request to extend the tour duration. The tour operator typically offers flexible options to accommodate guests’ preferences, subject to availability and any additional fees that may apply.

Recap

The Mactan Cebu island hopping tour offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and culinary delights.

With its diverse range of activities, from snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs to relaxing on pristine beaches, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure in paradise.

Whether you’re seeking stunning scenery, rich marine life, or a relaxing day in the sun, this tour delivers an exceptional experience that will leave a lasting impression.