Private Boracay Island Hopping with Lunch and Kawa Bath

Private Island Hopping from Boracay

Boracay island hopping is usually done on a bangka, the traditional outrigger boat with bamboo arms on both sides that keep it stable on the water. On a shared tour you follow a fixed timetable with strangers; on this private Boracay island hopping tour the boat, the crew and the guide are only for you, so you can stay longer at the spots you love and skip what does not interest you.

Boats leave from the island's shore according to the season: during the northeast monsoon, roughly November to April, the west side around White Beach is calmer, while from June to October boats often start from Bulabog Beach on the east side. Your guide chooses the most sheltered route of the day, and on the all-inclusive option we handle the transfer from your hotel to the boat.

Crystal Cove Island

Crystal Cove is a small island off Boracay's east coast, landscaped with paths, steps and viewing points that lead to two rocky coves and a sea cave where the water glows blue on sunny days. The island's cliffs and ledges give some of the best views across the strait to the green hills of Panay, and the coves are good for a short swim when the sea is calm.

Plan around 45 minutes to an hour to explore. The paths include steps and uneven rock, so wear water shoes or sandals with a good grip. The entrance to Crystal Cove is included on the default all-inclusive option; on the other option it is optional and paid locally. It is one of the stops that makes a private island hopping trip feel complete.

Snorkelling, Reefs and the Clear Kayak

The guide anchors the boat over a coral reef chosen for the day's conditions, often around the south-eastern coast where reefs near Crocodile Island shelter parrotfish, damselfish, angelfish and colourful corals. Masks, life jackets and safety equipment are provided, and the guide stays close to help first-time snorkellers. Please do not touch or stand on coral and do not feed the fish.

The all-inclusive option also includes a clear-bottom kayak ride, a fun way to look straight down at the sand and fish without getting in the water. It is popular with children and with anyone who prefers to stay dry. Together, snorkelling and kayaking usually take around an hour, and you can extend either if the water is beautiful that day.

The Kawa Bath: Boracay's Warm Cauldron Soak

A kawa is a huge cast-iron cauldron, historically used on Panay to boil sugarcane juice. Today these cauldrons are filled with warm water, leaves and flowers and heated gently by a wood fire below, creating a relaxing outdoor bath that has become one of the most photographed experiences in the region. The tradition is closely linked to the rural province of Antique, on the island of Panay.

On this tour, the kawa bath is a relaxing pause by the sea, ideal after snorkelling. The water is comfortably warm rather than hot, and the cauldron is big enough for two or three people at once, which makes it a favourite for couples and families. Bring a swimsuit and a towel, and take your time: it is the perfect spot for holiday photos.

Buffet Lunch, Best Time to Go and How to Get to Boracay

A buffet lunch is served during the tour, usually with grilled fish and seafood, rice, vegetables and tropical fruit, and bottled water is on board throughout. Halal food is limited on Boracay, but seafood and vegetarian dishes are easy to arrange: tell us your dietary needs when booking and we will pass them on.

The best time to visit Boracay for island hopping is the dry season, December to May. From June to November, typhoon season can bring rough seas and the coast guard sometimes suspends boat trips; we then help you change the date. How to get to Boracay: fly to Caticlan airport, then take a 5-minute ride and a 15-minute boat to Cagban port, or fly to Kalibo, about 1 h 30 to 2 h away. We can arrange private transfers.