The Philippines have some of the world’s most stunning crystal clear beaches combined with breathtaking limestones that make for a unique scenery. The best place to explore these kinds of islands is in the small town El Nido, situated in the north of Palawan. El Nido is surrounded by numerous of these gems, so island hopping is everyone’s favorite activity, in order to discover the magnificent scenery.
Our island hopping experience in the Philippines started at 9 a.m. at the Skipper Charters base in Corong Corong, a quick ten minute tricycle ride from El Nido town. Skipper Charters is the only tour company in El Nido that organizes tours by speedboat. We participated in the open tour, however there are also private tours available.
The best thing is that Skipper Charters organizes everything, so that you don’t need to take care of anything. They provide snorkeling equipment, life vests, towels and water and soft drinks. Furthermore, you can store your bag safely inside a box on the speedboat, so that it won’t get wet and you don’t have to carry it around.
Lunch was being served and freshly made at a gorgeous beach. We had a selection of pork, chicken, shrimps and fish, salads and fresh fruits. Everything was very tasty and I’m still craving the fish with the homemade sauce. So good! The island we stayed at during lunch included a beautiful beach that we had all to ourselves and we were surprised by several cute puppies. Dreams do come true!
Our route that day included Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Cadlao Lagoon (one of my favorite places in El Nido!), Snake Island and some other places. We ended our tour at 7 Commandos Beach with a cocktail and were back in Corong Corong at 5 pm. A day full of beautiful impressions, lots of fun and relaxing boat rides.
In addition to our speedboat tour, my boyfriend and I also decided to rent a kayak for the day to explore nearby beaches. We actually ended up renting a kayak for three days at Skipper Charters, because we enjoyed it so much. From Corong Corong, you can easily (and with no prior experience) reach Papaya beach (one of my favorites!), 7 Commandos beach, Las Cabanas and Pinagbuyutan. We were also told that you can paddle to Cadlao Lagoon, but we haven’t tried that ourselves.
An island hopping tour with Skipper Charters does not only give you comfort while exploring but also the luxury to see uncrowded places. In addition, you are able to visit more places and there are less people on the boat. The crew was at all times attentive, very friendly and always helpful! Skipper Charters would be my first choice, when booking a tour to discover the beauty of Palawan!
Thank you Skipper Charters for welcoming us on board! The opinions expressed on this blog and the photos are as always my own.
Island hopping is the best kind of activity to do when you’re in El Nido, Palawan. An abundance of natural beauty fills every corner that Mobys ‘Porcelain’ will just play on repeat in your head as you look out from your boat, explore the underwater world, wriggle your toes on the white sand and explore hidden caves.
I couldn’t have said it better!