Bohol: Turtle Sanctuary Snorkeling and Boat Tour with Lunch
Active
5h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Hotel pick-up is inclusive within Panglao Muncipality, please respond to email to coordinate. We need guest phone number. (Dauis and Tagbilaran not included).
Meet new friends in this shared half-day tour to Balicasag Island.
Boat Boarding is at Alona or Momo. Enjoy a ride in our bigger boat to see dolphins swim along the boat! Refreshments will be served onboard while traveling about 11 kilometers to the dolphin sighting area. (Dolphins are seasonal and sightings are not guaranteed)
After dolphin watching, guests will travel to Balicasag Island to transfer to a small paddleboat with a local tour guide. Guests will spend 30 minutes per snorkel area, which are the big colorful fish area and the serene majestic turtle area. Lifevests and snorkel/masks are provided.
Virgin Island Sandbar is closed due to government ban. Alternate activity is extra snorkeling (depending on wind conditions - Gak-ang, or Doljo)
Freshly grilled lunch served on boat
Return to meeting point
Available options
Bohol: Turtle Sanctuary Snorkeling and Boat Tour with Lunch
Pickup included
What's included
environmental and entrance fees to Balicasag Island
lifevest, snorkel, mask
simple and fresh meal, cooked while you swim. pork, chicken, shrimp, rice, fruit. Vegetarians MUST inform one day prior for preparation
balicasag paddleboat tour to turtle sanctuary
Restroom on board
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Our boatman guide will meet guests at Alona Beach, to ride a boat to see Dolphins. Actual Location and Sightings are not guaranteed as Dolphin Pod can transfer feeding areas seasonally. This will be a few kilometers from Balicasag Island.
2
Guests will disembark and transfer to a tiny paddleboat with a guide in groups of 2-4 per boat. The paddleboat guide is a local islander, who will take guests to two areas. 30 minutes in the fish area, and 30 minutes in the turtle sanctuary. The paddleboat guide is not our own boatman, due to government policy. Balicasag Island is a popular tourist spot. All tourists must have a guide before snorkeling, and there may be a waiting time for guide availability.
3
extra snorkeling will be done at Gak-ang, Doljo, or Napaling, depending on wind conditions
Lunch will be prepared while guests are snorkeling
What's not included
underwater camera
snorkeling fins
Beach shoes
towel
Available languages
Guide guide
FIL
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.2
6 reviews
5★
4
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for travelers with seasickness
Important notes
Please show your booking to the boatman guide
About Tagbilaran City
Tagbilaran City is the capital of Bohol, a province in the Philippines known for its natural beauty and rich history. It serves as the gateway to the famous Chocolate Hills and the unique tarsier species, making it a perfect blend of urban convenience and tropical adventure.
Top Attractions
Blood Compact Shrine
This shrine commemorates the historic Blood Compact between Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Bohol's chieftains. It offers a glimpse into the early interactions between the Spanish and native Filipinos.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Bohol Wisdom Arts and Culture Café
This café offers a unique blend of local art, culture, and cuisine. It's a great place to experience Boholano hospitality and creativity.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Moderate (PHP 200-500 per person)
Tagbilaran City Plaza
This central plaza is a hub of local activity and a great place to relax and people-watch. It's surrounded by historic buildings and offers a glimpse into the city's past.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Bohol Tropical Hideaway
This eco-resort offers a peaceful retreat with lush gardens, a river, and a variety of wildlife. It's perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape.
Nature
Half-day or full-day
Moderate to Expensive (PHP 500-1,500 per person)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pechay with Oysters
A dish made with pechay (Chinese cabbage) and fresh oysters, cooked in a savory sauce. It's a popular Boholano dish that showcases the region's love for seafood.
Main Course
Contains seafood
Ginabot
A traditional Boholano dish made with taro leaves, coconut milk, and sometimes shrimp or pork. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's unique to the region.
Main Course
Can be vegetarian if made without meat
Sarsina
A sweet and chewy dessert made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and sugar. It's a popular treat in Bohol and is often enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Ziplining
Diving and snorkeling
Island hopping
Beach bumming
Spa and wellness
River cruises
Café hopping
Best Time to Visit
December to May
This is the dry season, offering sunny and warm weather perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
25-32°C
77-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Filipino, English
- Widely spoken: Cebuano, Boholano
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Philippine Peso (PHP)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Tagbilaran is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it's important to take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Tagbilaran Airport • 2.4 km (1.5 miles) from city center
By bus
Tagbilaran Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Jeepneys are the most common and affordable mode of public transport in Tagbilaran. They follow fixed routes and are easy to spot.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Poblacion
Dagohoy
Bilaran
Day trips
Chocolate Hills
55 km (34 miles) from Tagbilaran • Full day
The Chocolate Hills are a famous geological formation consisting of over 1,200 symmetrical hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling chocolate mounds. They are a must-see attraction in Bohol.
Loboc River
30 km (19 miles) from Tagbilaran • Half day or full day
The Loboc River is a scenic river that offers a variety of activities, including river cruises, zip-lining, and visiting the famous Loboc Children's Choir.
Panglao Island
20 km (12 miles) from Tagbilaran • Full day
Panglao Island is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and excellent diving spots. It's a popular destination for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Bohol.
Festivals
Sandugo Festival • July
Panaad sa Bohol • June
Pro tips
- Visit the Blood Compact Shrine early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Try the local coffee at Bohol Wisdom Arts and Culture Café for a unique and authentic experience.
- Book a guided tour for the Chocolate Hills to learn more about their history and significance.
- Visit the Carbon Market for fresh produce, seafood, and local crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and flavors.
- Take a river cruise on the Loboc River for a relaxing and scenic experience. The cruise includes a buffet lunch with local dishes.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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