Big Lagoon gets most of the attention, for good reason. This private boat tour is the easy way to see it early, at your pace, without getting stuck in a long crowd shuffle. I also love how the day is flexible, so you can lean more swim-and-snorkel or more slow sightseeing. One thing to consider: you’ll pay a few on-top fees and optional rentals once you’re there.

You meet at Marber’s Restobar right on Calle Hama Beachfront, then head out on a licensed boat with a licensed captain and an English-speaking local guide. The itinerary stacks the big highlights with calmer beach time, and the picnic lunch keeps things simple and satisfying. My only caution is stamina: it’s not suitable for everyone, and you’ll be moving around on and off the boat.

Key Points Worth Knowing Before You Go

• Private group means you set the tempo, not the tour bus schedule.
• Reverse the usual route so Big Lagoon and other stops happen before peak crowds.
• Big Lagoon kayaking is included in the stop time, but the kayak rental has an extra fee.
• Mask, snorkel, and life jacket are included, so you just bring the basics and go.
• Picnic lunch + water are part of the package, which helps you stay carefree all day.

Private Boat in El Nido: What Your Day Feels Like

This is a classic El Nido day, but with a quieter rhythm. Instead of sharing space with a pile of strangers, you get a private group and a guide who can actually adjust the plan while you’re on the water. If you want more time taking photos at the Big Lagoon viewpoint moments, you can usually ask for it. If you’d rather spend more energy swimming and snorkeling, the day can shift that way too.

I like that the tour is designed around calm water. Starting early gives you better light for photos and a smoother experience in the lagoons. The reverse-route idea matters more than it sounds: you hit the popular spots when they’re still behaving, and the day feels less like a line you’re trying to race through.

The tour is listed as 6 hours, so it’s long enough to feel like you left the mainland chores behind. It’s also short enough that you can still be hungry for dinner afterward, not just cooked from sun and salt.

Meeting at Marber’s Resto Bar: Quick Logistics That Save Time

You start and end at the same place: Marber’s Restobar at Calle Hama Beachfront. The guidance here is practical. Go inside and look for Annabelle or any Alexzus staff, and you’ll get pointed the right way.

Two useful notes for your planning:

• There’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll want to be at the meeting point on time.
• The tour includes skipping the ticket line, which is one less waiting chore before your boat day begins.

Bring the basics listed by the tour: hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. I also recommend extra sunscreen because lagoon days have a way of turning “light sun” into “why is my nose hurting” by midday.

Big Lagoon and Kayaking: The Main Act Without the Crowd Chaos

Big Lagoon is the reason most people book El Nido, and this tour builds the day around it. You’ll get a photo stop, a guided visit, and kayaking time (listed as 1 hour in the lagoon segment). The water is known for looking crystal clear against towering limestone cliffs, and the whole scene makes it feel almost cinematic.

Here’s the practical part: the kayaking activity is included in the scheduled time, but kayak rental is an extra cost. The fee is listed as Php 300 for 2-seaters or Php 350 for 3-seaters. If you don’t want to paddle, you can still enjoy the lagoon from the boat and spend more energy on photos and views instead.

Either way, go in with a simple mindset:

• Expect calm water at the start of the day.
• Keep your camera ready for quick moments, because the cliffs and reflections can change fast with wind.
• Bring water shoes if you have them, especially if the launch/landing area feels slippery. Water-shoe rental is available for Php 100 per pair.

One more thing I’d watch: the lagoon has entry-related charges. The Lagoon Users Fee is Php 200 per person (one time access only). Plan for it so it doesn’t feel like a surprise mid-day.

Secret Lagoon and Shimizu Island Lunch Reset Your Pace

After Big Lagoon, you’ll head to Secret Lagoon in El Nido for another guided visit and photo time, listed as 1 hour at this stop. This is the part of the itinerary that helps you avoid the feeling of repeating the same photo angle all day. It also gives you another stretch of sheltered water where you can slow down.

Then comes Shimizu Island, and I like how the tour treats it as a break, not just another “move fast” stop. You’ll get break time and lunch here, with 1 hour allotted. Lunch is included as a picnic lunch, and it’s one of the parts that tends to land well when you’re out for a full half-day on the water.

From a value standpoint, this is important. Without lunch included, boat days can start to feel expensive once you add meals at island pricing. With the picnic lunch and drinking water included, you can focus on the views and the swim breaks instead of searching for food every few hours.

Snorkeling at a Secret Stop and Seven Commandos Beach Swim Time

The tour includes a snorkeling stop at a secret location, with 1 hour listed for snorkeling. Mask and snorkel are included, so you’re not stuck renting gear just to try it. A life jacket is included too, which makes getting comfortable in the water simpler.

Next up is Seven Commandos Beach, another highlight that’s worth the build-up. You’ll get a photo stop and then time for swimming and snorkeling, also listed as 1 hour. If you like beaches where you can actually hang out for a while, this is your moment.

Two practical tips:

• If your feet are sensitive, water shoes rental is Php 100 per pair. Even if you think you’ll skip rentals, it can be worth it once you see the ground.
• Snorkeling time moves fast when you’re enjoying it. If you want photos, do a quick scan first, then commit to the swim so you don’t feel rushed.

Also follow the basic rules: no littering, no feeding animals, and no touching plants. Lagoon and beach areas can be fragile, and you’ll enjoy the day more when you’re not constantly watching for rules.

Price and Value: What $110 Really Covers (and What You’ll Pay On Top)

At $110 per person, this private boat tour includes the stuff that usually adds up fast on island trips: a licensed tourist boat, licensed captain, local guide (English), mask and snorkel, life jacket, picnic lunch, and drinking water.

But the extras are real, and you should budget for them. Here’s what’s listed as not included:

• Kayak rental on Big Lagoon: Php 300 for 2-seaters or Php 350 for 3-seaters
• Environmental fee: Php 400 per person, valid for 5 days only
• Lagoon users fee: Php 200 per person (one time access only)
• Water shoes rental: Php 100 per pair
• Hotel pickup/drop-off (not included)

So is it good value? In my opinion, yes, if you want the private pacing and the main lagoons without the stress of coordinating with larger group schedules. You’re paying for comfort and time efficiency as much as the scenery. If you’re the type who will actually use kayaking and snorkeling, the extra fees tend to feel more justified.

If you’re traveling super light and not planning to paddle, you can still enjoy the lagoons from the boat. That said, you should still factor in the environmental and lagoon-user fees because those aren’t optional in the way a rental is.

Who This Private Boat Tour Is For (and Who Should Skip It)

This tour is a smart fit for:

• People who want Big Lagoon early, before crowds build.
• Anyone booking a private day to keep control of pacing.
• Swimmers and snorkelers who want included mask and snorkel time at multiple beach stops.
• Photographers who care about reflections, limestone cliffs, and calmer morning water.

It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or people with heart problems. That’s worth taking seriously because you’re on a boat and moving between stops, plus you’ll be in and around the water areas for swimming and snorkeling.

If you hate rushing, good news: the itinerary has breathing room. You’ll have guided visits, photo moments, lunch time, and multiple swim/snorkel windows. The guide can tailor the day to your preferences, so you’re not locked into a rigid checklist.

Quick Tips to Make Your Day Smoother

These are small things, but they matter on a boat day:

• Wear sunscreen before you leave the dock. You’ll still get sun through reflections.
• Pack a towel that you don’t mind getting sandy.
• Bring snacks, since the day can run long enough that you’ll appreciate extra fuel.
• If you want to start late or early, message the operator to adjust your timing. The tour notes that the itinerary can reverse typical route based on your request.

Also keep in mind the rules: no alcohol or drugs, no smoking, and don’t litter. It’s not just about rules on paper. A clean, calm boat day makes the whole experience feel better.

Should You Book This Private Boat Tour to Big Lagoon and Beaches?

If you want the best mix of iconic scenery and quieter pacing, this is a strong yes. I’d book it if you’re excited about Big Lagoon and want snorkeling and beach time without feeling like you’re constantly sharing space or waiting your turn.

I’d think twice if you’re trying to keep costs extremely tight or you don’t plan to use snorkeling and kayaking. The base price is reasonable, but the environmental and lagoon-user fees plus optional rentals (like kayak and water shoes) add up.

If your priority is comfort, a guide who can adapt the plan, and an early start that helps you dodge the busiest moments, you’ll likely have a very satisfying day on the water.

FAQ

How long is the private boat tour?

The duration is listed as 6 hours.

Where do I meet for the tour?

You meet at Marber’s Restobar located at Calle Hama Beachfront. Look for Annabelle or any Alexzus staff inside.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Is the group private?

Yes, it’s a private group.

What snorkeling gear is included?

Mask and snorkel are included, along with a life jacket.

Is kayak use included at Big Lagoon?

Kayak time is part of the Big Lagoon stop, but kayak rental has an extra fee (Php 300 for 2 seaters or Php 350 for 3 seaters).

Are there extra fees for the lagoons and environment?

Yes. The environmental fee is Php 400 per person valid for 5 days only, and the lagoon users fee is Php 200 per person (one time access only).

How much swimming and snorkeling time do I get?

The itinerary includes snorkeling at a secret stop (1 hour) and swimming plus snorkeling at Seven Commandos Beach (1 hour). Big Lagoon also has kayaking time (1 hour).

Who should avoid booking this tour?

It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or people with heart problems.

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