Starfish hunting beats a museum day. I like how this trip strings together Cowrie, Luli, and Starfish Island in one smooth day, and I also love the picnic lunch setup on the island. The main drawback to keep in mind: it’s a 7-hour, moving-boat plan, so your time on each stop can feel tighter than a full beach day.

You’ll start with hotel pickup in an air-conditioned van, then shift to a motorized boat for the island-hopping rhythm. The goal is simple and fun: see sea life at the shore, swim with fish, and get that classic Honda Bay “island life” day without needing to plan each stop yourself. One more consideration—snorkel basics aren’t included, so you’ll want to bring your own or plan ahead.

If you’re the type who likes checking multiple islands off your list (and you don’t mind a schedule), this works. If you’re hoping to spend hours doing only one thing, you might find the pace a little strict.

Key highlights worth knowing

• Three islands, one day: Cowrie, Luli, and Starfish Island in a single 7-hour outing
• Starfish at the shore: Go looking near the island shoreline when you arrive
• Snorkeling and swimming time: Expect water time at both Cowrie and Luli stops
• Picnic lunch included: Food is served on Starfish Island during the tour day
• English-speaking licensed team: You’ll travel with a licensed guide, plus a boat captain and crew

Honda Bay’s island-hop formula: why this route is a good use of a day

Honda Bay around Puerto Princesa is the kind of place where one good morning can turn into an all-day memory. This tour is built around a simple idea: hit the three most famous stops—Cowrie, Luli, and Starfish Island—then spend the day doing the things you actually came for: swimming, spotting sea life, and relaxing on the water.

I especially like the structure because it saves you effort. You don’t have to coordinate separate boats, separate tickets, and separate timing for each island. A motorized boat does the moving for you, and the tour includes entrance fees for the islands so you can focus on the water time.

The tradeoff is time management. Since you’re bouncing island to island, every stop has to share the same day. If you’re the type who wants a long, slow beach session with zero pressure, this may feel more like a planned sampler than a hang-out marathon.

Getting from Puerto Princesa to the islands fast

You’ll get picked up at your hotel starting around 7:00am, then travel by round-trip air-conditioned van to the port area. The pickup window is practical: you should be ready at least 15 minutes before the scheduled time, and drivers won’t wait longer than 15 minutes after the pickup time.

From there, you’ll move out by motorized boat. That matters because Honda Bay is a water-first destination. Once you’re on the boat, the day becomes very “island hopping” instead of “tourist bus and photos.”

Practical note: you’ll need to provide your contact number, your hotel name, and your full name. That’s worth doing carefully so they can confirm you the morning of—no last-minute confusion.

Stop 1: Cowrie Island and the kind of swim time you’ll want

Cowrie Island is one of the early highlights, and it’s often the stop people remember for the straightforward beach-and-swim feeling. You’re there to get in the water and enjoy the coastal scene, plus have a real chance to look around for sea life while you snorkel.

Here’s how to make Cowrie work for you:

• Plan to get your gear ready quickly. You’re not hanging out for hours getting set up.
• If you’re using snorkeling gear, keep it simple and comfortable. You’ll be more likely to enjoy the swim if you’re not fighting your mask strap.
• Wear water shoes if you have them. They help when the shoreline can be a bit tricky underfoot.

The tricky part is pacing. The day is designed to move, and Cowrie can feel shorter compared to the other islands. If your priority is maximum time in one spot, you’ll want to stay flexible and enjoy the moment rather than counting minutes.

Stop 2: Luli Island’s underwater time (and why it’s worth aiming for)

Luli Island is the stop that usually feels most like “water time with a purpose.” This is where you’ll spend time at the island’s marked underwater area, with the focus on swimming and seeing fish and other sea creatures.

If you’re hoping for a good snorkeling session, I’d treat Luli as your main “get in the water” block. Don’t overdo it with snacks or heavy food right before—go easy, then enjoy the swim.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Mask and snorkeling gear aren’t included, so come prepared (or plan to use what you have).
• The sun can be strong in the islands. One traveler’s advice I really trust: wear long sleeves to reduce burn risk. It sounds basic, but it’s a game-changer if you’re fair-skinned.
• Bring your camera setup carefully. If you have a waterproof camera or a waterproof phone case, you’ll actually use it instead of worrying.

Also, remember this stop is part of the whole-day timing. If you’re only there briefly, the best strategy is to be ready when you arrive—gear on, attitude up.

Stop 3: Starfish Island and how to find them at the shoreline

Starfish Island is the name everyone buys the tour for. The concept is straightforward: starfish are found along the shore area, and your tour includes time on Starfish Island along with swimming opportunities.

Here’s what makes Starfish Island special: it’s not a “look from far away” kind of stop. The starfish are associated with the shoreline viewing, so you’ll want to take a careful look when you land. Move slowly, keep your eyes near the waterline, and follow the crew’s guidance so you’re in the right spot.

Your tour also includes picnic lunch on Starfish Island. That’s a real plus for value because you’re not paying extra for food on the water. Just remember it’s a picnic setup, so think comfortable and practical rather than fancy.

One more reality check: since this is a schedule-based day, your Starfish time can feel tight if you’re hoping for a long slow search. If seeing starfish is your top goal, I’d go into it with patience and the mindset that timing matters.

The lunch setup: included picnic food you’ll actually appreciate

The picnic lunch is included, served on Starfish Island. This is one of those “small” inclusions that make the whole day easier. You’re not negotiating with restaurants between boat rides or paying for every snack along the way.

What I like about a guided picnic lunch here is the simplicity. You can eat, rest, and reset without leaving the island scene. Still, keep your day-planning smart:

• Bring your own bottled water and snacks, since those are specifically mentioned as required.
• Pack a change of clothes plan. Eating on the island often means you’re coming from wet swims, and you’ll feel better after a quick reset.

What’s included vs. what you need to bring

This is the core value equation. For $41 per person, you get a lot of “day cost” covered—transportation, boat, and island access.

Included

• Round-trip air-conditioned van transfers
• Motorized boat
• Entrance fees for Cowrie, Luli, and Starfish Island
• Picnic lunch (on Starfish Island)
• Shed and terminal fees
• Licensed tour guide (English) and the boat captain and crew

Not included (plan for these)

• Environmental fee: Php 150 for adults, Php 120 for 18 and under, and Senior Citizen
• Kayak use
• Mask and snorkeling gear

What to bring

• Swimwear and change of clothes
• Towel
• Sandals and water shoes
• Camera, plus waterproof camera options
• Snacks and bottled water
• Snorkeling gear
• Beachwear like you’d wear to an island pool—nothing that you’ll be sad to get sandy

Price and value: is $41 actually a fair deal?

For a 7-hour island-hopping day from Puerto Princesa, $41 per person is on the reasonable side, mainly because it bundles the things that usually add up fast: boat transport plus island entrance fees and lunch.

The value shifts a bit once you add the environmental fee (Php 150 for adults) and your snorkeling gear needs. Still, even with those add-ons, you’re generally paying for a full day structure: van transfer, motorized boat, and three island visits.

I’d consider the value strongest if:

• You want to see all three islands in one day
• You’re comfortable bringing your own water and snacks
• You already have snorkeling gear, or you can plan to borrow or buy it beforehand

I’d think twice if:

• Starfish viewing is your only goal and you need a long time to search
• You want a slow beach day where nothing is scheduled tightly

Who this tour fits best (and who might want a different plan)

This is a solid pick for first-timers to Honda Bay who want a “best-of” day. It also works well for couples and small groups who like snorkeling and don’t mind a guided flow.

It might not fit as well if you:

• Hate being on a fixed schedule
• Want to spend most of the day on only one island
• Don’t plan to bring your own snorkel basics

If you go in with realistic expectations, you’ll get what the tour promises: a full-day taste of island life, swimming time, and a picnic lunch between island stops.

Tips to make the day smoother (and more fun)

• Pack smart for sun: use long sleeves if you burn easily. One traveler’s experience is a good reminder that shade can be limited on the water.
• Bring water shoes if you don’t love sandy or rocky shorelines.
• Keep your water and snacks ready. You’ll feel better during the boat portions.
• Use waterproof protection for your phone/camera. Island days get splashed.
• Stay sober and sensible: intoxication isn’t allowed.

Should you book this Honda Bay island hopping tour from Puerto Princesa?

I’d book it if you want a practical, guided 7-hour day that covers Cowrie, Luli, and Starfish Island with snorkeling and a picnic lunch included. The money-to-effort ratio is good, especially because the boat plus entrance fees are handled, and the guide team is there to keep the day organized.

I would skip it—or switch to a more flexible option—if you’re chasing one specific moment for a long stretch, like extended starfish searching, or if you’re not ready to bring your own snorkeling gear and island-day essentials.

If your plan is to enjoy the water, see sea life, and get a full “three-island” overview in one day, this is a sensible choice.

FAQ

How long is the Puerto Princesa Honda Bay island hopping tour?

The tour duration is about 7 hours, with hotel pickup around 7:00am and return drop-off around 3:00pm.

Which islands are included in the tour?

You’ll visit Cowrie Island, Luli Island, and Starfish Island.

Is hotel pickup included, and what time does it start?

Yes, round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off are included by air-conditioned van. Pickup is scheduled for around 7:00am.

What is included in the tour price?

The price includes air-conditioned van transfers, a motorized boat, entrance fees for the islands, picnic lunch on Starfish Island, shed and terminal fees, and a licensed English-speaking tour guide with a boat captain and crew.

What extra fees might I pay on the day?

An environmental fee is not included: Php 150 for adults, Php 120 for 18 and under, and Senior Citizen.

Are snorkeling masks and gear included?

No. Mask and snorkeling gears are not included, so you should bring your own.

What should I bring for the islands and boat ride?

Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, sandals or water shoes, a camera, and your own bottled water and snacks. If you’re snorkeling, bring snorkeling gear and consider waterproof protection for your electronics.

What identification do I need?

You’re required to bring a present valid ID.

Is cancellation free?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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