Coron Ultimate Tour (Shared Tour)

If you’re planning a trip to Coron and looking for an accessible way to explore its famous beaches, lagoons, and wrecks without breaking the bank, the Coron Ultimate Tour might just fit the bill. This shared island-hopping experience promises a full day of swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing, complete with lunch, a guide, and door-to-door transfers.

While it’s a popular choice for many travelers, it’s not without a few quirks—like crowded boats and extra charges—so being prepared can make your day smoother. This tour offers a fun, energetic way to tick off Coron’s top sights, especially if you’re keen on meeting fellow travelers and enjoying a taste of local cuisine.

Three things we particularly like about this tour: the chance to visit Kayangan Lake’s clear waters, the opportunity to snorkel around the Skeleton Wreck, and the inclusive door-to-door transfers that make logistics hassle-free. The knowledgeable guides and delicious buffet lunch add real value.

One potential drawback? Some reviews mention overcrowding and optional extras like kayaking or snorkel gear costing additional fees. If you’re a traveler who values a more private or leisurely pace, it’s worth considering. But if your goal is a full-on adventure packed with sights and social vibes, this tour will suit you perfectly.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience with visits to Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Skeleton Wreck, and more.
• Convenient door-to-door transfers from Coron town hotels.
• Variety of activities including snorkeling, kayaking, and beach lounging.
• Affordable price point at around $45 for a full day of fun.
• Guided tour with a licensed guide ensuring safety and insight.
• Crowded boats and some additional charges for equipment may be a concern.

The Experience in Detail

Starting the Day: Easy Pickup and Group Setup

The tour kicks off early at 8:00 am with hotel pickups, which many find incredibly convenient. From the reviews, it’s clear that the door-to-door service saves time and effort, especially after a long flight or travel day. The boat is shared with a small group—typically up to 15 travelers—making for a lively, social atmosphere, though some reviews detail overcrowding and cramped spaces.

The boat itself is described as clean and comfortable, with life vests provided. The crew and guides, like the notably enthusiastic Kuya Mark and Jade, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the day more engaging.

Visiting Kayangan Lake: The Crown Jewel

The first stop is Kayangan Lake, often hailed as Coron’s most iconic attraction. Known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic limestone backdrop, it’s a photographer’s paradise. Expect about an hour here, enough time for a swim, some photos, and soaking in the views.

Travelers describe Kayangan Lake as absolutely stunning, with many remarking that it’s the highlight of their trip. As one reviewer said, “I could have spent the entire day there,” emphasizing how captivating the scenery is. The walk down to the lake involves a few steps, but guides are helpful, and the experience is well worth the effort.

Twin Lagoon: Nature’s Refreshing Secret

Next up is Twin Lagoon, another favorite. Known for its limestone walls and freshwater pools, it’s a spot where you can swim between two separate lagoons. With about an hour allocated, visitors often split their time between swimming, taking photos, and relaxing in the cool waters.

Reviewers mention that the currents here can be strong, so caution is advised. Many appreciate how Jade, the tour guide, makes everyone feel safe and comfortable exploring the lagoon. It’s a fantastic location for snorkelers, although some note that gear isn’t provided, so renting is necessary.

Skeleton Wreck: An Underwater Adventure

For marine enthusiasts, Snorkeling around the Skeleton Wreck is a must-do. The wreck is a fascinating relic and a vibrant habitat teeming with fish and corals. Expect roughly an hour here, giving ample opportunity to explore underwater life.

Some reviews highlight the excellent snorkeling conditions, though the current can be brisk at times, making it suitable for confident swimmers. Snorkel gear is available for rent, and the wreck’s eerie beauty provides a unique experience that many travelers find memorable.

Beach and Reef Stops: CYC Beach and Coral Gardens

The tour includes stops at CYC Beach and Coral Garden, where travelers can relax, swim, or explore the coral reefs. At CYC Beach, you may catch some sun on the Corn Youth Club Beach, a peaceful spot to unwind and enjoy snacks and drinks served on the sand.

Coral Garden offers a chance to see colorful corals and marine life up close. It’s a favorite for snorkelers, with many praising the vibrant underwater scenery. Some find that the current at Coral Garden can be strong, so keep your eyes on your gear and stay close to your group.

Siete Pecados & Additional Attractions

The tour also features a visit to Siete Pecados, an area renowned for its abundant marine biodiversity. Although some reviews didn’t explicitly mention this stop, it’s often included as part of the snorkel itinerary, offering a quick glimpse of underwater life.

Lunch and Relaxing Breaks

A key highlight? The buffet lunch served on Beach 91. Travelers rave about the delicious Filipino dishes, with some mentioning the presentation and variety exceeded expectations. The lunch area boasts seating on the beach, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Throughout the day, light snacks and bottled water keep you refreshed. Additional treats, like Filipino Turron, are sometimes offered, adding a local culinary touch. Reviewers like Victoria and Marlene appreciated the generous portions and tasty food, which are especially meaningful after a morning of swimming and sightseeing.

Kayaking & Snorkeling Gear: Extras to Consider

The tour includes kayaking, giving you an active way to explore the calm waters. However, snorkel gear is not included in the base price and can be rented for a fee (usually around 150 PHP). Some reviewers, like Matthew, mention that gear rental and other extras often come with additional charges, so it’s worth bringing cash or preparing for these costs.

Wrapping up the Day

After a full day of adventure, the boat heads back to Coron town, usually around 4 pm. Many travelers appreciate the smooth transfer back, ending the day with a sense of achievement and new friends.

What Travelers Are Saying

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and delicious food are the tour’s main attractions. Several mention that Kuya Mark and Jade made the experience fun and safe, often going above and beyond with photos and local insights.

However, there are some downsides highlighted. Several reviews mention overcrowding on the boat, making movement or taking photos difficult at times. Some travelers also express disappointment over additional charges for equipment or missed stops due to overbooking or boat decisions.

A few reviewers had issues with timeliness or miscommunication around inclusions such as kayaking or lunch, which underscores the importance of clear expectations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Coron Ultimate Tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded, social experience exploring Coron’s most famous sights. It’s ideal if you’re okay with crowds and are looking for value for money and convenience. It’s particularly good for those eager to combine sightseeing with some beachtime, snorkeling, and local food.

If you’re traveling solo or in a group that enjoys a lively atmosphere, you’ll likely find the guide’s friendliness and the shared nature of the tour a plus. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or private excursions, this might not be your best fit.

The Sum Up

This tour delivers a comprehensive, fun-filled day of Coron’s must-see attractions at an accessible price point. The variety of stops—from lakes and lagoons to wrecks and reefs—ensures you’ll encounter the best of what Coron offers in a single day. The guides’ enthusiasm and the delicious buffet lunch add to the overall experience, creating memorable moments for travelers eager for adventure and social interaction.

That said, it’s important to go into this tour expecting some crowding and additional costs for equipment. It’s not the best choice for those seeking peace and quiet or a more personalized experience. Still, if you’re up for a lively, activity-packed day with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and meet new friends, you’ll find this tour offers an excellent balance of fun, value, and convenience.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes door-to-door round-trip transfers from your hotel in Coron town, making logistics simple.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the guidance, boat, entrance fees, lunch, snacks, drinks, and life vests. All permits are also included.

Are snorkel gear and kayaks included?
Snorkel gear is available for rent, typically at 150 PHP per person. Kayaking is included in the tour package, so you can paddle around at your leisure.

What about additional charges?
Some reviewers noted that equipment rentals, additional stops, or special requests might incur extra costs. It’s wise to carry some cash just in case.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning in the late afternoon, around 4 pm.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers with basic swimming ability can enjoy the stops, but caution is advised near strong currents, especially at Coral Garden or Twin Lagoon.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any reviews about overcrowding?
Yes, some travelers mention boats feeling crowded and limited space, so if comfort is a priority, this is something to consider.

Can I book this tour directly with the operator?
Yes, but some reviews suggest booking directly might be cheaper or more reliable than through third-party providers like Viator.

Whether you’re after stunning scenery, adventure, or meeting fellow travelers, the Coron Ultimate Tour offers a lively and comprehensive way to experience the highlights of this beautiful island. Just be prepared for a busy day and some extra costs, and you’ll likely walk away with plenty of memorable moments.