Day Trip Busuanga Island Tour by Seaplane from Puerto Princesa

Traveling from Puerto Princesa to Busuanga via seaplane offers something a bit different from the usual boat trips or land tours. This private, hassle-free experience delivers the thrill of flying over Palawan’s famed scenery while maximizing your time on the islands themselves. It’s a carefully curated adventure designed for those who value comfort and efficiency, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing on white sand beaches, and marveling at natural limestone formations.

What we really appreciate about this tour? First, the luxury of seaplane travel—no long van rides, just a quick hop in a scenic aircraft with incredible aerial views. Second, the well-paced itinerary with five diverse stops, each offering unique sights and activities. Third, the convenience of all-inclusive costs, including entrance fees, snorkeling gear, and a delicious BBQ lunch. The only consideration might be the price, which is certainly on the higher end, but the experience’s exclusivity and comfort justify the cost for many travelers. This tour is ideal for those who want to make the most of their Palawan visit without sacrificing comfort or time.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Access: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized service and flexibility.
• Stunning Aerial Views: The seaplane offers incredible vistas of Palawan’s islands, limestone formations, and turquoise waters.
• Well-Structured Itinerary: Five carefully chosen stops provide a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Includes entrance fees, snorkeling gear, a BBQ lunch, and transfers—no hidden costs.
• Efficient Use of Time: The early start and late return maximize your day without feeling rushed.
• Ideal for Comfort-Lovers: Small group, private transport, and scenic flight make this perfect for those seeking a touch of luxury.

The Experience: Flying in Style from Puerto Princesa to Busuanga

The day begins early, with a convenient pickup in Puerto Princesa, setting the stage for a trip that’s as much about the journey as the destination. The seaplane, operated by Horizon Sun Charters, offers a serene 1 hour 45-minute flight—one of the best ways to see Palawan from above. The aircraft’s panoramic windows promise fantastic views of the lush landscapes, limestone cliffs, and sparkling waters, giving you an aerial preview of what lies ahead.

Traveling by seaplane is a real highlight here, especially if you’re tired of more common land-based transportation options. The feeling of taking off over the coast, with Palawan’s green terrain fading into a mosaic of islands below, adds an extra layer of excitement. Plus, the private aspect ensures your group isn’t sharing space with strangers, making for a more relaxed, personalized experience.

The Itinerary: Five Unique Spots to Discover

Stop 1: Black Island (Malajon)

Black Island is the first highlight, and many reviews note how impressive its limestone cliffs and caves are. Managed by the Tagbanua tribe, it’s not just a scenic spot but also a cultural one. The two expansive caves, with their intriguing formations, are a delight for explorers. One reviewer appreciated the insightful guide who shared stories about the island’s history and the tribe’s stewardship.

Expect: About 1.5 hours here. You get a chance to walk around, explore caves, and take photos of the dramatic limestone formations. The included entrance fee makes the experience seamless, and many visitors found the caves to be one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

Stop 2: Debotunay Island

Next, Debotunay Island offers a picture-perfect beach scene, with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for relaxing, swimming, or just soaking up the sun. Several reviews mention the “beautiful, untouched” feel of this island, and the shallow waters make it perfect for snorkeling or wading.

Expect: 1.5 hours here. Many enjoy taking photos of the vibrant water and white sands. The calm environment makes it a peaceful break from the more active spots, and the included snorkeling gear encourages exploration of the marine life.

Stop 3: Pass Island

Pass Island is often noted as one of the most postcard-worthy locations. Its long stretch of white sand, dotted with dwarf coconut trees, creates a classic island vibe. Visitors often mention how ideal it is for beach volley or simply lounging with a good book.

Expect: 1.5 hours at this charming beach. The shallow waters are perfect for swimming, and the relaxed atmosphere means you can truly unwind. Multiple reviews highlight the picturesque setting as a highlight.

Stop 4: Calumbayan Island

This island is a favorite for many because of its vibrant marine life and pristine beaches. It’s a popular snorkeling spot, and some reviews rave about the abundance of sea creatures visible just off the shore.

Expect: About 1 hour here. The free entrance fee makes it easy to enjoy the snorkel gear and explore the surroundings. Many guests comment that this stop felt like a true escape into a natural paradise.

Stop 5: Pamalican Island

The final island is Pamalican, which, despite sharing its name with the luxury resort in Cuyo, offers a more modest, yet equally stunning, stretch of white sand. It’s a quiet, laid-back spot where you can walk along the gentle slope of the beach and snap some last photos.

Expect: 1 hour here. It’s the perfect way to wind down the day, reflecting on the beauty of Palawan’s islands. The expansive beach means plenty of space to relax or paddle in the shallow waters.

Practical Details and Comfort

The tour’s all-inclusive pricing covers entrance fees, snorkeling gear, a BBQ lunch, water bottles, and transfers, making it straightforward and stress-free. The private nature of the experience means you’re not part of a large group, and the small group size—up to 6 people—adds to the feeling of exclusivity.

Timing is well thought out: the day kicks off early with pickup around 6:00 AM, and you’ll be back by approximately 6:00 PM. The schedule allows for ample time at each stop without feeling rushed, and the late afternoon return gives you some breathing room after a full day of island hopping.

Despite the high price tag of $6,700 for your group, many reviewers agree the value lies in the comfort and convenience. The seaplane ride alone offers unparalleled views and a unique experience that’s hard to match with other transportation modes.

What Travelers Should Know

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants reporting no significant mobility issues. It operates daily, weather permitting, and offers a full refund if canceled due to bad weather, emphasizing the importance of clear skies for safety and enjoyment.

The experience is entirely private, which means that your group can set the pace and enjoy the trip without the noise and distractions of larger tours. The included snorkeling gear and water bottles keep you refreshed, while the BBQ lunch provides a tasty break amidst your island adventures.

This trip is perfect for those seeking a luxurious, time-efficient way to see multiple islands in Palawan. It’s ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort and privacy, and who want to enjoy aerial views of the region’s stunning scenery. If you’re a couple celebrating a special occasion, or a small family seeking a memorable adventure, this experience offers a delightful mix of relaxation, exploration, and scenic beauty.

For travelers willing to invest a bit more for a seamless, premium experience, this Busuanga Island day trip by seaplane offers incredible value. The flight alone elevates the experience, providing unparalleled views of Palawan’s limestone cliffs and turquoise waters that few other tours can match. The well-curated stops deliver a genuine taste of the region’s beauty, with plenty of opportunities to relax, snorkel, and snap photos.

While the price might seem steep, the inclusion of all fees, private transport, and the luxurious mode of travel makes it a compelling choice for those seeking comfort and efficiency. This tour is especially suited for travelers who want to skip long land transfers and enjoy a curated, scenic adventure with a touch of luxury.

If you’re after a special, hassle-free day that combines aerial sightseeing with island-hopping, this tour is worth considering. It’s a fantastic way to pack a lot into one day and walk away with memories—and photos—that will last a lifetime.

How long is the seaplane transfer from Puerto Princesa?
The one-way seaplane flight lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, offering stunning aerial views of Palawan’s islands and coastline.

What does the tour include?
The tour features the seaplane transfer, entrance fees for each stop, snorkeling gear, a BBQ lunch, water bottles, and private transportation between sites.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, as the tour is designed to be accessible. However, those with mobility issues should check with the provider, as the experience involves some walking at each stop.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, reef-safe sunscreen), your camera, swimwear, and a light cover-up. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but personal preferences are welcome.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How flexible are the stops?
The schedule is fairly structured but designed to allow enough time at each island for relaxation or exploration. The private nature means some flexibility might be available.

Can I customize the experience?
Since the tour is private, you may have options for slight adjustments. Confirm this directly with Horizon Sun Charters when booking.

In summary, the Busuanga Island Day Trip by Seaplane from Puerto Princesa offers an exclusive, scenic, and comfortable way to explore Palawan’s renowned islands. It’s perfect for travelers who value a luxurious, time-efficient adventure with plenty of opportunities for stunning views, swimming, and photo-taking. While it’s a higher-cost option, the convenience and unique perspective make it a memorable addition to your Palawan itinerary.