Imagine cruising along the coast of Mactan Island, watching the sky turn shades of orange and pink as the sun dips into the ocean—sounds dreamy, right? The Mactan Sunset Cruise Ultimate Yacht Experience promises just that, blending relaxation, entertainment, and scenic beauty into a three-hour voyage. We’ve taken a close look at this tour to see if it lives up to its reputation, and here’s what you need to know before booking.
What we love about this cruise: The unbeatable sunset views, the high-quality dinner, and the lively music sessions make it a relaxing yet lively evening. Plus, the chance to socialize with travelers from around the world adds a fun, communal vibe. On the downside, the tour’s not suited for kids under 7 or those prone to motion sickness, which is worth considering if you’re traveling with little ones or sensitive stomachs.
This experience is best suited for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful yet festive way to enjoy Cebu’s coast. If you’re craving a mix of scenic beauty, good food, and a touch of local music, this cruise could be just what you need.
Key Points
- Spectacular sunset views over Mactan Island and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway
- All-inclusive dinner with wine and live acoustic or DJ entertainment
- Comfortable yacht with onboard restrooms, ideal for a relaxed evening
- Social atmosphere with meeting fellow travelers from around the world
- Affordable luxury at $141.68 per person, offering great value for a three-hour experience
- Flexible cancellation policy—free cancel up to 24 hours in advance
An In-Depth Look at the Mactan Sunset Cruise
Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Cebu
What Makes This Tour Special?
The Mactan Sunset Cruise offers a chance to unwind on a luxurious yacht while soaking in Cebu’s natural beauty. Unlike more hurried tours, this experience provides a balanced mix of relaxation and entertainment. We particularly appreciated the way the boat glides smoothly beneath the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway, providing an impressive backdrop for photos and videos. The views of the coastline are both calming and stunning.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Start Point: Mactan Marina Wharf
The meeting point is conveniently situated in Lapu-Lapu City, near public transportation, making it easy to access. The tour kicks off promptly at 4:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the sunset.
Cruising Mactan Island
For approximately three hours, you’ll be out on the water, cruising along the coastline of Mactan. The highlight? Watching the sun set over the ocean, creating a fiery display that you’ll want to capture. Reviewers mention that the views are “literally everything,” and one even called it “full vacay mode.” The cruise is designed to be leisurely, so you can relax, take photos, and just enjoy the moment.
Dinner and Entertainment
A major perk of this cruise is the included dinner, which is praised for being “super yummy,” with some reviewers admitting they had seconds or even thirds. The food likely features local flavors, and the onboard restroom ensures comfort during the trip.
Music is a highlight, with either a DJ or a live acoustic duo providing a laid-back soundtrack. One reviewer said the music “had us all in full vacay mode,” emphasizing the lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The onboard official photographer helps capture these special moments, so travelers can focus on enjoying themselves.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The package covers most essentials: a complimentary glass of wine, dinner, live music, and onboard facilities. Small additional costs include a Php 5 terminal fee and Php 100 environmental fee, payable in cash. Round-trip land transfers are available but need to be booked separately, which offers flexibility for travelers staying outside the immediate vicinity.
Group Size and Booking Details
This tour is capped at 40 travelers, promoting a comfortable and intimate vibe. Booking is generally done about 6 days in advance, ensuring you secure your spot during busy periods. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though it’s not recommended for children under 7 or those prone to motion sickness.
- Makati Pub Crawl
- Oslob: Sumilon Sand Bar, Whale Sharks & Sardines Snorkeling
- Bohol Countryside Day Tour W Lunch at Loboc River From Cebu
- From Cebu City: Bohol Countryside Tour W/ Loboc Cruise Lunch
- Cebu: Scuba Diving With Sardines and Pescador Island Snorkel
- Cebu: Osmeña Peak and Kawasan Falls Canyoneering Day Trip
Why This Experience Is Worth Your Time
Scenic Beauty and Relaxation
The main draw is undoubtedly the spectacular sunset views over Mactan Island. Guests consistently mention how beautiful the scenery is, often describing the sunset as “awesom” and “full vacay mode.” The cruise offers a peaceful escape from the hustle of Cebu city, giving you a chance to unwind and recharge.
Quality Food and Wine
The included dinner is more than just a snack; it’s hearty and flavorful, satisfying even the most discerning eaters. The complimentary glass of wine elevates the experience, adding a touch of elegance to the evening.
Entertainment and Social Vibe
The live music, whether acoustic or DJ, creates a lively yet relaxed setting. Guests have mentioned that the music helps set a “vacay” mood, making it perfect for socializing or simply enjoying the sunset with good tunes in the background.
Authentic, Uncrowded Experience
Unlike crowded tours, this yacht cruise offers an intimate environment, with fewer than 40 travelers. The onboard restroom and the tranquil setting make it more comfortable than a typical boat ride, especially when paired with the luxury of a yacht.
Value for Money
At $141.68 per person, this experience offers a lot—beautiful views, dinner, live entertainment, and a memorable setting. The reviews suggest that most travelers feel this price point is justified, considering what’s included and the quality of the experience.
What to Consider Before Booking
While the cruise offers many positives, there are a few factors to keep in mind. The tour is not recommended for children below 7 years old, and those sensitive to motion sickness might find the boat ride uncomfortable. Also, if you’re looking for an activity with land-based sightseeing or longer tours, this might not meet those expectations.
Weather can impact the cruise—it’s weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Lastly, the optional round-trip transfer is an extra cost, so plan your logistics accordingly.
Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic evening on the water with some entertainment and good food. Couples will enjoy the romantic sunset views, while groups of friends can revel in the lively atmosphere. Solo travelers looking for a social yet peaceful experience will also find it appealing.
It’s less ideal for families with young children or those prone to seasickness, but overall, it’s perfect for anyone wanting to see Cebu from a different perspective—on a yacht, watching the sun set in style.
The Sum Up
The Mactan Sunset Cruise Ultimate Yacht Experience offers a memorable way to enjoy Cebu’s coastline as day turns into night. The stunning sunset views, combined with quality food, lively music, and a relaxed atmosphere, make it a worthwhile splurge for travelers wanting to add something special to their trip.
While it’s best suited for adults or older children, it promises a peaceful yet festive way to connect with the natural beauty and local vibe of Cebu. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a beautiful end to a day of exploring, this cruise ticks many boxes for value and authenticity.
If you love scenic sunsets, good food, and laid-back luxury, this experience will leave you with memories to cherish—and plenty of photos to show off.
FAQs
How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
What time does the tour start?
The cruise departs at 4:00 pm from Mactan Marina Wharf, aligning perfectly with the sunset timing.
Are drinks included?
Yes, a complimentary glass of wine is included with your dinner, enhancing the celebratory vibe.
Is there entertainment onboard?
Yes, you’ll enjoy either a DJ or a live acoustic duo, providing a relaxed musical backdrop.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund offered if canceled in time.
Are land transfers included?
No, round-trip land transfers are available as an extra service, so you can arrange these separately if needed.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 7, mainly due to safety and comfort considerations on the boat.
What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is ideal. Consider bringing a light jacket or shawl if it gets breezy at sunset.
The Mactan Sunset Cruise offers an elegant, relaxing, and fun way to end your day in Cebu. Expect beautiful views, tasty food, and a friendly atmosphere—perfect for making your trip even more memorable.
More Drinking Tours in Cebu
More Nightlife Experiences in Cebu
More Tour Reviews in Cebu
Still browsing? Here are more Cebu experiences we've covered recently
- Cebu Airport Transfer to / from Anywhere in Cebu
- Full Day Bohol Highlights from Cebu
- Cebu Oslob Whalesharks, Sumilon & Kawasan Waterfalls Tour
- Moalboal Sardine Run, Sea Turtle and Mantayupan Falls
- Mactan Sunset Cruise Ultimate Yacht Experience
- Oslob Whale Shark Watching + Kawasan Falls Day Tour
- Private Cebu & Lapu-Lapu City Tour with Uphill Spots & Lunch at House of Lechon
- Mactan Cebu International Airport Plaza Premium Lounge
- Cebu: Private Twin City Tour +Temple of Leah + Sirao Flower Farm
- Oslob Whale Shark Watching
- Oslob Whale Shark & Tumalog Waterfalls & Sumilon Sandbar
- Oslob Whaleshark, Sumilon Sandbar & Tumalog Falls Tour with Lunch