TOUR C
If you’re powder-chasing, sun-worshipping beach bum, Tour C might be a better bet. Its main attractions are its fine, white beaches that hug the jagged coastline of Matinloc Island and Helicopter Island.
The highlight of the trip is the Secret Beach, a hidden pocket of fine sand enclosed by towering karst cliffs, which is widely believed to have inspired author Alex Garland to write his novel The Beach, at least according to legend.. It is accessible only via a small opening that requires visitors to swim through it. Some of my friends got injured on the way.
Note, however, that Matinloc Island is a bit farther, which is why it costs more. Also, it faces the violent West Philippine Sea, exposing the passengers to bigger waves. If your time allows you to multiple tours, make sure to do Tour C first if the weather is pleasant. Coast guard are more likely to cancel Tour C during inclement weather. The waters circled by Tours A, B and D remain calm most of the time.
Stops: Matinloc Shrine, Matinloc Island, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Tapuitan Island, Helicopter Island.
The Tour C is more a snorkling tour.
ITINERARY
- Hidden Beach is one of the places you’ll visit when you book Tour C. It is far, but it is worth the trip because of its secluded location, fine white sand, and clear waters. It has a rugged appearance, giving it a raw appeal. Relax on the beach, swim in the waters, and just marvel at the stunning limestone surrounding it.
- Snorkeling stop where you can lot of kind of fish, you can see star fish, if you are lucky turtle.
- Secret Beach amazing beach create by the erosion.
- Helicopter Island, officially named Dilumacad Island, got its name because of the shape it takes when you see it from a distance. Once you get closer, it’s soft cream-colored sand and cerulean waters will lure you in and keep you entranced. It is a good place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beautiful beachscape.
The Tour C is more a snorkling tour.
SCHEDULE
- 7 hours duration
- 8:00 – 15:00
- 1 hour lunch on board
COST
PHP 1400 (~25 EUR, ~30 USD)
ADDITIONAL FEES
- 100 PHP (~1.5 EUR, ~2 USD) Matinloc Shrine entrance
- 200 PHP (~3.5 EUR, ~4 USD) Eco tourism fee of municipality of El Nido
INCLUDED
- Pickup is available from hotels in the city center and around Corong-Corong
- Professional tour guide
- Entertaining activities
- Visit of islands on the boat
- Life jacket
- Amazing lunch
- Drinking water
NOT INCLUDED
- Snorkeling mask
- Go back to your accommodation
- Diving shoes, Fins and kayak available for rent
- Personal expenses
- Tips
DON’T FORGET
- Food is included in island hopping tours, but you can bring your own snacks and drinks during your stay. Bring your trash with you.
- To save money, bring your own gear for snorkeling such as mask, snorkel tube, fins and others you may need.
- Waterproof your gadgets as you don’t want to damage your phone and/or camera and lose the photos and videos you took.
- Bring a power bank to keep your phone and camera charged for the trip.
- Follow the rules and regulations.