Cebu Bohol Day Tour Review: Ferry, Itinerary & Tips

Dreaming of seeing the famed Chocolate Hills or meeting those big-eyed tarsiers, yet, maybe you’re based in Cebu with limited time? That, actually, is where the ‘From Cebu Bohol Day Tour with Roundtrip Ferry Transfers’ comes in. It’s almost like a whistle-stop adventure. I mean, it crams Bohol’s biggest hits into one action-packed day, which, naturally, starts and ends with a ferry ride. But is it truly worth the hype, and perhaps more importantly, your precious vacation time? That’s exactly what I’m figuring out.

What to Expect from the Cebu-Bohol Ferry

Alright, the tour, in fact, gets going super early – we’re talking dawn-patrol levels of early. It’s typical because that ferry doesn’t wait! Most tours use OceanJet or Weesam Express, or so it seems, which are, actually, the big names for the Cebu to Tagbilaran (Bohol’s main port) route. The trip lasts roughly two hours, but that really can depend on the sea conditions.

What can you do on board, you ask? It’s very much a ‘choose your own adventure’ kind of thing. You could always catch up on sleep, binge-watch something you have downloaded, or so I would recommend. Yet, the seats aren’t exactly lie-flat, you know, so temper those expectations! More often than not, many passengers like your’s truly spend the ride chatting, reading, or just watching the ocean go by. The ferries frequently have a little snack bar onboard, should you have any cravings. In a way, it’s not a luxurious experience, but is still serviceable. Arriving in Tagbilaran, a representative of the tour normally waits, and you get whisked away to the sightseeing portion.

Hitting Bohol’s Highlights: The Itinerary

Buckle up; or so I’ve heard, the tour guides aim to deliver, considering the limited time. I mean, they’ve got a packed agenda! Most itineraries, more or less, feature these popular attractions:

• Chocolate Hills: What a sight. Really! Expect to climb a viewpoint for those Instagram-worthy panoramic views of the iconic mounds. Sometimes, just a little crowd may be there.
• Tarsier Sanctuary: A chance to see these small, nocturnal primates in a more or less protected environment. It is definitely a highlight, though observe quietly; flashing cameras stress the little guys.
• Loboc River Cruise: Lunch on a floating restaurant, going down the scenic Loboc River? Clearly a classic experience. There’s typically live music and, often, you are passing by lush jungle scenery.
• Baclayon Church: That is actually a historic church, and you should see it; it gives you a glimpse into Bohol’s colonial past. This place, seemingly, suffered earthquake damage some years ago, yet it’s still a noteworthy visit.
• Blood Compact Shrine: The Blood Compact, honestly, marks a significant moment in Filipino-Spanish history. It might be a quick stop, though is actually valuable historically.

Be ready for a whirlwind. Basically, you will have photo ops, short informational talks, and maybe, possibly, some time to pick up souvenirs. However, dwelling too long in any one spot is not possible.

What About Lunch? (Loboc River Cruise)

A lot of tours add lunch, normally as part of the Loboc River Cruise. I think that can be pretty fun. Let’s be real – this really isn’t Michelin-starred dining, right? So the food is buffet-style Filipino cuisine. It varies, yet you’ll likely find classics such as adobo, grilled fish, pancit (noodles), and fresh fruit. The ambiance trumps the eats, really. In fact, it’s super relaxing gliding along the river, having tunes and eating. Should you be particular about your food or you might have dietary restrictions, giving the tour operator some advance notice, might be wise.

The Tarsier Encounter: A Responsible Visit

Seeing tarsiers, it is arguably one of the most popular parts of the tour, right? However, it’s important to treat them with kindness. They’re easily stressed, as I have already mentioned, therefore adhere to the sanctuary’s guidelines:

• No Flash Photography: That light seriously bothers them.
• Keep Your Voice Down: It is really a calm and quiet environment that benefits these timid creatures.
• No Touching: Admire them from a little bit of a distance.

Choosing tours that partner with legit sanctuaries, it seems really essential. Legit sanctuaries prioritize the tarsiers’ wellbeing. I mean, this experience becomes less enjoyable when it is irresponsible.

Chocolate Hills: More Than Just a Photo Op

Yeah, the Chocolate Hills are magnificent, no question. Seeing those uniquely-shaped hills expand, to me it’s mind-blowing. Getting the standard photo, basically it is almost essential. Yet, learn just a tad regarding the geology and local legends to give it meaning. As a matter of fact, they turn brown during the dry season, in that time they resemble chocolate kisses, though, more often than not, they’re green the remainder of the year. The perspective shifts given the time of year, honestly.

Is the Cebu-Bohol Day Tour Worth It? Weighing the Pros and Cons

Okay, the big question: should you go, is that something you should really do? It actually banks on what you are searching for. Here’s a speedy breakdown:

Pros:

• Convenience: Really convenient, if you are short on time and wish to check off Bohol’s must-sees.
• Organized: You do not need to worry concerning transportation, ferry tickets, and planning an itinerary, actually.
• Cost-Effective: Often less costly than booking everything separately, as I am lead to believe, primarily should you be a solo traveler.

Cons:

• Fast-Paced: Basically, anticipate a whirlwind. Minimal time is really allocated at each location.
• Limited Flexibility: Deviating out of the schedule is hard. You will be traveling in a group.
• Can Feel Rushed: Certain folks prefer a slower tempo, you know, and even more immersive experiences.

If ticking off the top attractions is something you enjoy and only have a day, go for it, in my opinion! If you crave leisurely exploration and deeper dives, that, in fact, may be better as a multi-day visit.

Tips for Maximizing Your Bohol Day Tour

Decided to go, perhaps? These hints assist to ensure that the tour flows smoothly:

• Book in Advance: I mean, the tours tend to be very popular, actually, most notably throughout peak season.
• Pack Smart: Take some comfy shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps insect repellent, truly.
• Bring Cash: Souvenirs, additional snacks, or tipping – always more accessible to have the regional currency close by.
• Stay Hydrated: In fact, it can be quite hot, mostly during the dry months, remember your water bottle.
• Set Expectations: Being conscious of the rapid speed will heighten satisfaction, for sure.

What to Wear on Your Bohol Day Trip

Because the Philippines boasts a warm climate nearly all year, selecting what outfits will make you comfy is significant. What you might want to wear:

• Light, breathable clothes: Believe loose-fitting shirts, shorts, skirts or pants made from cotton or linen.
• Comfy Shoes: Lots of walking happens! Sandals, sneakers, or some supportive footwear is really wise.
• Swimsuit: Should the Loboc River Cruise incorporates a possibility to swim (some tours have this as an addition), have swimwear. Even if not, at times you just stumble upon a swimming place!
• Sun Protection: The sun is serious here. This really covers sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
• Light Jacket or Sweater: The ferry or the bus could possibly get cold as a result of air-con, it is something to bring.

Essential Things to Bring

Make sure that you bring things to create the tour even better. These really should contain:

• Photo Camera or Telephone: For that unforgettable recollections, needless to say.
• Power Bank: That you do not end up with a lifeless device right if you intend on taking plenty of shots!
• Toiletries: Especially should you easily get seasick, as well as sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Snacks: Though lunch can be delivered, having a number of snacks close by helps to hold starvation at bay at some stage in longer stretches between stops, and that.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Remain hydrated the full day – more cost-effective and environmentally friendlier as compared to constantly getting bottled water.

Alternatives to the Day Tour

Perhaps, one day feels too brief? There are some choices you should think about:

• Multi-Day Bohol Trip: Spend some days exploring and that provides a considerably more stress-free tempo to without a doubt explore all there’s!
• Cebu and Bohol Combo: It lets you invest time to see more! You can explore locations for a longer amount of time, that’s the trick.
• Customized Bohol Tour: It means that you get to be free and customize everything. This will also match your pursuits.

Costs Explained

Usually the fee adjustments! A few matters which have effects include:

• Ferry Tickets: Can fluctuate as stated by ferry organization together with class of carrier; reserving upfront may help in securing less expensive prices.
• Entrance Expenses: A few sights have prices associated together which are integrated into particular trips even though you might need more for people not protected.
• Lunch and Foods: This, really, is if your tour carries it or if you want to purchase independently.
• Tips: Tipping manual/drivers in the Philippines is appreciated based on provider excellent.

Commonly Asked Questions