How much does a private boat tour in El Nido cost?

One boat, priced for your group

A shared or joiner tour sells seats. A private tour gives your group the whole boat and crew. Our prices start from a set total for two guests, and each extra guest adds a fixed amount, so the cost per person falls as the group grows.

What a private tour costs

For comparison, shared tours in El Nido are roughly ₱1,200 to ₱1,800 per person, based on prices published by operators in 2026. They suit solo travellers and tight budgets, and they run on a fixed group schedule.

Starting prices are based on current regular rates. Peak-season supplements may apply. We confirm your total price for your travel dates before booking. The A + C combo, sunset cruise and island overnight are quoted individually.

Fees paid per person

On top of the boat, the municipality charges per-person fees. Some quotes include them and some do not, so it is worth asking.

• Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF): ₱400 for most visitors, ₱250 for children aged 6 to 13 and free under 6, with reduced rates for students, seniors and people with disabilities. One payment is valid for about 10 days of tours.
• Lagoon fee: about ₱200 per person for each visit to Big Lagoon or Small Lagoon.
• Kayak rental: roughly ₱150 to ₱600 per kayak depending on the lagoon and tour, needed to enter the lagoons.

Our lagoon guide explains how the lagoon limits and fees work.

What changes the price

• Group size. Each guest beyond the first two adds a fixed amount.
• Route. Tour C and combination days cover more water and use more fuel.
• Speedboat or bangka. Speedboats cost more and save time between stops. Ask us if you want one.
• Season. December to May, Holy Week and the holidays are the busiest periods, and peak-season supplements may apply.
• Extras. Seafood lunches, a photographer, drone footage or a celebration setup.
• Pickup and transfers. Hotel pickups outside town, or transfers from Puerto Princesa.

Is a private tour worth it?

For a couple, a private boat is a clear step up in price from shared seats. For a family or a group of friends, the gap narrows quickly. As an example, Tour A for four guests starts at ₱17,700 (₱14,500 for two plus ₱1,600 for each extra guest), about ₱4,425 each before fees, and you get your own start time, your own pace and no waiting for a group of strangers.

Our private vs shared guide compares the two days in more detail.

How to get an exact quote

Tell us your tour, date, group and any extras. We come back with a quote on WhatsApp and a written list of what is included, including whether fees are covered.