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When in Paradise: Our Coron to El Nido Expedition with Big Dream Boatman

Updated: Aug 8

Getting There: Our adventure began with a flight from Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Busuanga Airport via Cebu Pacific Air. After arriving, we took a 30-minute van ride to Coron Town, setting the stage for our journey.


Pre-Expedition in Coron: We arrived in Coron two days early to explore the town and its surrounding attractions. Coron’s pristine beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life provided a perfect prelude to our expedition. Whether diving into the depths or strolling along the shores, our time in Coron was a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure. During the 2 days, we toured Coron Island and went freediving at Barracuda Lake.


Before freediving at Baraccuda Lake

Our 4D/3N Coron to El Nido Expedition is priced at $599 inclusive of accommodation, entrance fees, food and drinks (unlimited alcoholic drinks!). Should you wish to book for your next trip to the Philippines, you may do so via the Book Here button below.



Expedition Day 1: Meeting at Coron Port at 9 AM, the excitement was palpable as we prepared to embark on our expedition. By 10 AM, we set sail with Big Dream Boatman, ready to experience the best of northern Palawan.


  • Kayangan Lake: Known as one of the cleanest lakes in Asia, Kayangan Lake’s crystal-clear waters and dramatic limestone formations were breathtaking. The serenity of the lake and the surrounding landscapes made it a highlight of our trip.


  • Twin Lagoon: This iconic spot in Coron Island featured two lagoons separated by a towering limestone wall. Swimming through the narrow crevice to reach the inner lagoon was a unique and thrilling experience.

  • Atwayan Coral Garden: A snorkeler’s paradise, Atwayan Coral Garden boasted vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The underwater scenery was nothing short of spectacular.


  • Coco Beach (Base Camp): Our first base camp, Coco Beach, offered rustic huts and a relaxed atmosphere. The simple accommodations added to the charm of our adventure, creating a cozy and welcoming environment.


Fun night at Coco Beach

Expedition Day 2: The second day was packed with snorkeling, beach activities, and island exploration.


  • Dipalian Island: Snorkeling in the clear waters of Dipalian Island revealed a vibrant underwater world. Later, we enjoyed a friendly volleyball match on the beach, fostering a sense of camaraderie.



  • Araw Beach: The sun shone brightly as we arrived at Araw Beach, enhancing our snorkeling and freediving experience. The pristine sands and clear waters created a perfect setting for exploration and relaxation.



  • Inapupuan Island: Due to strong currents, we skipped snorkeling at Inapupuan Island but still appreciated its natural beauty from the shore.


  • New Balenben Base Camp: Our second base camp, New Balenben, provided another opportunity for a lively volleyball match and a peaceful evening in a scenic location.

Our cozy camp


Expedition Day 3: Our third day combined cultural experiences with more underwater adventures.


  • Bulawit Village: Visiting this traditional fishing village offered a glimpse into local life, complete with community schools and daily activities. The simplicity and resilience of the villagers were inspiring. We also played basketball here.

  • Turtle Spot: Snorkeling and freediving at Turtle Spot allowed us to swim alongside graceful sea turtles. This close encounter with nature was one of the trip’s highlights.

  • Ginto Island: Despite strong currents, Ginto Island’s beautiful beach and excellent snorkeling site made it a memorable stop. The vibrant marine life and stunning landscapes were captivating.

  • Cadanao Beach: A pristine beach with great snorkeling opportunities, Cadanao Beach’s clear waters and sandy shores were perfect for underwater exploration.

  • LTC Base Camp: The sunset at LTC Base Camp was a spectacular sight, casting a golden glow over the horizon. We ended the day with a fun videoke session and a lively party with the crew.

Waiting for the sunset by the beach of our 3rd base camp

Expedition Day 4: Our final day took us to more beautiful islands before concluding our journey in El Nido.


  • Cobra Island: A fantastic snorkeling site with a beautiful beach, Cobra Island was perfect for both relaxation and underwater exploration.


  • Takling Island: The vibrant coral reefs and a picturesque sandbar at Takling Island made it an ideal spot for snorkeling and freediving.

  • Daracuton Island: We loved exploring the shipwreck at Daracuton Island, a unique freediving experience. The island’s white sands and serene environment were a perfect end to our island-hopping adventure.

  • San Fernando Port: We arrived around 3 PM, where a BDBM car took us to a drop-off point near El Nido Town. From there, we easily booked a ride to our hotel.



Post-Expedition in El Nido: With some friends visiting El Nido for the first time, we hired a van to take us to Nacpan Beach for a stunning sunset view. The golden sands and tranquil waters provided a perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation. We then headed to our hotel in El Nido Town, where we recommend spending at least a night before exploring other areas.



The Complete Package: The expedition cost includes accommodations (cozy huts that add to the adventure’s charm), food, alcohol, entrance fees, and the amazing service of the crew. It’s an all-inclusive package that ensures you have the most fun-filled experience. The warmth and hospitality of the crew, combined with the natural beauty of the islands, made this expedition truly unforgettable


Additional Travel Tips:

  • If you’re planning to visit both Coron and El Nido, this expedition is the perfect choice.

  • Explore Coron before the expedition, visit most of the Linapacan Islands during the journey, and enjoy El Nido afterward.

  • From El Nido, you can explore Port Barton or travel via Lio Airport or Puerto Princesa.


Should you wish to check out how you can experience this too, please click the button below.

This Coron to El Nido expedition with Big Dream Boatman was an unforgettable adventure, blending stunning natural beauty, cultural encounters, and exciting activities. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Palawan, this experience is not to be missed!



 

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