Dolphin watching in Bohol: what to expect3 min read
Seeing wild dolphins at sunrise is one of the best ways to start a day in Bohol. Here is how a dolphin morning works with us, who it suits and what to bring, so you know what to expect before you book.
Start early
Dolphins are part of our island hopping tour, and the day starts before sunrise. Group pickups start at 5:30 AM, or you can meet us at 6:00 AM at the beachfront of Bohol South Beach Hotel. Being out early means you are on the water before the heat and the crowds.
The dolphin-spotting cruise
The first part of the morning is a dolphin-spotting cruise. Keep your eyes on the water and your camera close. When dolphins are around, you see them surfacing beside the outrigger boats in the soft early light.
Will we see dolphins?
Dolphins are wild, so we can't guarantee sightings, but we see them most days. Sightings depend on nature and sea conditions, so every morning is a little different. That is part of what makes it special.
Watch them gently
The sea is their home, not a show. Enjoy them from the boat, keep your voice low and let them come and go on their own. Take your photos, then put the phone down for a moment and just watch.
Then turtles and a sandbar
After the dolphins, we head to Balicasag, a small island surrounded by a protected marine sanctuary. You snorkel the reef and swim with sea turtles, with a local coordinator in the water with you. The last stop is the Virgin Island sandbar. Most days we are back around 11:30 AM, so the afternoon is yours. Read more about Balicasag and Virgin Island.
Who it suits
You snorkel in open water at Balicasag, so you should be comfortable swimming. Balicasag has no dock: you may need to step onto slippery rocks and walk through shallow water, so a reasonable level of fitness helps. The tour is not suitable for babies or children under 3. Travelling with children? See which tours fit.
What to bring
Swimwear and a towel, reef-safe sunscreen and a hat, shoes that can get wet for the boat landings, and a waterproof bag for your phone. Bring pesos in cash for the ₱500 environmental fee per person. Masks and life jackets are included, and fins can be rented. Our full packing list.
Prefer a private boat?
With Private Island Hopping you have your own boat, captain, crew and coordinator. Pickup from your hotel is around 5:45 AM to catch the dolphins early, and most days you are back around noon. For a slower day on the water, our private yacht takes up to 6 guests, with dolphin watching, snorkeling and meals on board.
If the sea is rough
Your safety comes first. If the Coast Guard stops boats, sea tours cannot run, and you choose a free new date or a full refund. That is why we suggest planning your sea day early in your stay. See our 3-day itinerary.
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