đŹ Pamilacan Island Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour â Key Info
- Tour Type: Small-group, nature and wildlife tour (private option available).
- Pickup Points: Tagbilaran City, Panglao Island, Baclayon, or resort-based.
- Departure Time: Early morning (~6:00 AM recommended for best sightings).
- Duration: Full-day (approx. 6â8 hours).
- Transportation: Traditional outrigger boats (converted whaling vessels, capacity of 4â6 pax).
đ What to Expect on the Tour
- Dolphin Watching: Most common sightings include spinner dolphins, year-round. Boats scan the Bohol Sea waters near Pamilacan Island.
- Whale Spotting: Less frequent, usually spotted from February to July. Twelve cetacean species are known in the area.
- Island Stopover:
- Swimming & Snorkeling: Shallow reef areas (bring or rent gear from Panglao).
- Picnic Lunch: Some tours include lunch on the island (can varyâcheck inclusion).
- Free Time: Walk along quiet beaches, visit remnants of a Spanish-era fort, or interact with locals.
- Local Guides: Often descendants of former whalers, now eco-guides trained in sustainable tourism.
đ Best Time to Visit
- Whale Season: February to July.
- Dolphins: Seen all year round, especially in the early morning calm.
- Weather: Dry season (DecâMay) is best for visibility and sea conditions.
đ° Price Range (estimates)
- Group of 1â4: Around âą3,300 total (as per PIDWWT rate)
- Lunch: âą300/person if added
- Alona-based tours: Expect to pay more than Baclayon departures
- Eco tours from Baclayon are considered more ethical and complete than faster Alona tours
đď¸ Add-ons & Nearby Experiences
- Snorkeling rental: Available from dive shops in Panglao
- Homestay Options: Nitaâs Nipa Huts & others on the island for overnight stays (âą400ââą750)
- Other Activities: Optional squid-fishing or hiking
đ Geographic Context
- Pamilacan Island is about 23 km east of Balicasag and 15 km south of Baclayon, Bohol.
- This part of the Bohol Sea is rich in marine biodiversity and historically was a whaling areaânow protected and celebrated for ecotourism.
â Summary Recommendation
This tour is ideal for:
- Wildlife lovers
- Eco-conscious travelers
- Families with kids interested in marine life
- Visitors looking for an off-the-beaten-path island trip
âSeeing dolphins in their natural habitat and relaxing on Pamilacanâs quiet shores is an unforgettable Bohol experience.â â Travel Guide Review
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