My views do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.
September 29, 2025
Lyn invited me to go snorkeling, so even though there was an extra spot available on the island-hopping tour I’d organized for the residents, I decided to go with her.
On the tender ride over, however, Rina convinced us to go helmet diving. I was feeling very popular.
We could go snorkeling anywhere!
We made our way to the beach and Rina negotiated a price.
We took a speedboat to the dive pontoon with the helmet-diving equipment.
We were on an adventure! We sang my go-to karaoke song, “I’m on a boat” by The Lonely Island, and Rina, being from Australia, had never heard of it.
Lyn, who was from Maui, hadn’t either!
On the dive pontoon (I’d seen those from the ship, floating by themselves in the distance, and they looked like a party I wanted to go to), one of the guys gave us a safety breifing with very cleverly placed fart jokes.
I hoped I wouldn’t get claustrophobic. I did not enjoy wearing a gas mask when I fought fires to earn my safety certificate, and I hoped this would be different.
Paul went down first.
Rina was about to go down next, but Paul was coming back up.
This was not for him.
He touched the bottom, and he was happy with that experience. He did not want more.
He would wait for us on the pontoon.
Rina went down.
Then I climbed down the ladder. Once I was in the water, they placed the 70-pound helmet on my shoulders, and I descended with guidance from one of the divers.
Under the water, we could communicate only with hand signals.
Slowly, slowly, we descended as I acclimated to the pressure. They had been a bit dramatic about the pressure change at the safety breifing (probably because some people react badly to it), but for me it wasn’t even as uncomfortable as flying on an airplane.
Soon I was standing on the ocean floor.
When I inhaled, the helmet would snuggle into my shoulders. When I exhaled, bubbles would fart out the back.
I saw Rina and space-walked over to her.
I wish I had better words to describe how cool this was.
As awesome and fun as you can imagine it to be – it was.
I tried to reach for Rina’s hand, but the distance was distorted by the helmet’s visor, so I had to wave my hand around randomly until I found hers.
Soon, Lyn joined us.
I’d been snorkeling before, but this was a whole other level.
The thing growing on the rock looked like a fluffy shag carpet. One of the guides indicated that we should touch it. When I did, the plant retracted and somehow managed to glare at me.
Meanwhile, Nemo was swimming through it and snuggling up to it like a cat on a comfy couch.
Then the guide brought out some fish food that most closely resembled soft hunks of wet bread.
We would let the food drift in the water, and fish would swarm right in front of us!
Rina held onto the food instead of letting it go, and let the fish eat directly from her fingers.
She jumped a bit when they did, so I was afraid to try it at first.
Then after some encouragement, I gave it a shot and it didn’t hurt at all!
They told us we’d be down there for 20 minutes, which didn’t sound very long.
I don’t know how long we were actually down there, but time is a funny thing- stretches and shrinks.
When it was time to go back up, I didn’t feel like it wasn’t enough – I was satisfied.
It was definitely one of the coolest things I’ve done in all my travels.
Back up on the pontoon, they transferred all the photos they’d taken with their underwater camera onto our phones without charging us anything extra.
I was flabbergasted.
When we did the conversion – I think we had paid only about $20 each for the experience.
SO CHEAP!
I couldn’t believe it.
I would do it again for $20 in a snap! For a hundred – maybe. I think it would be worth it if you’ve never done it before. But you should definitely go to the Philippines and do it for $20.
Back on land, we walked along the beach, still buzzing from the thrill of our adventure.
Eventually, we veered inland and negotiated some cheap massages.
Paul went for a walk while a woman led Lyn, Rina and me two doors down and up a few flights of stairs to massage tables lined up side by side and separated by curtains. We could chat with each other if we wanted to.
I let my mind wander, and giggled as Lyn kept asking her masseuse to go deeper.
It wasn’t a great massage, but I was having such a spectacular day, that I couldn’t complain.
After that, we found a feast of local food!
We wandered back through the touristy town.
I was so full, but I’d read about turon – fried banana-jackfruit spring roll, caramelized and crunchy – while doing my research.
Lyn had tried it the day before and insisted we go back to the same place.
I mean, it was called Happy…
We passed by Hobbit Tavern,
I really wanted to patronize this place, but I was full to the brim!
We passed a McDonalds.
I always love to see how the menu differs in other countries.
We took the bus back to the tender dock just in time to catch an incredible sunset.
Boracay Island, Philippines
Boracay is a palm-fringed sandbar just off Panay Island, famed for its four-kilometer White Beach, paraw sailboats at sunset, and a mellow party scene that now runs under strict eco-rules. The island (population ~37,800, within Malay municipality, Aklan) packs beaches, water sports, and dining into three barangays—Yapak, Balabag, and Manoc-Manoc—linked by a single spine road. There are no UNESCO World Heritage Sites on Boracay, but its post-rehab focus on sustainability is a story in itself: no smoking or drinking on the beach, cleaner waters, and capped visitor numbers. You’ll tender to the mainland Caticlan Jetty Port, then shuttle by boat to the island.
History:
Long before today’s resorts, Boracay was home to the Ati and farming families who grew coconut and root crops. Tourism began in earnest in the 1970s–80s as backpackers spread the word about powder-fine sand and calm, shallow waters on the island’s west coast. By the 2000s, Boracay was a global name—regularly crowned among the world’s best islands—bringing rapid construction and crowds. Environmental strain followed: wastewater issues, beach crowding, and reef damage. In 2018, the Philippine government ordered a six-month closure to rehabilitate the island—tearing down illegal structures, laying proper sewage systems, clearing a 30-meter beach setback, and instituting new codes (including no smoking or drinking on the beach and tighter watersports zoning). When Boracay reopened, it kept the sunsets and soft sand but shifted to sustainable tourism with visitor caps and regular enforcement. Today, the island balances its festive DNA with cleaner water, mangrove restoration, and simpler, nature-first pleasures—paraw sailing at dusk, early swims, and quiet side beaches away from Station 2.
Itinerary:
Arrival: Sunday September 28, 8:00am (please allow time for port clearance)
Departure: Monday September 29, Last Tender: 6:00pm Sail away: 7:00pm
Weather
- Average Temps (late Sept): highs ~31 °C / 88 °F, lows ~25–26 °C / 77–79 °F.
- Climate: Southwest-monsoon (“Habagat”)—humid, with showers and variable winds; seas can be choppy on one coast and calm on the other.
- What to Wear: Light, breathable fabrics; reef-safe sunscreen; hat; quick-dry footwear or sandals with grip; compact rain jacket/umbrella.
Near the Pier:
Tender Anchorage: Caticlan Jetty Port (mainland) → public boat to Cagban (or Tambisaan) Jetty Port on Boracay (jetty depends on monsoon/wind).
Address: Caticlan Jetty Port, Malay, Aklan
Filipino: Pantalan ng Caticlan, Bayan ng Malay, Lalawigan ng Aklan
Tenders will run continuously from 8:30am to 6pm both days
The last tender from shore to ship will be 6pm
- Distance to “town center” (White Beach/D’Mall): ~1 km from island jetty by e-trike to Station 3, ~3 km to D’Mall (Station 2).
Nearby Essentials:
Pharmacy/ATM/Groceries: D’Mall (Station 2)—Watsons pharmacy, multiple ATMs, minimarts. CityMall also has banks/shops.
Nearest Church: Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish (Station 1).
Nearest Golf: Fairways & Bluewater (18-hole).
Nearest Market/Shopping: D’Mall & side lanes; CityMall for basics.
Getting Around:
- 🚶 Walking: White Beach’s Stations 1–3 connect via a beachfront path; expect soft sand and occasional detours.
- 🚌 Public Transit: No city buses; public e-trikes/tricycles run shared or private hires along the main road.
- 🚖 “Taxis”: None. Use e-trikes—joiners from ₱20–₱35 per person; private hires typically ₱150–₱300 for short hops (post price before riding).
- 🚴 Bike Rentals: Limited; some hotels rent cruisers.
- 🚗 Car Rentals: Not typical for tourists; the island restricts vehicles—use e-trikes or hotel shuttles.
- Hop-On Hop-Off: Not available.
- Boats: Paraw sunset sails and short island-hopping trips depart from White Beach (weather-dependent). Typical joiner rates ~₱750 pp / 30 min.
Witnessing:
White Beach (Stations 1–3) The island’s signature curve of ultra-fine sand, shallow gradient, and warm, clear water; sunsets with paraw silhouettes are quintessential Boracay.
- Access: Public and free. Day-visitors are allowed—pay terminal + environmental + boat fees at Caticlan Jetty, then take the public boat to Cagban (or Tambisaan in Habagat).
- From island jetty: E-trike to White Beach 10–25 min (private hire ~₱150–₱250 depending on distance).
- Best time: Early morning or late afternoon.
- Beach rules (enforced): No smoking, drinking, fires, or commercial sandcastles on the sand; 30-m easement kept clear. Resort loungers are for guests.
- Strolling: A back-beach walkway lets you walk the full ~4 km curve.
Station 1 — Wide sand, quieter upscale vibe. Softest, widest beach; shallow entry; landmarks like Willy’s Rock. Best for: lounging, family swims, sunrise/sunset photos.
- Willy’s Rock A photogenic volcanic outcrop just offshore with a small Marian shrine; at low tide you can wade out for close-ups.
Practical: Free; 20–30 min stop. From Station 2, walk 15–20 min along the beach or e-trike 5–10 min. Watch footing—rocks can be slippery.
✨ Tip: Best light is early morning before crowds. - Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary (Learning) Local Catholic parish near the beachfront; simple architecture and daily Mass.
Info: Free; drop-in respectful visits outside service times; 10–20 min.
✨ Tip: Dress modestly; check Mass times on the parish page. - Diniwid to Station 1 (Hiking) Cliff Path — Short scenic path (tide/maintenance permitting) linking Diniwid cove to northern White Beach; easy but watch footing.
Station 2 — Center stage . Busiest stretch with shops, cafés, beach clubs, ATMs/mini-marts just inland. Best for: eating, people-watching, convenience.
- D’Mall — Open-air lanes with souvenirs, cafés, pizza, Mexican food, ATMs, and beach essentials; great for quick resupplies.
Station 3 — Laid-back & budget-friendly. Quieter, easy swim access, smaller hotels; handiest for quick in/out to the jetty. Best for: slower pace, more space.
- Paraw Sunset Sailing Sit on outrigger “net” wings while a crew sails you along White Beach at golden hour—iconic and gentle even for non-boaters.
Cost/Time: Joiners ~₱750 pp / 30 min; private boats ~₱2,000–2,500. Departures from White Beach.
✨ Tip: Book the earliest sunset slot if skies look stormy.
Puka Shell Beach (Yapak)
Quieter, wilder north-coast beach of coarser “puka” shells; deeper, clearer water and fewer vendors.
Practical: Free; plan 60–90 min. E-trike from Station 2: 20–30 min (₱250–₱350 private). Waves can be stronger than at White Beach.
✨ Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and water—shade is limited.
Learning:
Motag Living Museum (Caticlan mainland)
An interactive farm-life experience—plowing with carabao, weaving, and rural cooking—showing pre-tourism life in Aklan.
Info: Sessions typically 9:00–17:00 (last admission ~14:00); allow 1.5–2 hrs plus boat transfer. Arrange transport from jetty.
✨ Tip: Combine with arrival/departure day if your timing aligns.
Lugutan Mangrove Park (Manoc-Manoc)
Short boardwalk through protected mangroves; peaceful contrast to the beach scene.
Info: Small entrance; 30–45 min visit; e-trike 10–15 min from Stations 2–3.
✨ Tip: Sunrise is serene and cooler.
Discovery:
Island-Hopping & Snorkeling
Half-day boat trips to Crocodile Island, Coral Garden, and quiet coves (weather-dependent).
Cost/Time: Joiners often ₱1,200–₱1,800 pp incl. gear.
✨ Tip: Ask about jellyfish season and bring a rashguard.
Golf at Fairways & Bluewater
18-hole, 6,524-yard course threading through hills above the east coast; rentals and caddies available.
Time: 3.5–4.5 hrs round; resort day-guest fees apply. E-trike 15–20 min from Stations.
✨ Tip: Book early tee times—afternoons are hot.
Hiking (easy coastal walks & viewpoints)
Diniwid to Station 1 Cliff Path — Short scenic path (tide/maintenance permitting) linking Diniwid cove to northern White Beach; easy but watch footing.
Puka Beach headlands — Easy sandy/rocky strolls with views; avoid during heavy surf.
Mount Luho Viewpoint (Bulabog side)
Boracay’s low island high point with sweeping views over Bulabog Lagoon and the curve of White Beach. Expect a short, moderate stair climb of 72 steps to basic viewing platforms; some decks may be roped off during maintenance.
Practical: Open roughly 7:00–18:00 (daylight hours). Entrance: about ₱100–₱120 (cash). Visit time: 30–45 min. Access: 15–20 min by e-trike from Station 2/D’Mall (tours/ATVs also go up—confirm prices before riding).
✨ Tip: Aim for a clear morning for the least haze; late-afternoon light is lovely for photos. Bring water and grippy footwear. If clouds or wind pick up, platforms can close—ask your driver or check the viewpoint’s page for same-day status.
Shopping
D’Mall (Station 2) — Open-air lanes with souvenirs, cafés, ATMs, and beach essentials; great for quick resupplies.
CityMall — Air-con mall for groceries and basics (short e-trike from Stations).
✨ Tip: ATMs can run low on weekends—try multiple machines along the main road.
Exploring:
Aklan Mangroves & Kalibo Weaving (full day)
Head north to Bakhawan Eco-Park’s long boardwalk through thriving mangroves, then continue to Kalibo for piña fiber weaving cooperatives and a seafood lunch on the river. Rich nature + craft heritage in one loop.
Practical: Boat back to Caticlan, then private car/van: ~1 hr to Bakhawan, ~30 min to Kalibo. Plan 6–8 hrs door-to-door. Eco-park and coop fees apply.
✨ Tip: Pack water and a light rain shell; ask at the coop for a quick loom demo before shopping—quality varies, and the demo helps you buy the good stuff.
Hidden Gems:
Cujo’s Keyhole (Yapak “Keyhole”)
Natural rock arch carved by the sea—dramatic photos when waves surge through.
Access: 15–20 min by e-trike from Station 2 to Fairways & Bluewater guard gate, short walk.
✨ Tip: Go early; footwear with grip (sharp limestone).
Old Helipad Viewpoint
A leftover pad above Bulabog with breezy 180° views—informal but striking.
Access: 10–15 min by e-trike inland from Station 2; ask for the old helipad/Mt. Luho area.
✨ Tip: Best at golden hour; bring water and mind uneven concrete.
Bulabog Back-Lanes (Kiteboard “workshop alley”)
Quirky murals, board-repair sheds, and beach dogs—very local, creative vibe.
Access: 10 min e-trike from Stations 1–3 to Bulabog Beach, then wander the inland lanes.
✨ Tip: Snap murals in the morning when light is soft.
Ilig-Iligan Sea Caves
Tiny sea caves and craggy headlands on a quieter coast.
Access: 20–25 min by e-trike to Ilig-Iligan Beach, short sand/rock scramble.
✨ Tip: Come at mid/low tide; flip-flops aren’t enough—wear sturdy sandals.
Station X Oddities (Hue Hotels compound)
A design-y cluster of bars/shops with pop-up art, a rum lab (Prisma), and occasional quirky events.
Access: 5–10 min e-trike to Station X (Hue Hotel, Main Road, Station 2).
✨ Tip: Check same-day on socials for markets or costume nights.
Tasting:
Island staples (₱200–₱450/plate):
Adobo – soy–vinegar–garlic braise (chicken/pork), tender and savory.
Sinigang – tamarind-sour soup with pork, shrimp, or fish; bright and refreshing.
Kare-kare – creamy peanut stew (oxtail/beef) with bagoong on the side.
Lechon – crackly roast pork; plates or portions of belly.
Street bites (₱20–₱80):
Isaw – smoky grilled chicken intestines with chili-vinegar dip.
Kwek-kwek – orange-battered quail eggs, crisp outside, soft inside.
Turon – fried banana-jackfruit spring roll, caramelized and crunchy.
Beach favorites (₱120–₱220 unless by weight):
Grilled seafood – pick your fish/squid; confirm price per 100 g.
Chori burger – sweet-savory local chorizo patty in a bun.
Calamansi muffins – tangy, buttery island staple.
Mango shakes/Halo-halo – ripe mango blitzed smooth; halo-halo is shaved ice with jellies, beans, and milk.
Where: D’Mall and Station 2 side lanes for variety; simple seafood shacks near Station 3.
Drinks: San Miguel/local beers ₱80–₱180; fresh calamansi juice (pronounced kah-lah-MAHN-see) is the Philippines’ classic lemonade—made from calamansi, a tiny, ultra-fragrant citrus often called Philippine lime. It tastes like a bright mix of lime + tangerine: zesty, slightly floral, and vividly sour. ₱70–₱120.
Iris Pub: there isn’t a dedicated, always-Irish-themed pub on Boracay right now—but you’ve got two good “closest match” options.
- Hobbit Tavern (D’Mall, Station 2, Boracay): a tavern with pub grub and live music that goes full Irish on St. Patrick’s (Guinness/Irish menu, folk music, promos). Good fallback if you’re craving the vibe.
- Los Indios Bravos (White House, Station 1, Boracay): craft-beer gastropub with classic pub dishes (fish & chips, sausages). Not Irish per se, but arguably the island’s best pub experience.
Mexican
- Mañana Mexican Cuisine (Station 1, beachfront): long-running, classic tacos/burritos/quesadillas.
- Tres Amigos Mexican Cantina (D’Mall, Station 2): casual cantina—burritos, tacos, quesadillas; delivery menu shows wide taco set.
- Muchos (beachfront Latin kitchen & bar): not strictly Mexican, but known for tacos/birria plus big tequila/mezcal list.
- Mayas Filipino & Mexican Cuisine (Station 1): Filipino-Mex menu with beachfront seating.
- ArmyNavy Burger + Burrito (Station 1): Tex-Mex fast-casual—tacos, burritos; handy for quick cravings
Nightlife:
Epic Boracay (Station 2, beach-club/club) — Dinner by day; DJ-led club nights into late; beachfront by D’Mall.
Paraw Beach Club (Station 1) — Classic toes-in-sand lounge that ramps up after dark; check socials for theme nights.
Prisma (Station X) — Craft cocktails and a deep rum list in a tropical, pool-adjacent setting.
Tip: Book an early table and stick to Grab/e-trike to make last tender.
On the ship: As it’s a Sunday there will be a movie on in the Neptune and Residents are also running Ballroom/Latin Dancing in the Coral, both starting at 8:30pm.
Travel Tips:
- Cash & Cards: Small rides/fees are cash-only; ATMs at D’Mall and along the main road. Bring small bills for e-trikes and fees.
- Beach rules: No smoking/drinking on the sand; obey lifeguards and swim flags.
- Monsoon logistics: In Habagat (Jun–Oct), boats may use Tambisaan jetty; expect route changes and short, choppy crossings.
- Sun & sea: Strong UV—use reef-safe sunscreen; consider a rashguard for snorkel days.
- Phrase for e-trike: “Pa-D’Mall po, private” (to D’Mall, private hire) or “joiner” if sharing.
- Return buffer: Allow 60–90 minutes from beach to tender (walk → e-trike → jetty → boat), especially if it rains.