Shared island-hopping tours are great value, but a private boat charter in El Nido takes the experience to another level. You set the pace, choose your stops, avoid the crowds, and get the lagoons almost to yourself — especially if you go early. This guide covers everything: costs, what’s included, best routes, and how to book a private charter in El Nido in 2026.
| Charter Type | Capacity | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small bangka (outrigger) | 2–4 pax | ₱3,500–5,000/day | Couples, small groups |
| Medium bangka | 5–8 pax | ₱5,000–8,000/day | Families, friend groups |
| Large bangka | 9–15 pax | ₱8,000–12,000/day | Large groups |
| Speedboat | 4–6 pax | ₱8,000–15,000/day | Remote destinations, time-limited |
Table of Contents
Private vs Shared Tour: Which is Better?
| Factor | Shared Tour | Private Charter |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per person | ₱1,200–1,500 | ₱1,500–4,000+ (split among group) |
| Flexibility | Fixed itinerary | Fully customizable |
| Crowds at stops | Arrive with 5–10 other boats | Arrive independently, fewer crowds |
| Timing | Fixed departure 8am | Depart when you want |
| Extra stops | Not possible | Add any stop for small fee |
| Best for | Solo travelers, budget travelers | Couples, families, groups of 4+ |
For groups of 4 or more, a private charter often costs the same per person as a shared tour — but with far more flexibility. See our island hopping tours guide for a full shared vs private comparison.
What’s Included in a Private Charter
Standard inclusions for most private charters:
- Boat and licensed captain
- Life vests and snorkeling gear (mask, fins)
- Lunch (usually grilled fish, rice, vegetables cooked on the boat)
- Drinking water
- Environmental fee (₱200/person) — sometimes included, sometimes extra
Not usually included: Alcoholic drinks, extra snacks, entrance fees to specific sites (e.g., Small Lagoon ₱200, Big Lagoon ₱200).
Best Private Charter Routes
Classic Tour A Route (Private)
Big Lagoon → Small Lagoon → Seven Commandos Beach → Shimizu Island → Payong-Payong Beach. The advantage of doing Tour A privately: you can arrive at Big Lagoon at 7:30am before the shared tour boats, getting the lagoon almost to yourself.
Tour C Hidden Gems Route
Secret Beach → Hidden Beach → Matinloc Shrine → Helicopter Island → Star Beach. Private Tour C lets you spend more time at Secret Beach (the swim-through entrance is less rushed) and linger at Matinloc Shrine for sunset photos.
Remote North Route (Exclusive to Private)
Nacpan Beach → Calitang Twin Beach → Duli Beach → Pasandigan Cove. This full-day route covers El Nido’s wild northern coastline — inaccessible on standard shared tours. Requires a larger boat and costs ₱8,000–12,000.
Sunset Charter
A 3–4 hour afternoon/evening charter (₱2,500–4,000) departing around 3pm, cruising the Bacuit Bay archipelago and anchoring for sunset. Popular for honeymoons and special occasions.
How to Book a Private Charter
- Through your hotel: Most hotels can arrange private charters — convenient but often 10–20% more expensive
- At the pier directly: Walk to El Nido pier and negotiate with boat operators — best prices but requires bargaining
- Via tour operators on Calle Hama: Many tour shops offer private charters — compare 2–3 quotes
- Online (Klook/KKday): Book in advance for peace of mind, though prices are fixed and slightly higher
Tip: Always confirm what’s included in writing (or clearly verbally) before paying. Clarify: lunch included? Snorkel gear? Environmental fees?
Private Charter Tips
- Go early: Depart at 7–7:30am to beat shared tour boats to the lagoons
- Bring cash: Most boat operators are cash-only; ATMs in El Nido can run dry during peak season
- Negotiate respectfully: Prices are somewhat flexible, especially in shoulder season — a 10–15% discount is reasonable to ask for
- Check the boat: Inspect the boat before departing — ensure life vests are present and the engine is in good condition
- Tip your crew: ₱200–500 tip for the captain and crew is customary and appreciated
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a private boat cost in El Nido?
A standard private bangka charter costs ₱3,500–8,000 per day depending on boat size. Split among 4–6 people, this works out to ₱600–2,000 per person — comparable to or only slightly more than shared tours.
Can I customize the route on a private charter?
Yes — that’s the main advantage. You can request any combination of stops, spend more time at your favourite spots, and skip stops you’re not interested in. Some very remote destinations require advance notice so the captain can plan fuel.
Is it safe to hire a private boat in El Nido?
Yes, as long as you use licensed operators. All legitimate boat operators at El Nido pier are registered with the local tourism office. Avoid unlicensed operators offering unusually low prices.
What’s the best time of year for a private charter?
November to April (dry season) offers the best conditions. January–March is peak season — book ahead. For the best value with good weather, try November or early December.
Plan Your Private Charter
A private boat charter is one of the best upgrades you can make to an El Nido trip — especially for couples, honeymooners, and groups of 4+. For more on El Nido’s island-hopping options, read our complete island hopping guide and island hopping cost guide.
| Platform | Best For | El Nido Deals |
|---|---|---|
| Booking.com | Hotels, resorts, free cancellation | View deals → |
| Agoda | Best Asia prices, loyalty rewards | View deals → |
| Klook | Tours & activities | Browse tours → |
