Once Islas — 11 Islands
Overview
Eleven islands, one unforgettable day in Zamboanga Bay.
Once Islas (Spanish for "eleven islands") is a chain of 11 small uninhabited islands scattered just off the Zamboanga peninsula. Each island has its own personality: one has dramatic limestone formations, another has the calmest snorkeling reef in the bay, another is nothing but a perfect white sandbar rising from turquoise water. This full-day island hopping tour visits the best of them — with a fresh seafood lunch cooked on the island by the local community. This is one of the most underrated island experiences in the Philippines.
Highlights
✦Visit 4–6 of the 11 islands in one day
✦Sirommon Island — the best snorkeling reef in the bay
✦Baung-Baung Island — dramatic limestone sea cliffs
✦Bisaya-Bisaya Island — untouched white sand beach
✦Fresh seafood lunch cooked by island community (₱300/person)
✦Private sandbar experience — no crowds, just your group
What's Included
- ✅Private speedboat for the group
- ✅Licensed local boat captain & guide
- ✅Snorkeling gear & life jackets
- ✅Fresh seafood lunch grilled on the island (₱300/person community meal)
- ✅All island entrance fees
- ✅Bottled water & light refreshments
- ✅Island cottage/shade (shared)
- ❌Personal alcoholic drinks
- ❌Underwater camera rental
Full Day Itinerary
Meet your crew at the jetty. Safety briefing and departure.
First stop: the best snorkeling in the Once Islas chain. Put on your gear and explore healthy coral formations and schools of tropical fish just a few meters from shore.
Dramatic limestone formations rise from the water. Great for photos and short exploration. Some areas have small sea caves accessible at low tide.
A pristine sandbar where the water is shallow and impossibly clear. Walk along the sandbar and look down at the sea floor below. Free time for swimming and photos.
Fresh fish, squid, and shellfish grilled over open fire by the island community. Rice and local sides included. One of the best meals you'll have in Zamboanga.
Afternoon island hopping continues — more swimming, snorkeling, and exploring depending on weather and tide.
Speedboat back to Paseo del Mar. Arrive by 5:00 PM.
What to Bring
·Reef-safe sunscreen
·Swimwear + extra clothes
·Waterproof bag for electronics
·Cash for extra drinks or personal purchases
·Seasickness medication if you're prone (the bay is generally calm)
·Hat and sunglasses
·Dry bag for valuables
Cancellation Policy
✅ Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your tour.
Cancel within 24 hours and you'll receive a full refund or free reschedule. Tours cancelled due to bad weather are rescheduled at no charge — your safety always comes first.
Cancel within 24 hours and you'll receive a full refund or free reschedule. Tours cancelled due to bad weather are rescheduled at no charge — your safety always comes first.
Important Notes
⚠️ Minimum 4 guests for this tour. Solo travelers and pairs can join a shared group — let us know.
⚠️ Route may change based on weather and sea conditions — always for your safety and comfort.
⚠️ The ₱300/person community meal is paid directly to the island community (supports local families).
⚠️ Recommended for ages 5 and above. Young children must wear life jackets at all times on the water.
