Once Islas Day Tour — Zamboanga Island Hopping & Snorkeling

THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel

Read the full experience

The morning light hits the Moro Gulf and the motorboat rocks awake, pushing you from Panubigan’s shoreline toward a scatter of white sand and low green islets. Salt and sun move with you; waves nudge the bow and the islands peer back—compact, vivid, and waiting to be tested.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

8–10 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels; requires basic mobility for short boat transfers and short swims.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to know how to swim?

Basic swimming ability is recommended; life vests are provided and guides supervise snorkeling close to shore.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes—tours are family-friendly, but infants should sit on an adult’s lap and parents should judge sea conditions for young swimmers.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Some operators supply basic snorkel sets—confirm at booking; bringing your own mask ensures fit and comfort.

How do I get to the departure point?

Pickup and drop-off from hotels in Zamboanga City are typically included, but confirm your pickup point when booking and have a local contact number ready.

Local insights

Wildlife

Green sea turtle
Tropical reef fish (e.g., butterflyfish, damselfish)

History

Once Islas opened to the public in 2018 as an eco-cultural tourism initiative led by barangay communities along the Moro Gulf.

Conservation

Visitors are asked to register with the barangay and follow local rules to reduce reef damage—use reef-safe products and avoid standing on coral.

About CTPH TOUR

CTPH TOUR operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationZamboanga City, Zamboanga Peninsula

Tours offered4+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Register at Barangay PanubiganYou must register at the barangay office before boarding; arrive early to complete paperwork and pay entrance fees in cash.

Bring reef-safe sunscreenUse reef-safe sunscreen and a UV shirt to protect both your skin and the coral habitats you’ll snorkel over.

Expect basic facilitiesFacilities on the islands are minimal—pack snacks, cash, and any personal meds you need for the day.

Check sea conditionsOperators may change the route if winds or swell pick up; be prepared for a slightly different island order on rough days.

Recommended gear

Reef-safe sunscreen: Protects skin and prevents damage to coral ecosystems while snorkeling.
Water shoes: Protects feet on rocky shorelines and coral rubble during landings.
Dry bag (10L): Keeps phone, wallet and spare clothes dry on boat transfers.
Light waterproof jacket: Useful for wind or sporadic rain during the northeast trade-wind season.