Private car pick-up from Mactan–Cebu International Airport to Shangri-La's Mactan Resort & Spa (or similar luxury resort) to maximize comfort and proximity to amenities and private boat charters.
Settle into a sea-view villa; concierge can pre-book private boat charters, spa treatments and restaurant reservations. Resorts typically allow check-in from 2:00pm.
Fine-dining seafood or modern Filipino tasting menu at the resort or Abaca (Mactan) — excellent to sample local fresh seafood in a luxury setting; reserves recommended.
Start early the next morning with the resort's breakfast buffet for variety and last-minute briefing with concierge about the week's private trips; buffets usually open 6:30–10:30am.
Full-day private boat to Hilutungan and Nalusuan for world-class snorkeling among vibrant reefs and schooling fish; perfect for first-day snorkeling and easy swimming. Check tide and weather — charters typically run 7:00am–4:00pm.
Lunch can be served on the boat or at Nalusuan's simple island restaurant; menus focus on grilled fish and local sides — boats usually coordinate timing with the island restaurant hours (11:30am–2:00pm).
Snorkel or dive at Pescador Island and the famous sardine run off Panagsama Beach; ideal for underwater photographers and experienced snorkelers. Boats usually operate 7:00am–4:00pm but confirm local schedule and sea conditions.
Private guided canyoneering through the Badian river gorges (jumps, slides, short abseils) ending at the waterfalls; choose a private operator for a tailored pace and improved safety. Operators run trips roughly 6:30am–2:00pm, but confirm reservations.
Very early private transfer to Oslob (approx. 3–3.5h) to meet the whale shark observation window and island boat schedules; this activity is time-sensitive and typically runs 6:00am–12:00pm.
Observe whale sharks from a distance with a private boat and licensed guides (note: Oslob whale shark interactions are controversial — consider respectful viewing guidelines or skip and head straight to Sumilon for snorkeling and sandbar time). Sumilon Island offers excellent snorkeling and a protected sandbar.
Comfortable private speedboat (or VIP fast craft) takes you from Mactan area to Panglao (approx. 1–1.5h depending on routing). A private transfer saves time and keeps luggage handling minimal.
Private guided tour to the Chocolate Hills viewing deck and a reputable tarsier sanctuary (tarsiers are usually viewable 9:00am–5:00pm); this gives a cultural and scenic contrast to the sea days.
Early resort breakfast before a private dive/snorkel boat to Balicasag Island and Virgin Island (sandbar); boats commonly depart 7:00–8:00am and return by late afternoon.
Snorkel with sea turtles at Balicasag's protected reefs and visit the photogenic white sandbar at Virgin Island; ideal for non-divers and snorkelers alike. Operators run trips 7:00am–3:00pm but verify times and sea conditions.
Enjoy a picnic on the boat/shore or a seafood lunch at Alona Beach upon return; small island vendors may have limited menus, so bring snacks if you prefer.
Slow morning with resort breakfast; consider booking a resort cooking class or short island cultural experience if desired (advance notice recommended).
Private sunset sail or motorboat from Panglao — a calm way to end the trip with drinks and a photographer-friendly golden-hour cruise. Book in advance; cruises usually depart 4:30–6:00pm.
Private transfer to Panglao (Bohol) Airport (7–15 mins from most Panglao resorts) or VIP speedboat back to Cebu if your international flight departs from Mactan — choose based on your outbound flight routing and timing.
Arrive at the airport allowing standard international check-in times (recommend 2–3 hours before flight); concierge can assist with baggage and fast-track options at some airports.