There was a time not too long ago when, due to bad roads, traveling by sea was a primary means of transport from El Nido south to Port Barton. Today, Bearcat Travel recreates that epic North Palawan voyage in the form of a curated expedition aboard sturdy and comfortable Motoryacht Isla.

The trip begins by taking you to the outer fringes of El Nido’s Bacuit Bay, where few tour boats venture. Experience teeming coral gardens and beaches of matchless beauty on Matinloc Island before journeying south to sheltered Malampaya Sound, where Irrawaddy dolphins frolic in the shadow of majestic Mt Capoas.

More coastal paradises await as you continue south to San Vicente, which features 14km of nearly uninterrupted sandy beach. A clutch of islands off San Vicente offer postcard-perfect beauty and superb snorkeling and/or scuba diving. Spend a day or two exploring them, sleeping under the stars on the beach, aboard M/Y Isla, or in a resort (extra fees apply), before disembarking in the chill tourist town of Port Barton.

*This trip is available from March to mid-June only*