Dry season runs roughly November through May - that's when the water's calmest and visibility best for diving. June through October brings rain and choppier seas, which can mean tour cancellations. Book your seaplane transfers and island hopping for the dry months if you want reliability.

Popular seaplane routes - especially Puerto Princesa to El Nido or Coron - fill up weeks in advance during peak season. Day trips to Busuanga and Balabac can book out too. Aim for 2-4 weeks ahead if you're flexible, longer if you have firm dates.

Yes, especially if you're short on time or want to avoid logistics headaches. The 3-4 day resort packages bundle accommodation, meals, transfers, and island hopping - you show up and they handle the rest. Day trips give you more control but mean arranging your own transport between towns.

Seaplanes are fastest (45 minutes to an hour) and what most tourists use. Vans and ferries exist but take 5-8 hours. The catalog shows seaplane transfers are the dominant choice here - check before you go for current schedules and whether routes are running.

Guided tours (usually included in the packages people book) handle navigation, snorkel spots, and safety briefings. Solo travel works if you're comfortable hiring a private boat and skipper, but group tours are more common and often cheaper per person. Most visitors book organized hopping itineraries.

Day tours usually include seaplane transfer from Puerto Princesa, snorkeling at multiple sites, island visits, and a packed lunch. Check the exact itinerary before you book - some add kayaking or visits to specific wrecks or lagoons. Gear and guides are typically included.

The resort packages and island hopping suit families well - kids love the boat rides and snorkeling. Seaplane transfers work for families too, though check age and weight restrictions with operators before booking. Calm-water snorkel spots are good for younger swimmers.