Published on Feb, 2025
We had a great time! Frankie was an amazing host and made sure that everyone was well accommodated on the sports boat. He allows us to request music and offered shots (I think it was rum, but could be wrong). I was celebrating my birthday and he made sure that I received a special birthday cocktail while on one of the islands as well as had the staff sing happy birthday! That was an awesome surprise!
Here is what our experience was like - the time to meet stated 7:45AM but we did not leave the port until 9:00. The hour wait was mainly used to get passengers registered and to take lunch orders. It was not chaotic as there seem to be few tours leaving from our port location. The boat appeared to accommodate about 30-35 passengers. We seemed to be at capacity but life jackets were offered. The boat type is like a speed boat but the ride going to the islands was smooth (it was like a theme park ride on the way back lol). The first stop we visited was a historic site. I'd suggest bringing pesos for tipping the tour guide at the end as they do ask (but it's voluntary). After leaving the historic site we spent time snorkeling. Be mindful that this is not an island stop, but is one of the included 5 stops. I think the time allowed snorkeling was about 30-40 mins. We did see small fishes and someone spotted a jellyfish. Snorkeling equipment was provided (but no fins). The second island (3rd stop) we visited was quiet and offered a bar to purchase drinks and food. We were the only group there and there seem to be enough tables but not too many lounge chairs. This island was mainly for relaxing. Other than the bar and a massage therapist, I don't think there were any street vendors!!
When we got to Cholon, the 'party island' passengers were given the option to get off of the boat. Most of the passengers on our tour elected to stay on and I think that may have lessen our time there. Personally, I enjoyed the experience although there are vendors everywhere. The oysters were delicious (salty/briny) and the DJ played good music for the most part. It was busy when we arrived (and it was a Weds afternoon). Great spot to drink and socialize with a group of friends willing to take in the experience.
I just wish we could have stayed 20 mins longer.
The last stop was Playa Blanca where we had lunch. For timing reference, we arrived there around 3:00PM or shortly after. I believe we were running far behind at that point as we were told in the beginning that we would be returning at about 3:00. By the time my group received our food and ate, we had very little time to enjoy the beach before it was time to leave. There didn't seem to be a lot of lounge chairs as they were owned by particular restaurants on the beach. The food was good. I had the fish that was included within the provided allowance. One thing to note (and they are clear about this in the beginning when taking your lunch order), you'll have a 30k pesos allowance for food but anything on the menu that exceeds that price, you will pay the difference once at the lunch restaurant.
As noted before, the ride back on the sports boat was like a water rollercoaster. The captain was driving full speed back to the port. It made for a fun ride if you like a little thrill but probably not so much if you have back issues. We arrived back at the port around 5:15PM.
Overall, we had a fun and full day doing the Rosario Islands tour. I would definitely recommend doing this tour with this tour company. I'm sure the time spent in each place could vary with each group but the tour did meet the expectations that is listed on the site!
