The bancas, or motorized outrigger boats, are commonly used here in Bohol for inter-island hopping adventures, as well as for dolphin and whale watching trips. Renting one can be arranged with any resort offering island tour packages, or directly from boat operators
Bohol is well-known in the Philippines as a haven for divers and snorkelers; thus, most diving operators also have their own bancas for their respective diving trips.
Locals make use of the banca like a water taxi; that is, to take them to a neighboring island such as Sequijor. Tourists can also rent one to cruise the different rivers of Bohol, such as the Loboc River.
Incidentally, only just a ten-minute boat ride from Panglao Island is the pristine white sands of Virgin Island, a perfect getaway if one desires a quick respite from the usual resort offerings. Technically, it is not an island but a mere sandbar.
At low tide, the center part of this crescent moon shaped islet is submerged under 6 inches of water. This flooding divides the island into two islets. Photography buffs can get a kick out of the submerged part of the islet, because it gives an illusion of walking over the water. Virgin Island is only open for day trips, for there are no hotel accommodations on this island, or islet, or sandbar.
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So are you getting a boat [banca] of your own? It has always been my dream to own one... not a big expensive yatch [which I couldn't afford anyway] but a modest & affordable banca!
ReplyDeleteBtw, I [we] hope you're ok there after the recent earthquake; I know it is between Cebu & Negros. Just the same hoping all is well!
Thanks, Jay, we are okay here at Panglao Island, though I was rocked for almost a minute while on my desk chair. I thought it was cool at first, but then heard news reports of its tragic, disastrous effects in other regions.
DeleteHaving a boat would be nice but it can be high maintenance from what I was told.
What an interesting post. It's great being able to find out about distant lands and people in such an immediate and genuine way.
ReplyDeleteThank you for visiting my blog and your kind comment.
Hi Nicholas! I like your blog and now following it. Thanks for visiting heere, too.
DeleteNice photographs, - looks very peaceful.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sivinden!
DeleteWhat a lovely place you live.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great information; it's like a private tour.
I love the composition on the first photo.
Many thanks,DebC. It is truly nice here. I feel blessed and give thanks each morning.
Deleteawww... sana makasakay ng bangka kaso takot ako hehehe! ganda ng beach :)
ReplyDeletesalamat po sa visit :)
Hi Vhen!
DeleteDon't be ... they provide life vests which you are asked to wear.
Calling by as another Saturday Seerenity participant, good to meet you. This looks just the sort of place I would love to visit.
ReplyDeleteCiao LindyLouMac!
DeleteYes, Bohol is the ideal place to visit if you're looking for a nice, friendly tropical setting. Panglao Island, in particular, is a host to many foreign visitors year round.
I've just checked out your Book Review blog and I was engrossed to say the least. I had to stop at your Oct. 2, 2011 post. I bookmarked it to return to later. I'll also include it to my list of blogs to follow.
Thank you for dropping by.
So beautiful! and a place I have never had the privelege of seeing! Thank you for sharing. Jeanne in Texas
ReplyDeletePerhaps, someday you'll get the chance to travel to Bohol, Jeanne!
DeleteBeautiful place and shots.
ReplyDeleteRegards and best wishes
Thank you, Tatjana!
Deletebeautiful...what a lovely place to be.
ReplyDeleteIt is, Laura. Thank you!
DeleteThis looks like fun - and such a beautiful setting, too! But would the boats go out with the sky looking so changeable??
ReplyDeleteJust overcast but it often turns clear by late morning. Yes, it is fun to go on this boating adventures.
DeleteBeautiful photo Tito Eric.
ReplyDeleteHow I wish one day could visit Philippines, I think it must be a really beautiful country!
Visiting from Staurday Sareenity.
Bohol is a very nice destination, Aiketa. Hope you can visit it someday.
DeleteTito...your shots from the Philippines are just awesome! even the previous one was an absolute stellar!
ReplyDeletemy sincere apologies on visiting so late and thank you for contributing to Saturday Sareenity.
My pleasure, Rohit ... I love your site, so many wonderful photographers.
DeleteThank you for the compliment and no aplogy needed ... you are a busy guy, we know :)