The Loboc River Floating Lunch Cruise
The Loboc River winds through one of the most lush and undisturbed sections of Bohol's rainforest — and the floating restaurant cruise that operates along it is one of the most unique dining experiences in the Philippines. You board a double-decker bamboo raft, fill a plate from a Filipino buffet, and slowly drift downstream as the jungle closes in on both sides.
The river is slow-moving, calm, and a deep shade of green — reflecting the dense vegetation overhead. Local musicians and cultural performers entertain throughout the cruise. After about 45 minutes downstream, the boats moor briefly at a riverbank village where local children perform traditional dances, then return upstream to the dock.
What to Expect on the Cruise
Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours round trip. Food: Filipino buffet (rice, adobo, grilled fish, vegetables, desserts). Quality varies by boat operator — all are acceptable, some are better. Entertainment: Live rondalla or acoustic music on board; a cultural dance performance at the midway village stop.
Seating: Open-air tables with river views on both sides. There is usually a covered upper deck for shade. Drinks: Bottled water is included; soft drinks and alcohol may be purchased. Booking: No advance booking required for shared cruises — simply arrive at the Loboc riverbank between 9:30 AM and 12:30 PM and choose a boat.
How Much Does the Loboc River Cruise Cost?
The standard rate for the shared cruise is approximately ₱450 to ₱600 per person, inclusive of the buffet. Some operators charge slightly more for premium seating or during peak season. Children under 3 are usually free.
Private boat charters are available from approximately ₱3,000 to ₱5,000 for groups of up to 20–25 people, which works out cheaper per head for families or large groups and gives you the full boat to yourselves.
The Perfect Bohol Day Trip — Sample Itinerary
The Loboc River cruise is most naturally combined with the Tarsier Sanctuary and the Chocolate Hills into a single full-day trip. Here's the classic route from Tagbilaran:
Leave Tagbilaran
Pick up your rented motorbike or car (delivered to your hotel). Head northeast towards Corella or Loboc.
Tarsier Sanctuary
Visit the sanctuary in Corella or Loboc. Allow 45–60 minutes. The animals are calmest in the morning.
Arrive at Loboc Riverbank
Head to Loboc town and choose your floating restaurant. Board time is usually 10–11 AM depending on the operator.
Loboc River Cruise
Two hours on the river — buffet lunch, live music, cultural performance at the midway village. Back at dock by midday.
Drive to Chocolate Hills
From Loboc to Carmen (Chocolate Hills) is about 30 km — roughly 45 minutes. Arrive in the early afternoon.
Chocolate Hills Viewpoint
Climb the 214 steps to the viewing deck. Spend 1–2 hours, then begin the drive back to Tagbilaran or Panglao.
Back at Your Hotel
Return route takes about 1.5 hours. Stop at Baclayon Church en route if interested.
Practical Tips for the Loboc River Cruise
Arrive Before 11 AM
Boats fill up fast during peak season. Arrive by 10 AM to choose the best boat and seating. The last boarding is usually 1 PM.
Wear Sunscreen
The open upper deck has sun exposure. Bring a hat and sunscreen even though the canopy provides some shade.
Bring Cash
Most boat operators don't accept cards. Bring enough cash for the cruise, plus any drinks or tips you want to give the performers.
Sit on the River Side
Request seating on the open side facing the river for the best photos and airflow. The inner tables face away from the water.
Don't Swim in the River
The Loboc River is not designated for swimming. The current can be deceptive and the boat traffic makes it unsafe.
Tip the Performers
The cultural dancers at the village stop rely on tourist tips. Small donations (₱20–50 per person) are greatly appreciated and directly support local families.
Beyond the Cruise — More to See in Loboc
Loboc town has more to offer than just the river cruise. The St. Peter the Apostle Church (Loboc Church) is a 16th-century Spanish-colonial church built in 1602 and is one of the best-preserved baroque churches in Bohol — a short walk from the riverbank. After the cruise, stop in for a quick look at the stone facade and interior.
The Loboc Children's Choir rehearses and sometimes performs at the nearby community center — if you're lucky, you may hear them. The choir has won international competitions and is a point of pride for the municipality.
Other Must-See Destinations in Bohol
🐒 Tarsier Sanctuary
5 min from Loboc Sanctuary · Perfect morning combo
🍫 Chocolate Hills
~30 km from Loboc · 45 min drive north
🏖 Alona Beach
~45 km from Loboc · Panglao Island