Last April our family spent 2 weeks in the Philippines – a week with friends in El Nido and then 5 nights on Coron island. When I first looked into how we were going to get from El Nido to Coron, most routes involved a ferry or a fast plane. But then came a very intriguing recommendation from a friend – a three-day island-hopping expedition with a company called Keelooma. There are other companies running this trip but this one I can highly recommend.

When I first suggested the idea to my family the responses included “that sounds a bit gap year” from my husband, “that sounds awesome” from my youngest and “no WIFI no way” from my 11 year old. But three days, two beach huts, some gap year travel companions and zero screen time later – we all agreed it was one of the best things we’ve ever done.

We travelled as a family of four — two adults and two boys, aged 9 and 11. From what we could tell, this isn’t common, but it’s totally doable although I wouldn’t recommend with young children. Our boat had about 15 passengers: us, two older solo travellers in their 60s, and a group of twenty-something Europeans (on gap years). It worked. The boys were either in the water, playing cards with other guests, or chatting with the crew. There was a relaxed, shared feel to everything — no awkward silences, no need for constant entertainment. Everyone just… settled in and had a wonderful time.

Our home for three days (life on board)

This is the type of craft you can expect. The daily routine was simple:

• Jump off the boat
• Swim or snorkel
• Kayak or paddle board
• Catch some fish for dinner
• Visit a beach
• Eat
• Repeat

There’s no Wi-Fi for the most part (and no one missed it). Most people read, napped, or just stared out at the water between stops. There is opportunity to charge your phone (for photos of course) throughout the day while on the boat and at the camps. Meals were cooked by the crew and served buffet-style on the beach or boat. Think grilled fish, vegetables, rice, and tropical fruit. It was fresh, simple, and tasty. The kids lived off “Filipino power” (aka rice aptly named by the captain), but the variety encouraged them to try new things too. The stops were truly phenomenal – every beach seemed more spectacular than the one before (no beach fatigue here) and the reefs were in tact and full of life.

Where you’ll sleep

Both nights were spent in A-frame huts right on the beach. They’re basic — mattress on the floor, mosquito net, no fan — but you fall asleep and wake up to the sound of the waves just metres away. The beach was long and the crew were considerate to set up the dinner and drinks area far away from the huts for people (like us with the boys) who wanted to go to bed early. Toilets and showers were VERY basic but good enough that you can wash the salt off after a day at sea.

What to Bring

• Dry bag (essential)
• Reusable water bottle (water is provided)
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Mosquito repellant
• Swimwear
• Your own snorkel gear if you are fussy (it is provided though)
• Head torch for nighttime
• Camera/ underwater camera and a power pack for charging
• Lifejacket for kids (these are not available)
• An open mind

When is it best to go?

We travelled in early April and the weather/ sea conditions were perfect. December to April is your safest bet for calm seas, blue skies, and peak visibility as this is dry season — ideal for a trip like this with kids. May – December is rainy season and Keelooma does run trips during this time the weather may be a little more unpredictable.

Is it for you?

Yes — if you’re after something a bit different as a family.
If you’re happy being off-grid for a few days, don’t mind taking the slow route from A to B, and can handle simple huts in exchange for some of the most beautiful views and experiences you’ll have on a trip. It’s not luxury but it is magical.

Not for you if – You’re not comfortable in the water (swimming and snorkelling are a big part of each day),
you need to stay connected to the outside world (there’s no signal or Wi-Fi), or you’re not up for a cold bucket shower at the end of the day. Also not for you if you are not a fan of group travel. We were incredibly lucky with our tour group but the boat can hold up to 20 people so something to consider.

It’s back-to-basics — but in the best possible way.

Our verdict

We honestly loved every minute. It was the kind of experience that brought us closer as a family — full of shared adventures, simple pleasures, and plenty of laughs.

At just $280 USD per person, including all meals, soft drinks, snorkelling, and two nights of beachfront accommodation, it was brilliant value for money.

The guides were friendly, professional, and full of energy — a huge part of what made the trip so special.

We’d absolutely book with http://www.keelooma.com again.