Is a private or shared speedboat better in El Nido?

A shared speedboat is the best value and still far less crowded than group bangkas. A private charter is best for couples, families and anyone who wants their own route and pace. Both reach the lagoons fast.

At what group size is private cheaper than shared?

Around 4 or more guests the per-person cost of a private charter approaches the shared price, while adding full flexibility and privacy.

El Nido Guide

Private vs Shared Speedboat

Q: How much does each cost?

A shared speedboat is from ₱19,000 per person (2–4 guests max). A private speedboat charter is ₱38,000 for the whole boat, 1 to 8 guests, so it is better value the larger your group.

Both beat the crowded group bangkas. The choice comes down to budget, group size and how much you want the day to be yours.

Once you've decided on a speedboat over a traditional bangka, the next question is whether to join a small shared charter or book a private boat. Here's how to choose.

The quick answer

Shared speedboat — best value, small group, still far quieter than group bangkas. Ideal for solo travelers, couples on a budget, and the flexible.
Private charter — your own boat, route and pace. Ideal for couples wanting privacy, families, honeymoons, and groups of 4+ (where the per-head cost gets close to shared).

	Shared Speedboat	Private Charter
Price	From ₱19,000 / person	₱38,000 / boat (1–8)
Who's aboard	A small shared group	Only your group
Itinerary	Set route	Yours to shape
Best for	Solo, couples on budget	Couples, families, honeymoons
Departure timing	Fixed	Flexible (go early)
Value at 4+ guests	Good	Often better per head

When shared is the smart pick

If you're one or two people watching the budget, the shared speedboat gives you nearly all the upside — fast transfers, a small group, the lagoons before the crowds — at the lowest price. You give up only the ability to set your own exact route.

When private is worth it

For couples who want privacy, families with kids, or any group of four or more, a private charter is the better day: you choose the order of stops (Big Lagoon first), the lunch length, and the pace — and at 4+ guests the per-person cost is close to shared anyway.

Rule of thumb: 1–2 budget travelers → shared. Couples wanting privacy, families, or 4+ guests → private.

Shared — from ₱19,000 / person Private — ₱38,000 / boat

FAQ

Common questions

Is private or shared better?

Shared is best value and still uncrowded; private is best for couples, families and groups who want their own route and pace.

How much does each cost?

Shared from ₱19,000 per person (2–4 max); private ₱38,000 for the whole boat (1–8), so better value the larger your group. Book on the speedboat hub.

When does private beat shared on price?

Around 4+ guests the per-person private cost approaches shared, while adding full flexibility and privacy.

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