Boracay Paraw Sailing Ultimate Guide
Boracay is a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, stunning ocean views, crystal-clear blue waters, exciting water activities, and bustling nightlife.
On my recent four-day trip with my best friend Warren, we discovered a unique activity called Boracay Paraw Sailing. It turned out to be one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of Boracay.
In this article, I’ll be sharing an insider look at everything you need to know about Paraw Sailing Boracay—from what it is and why you should do it to tips on how to get the most out of your experience.
So if you’re ready for another adventure, let’s dive into the ultimate guide to Boracay parawsailing!
Here’s the summary of what you need to know about Boracay Paraw Sailing.
| Where to book a tour? | I booked my tour with Klook. Use my code GLADISTRAVELS and get a 5% off on your booking |
| How much does Boracay Paraw Sailing cost? | Sunset Tour: Php 750 for a joiner | Php 2,500 for a private sailboat Morning/Afternoon Tour: Php 675 for a joiner | Php 2,00 for a private sailboat |
| How long is the tour? | Sunset Tour: 30 minutes Morning/ Afternoon Tour: 1 hour |
| Best time to Do Boracay Paraw Sailing | Sunset Tour: 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm, depending on the sunset schedule Morning Tour: 9:00 am – 10:00 am |
A Brief History of the Paraw Boat
The Paraw (also known as parao) is a traditional outrigger sailing boat from the Philippines. Locals believed the first boats were adopted from Borneo and Malay traders who frequently visited the Philippines.
Paraws are made with wood and bamboo. They come in different sizes and shapes, but the most common form is the double outrigger. It is a configuration that gives more stability and increased seating capacity.
Traditionally, paraw sailboats are mainly used for fishing and inter-island travel. However, today, paraws are commonly used for recreational trips such as island hopping and sunset tours.
Our Boracay Paraw Sailing Experience
Warren and I took a spontaneous trip to Boracay. We have been to this island several times, so we decided to spend our first day lounging on the beach. The next day, we opted to try parawsailing. We’re glad we did it.
We booked our tour through Klook, and it was hassle-free! Our guide even accommodated my request for traditional blue and white paraws. The entire tour was relaxing.
I felt free, excited, and calm simultaneously on the boat. It truly felt like I was in paradise, listening to the dance of the waves and feeling the refreshing breeze on my skin.
Warren and I lay down on the top of the net. We played some music. We felt so much gratitude for being blessed to experience this kind of beauty.
Our boat guides also took beautiful photos and videos of us. They also guided us where to sit to see the beautiful sunset.
As our tour ended, we witnessed a breathtaking orange and pink sunset. If you’re visiting Boracay, I highly recommend this unique and beautiful Paraw Sailing Sunset Tour!
And if you’re looking to try out different water activities in Boracay, check out my ultimate guide for the best water activities.
The Best Time to Go Paraw Sailing in Boracay
You can do Boracay parawsailing almost anytime you’re in Boracay as long as it’s not raining. The ideal time to go is mid-November to May when you can enjoy clear skies, cool breeze, and plenty of sunshine.
The best time to sail on a Paraw is 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. It’s the perfect time to catch the beautiful sunset and the cool breeze from the sea. You can also go at other times of the day to see Boracay’s beautiful landscapes.
Sailing tours usually last around 30 minutes for sunset and 1 hour for morning to afternoon trips. We went for a sunset tour at 5:00 p.m. and started sailing at 5:30 p.m. Twilight began a little later at 6:00 p.m., but we still witnessed the pink-orange skies.
How Much Does It Cost to Do Boracay Paraw Sailing?
You can book a Boracay Paraw Sailing Tour as a joiner or with a private tour. It’s going to cost you around Php 750 per person for a 30-minute Sunset Paraw Sailing joiner session or Php 2,500 if you want a whole private sailboat.
If you’re looking to do a Morning Paraw Sailing (9:00 AM – 2:00 PM) tour, that’ll cost around Php 670 per person or Php 2,000 for a private sailboat.
If you’re planning on going out with friends or family, especially for a sunset tour, I highly recommend booking a private sailboat.
The 30-minute tour passes by in a flash, so having a private sailboat will allow you to take your time, sit back, and fully appreciate the stunning views. Plus, you’ll have ample time to take plenty of beautiful photos.
Boracay Paraw Sailing Sunset Tour
The Boracay Paraw Sailing Sunset Tour is the more popular choice, and it’s the one my friend and I opted for during our visit. Given the extreme Boracay heat that day, the cooler evening breeze was a welcome relief.
As we set sail along the coastline, we can’t help but be invigorated by the gentle sea breeze, making the experience all the more refreshing.
The real magic happens as the sun begins its descent, painting the sky with vibrant shades of gold and orange. You’ll experience a breathtaking sunset — one of the best ones you’ll ever see.
While the day tour offers its own charm, there’s something particularly serene and rejuvenating about witnessing this natural spectacle during the sunset tour.
Where to Book the Boracay Paraw Sailing Tour?
You have two options to book Boracay Paraw Sailing Tours. You can book directly with a local tour provider you’ll find on the beach or through online booking platforms like Get Your Guide and Klook.
Some foreigners have reported being charged more by local tour providers. Use the earlier price range as a guide to avoid confusion or overcharging.
We booked our Boracay paraw sailing tour through Klook, and the process was hassle-free despite reserving last minute. When we arrived at the meeting point at Astoria Boracay, the Klook representative welcomed us.
She even accommodated my request for a traditional blue and white sailboat. Many sailboats nowadays are covered in logos and marketing materials for various companies.
While your boatmen are certainly taking photos for you, booking through Get Your Guide is an excellent choice if you’re looking for tours with professional photographers who will capture all the stunning moments of your day at sea.
Want to save on your Paraw Sailing? Book with Klook and use my code GLADISTRAVELS to get 5% off hotels and 3% off on Klook Activities. No minimum spend, and you can use it up to two times per user!
The Best Spots for Boracay Paraw Sailing and Sunset Watching
Paraw Sailing Boracay tours start at Station 1. You will sail into the waters for 30 minutes or 1 hour and watch Boracay’s beautiful landscapes.
Sit on the right side for a perfect spot to view Boracay’s marvelous shoreline. Even better, if you can balance, you can momentarily stand atop its bamboo pole and be ‘Moana’! But be careful and make sure safety is still your priority.
You can also enjoy watching the sailing of paraws and a beautiful sunset for free in Station 1. It’s one of the best things to do on a land tour. I usually watch the sunset every time I’m in Boracay.
Be at the beach by 5:45 p.m. for the best views and wait until 6:30 p.m., depending on the sunset schedule. It’s a magical free experience.
Tips for Enjoying Your Boracay Paraw Sailing Adventure
Once you’re all set and ready to sail, here are some tips that I recommend to make your sailing adventure even more enjoyable:
Arrive Early
Arrive 15 minutes before the schedule to request your preferred boat color. The traditional ones are the classic blue and white. Recently, different companies have been using Paraw Sailboats for marketing and advertising.
I feel that the traditional blue and white boats offer a more authentic experience, not to mention better for Instagram photos. So, if you want to experience the original blue and white sailboats, ask your operator if possible.
Take Your Time
Take your time enjoying the ride. Boracay Paraw Sailing is a terrific way to enjoy the spectacular sunset of the island. Spend some time taking photos but remember to feel the water and the wind and immerse in a beautiful sunset. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience!
Happiness On The Way Tips
At Happiness On The Way, I share my travel experiences to help you rediscover joy, one trip at a time. Here are some tips to make your Boracay Paraw Sailing experience a joyful one:
1. Immersing With The Whole Experience: On the Paraw sailboat, feel the wind in your hair, listen to the waves crashing at the side of your boat, and touch the waters. Watch as the sun sets, creating a fantastic backdrop of orange and yellow hues over Boracay’s coastline.
2. Connecting With Nature: Take this moment to appreciate nature’s wonders. Look at how unique different cloud formations are. Gaze into the horizon as if no one can see you.
Appreciate how majestic our planet is! This practice will quickly put you in a state of gratitude. And what’s the best way to experience happiness than gratitude?
3. Spending Meaningful Time With Your Companion: Notice their smile and energy around them without having to say anything. It’s enough sometimes to be in awe of them! Whether sailing with friends, family, or your significant other, be present with them in this beautiful experience.
So there you have it—a few tips from Happiness On The Way for maximizing your Paraw Sailboat experience in Boracay.
FAQs: Boracay Paraw Sailing
How long is Paraw Sailing in Boracay?
Depending on the Boracay Paraw Sailing package you availed, it’s usually 30 minutes for a sunset tour and 1 hour for a day tour.
This is enough time to enjoy Boracay scenery. Though, you’ll be surprised how fast time flies! You can also book a private one for longer hours.
What is the meaning of paraw? What is paraw made of?
A Paraw is a traditional Filipino sailboat with two outriggers extending from the main hull. The name “Paraw” is derived from the Visayan language and means “sail.”
Typically, these boats are constructed using bamboo for the hull and outriggers, while sails are made from materials like nipa palm leaves or modern options like canvas or nylon, with ropes crafted from natural or synthetic fibers.
How many people can fit in a paraw?
A standard Paraw sailboat can typically accommodate around 6 to 10 passengers comfortably. However, the capacity can vary depending on the size and design of the specific Paraw.
Even if you’re booking as a solo joiner, you can choose the group size to join. I recommend booking a smaller group because time as you sail and marvel at the beauty of Boracay, you’ll realize time flies so fast.
Joining a smaller group means you’ll have more time to enjoy and even take individual photos.
Paraw sailing vs Parasailing
Paraw sailing and parasailing are two different water activities. Paraw sailing is a calm and leisurely boat ride on a traditional sailboat, providing a peaceful experience.
Parasailing, on the other hand, offers an exciting adventure where you’re harnessed to a parachute and towed by a speedboat, allowing you to soar above the water. The choice between them depends on whether you prefer a relaxed journey or an adrenaline-pumping thrill during your beach vacation.
When is the golden hour in Boracay?
The golden hour typically occurs during the first hour after sunrise, and the last hour before sunset. This is when the sun casts a warm, golden glow over the island, creating stunning lighting conditions for photography and a serene ambiance for enjoying the beach.
The exact timing of the golden hour in Boracay may vary depending on the time of year, so it’s a good idea to check the local sunrise and sunset times for the specific dates of your visit to make the most of this magical hour.
Typically, it happens between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Schedule your Boracay paraw sailing during these golden hours!
Do I need any prior sailing experience for Boracay Paraw sailing?
No, you don’t need any sailing experience for your Paraw sailing tour in Boracay. Paraw sailing operators provide experienced and licensed sailors who will handle the boat.
You can sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning views while the crew takes care of the sailing. Plus, some of them know how to get great photos too! Just ask for one.
What should I bring for a Boracay Paraw sailing tour?
Bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses a light cover-up to protect yourself from the sun. You can also bring a waterproof bag for your valuables and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Wear comfortable beach attire and bring your swimwear if you want to take a dip after the trip. You’ll likely get wet during the paraw sailing so if you want to immediately proceed to dinner or bars after your tour, bring some clothes for changing.
Can I combine Paraw sailing with other activities in Boracay?
Absolutely! Boracay offers a wide range of water activities, and you can easily combine Paraw sailing with other adventures like snorkeling, paddleboarding, or even island hopping.
It only takes 30 minutes to an hour so you can either do this in the morning and do other activities after or do other activities first and end your day with a sunset tour.
Is Boracay Paraw Sailing suitable for Children?
Yes, Boracay Paraw Sailing is generally suitable for children. It’s safe for kids. Just make sure to inform your tour provider or your boat guides ahead of time about your kid so that they will provide smaller life vests.
The gentle, scenic nature of paraw sailing Boracay is enjoyable for kids as long as they don’t have seasickness. So yes, you can bring your little ones to you on a paraw sailboat.
Is Boracay Paraw Sailing worth it?
Without a doubt, Paraw sailing in Boracay is worth every moment (and pesos). It’s a thrilling yet relaxing experience that allows you to appreciate the island’s natural beauty from a unique perspective.
I’ve been to Boracay four times and I’ve done most of the water activities on the island and it’s one of my favorites.
Conclusion
Paraw Sailing is a unique experience to get away from the hustle and bustle of Boracay and reconnect with nature.
From the stunning views of the sea to the peaceful moments spent in between, Boracay Paraw Sailing will bring you closer to yourself and help you appreciate the simple beauty of nature.
Have you tried Paraw Sailing in Boracay? How was your experience? What other activities did you enjoy in Boracay?
Read More About Boracay:
Slow Travel Planning Guide
✈️ How to find the best flight to Boracay?
I always use Skyscanner to find cheap flights. It’s a search engine that compares prices across many airlines to get you the best deals.
🏩 What’s the best way to book accommodations in Boracay?
It depends. Booking.com is my go-to platform for hotels and apartments. If I want to save money on hostels, I use Hostel World.
And for longer stays where I want a cozy home, I book VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
🗺️ How do I find local experiences and tours?
I find the best local tours with Klook, thanks to its vast selection across Asia. Get 5% off by using the code “GLADISTRAVELS”
For truly unique and authentic local experiences, GetYourGuide is my go-to. I’ve taken cooking classes with local chefs and gone on guided tours of hidden places using both platforms. I’m really happy with how everything turned out.
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance?
Absolutely YES! For just $5-10 USD per day, SafetyWing gives you peace of mind with its affordable coverage.
📲 Where to buy a local sim in Boracay?
I’ve switched to eSIMs for all my travels and it’s been a game-changer! Airalo’s eSIM offers cheap data in 200+ countries without roaming fees. Super easy to set up and top up! Get your Philippines eSIM here.
🏦 What is the best way to withdraw money in Boracay?
I use my Wise card. Wise.com provides free global accounts and the most affordable money transfers. I can manage multiple currencies easily and withdraw cash at very low costs. Plus, I find their exchange rates are among the best available!
I love sunset sails! Very throrough info
I’ve never heard about this sailing activity, but it sounds like an amazing experience that I need to add to my bucket list. Thank you for sharing your experience.
I’ve always wanted to try sailing. Now I REALLY want to try it. Thank you for sharing your fun experience!
Paraw Sailing looks AMAZING! I am officially adding it to my list. It looks fun but also relaxing and that sunset is beautiful! Thanks for sharing.
Wow! What a unique boat! I’ve never seen one like it before. I would love to take the sunset tour. It would be such a unique experience.
This looks so dreamy and amazing!
It is! It’s magical!
This looks like so much fun. (A tiny bit scary, but mostly fun!) I’d love to try the sunset cruise you suggested. Thanks for all the helpful tips.
Wow that sunset is stunning! Officially adding paraw sailing to my bucket list! Thanks so much for your tips!
I have never heard about the paraw sailboats so it was great to learn about them. The sunset sailing trip looks amazing.
Those Paraw Sailing Boats are such a cool shape – they look amazing with the sunset for a background. This looks so relaxing. What a fab way to spend time in Boracay.
I’ve never heard about this sailing experience, but it sounds like a bucket list activity to add to my travels! Thanks for sharing your Paraw sailing experience at Boracay!
It’s a unique sailing experience that only exists in Boracay. I highly recommend adding it to your bucket list!
This looks wonderful. Having sailed yachts and dinghies myself, I am really interested in sailing, is it possible on these tours to help sail the boat and learn about their sailing technique?
IF I go on a sail, I want a sunset!! Beautiful post with great suggestions.. would love to explore someday…