This island was a disappointment and a heartbreak. Yes, the fish are alive and we even saw a Tuna underneath the waters but the garbage and trash are everywhere!!! It's not a fish sanctuary anymore :( As much as we want to take the trash from the ocean, we cannot take everything that there is on Hilutungan island. You could really be swimming with garbage and it will break your heart to see the fish underneath come close to it and the danger that it poses to them. Lots of plastics. I am hoping that the Cebu government can do something about it and the environmental fee that we paid for will be put to good use.

Availed of the service of KI Marine, which was heavily recommended in Trip Advisor. Among all the islands near Mactan, Hilutungan Island was recommended as the best for snorkelling. It was also just a short 20-30 minute boat ride from Mactan. Boats are not allowed to dock in the island so you snorkel right from the boat. The depth is at a comfortable 10-20 feet so nothing too daunting especially for a first-time snorkeler or diver. There are also bouys which separate the shallow portion of the sea so as not to allow anyone to go in and damage the corals. The underwater scenery is amazing. The water is clear, you get to see the corals, different species of fish (and colorful ones at that!), even a huge but harmless jelly fish, which I got to touch. Boat operators give you a bag of bread so you can feed the fish so they swarm to you. Be wary of vendors though. They board your boat and offer, albeit politely, coconut water in a coconut shell, shell souvenirs, and fresh seafood. The price of these are exorbitant. Case in point, we bought one coconut shell for P200! So bring your own food or choose a boat operator which offers a packed lunch and drinks. All in all, I had a jolly good time and would highly recommend this as a quick side trip for those staying in Mactan and want to see a lot of marine life.