international cruise ship philippines

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Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings on select dates. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select sailings.

Cruises to Philippines

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Award-Winning Philippines Cruises

The Philippines is a country in Southeast Asia made up of an archipelago between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea. This chain of islands is home to sandy beaches and gorgeous teal waters swirling around craggy rock formations. Its lively cities and beautiful skyscrapers are along the lines of what you might expect from a country that’s not far from the glamorous cities of Singapore and Hong Kong (two other ports you’re likely to visit during a cruise to the Philippines).

When you cruise the Philippines, you’ll sail to this gorgeous island nation in luxurious comfort before an exciting day in one of its intriguing ports. Once you step onto the soil of the Philippines while on a Southeast Asia cruise , you will be immediately drawn to its tropical beauty and charmed by the friendly locals you meet.

Please Note: While we don't currently sail to the Philippines, you can still discover the beauty of the region on one of our Southeast Asia cruises . Browse our luxury cruises to Southeast Asia below.

Cruise Philippines for Beautiful Beaches and Dynamic Cities

Whether you love lounging on the beach or feeling the buzz of city life, you’ll find both during a cruise to the Philippines. From sleepy beach towns to countryside escapes and busy city centers, you’ll experience different aspects of the local culture in each port.

Philippines City Life

The Philippines is more than just island lifestyle and beach bliss. You’ll also find energetic cities buzzing with people, cuisine, and commerce. Manila in particular is a can’t-miss city to see when you cruise the Philippines, known for its blend of colonial and modern architecture punctuated with gleaming skyscrapers.

Beaches and Volcanoes

Beyond the port harbors of the Philippines, you’ll find incredible natural wonders. Relax on gorgeous beaches, like the white sands of Boracay and Puerto Princesa. From Manila, it’s easy to travel to the vibrant green Hidden Valley or Taal Lake and Volcano, two natural elements that complement each other in a mesmerizing way.

Countryside

Explore the Philippines’ lush countryside, which is home to fields of green, historic plantations, and villas with spring-fed pools. Combine your trip to the country with traditional dining to try some of the delicious Filipino cuisine the country is known for.

Featured Philippines Cruise Ports

During a Philippines cruise, you’ll stop in at least one of the following cities: Boracay, Manila, Puerto Princesa, or Ilocos. Each of these ports of call offer a very different type of experience. In Boracay and Puerto Princesa, you’ll get a glimpse of the country’s magnificent beaches and island lifestyle. In Manila, get a taste of the bustling city life of the Philippines, and in Ilocos, enjoy historical experiences. Depending on your itinerary,  you might even overnight in Manila.  

Puerto Princesa

Ilocos (Salomague)

Popular Shore Excursions in the Philippines

When you cruise to the Philippines’ beautiful ports of call, you’ll get an in-depth, cultural look at the country and what makes it special on a shore excursion.

Philippines Island Hopping

For an unforgettable, beach-filled day that will have you dreaming about moving somewhere tropical, book an island-hopping shore excursion. Hop on a boat and visit multiple islands for a day of relaxation and water fun.

Museums in Manila

Manila is home to a variety of top-notch museums. On a shore excursion, you’ll tour the museums with a knowledgeable guide that will help you to better understand the history of the region and the artworks and artifacts on display.

Manila City Tour

Learn more about the culture and top sites of Manila on an escorted city tour that takes you around the vibrant city in comfort. You’ll hear all about the city’s past and present while snapping pictures of some of its most impressive buildings and attractions.

Tagaytay Tour

Visiting the city of Tagaytay and the nearby Taal Lake and Taal Volcano provides you with both a city and country life experience during your Philippines cruise.

Our Award-Winning Cruise Ships in the Philippines

Helpful tips before you go.

We sail to the Philippines in the months of December and January. This is an ideal time to visit since the tropical weather is still hot, but not stifling, and it’s before the rainy season begins. Since the weather is hot and humid, you’ll want to pack light, breathable clothing in natural fibers like cotton and linen. The style of dress is generally more conservative in the Philippines than you may be used to in the U.S. and other countries, so keep that in mind when packing.

Don’t forget to pack for the other ports you’ll be visiting during your Philippines cruise. Most will require similar clothing, but if you head farther north and plan to venture into any mountainous regions while in port, you’ll likely want some warmer layers.

The ports you’ll visit depend on the itinerary you choose. You can cruise to the Philippines on one of our Vietnam, Philippines, and Hong Kong itineraries, where you’ll sail between Hong Kong and Singapore, or cruise roundtrip from Singapore. Along the way, you’ll visit the beautiful Philippines cruise ports of call as well as cities in Vietnam. You’ll also have an overnight port of call in both Singapore and Hong Kong. On the roundtrip itinerary from Singapore that sails to the Philippines and back to Singapore, you’ll have an overnight in Hong Kong, and you’ll visit Malaysia and China. 

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It is with great pride and excitement that we announce the launch of our very first Royal Caribbean Philippines website. 

In this website, you will discover the many wonderful cruises that in the past, you merely imagined.

I would like to introduce Ms. Angie Stephen, Vice President-International for Royal Caribbean, who has a message for all our guests and partners.

So set your dreams into reality.  Chase that longing to experience a luxurious setting on board our beautiful ships.

Come and live it up…with Royal Caribbean!

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PHILIPPINES

Get a taste of the Philippines — the “melting pot of Asia ” — on a Holland America Line cruise . Its capital, Manilla, is a modern metropolis that encompasses the colonial walled city of Intramuros and Fort Santiago ruins; pay homage at the American Memorial Cemetery, aka Asia ’s Arlington. Manilla is located on the Philippines’ largest island, Luzon, also home to the world’s smallest volcano. Take a ferry to the island-fortress of Corregidor to view WWII ruins and the massive Malinta Tunnel.

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9 Best Cruises in the Philippines | Best of Travel 2023

With lodging, food, and entertainment all included in one package, a cruise holiday is frequently a better bargain than a land-based vacation provided you pick properly. If you’re going to spend your holiday on a cruise ship, it may as well be a sumptuous one. After all, who wants to spend their vacation fending for themselves when they can have them serve breakfast in bed? Over the last century, cruises have evolved unusually, from luxurious excursions to Antarctica to the spread of floating hotels with fantastic amenities like roller coasters, music performances, and a wide range of restaurants on the high seas.  With an extensive variety of best cruises in the market, which then are the best cruises in the Philippines? Our Best of Travel series introduces the 9 Best Cruises in the Philippines , providing quality recommendations based on your lifestyle and budget needs. 

This article was last updated on 24 January 2023.

Best Cruises in the Philippines

1.  princess cruises.

World’s third biggest cruise line

Princess Cruises, one of the most well-known names in cruising , originally set sail in 1965 with a single ship sailing to Mexico. Today, the firm has grown to become the world’s third biggest cruise line, famous for innovative ships, a diversity of onboard amenities, and an unmatched customer service atmosphere . Princess, a renowned pioneer in global cruising, gives over 1.3 million passengers each year the opportunity to escape to the world’s finest locations onboard a fleet of 17 sophisticated vessels. Princess Cruises also invites international passengers on its Grand Class ships.

2. Oceania Cruises

Best services both on and off the sea

Ocean Cruises is a cruise line that’s been started in the year 2002. It is one of the few ocean cruises created in the 21st century when competition in the ocean cruise business was already at its peak. Oceania provides some of the best services both on and off the sea . Their modest yet luxurious ships provide a well-defined experience for individuals looking for an exquisite way to travel by water. Oceania Cruises’ fleet is quite exclusive, and these ships are k nown for serving exceptionally good meals to their guests .

3. CruiseCompete

Option of free upgrading

CruiseCompete does not sell travel; instead, it is a free and anonymous service that assists travellers in finding the greatest deals on their cruise holidays . Customers just enter a ship’s name and sail date, along with a few additional pieces of relevant details. It is where customers may compare prices from various travel agents. Since 2003, almost 17 million cruise quotations have been given. Typically, Cruise Compete provides “guarantees/run of the ship” = a cabin that will be assigned later. Many individuals enjoy the option of free upgrading.

Luxury category cruise line

Azamara is a little cruise line with a strong destination focus and a lot of charm. It’s a high-end line that provides a small-ship experience with semi-inclusive pricing . The fleet consists of four ageing ships (carrying roughly 700 passengers each). Because of its smaller ship size, customised service style, comprehensive facilities, and location immersion, Azamara fits under the boutique luxury category. Together, these amenities transform your Azamara experience into a luxury club where friends come to dine, play, and exchange stories .

5. MSC World Cruise

Incredible amenities and a large selection of onboard services

The MSC World Cruise takes you on an exciting adventure full of fascinating discoveries both on and off the ship . Allow yourself to be pampered by our ships’ incredible amenities and a large selection of onboard services, all-inclusive packages, unique activities, and entertainment options while experiencing fascinating places all over the world. MSC World Cruise will set sail in 2023 and 2024 to wonderful destinations of call across the world. Set sail on a truly international cruise with MSC and have an unforgettable adventure.

Provides comfort on par with the best luxury hotels

Ponant’s ships are purposefully designed to accommodate a limited number of passengers. Ponant’s ships provide comfort on par with the best luxury hotels . They have two types of cruise ships. Each ship class has various characteristics, and all ships within that class have the same specs. Their cruises provide customers with 5+ star premium service . The cuisine served aboard Ponant ships is also quite tasty, and you may experience the finest of French cuisine while on a Ponant cruise. Ponant is not an all-inclusive cruise line, but they do provide excellent value for money .

7. Silversea

Rated the greatest luxury cruise line

Silversea voyages and cruise adventures cover more than 900 destinations across all seven continents than any other cruise line. Silversea has been rated the greatest luxury cruise line , so it’s no wonder that their suites feature one of the highest space-to-guest ratios of any luxury cruise accommodations. Their unique gourmet quality is undoubtedly their most publicised attribute, a guarantee that you will have the greatest gourmet experience at sea. Their chef’s creativity has no bounds, from excellent French cuisine to delicate Asian selections to casual Italian family-style dinners . 

8. Norwegian Cruise Line  

Ideal for those who want to do freestyle cruising

Norwegian is essentially a mass-market brand rather than a premium cruise line . The Miami-based cruise company pioneered the concept of “freestyle cruising,” or sailing without rigorous meal schedules, dress restrictions, or formal evenings, and it is still the go-to line for tourists looking for a floating resort experience. Norwegian ships are also full of bars, lounges, and nightclubs , as well as always-busy casinos. When you put it all together, you have ships that provide a lively atmosphere, especially at night.

9. Holland America Line

Provides a variety of east Asian port combinations

With winter itineraries mostly centred on departures from Yokohama for Tokyo and Hong Kong, Holland America Line provides a variety of east Asian port combinations . You may spend 14 days experiencing Japan and Korea, or 28 days visiting ports in China, from the brilliant lights of Shanghai to Tianjin, the entrance to Beijing, the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall of China. Some cruises visit ports in the Philippines, i ncluding the beautiful white sand island of Boracay and Puerto Princesa , which is renowned for its stunning limestone cliffs, caverns, and underground river system.

We hope that our guide on the 9 Best Cruises in the Philippines has helped you to find the best cruises in the Philippines for your best cruise adventure for you and your significant other or for your entire family . Please share this with your family and friends if you have found it useful.

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Manila (Luzon Island Philippines)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Asia

Local Time 2024-05-02 03:48

Port Manila cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Manila, Luzon Island Philippines. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Manila is Philippines' capital city and the country's largest seaport. It has an excellent deep and sheltered harbour with built-up modern waterfront. On the south bank of Pasig river is situated the original city, Intramuros, established in 1571 by the Spanish, and containing unique examples of 17th-century Spanish architecture, together with encircling wall begun in 1590. During World War II, lots of the old city was destroyed. From Manila tourists can also visit Malacanang Palace, Taal volcano and Pagsanjan Falls.

The Philippine capital of Manila was established by King Philip II of Spain. In the years which followed, the Spanish successfully prevented the Portuguese, Chinese and Dutch from settling in the Philippines. But the British occupied Manila during the Seven Years' War, though they agreed to return it to Spain under 1763 Treaty of Paris. During World War II, the Japanese took control of Manila, and eventually the United States recaptured the islands and returned them to Philippines. In 1946, the country was granted full independence. The first president was elected, Manuel Roxas. In more recent history was the exile of former leader Ferdinand Marcos and new Democratic leadership.

Ninoy Aquino International Airport also serves the airline Air Juan that provides regularly scheduled domestic flights linking directly Manila City with  Subic Bay Freeport , Boracay Island (Caticlan) , Busuanga Bay and Puerto Galera. Air Juan's flights are direct (without passing through other airports) which allows tourists to arrive from Manila directly to their local hotels and resorts.

Port Manila

Port Manila (officially Pantalan ng Maynila) has several large facilities and terminals serving the maritime shipping trade. The port serves the entire Manila metro area. The port is located on Manila Bay and is ranked as Philippines' largest seaport. The port is operated by Philippine Ports Authority (state-owned corporation), which manages most of the country's ports.

Manila Bay's entrance has width 19 km (12 ml) expanding to 48 km (30 ml). Mariveles (Bataan province) is the port's anchorage area. Port Manila is composed of North Harbor, South Harbor, and MICT (Container Terminal).

• North Harbor seaport is in the Tondo Area and has 7 docking piers (numbers 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14). North Harbor port is accessible through Radial Road 10. The North Port Passenger Terminal is the facility that serves all ferries and cruise ships to Manila.
• South Harbor seaport is in the Port Area and has 5 docking piers (numbers 3, 5, 9, 13, 15), South Harbor is accessible by Bonifacio Drive road. The port's passenger terminal ("Eva Macapagal Super Terminal") is between piers 13 and 15 and also serves as the 2GO Ferry company's main hub.
• Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) is located between North Harbor and South Harbor and is accessible via MICT South Access Road. In 2011, the MICT Terminal was ranked world's 38th largest container port (annual shipping traffic 3,26 million TEU-countainers). The 2014-inaugurated Berth 6 increased port's capacity by 18%.

In mid-October 2018, Philippine Ports Authority started a capacity improvement project at MICT (operated by International Container Terminal Services Inc). The project includes construction of 4 new berths (7, 8, 9, 10), all with max draft/water depth 14,5 m (48 ft), allowing docking of larger boxships . Terminal's berth expansion was funded by ICTSI Group at total cost USD 380+ million.

In addition to seaport's capacity improvements was the purchase of 16 new RTGs (rubber-tired gantry cranes, operational since April 2019) plus 2 super-post-Panamax quay cranes (dockside gantries) that can serve boxships with capacity over 22,000 TEUs. Terminal's current container-handling equipment includes 18 quay cranes and 58 RTGs (74 by 2020). The large dockside gantries are China-manufactured (by ZPMC-Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industry Co Ltd) and each has max reach 16 rows (across twin). The RTGs are standard-diesel and Japan-made (by Mitsui Engineering and Shipbuilding Co Ltd).

For season 2017,  Star Cruises  (Asian company owned by Genting Hong Kong) announced its first Manila homeport deployment (for roundtrip itineraries) of its vessel  SuperStar Virgo . The ship has 13 decks and 935 cabins (capacity 2400 passengers plus 1100 crew). It offers a 5-night / 6-day cruise itinerary ("Jewels of the South China Sea")  from Manila to Currimao-Laoag Philippines (colonial buildings, baroque churches, Pagudpud's white-sand beaches), Kaohsiung Taiwan (Chinese culture and cuisine) and Hong Kong China (world's most popular metro city / shopping, dining, nightlife). The ship's Manila roundtrips started in March 2017 (departures March 19 through May 29) and also during summer months. Start Cruises' "Early Bird Discount" booking prices start from PHP 24,500 (around USD 450) per person (double occupancy Inside Stateroom). Third and fourth passengers (Quad share cabins) received additional 50% discount.

Okada Manila cruise port

Okada Manila cruise port is a new gaming resort tourism project by Tiger Resort for building Manila City's largest casino resort and hotel complex,

Tiger Resort is the developer and operator of the Okada Manila resort complex, who also intends to build a cruise port on Manila Bay, able to handle both mega-yachts and large-sized cruise vessels.

The Okada Manila resort is sized 440,000 m2 and consists of 1 budget hotel, shopping malls and the cruise port. In December 2016 was completed Phase 1 of the project. The project's total cost is around USD 2,4 billion.

Phase 1 consisted of two Y-shaped hotel towers (a total of 993 rooms;), 1 night club, 1 beach club, 1 casino (500 table games, 3000 electronic games), 21 food and drinks outlets, high-end retail shopping area), spa (sized 3000  m2), dancing fountains (among the world’s largest). For Phase 1 construction works were employed around 19,000 workers,

Manila cruise terminal

Cruise ships to Manila Philippines dock at North Port Passenger Terminal (on Pier 4). Terminal's construction started on June 11, 2012. On May 10, 2013, the terminal was opened for 2GO Ferry ships. The cruise terminal was officially inaugurated on October 9, 2013. Its capacity is 2-3 million passengers (ferry and cruise) per year. For comparison, the old terminal's annual capacity was around 1,5 million passengers.

As facilities and amenities, Manila's North Port Passenger Terminal (sized 12000 m2 / 129,200 ft2) has 1 main building (X-ray security screening area, check-in area, 2000-seat waiting hall), passenger drop-off area, tickets booths, large parking area (sized 2000 m2 / 21,530 ft2).

At the cruise pier can be berthed 5 ships at any time. The first cruise ship docked at Port Manila's new cruise terminal on November 2, 2013. This was the Star Cruises ship  SuperStar Aquarius .

(NEW) Solaire Cruise Center, Manila

In 2019, Bloombery Cruise Terminals started the construction of a new cruise terminal. The company is a fully-owned subsidiary of Bloomberry Resorts Corporation - stock-listed holding company specializing in leisure businesses (hotels, amusement parks, tourist facilities, gaming).

Bloomberry's USD 300 million project "Solaire Cruise Center" in Manila is a modern cruise ship terminal with an adjacent resort and casino complex (gaming-entertainment-dining-leisure) making it world's first with its own cruise port. Project's scheduled completion and inauguration are in 2021. The Solaire Resort and Casino is a 5-star leisure complex and The Philippines' equivalent of Las Vegas (Nevada USA).

Solaire cruise port's signature facilities include:

• CRUISE PIER - docking pier with capacity to berth 2 ships simultaneously (2 vessels with max LOA length to 348 m plus 310 m).
• CRUISE TERMINAL - 2-story building (sized 7000 m2) with dedicated areas for passenger baggage handling, screening, ticketing, multifunctional spaces (for themed events during no-ship days).
• YACHT MARINA CLUB - for berthing all types of leisure boats, with VIP areas linked to Solaire Resort.
• HARBORFRONT ESPLANADE - scenic promenade street linking the entire waterfront, with landscaped walkways, plazas, outdoor retail shops, restaurants, bars.
• RETAIL SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS - lined up along the Esplanade.
• THE SOLAIRE RESORT AND CASINO - its main buildings (Bay Tower and Sky Tower) have total capacity 800 hotel rooms and villas. More are to be added in the following Solaire Phase 2 resort upgrades.
• THE THEATRE - auditorium with capacity 1740 seats, dedicated to world-class production shows, musical concerts, theatrical plays, folkloric performances (for cruise tourists).
• PARKING - logistical facilities for cruise tourists and local tour operators.

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Philippines Welcomes First International Cruise in Years

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• February 10, 2023

International cruise ships are now back in the Philippines, as Seabourn’s luxury ship Seabourn Encore was the first to visit Puerto Princesa in Palawan on Thursday with about 500 guests on board.

Today the ship spent the day at Busuanga Island, also part of the Philippines, and is also scheduled to call on Manila and Boracay Island.

Seabourn Encore is currently operating a 28-day southeast Asia voyage roundtrip from Singapore.

In a statement, Philippine Port Authority general manager Jay Santiago said “Cruise ships are now back in the tourism scene as they resume operations in different parts of the country on Thursday.” He added that the country is “proud to welcome these international luxury ships again to our shores as we bounce back from the effects of the pandemic.”

According to news source IOL, to help guests learn about and experience the culture of the area local officials gave passengers a six-hour walking tour in Vigan City, one of the best-preserved examples of a planned colonial town dating back to the 16th century.

MORE: U.S. Cruise Line Will Be First to Implement Starlink Satellite Internet Across Its Fleet

The Philippines is set to host a number of cruise ships this year, including Regent’s Seven Seas Mariner, Windstar’s Star Breeze, Silverseas’ Silver Shadow and Silver Spirit, P&O’s Arcadia, and Oceania’s Nautica.

The country and its people have long been an integral part of cruising, as hundreds of thousands of crew members on cruise ships have hailed from the Philippines as well as nearby countries.

See photos:

LOOK || PUERTO PRINCESA WELCOMES CRUISE SHIP SEABOURN ENCORE The city welcomed Seabourn Encore on Thursday morning at the port of Puerto Princesa. The first cruise ship to visit the Philippines following the COVID-19 pandemic arrived at 6:30 a.m. pic.twitter.com/VZVuWRfifY — Palawan News Official (@palawannews_) February 9, 2023

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• Siargao Island’s International Cruise Ship Terminal

Siargao Island, located in the stunning archipelago of the Philippines, has long been hailed as a haven for surfers and nature enthusiasts. But now, there’s even more reason to visit this tropical paradise. Introducing the International Cruise Ship Terminal in Siargao Island, your gateway to a whole new level of adventure and luxury. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey like no other.

Nestled amidst the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean, Siargao Island’s International Cruise Ship Terminal is a testament to the growing popularity of this pristine destination. With its strategic location and world-class infrastructure, this terminal has become a hub for cruise liners from around the globe. Step aboard these majestic ships and prepare to explore the enchanting beauty that lies beyond the island’s shores.

Upon docking at the International Cruise Ship Terminal, you’ll be greeted by the warm hospitality and vibrant culture that the Philippines is renowned for. Siargao Island offers a diverse range of activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From thrilling water sports like surfing and paddleboarding to tranquil island-hopping tours, the options are endless. Immerse yourself in the rich marine life by snorkeling or scuba diving in the pristine coral reefs that surround the island.

For those seeking relaxation and indulgence, Siargao Island’s International Cruise Ship Terminal caters to your every desire. Luxurious resorts and wellness spas dot the coastline, inviting you to pamper yourself with rejuvenating treatments while overlooking breathtaking ocean views. Delight your taste buds with exquisite local cuisine, characterized by fresh seafood and tropical flavors, complemented by the mesmerizing sunsets that paint the sky each evening.

Beyond the enchanting landscapes, Siargao Island holds cultural treasures waiting to be discovered. Explore the nearby picturesque villages and interact with the friendly locals, known for their warmth and genuine hospitality. Experience traditional dances, music, and festivals that celebrate the island’s rich heritage. Siargao Island is not just a destination; it’s an immersive cultural experience that will leave a lasting impression.

With the opening of the International Cruise Ship Terminal in Siargao Island, this tropical paradise has cemented its position as a must-visit destination on the global tourism map. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural discovery, Siargao Island offers it all. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a memorable journey and create lifelong memories in this stunning corner of the Philippines. Explore Siargao Island’s International Cruise Ship Terminal and experience the magic for yourself.

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Manila, Philippines Cruise Ships Schedule

Manila, Luzon Island  cruise calendar 2023 / 2024 provides the opportunity to search arrival and departure schedules of cruise ships arriving in port. The timetable displays dates and times of the cruise ships visiting Port Manila (officially Pantalan ng Maynila) based on the major cruise lines itineraries.  Please note, the following cruise ship schedule is created on regularly updated itineraries from the  world's leading cruise lines.

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CRUISE SHIP TOURISM IS BACK, PPA WELCOMES INTERNATIONAL SHIPS AND TOURISTS!

09 FEBRUARY 2023, MANILA — Cruise ships are now back in the tourism scene as they resume operations in different parts of the country starting today (Feb 9, 2023), after a three year break due to pandemic travel restrictions. Among the places that will be visited are Ilocos Sur, Palawan, and Bohol from February 9-14, 2023.

Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Santiago said this international event ignites domestic travel and will definitely generate jobs for our countrymen in the said regions. “It is about time that we live with the new normal and the PPA is proud to welcome again these international luxury ships to our shores as we bounce back from the effects of the pandemic”, Santiago said.

Port of Puerto Princesa, Palawan

First for this year is "MV Seabourn Encore" warmly welcomed today (February 9, 2023) at the Port of Puerto Princesa, Palawan. MV Seabourne Encore is about 26% larger than the Seabourne’s three Odyssey-class vessels which holds 34% more passengers, based on double occupancy. This ship made its last port call in Singapore and has more than 500 guests mainly from USA, UK, Germany, Australia, and Canada. This cruise ship is also carrying 452 crews, in which 201 are Filipinos.

Port of Tagbilaran, Bohol

The port management office of Bohol and the Local Government Units are all set to receive guests on February 11, 2023 upon the arrival of the international cruise ship named “Silver Shadow” at the Port of Tagbilaran. PMO Bohol preparations with the Local Government Units started as early as January 13 this year together with different stakeholders and private institutions. “Silver Shadow” has one of the highest space-to-guest ratios at sea with 392 guest capacity, 302 crew capacity, and a tonnage of 28, 258 tons. According to PMO Bohol other than international tourists, they are also expecting a significant increase in their passenger traffic especially during the summer months of May- July.

Port of Salomague, Cabugao Ilocos Sur

Valentines Day is extra special with the arrival of "MV Silver Spirit” at the Port of Salomague, Cabugao, Ilocos Sur on February 14, 2023 under PMO Northern Luzon. This luxury ship is also the first international cruise ship to dock at the Salomague port after 3 years since the pandemic hit with about 500 American and European passengers on board. According to the Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur, passengers will also be given a 6-hour walking tour in the province specifically at Vigan City and San Vicente. Other than the tour, the provincial government said they will also be providing cultural performers and activities to entertain the cruise guests and make their visit more memorable as announced on their social media pages.

According to PPA port statistics, the Ports of Salomague, Palawan, and Tagbilaran were able to cater 48,100 tourists in the year 2019 before the pandemic but in 2020 and 2021, cruise ships cancelled their trips due to the covid-19 threat. Now, cruise ships are back for more unforgettable moments at sea!

Where Is the International Cruise Terminal in Manila, Philippines Located?

Manila, the bustling capital city of the Philippines, isn’t only known for it’s rich history and vibrant culture but also for it’s international cruise terminal. Located in the heart of Manila Bay, this thriving metropolis is home to the stunning International Cruise Terminal. This state-of-the-art facility serves as a gateway for numerous cruise ships from around the world, welcoming travelers to embark on unforgettable voyages across the stunning Philippine archipelago. With it’s strategic location, the International Cruise Terminal offers easy access to the city's top attractions, allowing visitors to explore the enchanting blend of tradition and modernity that Manila has to offer.

Is There Cruises in the Philippines?

Yes, there are cruises in the Philippines, and they offer a unique and exciting way to explore this beautiful country. One of the featured cruise ports is Boracay, a world-renowned beach destination known for it’s crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand. Here, you can indulge in water sports, relax on the beach, or explore the vibrant nightlife.

Another popular port of call is Manila, the capital of the Philippines. This bustling port city is rich in history and culture, with numerous attractions to explore. From the historic Intramuros, a walled city that dates back to the Spanish colonial era, to the modern shopping malls and entertainment complexes, Manila has something for everyone.

Puerto Princesa is another featured cruise port in the Philippines. Located in the island of Palawan, it’s famous for it’s underground river, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can take a boat tour through the underground river, marveling at the stunning limestone formations and diverse wildlife. In addition, you can also visit the nearby Honda Bay, known for it’s beautiful islands and snorkeling spots.

Finally, Ilocos is a region in the northern part of the Philippines that offers a unique cultural experience. The cruise port in Ilocos is located in the city of Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for it’s well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Here, you can explore the cobblestone streets, visit ancestral houses, and try traditional Filipino dishes. Dont forget to try the famous Vigan longganisa, a local delicacy.

From the beach paradise of Boracay to the cultural charm of Vigan, a Philippines cruise allows you to explore the best of this beautiful country. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable cruise adventure in the Philippines!

The port of Manila, the largest port in the Philippines, stands as the primary gateway for international shipping and trade in the country. With it’s extensive range of terminals and top-notch facilities, it efficiently handles the maritime trade operations within the bustling Metro Manila area.

Which Is the Best Port in the Philippines?

The Port of Manila is considered the best port in the Philippines due to it’s size, facilities, and importance as an international shipping gateway. It’s the largest port in the country, accommodating a significant volume of maritime trade in the Metro Manila area. The port houses numerous terminals and facilities that effectively handle the influx of goods and services.

The Port of Manila also boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure, which includes modern and efficient container terminals equipped with advanced facilities. These terminals have the capacity to handle large vessels and accommodate a vast amount of cargo, ensuring a seamless and efficient process for importers and exporters.

It’s continuous efforts to improve and adapt to industry demands make it an ideal choice for businesses seeking efficient trade and transport solutions.

Filipinos have long been recognized as prominent cruise ship workers, with their significant presence in the industry stretching back several decades. The Philippines has emerged as a crucial supplier of service personnel not only for cargo vessels but specifically for the cruise line sector. These talented individuals permeate diverse cultures across different nations, serving as ambassadors of Filipino traditions through their cuisine, music, and even sports.

Are Filipinos Popular Cruise Ship Workers?

Filipinos have gained a significant reputation as popular cruise ship workers in the global maritime industry. In fact, they dominate the crew on many cruise ships around the world. For several decades, the Philippines has been a primary source of highly skilled and dedicated seafarers, not only for cargo vessels but also for the booming cruise line industry.

From traditional Filipino dishes like adobo and halo-halo to the ubiquitous karaoke sessions, Filipinos have introduced their vibrant cultural traditions to different nationalities aboard cruise ships. Additionally, the crew members often showcase their talents in performing arts, singing, and dancing, further enriching the onboard entertainment experience for passengers.

Their dedication and professionalism have significantly contributed to the success and growth of the cruise line industry, making them an integral part of the global maritime workforce.

Source: Tough but enjoyable life working on cruise ship

Manila South Port, also known as Port of Manila (South), is an important maritime gateway in the Philippines. To facilitate smooth operations and efficient handling of goods, every port is assigned a unique code. In the case of Manila South Port, it’s port code is PHMNS. This code serves as an identifier for the port and is used in various shipping and logistics processes to identify and track cargo.

What Is the Port Code of Manila South Port?

The port code for Manila South Port is PHMNS, according to Seabay Logistics. The Manila South Port, also known as the International Cruise Terminal, is a major port in Manila, Philippines. It’s strategically located along the coastline of Manila Bay, providing easy access to international waters. The port serves as a gateway for cruise ships and other vessels arriving in the city.

Situated in the heart of Manila, the International Cruise Terminal offers convenient access to various tourist attractions and important landmarks. Visitors can explore the rich cultural heritage of the city by visiting historical sites such as Intramuros, Rizal Park, and Manila Cathedral. The ports central location also allows travelers to easily access shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues in the surrounding areas.

It features a dedicated terminal building, berths, and wharves that can accommodate large vessels. The port also has customs and immigration facilities to ensure smooth and efficient clearance for both passengers and cargo.

It’s within close proximity to major highways, making it easy for travelers to reach the port by car or public transportation. The port is also in close proximity to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, allowing passengers to easily connect between air and sea travel.

It’s strategic location, excellent facilities, and proximity to various attractions make it an ideal gateway for tourists visiting Manila.

Port Operations and Services: Discuss the Day-to-Day Operations at Manila South Port, Including Customs and Immigration Processes, Vessel Scheduling, Cargo Handling, and Other Services Provided to Ships and Passengers.

• Customs and immigration processes
• Vessel scheduling
• Cargo handling
• Other services provided to ships and passengers

The international ports in the Philippines play a crucial role in facilitating trade and commerce within the region. The top five biggest ports include Manila International Container Port, Manila North Harbor Port, Subic Bay Freeport Zone Shipyard and Boatbuilding Compound Port, Batangas International Port, and Cebu City South Harbor Port. Each of these ports has it’s unique features and contributes significantly to the country’s economy.

What Are the International Port in Philippines?

The Philippines is a country known for it’s bustling ports and dynamic maritime industry. Among the many international ports in the country, five stand out as the biggest and most significant.

The Manila International Container Port, located in the capital city of Manila, is one of the busiest ports in the Philippines. It serves as a major gateway for international trade and handles a large volume of containerized cargo. With it’s strategic location and state-of-the-art facilities, it plays a crucial role in the countrys import and export activities.

In the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, you’ll find the Shipyard and Boatbuilding Compound Port. This port is known for it’s shipbuilding and repair capabilities and serves as a vital hub for the maritime industry. It also provides facilities for international vessels and contributes significantly to the economic growth of the region.

Batangas International Port, also known as Batangas Pier, is a seaport located in Batangas City. It primarily serves the Calabarzon region, which is one of the countrys key economic zones. With it’s extensive area and modern facilities, it supports the growing trade and tourism activities in the region.

Lastly, the Cebu City South Harbor Port is a major port located in Cebu City. Cebu is a significant commercial and trading hub in the Philippines, and this port plays a crucial role in facilitating the movement of goods and passengers.

Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, is home to two major ports. The first is Manila North Harbor, situated in the Tondo district on the north side of the Pasig river. On the other hand, Manila South Harbor is located in the Port Area district, occupying a reclaimed land known as the Port District or South Port District. It’s worth noting that between these two ports lies the Manila International Container Terminal, which is recognized as the 38th busiest container port globally.

What Are the 2 Major Ports in Manila?

The city of Manila, Philippines is home to two major ports – Manila North Harbor and Manila South Harbor. Located on the north side of the Pasig river, Manila North Harbor is situated in the Tondo district. This bustling port is an important gateway for both domestic and international maritime trade. It handles a large volume of cargo and serves as a key hub for shipping within the region.

On the other hand, Manila South Harbor is located in the Port Area district on the south side of the Pasig river. This area, also known as the Port District or South Port District, is a reclaimed land that’s occupied by Manila South Harbor and the Baseco Compound. Manila South Harbor is a significant commercial port, handling various types of cargo including containers, bulk shipments, and even cruise liners.

Situated between these two major ports is the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT). It’s one of the busiest container ports in the world, ranking 38th globally. The MICT plays a vital role in facilitating international trade, connecting the Philippines to various parts of the world. It serves as a major hub for containerized cargo, with state-of-the-art facilities and efficient operations.

Infrastructure and Facilities at Manila’s Ports: This Topic Could Provide an in-Depth Look at the Infrastructure and Facilities Available at Manila North Harbor, Manila South Harbor, and Manila International Container Terminal. It Could Discuss the Port’s Capacity, Equipment, and Technology Used to Handle Different Types of Cargo.

• Manila North Harbor
• Manila South Harbor
• Manila International Container Terminal
• Port capacity
• Technology used for cargo handling

This bustling port serves as a gateway for tourists and travelers looking to embark on exciting cruise adventures in the region.

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Philippines Working to Attract More Cruise Ships

• April 25, 2024

As an emerging cruise destination in Asia, the Philippines is working to attract more cruise ships and cruise brands to its shores.

With 121 cruise calls and 140,000 passengers expected to arrive in 2024, the country is going after different niches of the global cruise market.

According to Paulo Benito Tugbang, director for product and market development at the Philippine Department of Tourism, the main focus is on expedition and luxury vessels, but there’s also potential for contemporary vessels and even homeporting operations.

“We are building interest from cruise ships, trying to attract ships from different segments because we really want everyone to discover that the Philippines has a lot to offer,” he told Cruise Industry News during an exclusive interview.

“In our experience, expedition cruises really like to visit exotic destinations and to be able to explore virgin islands and untouched nature,” he continued.

The Philippines is well suited for these kinds of activities, Tugbang explained, with several exotic ports of call to be discovered.

Another big market for the country comes from upscale cruise lines, he noted, with companies like Seabourn being frequent visitors.

“These brands also like to visit untouched places and really have a bespoke experience,” Tugbang explained.

According to Tugbang, the government recently had conversations with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection to explore plans for future calls.

“Our strategy includes building up a portfolio that also features more mega-cruises, the big ships that are more family-friendly,” Tugbang explained.

With a year-round cruise season, the country offers various port options, he added, including eight that are regular cruise destinations.

The country is divided into three major island groups, and all of them currently being visited by cruise ships.

“Part of our strategy as one of the newer players in Southeast Asia is to ramp up our experiences, the things that we want to share with the cruise travelers,” he said.

The initiative includes showing the guests the country’s cultural assets, Tugbang explained, in addition to introducing new islands and destinations.

“We are strategically placed in the center of the Asia-Pacific region and offer a cultural mix of a lot of influences, which is an advantage,” he noted.

In the future, the Philippines could also serve as a homeport for cruise ships, with Manila being especially fit for the role, he added.

“Manila is our best bet. We have a new player coming to improve our airport and make it bigger and even more accessible,” Tugbang highlighted.

The government is also working to build additional airports across the country, improving accessibility to different islands.

Developing port infrastructure is part of the country’s plans as well, with a five-year investment plan already in the pipeline.

“Our Tourism Department is working along with our Philippines Ports Authority and our cruise ports in five major destinations to build cruise terminals,” he explained.

“It’s really a whole-government approach and effort to ramp up The Philippines’ role in Asia’s cruising playground, positioning ourselves as one of the best new destinations in the region,” he said

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Ports Authority eyes growth in traffic of cruise tourists

• Lorenz S. Marasigan
• April 30, 2024
• 2 minute read

THE Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is aiming to grow cruise tourist traffic by almost four-fold this year on the back of continued investments in tourism infrastructure. 

According to PPA General Manager Jay Daniel R. Santiago, the Philippines expects to net 300,000 cruise tourists in 2024, a 275-percent surge from about 80,000 the year prior.

“For the year we are expecting 300,000 cruise tourist arrivals, for the first three months of 2024 we have achieved 44,000 [cruise tourist arrivals] already,” he said.

The Philippines, which was tagged as the “Best Cruise Destination in Asia,” welcomed “more than 80,000 cruise ship passengers” in 2023.

Santiago noted that the cruise industry is “booming,” hence the government is working towards further improving the dedicated cruise terminals in the Philippines.

“Other than the ports we are currently improving, we are now also constructing dedicated cruise terminals, those identified and ongoing cruise dedicated terminals, like in Siargao. Hopefully, by the third quarter, our Siargao cruise terminal will be operational,” Santiago said.

He added that the PPA is also building a cruise terminal in Coron, Palawan. This should be operational in 2025.

“We also have our ports undergoing retrofitting to accommodate the requirements of cruise ships. These include the ports in Curimao, Ilocos Norte, and Salomague in Ilocos Sur. Additionally, we have constructed a dedicated cruise terminal in Buruanga, Aklan, and we have many more locations to start for cruise destinations; add to that the one in Camiguin,” Santiago said.

The Department of Tourism has set an ambitious 7.7-million international visitors arrival target for 2024, about 42-percent higher than the 5.45 million visitors recorded the year prior.

Cruise tourism presents a lucrative opportunity to showcase the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage to international travelers.

In the first three months of 2024, the Philippines welcomed more than two million international visitors, accounting for P157.62 billion in tourism receipts.

South Korea maintains its spot as the Philippines’ top source market in terms of inbound visitor arrivals with 27.19 percent or 546,726, followed by the United States that delivered 315,816 (15.71 percent), China with 130,574 (6.49 percent), Japan with 123,204 (6.13 percent), and Australia with 88,048 (4.38 percent).

Canada, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Germany ranked sixth to tenth, respectively.

Before the pandemic, the Philippines recorded its all-time high arrivals of 8.26 million inbound visitors in 2019.

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A cruise to nowhere: Royal Caribbean sailing canceled after guests boarded

A Royal Caribbean International Alaska voyage became a cruise to nowhere over the weekend, with the line canceling the sailing after guests had already boarded.

The cruise line’s Radiance of the Seas ship experienced propulsion issues, forcing it to shorten and eventually scrap the weeklong itinerary, according to notices shared with guests. The sailing was originally set to depart from Vancouver on Friday.

Charlene Chong, who was on board with her husband, their 3-year and 11-month-old children, and her parents, said passengers were notified Saturday afternoon that the cruise was canceled. The 34-year-old teacher and her husband previously took a cruise for their honeymoon, but this marked their first trip with Royal Caribbean.

“My parents had wanted to go to Alaska for a really long time,” said Chong, who lives in Vancouver.

The cruise line warned guests several days before boarding that the ship had a “technical issue with its propulsion system,” according to an email sent to passengers that Chong shared with USA TODAY. The line later pushed the departure back by two days to allow more time for repairs.

Royal Caribbean said boarding would proceed as planned but that the terminal would close Friday evening due to U.S. Customs and Border Protection rules. Passengers would not be able to leave until the ship arrived at Icy Strait Point.

“We were going stir crazy a little bit,” said Chong.

Royal Caribbean gave guests onboard credit worth two days of their fare, a future cruise credit of the same amount, complimentary drinks and other compensation, another email said.

According to Chong, the ship sailed toward a nearby cargo port, but the captain announced Saturday afternoon that the sailing could not proceed and that guests would need to disembark by Sunday at 4 p.m. Chong said she and her family were “lucky” they were local, but she saw other guests scrambling to change their flights and find accommodations.

Your cruise was canceled: Now what?

“We understand the disappointment due to this unfortunate turn of events,” the cruise line said in a letter shared with guests. “We truly extend our sincerest apologies for the continued unforeseen disruptions to your vacation.”

Royal Caribbean gave them their money back as onboard credit with any remaining amount refunded, increased their future cruise credit to 100% of their fare and kept its open-bar policy for the remaining time on board. The line also offered to reimburse trip change fees up to $250 for guests traveling domestically and $400 for international travel and additional reimbursements for hotel and transportation costs, among other compensation.

The cruise did not immediately respond to USA TODAY’s requests for comment.

After they got home, Chong and her family booked a trip to Mexico instead – though her parents decided not to join as they were “a bit exhausted by the whole ordeal.” For now, she’s not inclined to use the future cruise credit. “I would like to go to Alaska,” she said. “I'm not sure if I want to go with them.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville, Tennessee. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Hambantota’s “white elephant” records 10th cruise ship visit

Hambantota’s once “white elephant”, the Hambantota Port, recorded its 10th visit by a cruise ship in 2024.

The cruise ship ‘Serenade of the Seas’ made her maiden call at the Hambantota International Port (HIP) on Monday 29th April.

The luxury liner, which carried 1,950 passengers and 890 crew members, was the 10th cruise ship to call at HIP for the year 2024.

The ‘Serenade of the Seas’ launched in 2003 is one of global cruise shipping company, Royal Caribbean International’s Radiance Class vessels built to travel to far flung exotic destinations.

The port welcomed the ship with a plaque presentation held on board.

Officials of HIPG and HIPS along with representatives from the local vessel agents, Prudential Shipping, attended the event.

The liner’s next call is the Colombo Port. (Colombo Gazette)

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Tara, biyahe na! PPA to open more cruise ship terminals, improved ports this year

Following the grand opening of the passenger terminal building of the Batangas Port in Batangas City that was graced by President Marcos, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said it is planning to improve and construct more projects in order to modernize and boost the sea travel experience in the country.

PPA General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago said the priority are cruise-dedicated passenger terminal as its way of constributing to the national government, through the Department of Tourism, to lure more local and foreign tourists to explore tourist sites of the Philippines. 

 "Other than ports that we are improving, we are also constructing dedicated cruise terminals like Siargao. Hopefully, the Siargao cruise terminal would be operational by third quarter of this year,” said Santiago.

At least 300,000 tourist arrivals from cruise ships are expected for this year and Santiago said some of the projects that the PPA initiated in the past are now usable. 

Among them are the cruise terminals in Coron in Palawan, Curimao in Ilocos Norte, Salomague Port in Ilocos Sur, Buruanga in Aklan, and in Camiguin.

Aside from cruise-dedicated terminals, also under construction are new passenger terminal buildings that include the one in Zamboanga which is expected to open this year.

In order to ensure the availability of more ships with the improvement on Philippine ports, Santiago said they are continuously coordinating with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) for the deployment of more passenger vessels. 

"PPA still has a lot of surprises for our kababayan. You will see new terminals opening and the design of our terminals will reflect the local culture like the one in Calapan Port wherein the theme there was on the culture of Mangyan people,” said Santiago.

For the passenger terminal building in Zamboanga City, Santiago said it will reflect the local flavor in the area.

Marcos earlier lauded the PPA for initiating the construction of modern facilities to improve the sea travel experience of the Filipino people.

“I am sure of the comfortable travel of of our passengers who are encourage to tracel because of these modern facilities. For this, we have to commend the Philippine Ports Authority and the Department of Transportation for accomplishing together this important project and delivering what we have promised to the people,” Marcos said in his speech during the opening of the passenger terminal building at the Batangas Port/

Santiago, for his part, has expressed confidence that the improvement in various ports across the country will provide more opportunities for the local residents.

“These improvements have paved the way to accommodate more passengers.  We are looking at about 300 percent increase in revenue,” said Santiago.

“With more passengers, the positive effects also reflect on the local economy because more food kiosks would be available, which means more services that will contribute to the local employment and small businesses in the community,” he added.