Philippines Cruises

The Philippines is a tropical paradise composed of over 7,000 islands, known for its stunning beaches, rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture. With its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and friendly locals, the Philippines is an idyllic destination for any cruise enthusiast. Fun fact: the Philippine archipelago is home to the Taal Volcano, one of the world’s smallest active volcanoes, which is located on the island of Luzon! Cruising to the Philippines allows you to explore idyllic islands like Boracay and Palawan, immerse yourself in local cultures, and indulge in the unique culinary delights of the region, all while enjoying the ultimate comfort of your ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to the Philippines

• Cunard features a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 that focus on itineraries to the Philippines. The Queen Victoria and Queen Anne are known for their luxurious offerings and first-class service, providing ships with stunning ballrooms and elegant dining experiences. Cunard’s rich heritage of ocean travel ensures a refined experience, making every cruise a memorable one. Most departures occur from Hong Kong or Sydney, providing splendid access points for embarking on your adventure.
• Norwegian Cruise Line operates a fleet of 20 ships, with 3 offering itineraries to the beautiful Philippines. The Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Sky are popular for their freestyle cruising model, giving guests the freedom to enjoy dining and entertainment at their convenience. Most cruises depart from Singapore or Keelung, ensuring easy access to the captivating islands of the Philippines.
• Holland America Line has a fleet of 11 ships, with 2 dedicated to itineraries that highlight the Philippines. The Westerdam and Nieuw Statendam provide enriching cultural experiences and exceptional dining options, showcasing the flavours of local cuisine. Departures are most frequently from Fort Lauderdale or Singapore, ensuring a smooth transition into your exciting cruise experience.
• Princess Cruises consists of 17 ships, with 2 that provide routes to the Philippines. The Caribbean Princess and Sun Princess boast elegant dining options and a variety of entertainment experiences, including themed parties and movie nights. Most of these cruises depart from San Juan or Fort Lauderdale, enabling cruisers to experience the best of the beautiful region.
• Carnival Cruise Line operates a fleet of 27 ships, with 15 focused on itineraries that include the Philippines. The Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Miracle stand out for their fun atmosphere and ample onboard activities for families. Departures are most common from Miami or Port Canaveral, providing great entry points into your remarkable adventure.

Luxury Cruise Options in the Philippines

• Oceania Cruises features a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 dedicated to itineraries in the Philippines. The Vista and Sirena are known for their luxurious dining and intimate experiences, with menus curated by world-class chefs and a focus on using local ingredients. Most departures typically occur from Miami or Rome, facilitating an elegant transition to your journey through the enchanting islands.
• Azamara Cruises operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 featuring itineraries to the Philippines. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are best known for their tailored experiences and emphasis on destination immersion, encouraging late-night port stays to experience local nightlife. Most trips generally depart from Miami or Barbados, enhancing the experience of discovering the beauty of the Philippines.
• Seabourn consists of a fleet of 5 luxury ships, with 1 dedicated to the Philippines itineraries. The Seabourn Ovation is celebrated for its elegant design and exceptional all-inclusive service, offering luxury experiences tailored to individual preferences. Departures typically occur from Singapore or Hong Kong, providing an upscale launch point into the island paradise.
• Explora Journeys features a fleet of 2 ships, both offering itineraries that include the Philippines. The EXPLORA I and II focus on wellness and premium experiences, ensuring relaxation throughout your journey. Departures usually happen from Miami or San Juan, creating a refined entry into this beautiful region.
• Fred Olsen has a fleet of 3 ships, with 2 focused on visits to the Philippines. The Balmoral and Bolette are appreciated for their welcoming staff and traditional cruising experience, ideal for those seeking a more personal touch. Departures typically occur from Liverpool or Southampton, ensuring easy embarkation for UK travellers excited to explore these stunning islands.

Top Harbours to Explore in the Philippines

• Manila – The bustling capital of the Philippines is rich in history and culture. Visit historical sites such as Intramuros, a well-preserved walled city with Spanish colonial architecture, and the San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sample various local dishes in nearby restaurants and experience the lively nightlife that the city has to offer.
• Cebu City – Known as the “Queen City of the South,” Cebu is a hub of economic and cultural activity. Visit the famous Magellan’s Cross, explore Fort San Pedro, or enjoy a boat ride to the nearby stunning island of Moalboal, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Be sure to try the local specialty, lechon (roasted pig), which is a must-try when in Cebu!
• Puerto Princesa – Renowned for its natural beauty, Puerto Princesa is home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the underground river by boat, or visit local attractions such as the Honda Bay, where you can swim, snorkel, and sunbathe on pristine beaches.
• Boracay – This stunning island is famous for its powdery white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife. Spend time relaxing on White Beach, engaging in beach sports, or take a sunset cruise to experience the magical colours of the island at dusk. Boracay is also home to various restaurants offering fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.
• Palawan – Often referred to as the last frontier of the Philippines, Palawan is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and biodiversity. Explore the crystal-clear waters of El Nido and Coron with island-hopping tours, snorkelling, or diving. Don’t miss the chance to visit the beautiful lagoons and hidden beaches accessible only by boat.

When to Cruise to the Philippines

The Philippines enjoys a tropical climate, making it a fantastic cruise destination throughout the year. From January to March, temperatures average between 24°C to 30°C, offering pleasantly warm weather ideal for beach activities and outdoor explorations. The spring months (April to June) can be particularly hot, with temperatures peaking around 28°C to 35°C, perfect for sun-seekers. The summer months (July to September) may bring occasional rain showers and typhoons, but temperatures generally stay between 25°C and 32°C. Autumn (October to December) offers a mix of refreshing temperatures from 22°C to 30°C and cultural festivities, making it an excellent time to visit with pleasant weather.

Costs of Cruising to the Philippines

A one-week cruise to the Philippines usually costs between £700 and £1,500, depending on the cruise line and chosen accommodations. Luxury cruises typically start around £3,500 and can increase based on desired amenities and services. When dining on the islands, expect to spend around £10 to £25 for meals at local restaurants, while drinks can usually be found at £3 to £10, allowing you to enjoy the delicious local flavours during your stay.

With its pristine beaches, rich culture, and warm hospitality, the Philippines is a destination that promises lasting memories. It’s time to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and embark on an extraordinary adventure through this tropical paradise!