Philippines Cruises

Explore the Vibrant Beauty of the Philippines with Cruise1st

The Philippines is an enchanting archipelago of over 7,000 islands, each boasting its own unique charm and allure. With its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, cruising through this tropical paradise offers you the opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Fun fact: The Philippines is renowned for having some of the best diving spots in the world, including locations where you can swim alongside vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. A cruise in the Philippines lets you hop from island to island, combining relaxation and adventure while immersing yourself in the warmth of Filipino hospitality!

Top Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to the Philippines

• Cunard: With a fleet of 4 ships, Cunard has 1 sailing to the Philippines—Queen Anne. This ship is distinguished by its elegance and exceptional service, offering passengers a truly luxurious cruising experience. Often departing from Sydney for domestic cruisers or international ports like Southampton and Hong Kong, Queen Anne allows guests to indulge in the classic grandeur that Cunard is known for while exploring the beauty of the Philippines.
• Holland America Line: With 11 ships in total, Holland America has 2 vessels visiting the Philippines: Westerdam and Noordam. These ships are particularly famed for their cultural onboard experiences, focusing on local artistry and cuisine during each cruise. Departures usually happen from international ports such as Singapore or Hong Kong, allowing guests to explore vibrant cultures before soaking up the sun in the Philippines.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian operates a fleet of 20 vessels, with 3 ships visiting the Philippines, including Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun. Known for their lively onboard entertainment and diverse dining options, these ships promise a fun experience at sea. Expect to depart from international ports like Keelung (Taipei) or Singapore, providing an exciting start to your exploration of Philippine islands.
• Princess Cruises: Featuring 17 ships, Princess has 1 that sails to the Philippines—Coral Princess. Known for its exceptional onboard amenities and experiences, this cruise line offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. The Coral Princess departs from Sydney for domestic cruisers or international ports like Los Angeles and Fort Lauderdale, setting the stage for a remarkable cruise journey.
• MSC Cruises: Operating a fleet of 23 vessels, MSC has 1 ship that goes to the Philippines, MSC Magnifica. With an emphasis on authentic global flavours and entertainment, MSC Magnifica offers something for everyone. Depart from international ports like Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome) before your journey across the beautiful waters to this tropical paradise.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to the Philippines

• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6, Seabourn has 3 ships sailing to the Philippines, including Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Encore. Known for their ultra-luxurious experience, these ships provide a high level of personalised service and exquisite dining. Departures often take place from domestic ports like Sydney or Perth (Fremantle) as well as from international ports such as Hong Kong and Benoa, making your trip to the Philippines even more accessible.
• Oceania Cruises: Oceania operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 3 vessels offering itineraries to the Philippines, notably Riviera and Insignia. Renowned for their destination-focused sailing and gourmet dining options, these ships guarantee a refined cruising experience. Departures commonly occur from Singapore or Tokyo, setting the stage for a comprehensive adventure through the enchanting archipelago.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara has 1 ship visiting the Philippines: Azamara Onward. Azamara commits to providing immersive cultural experiences, designed to connect guests with each destination they visit. Most cruises depart from Sydney for domestic cruisers or from international ports such as Singapore and San Diego, ensuring a thoughtful journey through the archipelago.
• Silversea: This line features a fleet of 12, with 2 ships sailing to the Philippines: Silver Whisper and Silver Dawn. Known for their exceptional onboard service and luxury, these ships offer a premier cruising experience that highlights destinations. Departures take place primarily from Singapore or Hong Kong, allowing you to enjoy the best the Philippines has to offer.

Top Harbours to Explore in the Philippines

• Manila: As the bustling capital city, Manila is a vibrant blend of rich history and modernity. Cruise passengers can explore Intramuros, the historic walled city, where they can visit Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church. Be sure to check out the National Museum for a glimpse into Filipino culture or treat yourself to local delicacies at one of the lively street markets!
• Puerto Princesa: Famed for its UNESCO-listed Subterranean River National Park, Puerto Princesa offers unparalleled natural beauty. Cruise visitors can embark on a guided tour of the underground river, known for its impressive limestone karst landscapes. The city itself features lovely parks and places to relax, perfect for soaking up the sun after a day of exploration.
• Boracay Island: Known globally for its stunning White Beach, Boracay is a tropical paradise. Visitors can enjoy water sports like snorkelling, diving, or simply lounging on the powdery white sand. Boracay also offers vibrant nightlife options, with beachfront bars and restaurants where you can indulge in fresh seafood and cocktails while enjoying the sunset.
• Coron: Famous for its beautiful lagoons and wreck diving, Coron is perfect for adventure seekers! Cruise passengers can explore Kayangan Lake, hailed as one of the cleanest lakes in Asia, or dive into the stunning coral reefs surrounding the island. Don't miss the chance to visit one of the numerous sacred sites or take a boat tour to the hidden beaches.
• Salomague: This lesser-known destination offers a glimpse into the more traditional aspects of the Philippines. Cruisers can visit nearby beaches or explore local markets where artisan products are sold. It’s an excellent spot for those looking to enjoy a more authentic experience away from the crowded tourist areas.

Best Times to Book Your Cruise to the Philippines

Exploring the Philippines is best enjoyed throughout various seasons! From December to February, you can expect cooler temperatures ranging from 24-31°C, ideal for outdoor adventures and sightseeing. March to May gets hotter, with temperatures rising to around 28-34°C, perfectly timed for beach getaways and island hopping. The wet season from June to November brings occasional rain; however, temperatures remain pleasant at 24-30°C, making for lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

Cost Overview for Cruises to the Philippines

A week-long cruise exploring the Philippines typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,800 AUD, while a two-week excursion can reach $3,000 to $5,500 AUD. For luxury cruises, average prices may start around $5,000 AUD for a week and go up to $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Meals onboard are generally included, but when dining onshore, you can expect to spend around $15-45 AUD on local meals, while drinks at bars typically run $6-12 AUD.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you're considering a cruise to the Philippines, you might find these regions equally enticing:

• Caribbean: Known for its sandy beaches and turquoise waters, the Caribbean offers a mix of cultural experiences and tropical relaxation, perfect for sun and sea lovers!
• Asia: With a tapestry of cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history, Asia promises vibrant experiences that delight all senses. Each country offers something unique, from the ancient temples of Cambodia to the bustling streets of Tokyo.
• Southern Europe: This region blends historic architecture, delectable cuisine, and beautiful coastlines in countries like Italy and Greece, ensuring a charming and relaxing cruise filled with cultural exploration.
• Maldives: A paradise of coral reefs and private islands, the Maldives is perfect for those looking for luxury and relaxation, featuring stunning marine biodiversity and five-star resorts.
• Bali: Renowned for its lush landscapes and rich culture, Bali offers an enchanting escape, with beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and world-class cuisine for an ultimate tropical retreat.

Embarking on a cruise to the Philippines is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in tropical beauty, rich culture, and genuine hospitality. With Cruise1st, your dream getaway awaits. Let us guide you on this unforgettable journey!