Do We Have Cruise Tourism in the Philippines?

By Michael Ferguson

The Philippines, being an archipelagic country, is blessed with beautiful beaches and pristine waters. It’s no surprise that tourism is one of the country’s top industries. However, when it comes to cruise tourism, the Philippines seems to be lagging behind its neighboring Southeast Asian countries.

What is Cruise Tourism?

Cruise tourism, also known as “cruising,” involves passengers traveling on a cruise ship for leisure purposes. The ship usually makes stops at various ports, allowing passengers to explore different destinations. Cruise ships offer all-inclusive packages that include accommodations, meals, entertainment, and other activities onboard.

The State of Cruise Tourism in the Philippines

Despite having beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage sites, the Philippines has yet to fully tap into the potential of cruise tourism. The country only receives a small number of cruise ships compared to its neighboring countries like Thailand and Malaysia.

One reason for the lack of cruise tourism in the Philippines is the inadequate infrastructure. The country has limited port facilities that can accommodate large cruise ships. Moreover, some ports lack proper facilities for tourists such as transportation services and tourist information centers.

Another reason is the lack of marketing efforts by the government and private sector. While there are some initiatives to promote Philippine tourism abroad, there seems to be a lack of focus on promoting cruise tourism specifically.

However, despite these challenges, there have been recent developments in the industry. The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has been working on expanding port facilities in different parts of the country to accommodate more cruise ships. Moreover, private companies have been investing in developing their own port facilities and promoting their destinations for cruisers.

The Potential for Cruise Tourism in the Philippines

The potential for cruise tourism in the Philippines is immense. With over 7,000 islands and diverse cultures across regions from north to south – there are endless possibilities for tourist sights and experiences.

The development of more port facilities will not only boost the tourism industry but also generate employment opportunities for locals. Moreover, it will help promote lesser-known destinations in the country that have yet to be explored by tourists.

Conclusion

While the Philippines may be behind its neighboring countries in terms of cruise tourism, it is not too late to catch up. The government and private sector should continue to work together to improve the infrastructure and marketing efforts for cruise tourism. With its natural beauty and cultural richness, the Philippines has a lot to offer for cruisers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.