Eastern Visayas is firmly putting itself on the map as a prime destination for international cruise ships.
As cruise shipping made its rebound after the Covid-19 pandemic, Eastern Visayas destinations are becoming more and more attractive as "alternative" destinations for tourists hungry for unique tourist spots in the Philippines.
In Northern Samar, for instance, 80 tourists on board the Australian cruise ship Coral Geographer stopped over at Biri Island in Northern Samar.
This marks the cruise vessel’s third visit to Eastern Visayas, according to local authorities.
The visitors explored the island’s iconic rock formations —recently declared a National Geological Monument— and sampled local delicacies like danggit (sun-dried rabbitfish) and fresh scallops.
“They are very beautiful, unique geological formations. I like the way they tilted and how the waves come in,” John, a retired U.S. serviceman from San Diego, California, who previously lived in the Philippines, said.
The tour also included a visit to the 300-hectare La Laguna Mangrove Eco Park in Lavezares, where guests were welcomed with traditional songs and dances before trekking to a panoramic view deck.
Northern Samar Provincial Tourism Officer Ma. Rosette Doctor said the positive feedback increases the likelihood of the cruise ship returning, helping promote these lesser-known destinations while managing tourist carrying capacity.
(With report from PNA)
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