Two international cruise vessels made port calls at key destinations in the country in January this year, which the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) sees as a good sign for a a stronger cruise tourism sector this year.

PPA General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago said it was the international cruise ship MV Norwegian Sky which made a port call at the Manila South Harbor on Jan. 30 this year, following its previous call on Jan. 17 for a turn-around operation from Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

The vessel carried nearly 2,000 passengers, most of whom were Filipinos. Before docking in Manila, it made a stop in Currimao, Ilocos Norte. 

To ensure a seamless experience for its guests, he said 10 buses were provided for guided tours around Manila. The ship remained at Manila South Harbor until sunset, before departing for its next destination, Boracay Island. 

On Jan. 31, the Maltese-flagged cruise ship MS Europa 2 arrived as part of its Asian itinerary.

The vessel, which sailed from Indonesia, spans 225 meters in length and has a Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) of 42,830. It carried 372 crew members and 453 passengers, mostly German and European nationals. 

Guests aboard MS Europa 2 explored some of Bohol’s most famous attractions, including Baclayon Church, the Chocolate Hills, and the Tarsier Sanctuary. The ship later set sail for Kalanggaman Island, Leyte. 

Back to pre-pandemic level

Since the beginning of the year, Santiago said a total of seven cruise vessels have made port calls at various destinations across the country, further signaling the Philippines’ growing appeal in the global cruise industry.

But the PPA also recorded significant improvement last year as it recorded a 61.9 percent increase in cruise passenger arrivals in 2024.

This translated to 142,574 passengers—a significant rise from 88,080 in 2023.

“This marks the highest post-pandemic figure for the country, and the agency projects continued growth in 2025, expecting 185,000 cruise passengers, a 29.8% increase from the previous year,” said Santiago.

Cruise tourism infra support 

To support the growing cruise tourism industry, Santiago said the PPA is investing in new and improved port infrastructure, notable projects include the construction of dedicated cruise terminals in Coron, Aklan, and Camiguin, as well as a cruise ship port in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro,with the bid submission deadline set for Feb. 5.

Additionally, in 2024, the PPA completed the Jubang Port Cruise Ship Terminal in Dapa, Surigao del Norte.

“The PPA cruise dedicated terminals serve as the gateway between the international culture and the Filipino brand of service and warm hospitality, making the Philippines recognized as the Best Port Call and World’s Best Cruise Destination in Asia,” said Santiago

“With the cruise passenger arrivals and vessel calls increasing over the years, the local communities, businesses, and the economy will definitely thrive with the booming cruise tourism," he added.

With the ongoing developments, Santiago said the PPA aims to further elevate the Philippines’ status as a premier cruise destination, boost local economies, and showcase the country’s top-rated tourist attractions to the world.