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Boracay welcomes first int'l cruise ship for 2025

Philippines | Luzon

Boracay welcomes first int'l cruise ship for 2025

By Tara Yap

ILOILO CITY – MS AIDAStella is the first international cruise ship to visit world-famous Boracay Island this year.

MS AIDAStella arrives for a visit to Boracay Island on Jan. 13. (Malay-Boracay Tourism Office)

The Italy-flagged ship under Costa Cruise Lines had more than 2,000 passengers and crew who disembarked and went on a day tour of the country’s most popular beach destination off the coast of Malay, Aklan on Monday, Jan. 13.

The mostly European tourists enjoyed the famous white sand beach, swam on the beach, dined at beachside restaurants, visited souvenir shops, and watched cultural performances in their nine-hour stay.

“They embraced the island’s charm, exploring its pristine white-sand beaches, swimming in its turquoise waters, and immersing themselves in its vibrant culture – all despite the gentle blessing of rain that added a touch of magic to their adventure,” the Department of Tourism-6 (Western Visayas) said in a statement.

As this year’s first international cruise ship to arrive in Boracay, a plaque exchange ceremony was held onboard the ship among the DOT-6, the local government unit of Malay, and MS AIDAStella.

Present were DOT-6 Regional Director Crisanta Marlene “Krisma” Rodriguez, Aklan Provincial Tourism Officer Roselle Ruiz, Denise Sevilla of Malay-Boracay Tourism Office, the Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Quarantine, and the Philippine Ports Authority.

“As the island continues to welcome international travelers, the LGU of Malay and the province of Aklan remains steadfast in its dedication to providing exceptional experiences and fostering strong partnerships with global tourism stakeholders,” said the Malay-Boracay Tourism Office.

Related Tags

Boracay Island MS AIDAStella

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