PH named as Asia’s best cruise destination

THE World Cruise Awards has named the Philippines as Asia’s Best Cruise Destination for this year, boosting the country’s status as a developing powerhouse in the global cruise and tourism industry.

Held in Dubai last Sunday, the World Cruise Awards is an annual program that honors exceptional accomplishments in the cruise industry.

“This first-time recognition as Asia’s Best Cruise Destination 2023 is a big win for Philippine tourism as it reflects a resounding global preference for our island destinations,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said on Monday. 

“The shared tourism governance between government and the private sector espoused by the Marcos Administration is bearing fruit. We are committed to maintain and enhance the Philippines’ standing as an outstanding cruise destination in Asia and the world,” Frasco said.

Other contenders for the award were India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

As of October 16, the Philippines expects cruise liners to make 128 ports of call in 33 destinations. The ships are projected to carry about 101,000 tourists and around 50,000 staff members.

Frasco said the country’s 7,641 islands offer “a wide array of cruise experiences, from exploring picturesque coastlines and coral reefs to immersing in local culture and traditions.”

The Seaborne Encore, Silver Shadow, MSC Poesia, Queen Elizabeth, Norwegian Jewel, Coral Adventure, MS Seven Seas Explorer, MS Star Breeze, Silver Whisper, Oceania Cruises, Aidabella, and Blue Dream Cruise are among the arriving cruise ships.

“With Boracay, Palawan and Siargao having recently garnered Conde Nast Travel’s Best Islands in Asia Award, the Philippines’ recognition as Asia’s Best Cruise Destination complements and reaffirms our status as a must-visit destination for cruise enthusiasts,” Frasco said.

“We are grateful that the country’s potential to offer exceptional cruise experiences is now acknowledged on a global scale,” she said. — Moises Cruz