A luxury cruise ship near Digyo Island in Leyte in this May 7, 2026 photo. (Philippines’ Department of Tourism)
The Philippines is set to strengthen its position as an expedition cruise destination, with three luxury vessels scheduled to visit Eastern Visayas in 2027 as demand grows for culturally immersive travel experiences.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) said the ships are expected to bring more than 600 international passengers to destinations across Leyte and Samar. The visits are part of a broader push to promote lesser-known island communities to the international cruise market.
A vessel operated by UK-based Swan Hellenic Cruises is expected to call at Cuatro Islas in Leyte in May 2027, carrying around 160 passengers. Heritage Adventurer, operated by a Portuguese cruise company, is scheduled to visit Calbayog City and Paranas in Samar the following month. Moreover, French cruise operator Compagnie du Ponant is scheduled to make stops at Limasawa Island in Southern Leyte and Cuatro Islas in September 2027, with approximately 280 passengers.
DOT Eastern Visayas officer-in-charge Rina Apostol said cruise visitors are increasingly seeking experiences centred on ecotourism, local heritage and authentic coastal communities. The growth of cruise tourism could also benefit destinations with limited accommodation and dining facilities, allowing smaller island communities to tap international visitors without relying on conventional mass tourism.
Authorities are meanwhile assessing a wider range of potential cruise destinations across Eastern Visayas, including sites in Samar, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte and Biliran. Although some may not feature in 2027 itineraries, officials said they could be incorporated into future international cruise tourism campaigns.
The Philippines has increasingly attracted luxury and boutique cruise operators, with established calls at destinations such as Kalanggaman Island and Cuatro Islas, alongside emerging stops including Capul, Biri, Maripipi, Sambawan, Higatangan and Limasawa.
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