Awarding Body Crowns Philippines as Asia's Best Cruise Destination

Boasting seas that are as blue as the skies and islands rich in culture and greenery, the Philippines is indeed a sight to behold for nature-loving travellers. This is further proven by the World Cruise Awards 2023, as the country has been named Asia’s Best Cruise Destination by the award-giving body.

This marks the first time the country has received such an award, therefore stamping its place in the global cruise sector. The Philippines was also a nominee for the World's Best Cruise Destination 2023, which was ultimately bagged by Abu Dhabi.

Other countries that vied for the award include India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

According to the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Philippines is expected to have about 128 ports of call or cruise calls in 2023 and will bring in over 101,000 passengers and 50,000 crew. Among the cruise ships to arrive are the Queen Elizabeth, the MS Seven Seas Explorer, and the Blue Dream Cruise.

“This prestigious award is not only a testament to the Philippines’ allure as a cruise destination but also a validation of the collective dedication of the tourism industry and the Department of Tourism,” said DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco in a statement via the agency’s Facebook page.

The World Cruise Awards is the sister event of the World Travel Awards. Since its launch in 1994, it has been recognising the world’s best in the global cruise industry annually. The Philippines bagging the award also breaks Singapore’s winning streak in the same category.