The wind in the Philippines, particularly in the winter, blows reliably. It’s sunny almost all the time, and there are literally thousands of islands — 7,107 at last count. All of these enviable factors would usually point to the perfect destination as a superyacht cruising ground, but the Philippines currently lags far behind other sailing destinations, like Thailand, Australia or the Caribbean. A lack of infrastructure and outdated legislation — has conspired to keep this sailor’s paradise from fully developing its potential. But it’s hoped that the tide is turning, not least in the far western province of Palawan. To take advantage of this nascent interest in yachting.
Palawan is the largest province in the Philippines and famous for its unique landscape, with limestones islets and beautiful lakes. Palawan is an archipelago of 1,780 islands on the western part of the Philippines. It has the most concentration of islands but is the most sparsely populated region in the country. Because of its scenic landscapes and high bio-diversity, Palawan is known as “The Last Ecological Frontier of the Philippines”.
The northern part of Palawan province is blessed with crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and a wealth of flora and fauna. It is here that El Nido and Taytay, home of the lovely El Nido Resorts, are located. Spectacular ancient limestone cliffs tower over marine sanctuaries teeming with innumerable species of tropical fish and coral, as well as five species of endangered sea turtles. Lush forests abound with more than 100 species of birds. It is a truly exotic destination.
Tranquil waters, uninhabited islands
We recommend you set sail to Coron, one of the most beautiful anchorages in this world, where sacred freshwater lakes are administered by the indigenous populations. Two of them are open to tourists but, despite this, are largely empty. Swimming in Kayangan Lake is a peaceful way to relax, and the towering limestone cliffs that surround it cut the outside world off completely. Try mooring in a quiet bay enclosed by limestone karsts and crystal clear waters. This very protected anchorage allows you to walk up to the lake early in the morning – long before the tourists arrive.
Visiting a Marcos legacy
Calauit Island is just one of many islands that make up this part of the vast Philippines archipelago, the majority of which are dotted with sandy beaches and encircled by reefs. Drop anchor in the shallows outside the reef and spend the afternoon snorkelling and exploring the beach.
Here the opportunity presents itself to visit a true oddity, a safari park populated by African animals. Built by late Filipino dictator Ferdinand Marcos, who used it as a hunting reserve in his heyday, it’s something that has to be seen to be believed! The animals on the island — which is called Calauit — no longer receive government support but small fees to visit keep this hunting reserve-turned-safari park running. It’s best to visit early in the morning when the wildlife is up and about.
Black Island
Set out again for another day of island hopping, taking in a slew of impossibly picturesque islands underway, before traversing a deep channel and heading for Black Island, a piratical-sounding limestone bulk that looms out of the sea and has one of the most perfect beaches you will ever see. Manatees are often spotted in the brackish water here. We also recommend that you make time in your cruise to explore the picture perfect Pass Island, for a snorkel and swim and beach set-up.
Footnote:
Contact Seal Superyachts Philippines for detailed information about cruising around Philippines, superyacht charter regulations and about how we can support your visit.
Principle agent Miguel Ramirez is proud to have worked with many of the World’s largest Superyachts and has extensive knowledge of Philippines and the surrounding area.
Miguel Ramirez
Phone: +63 917 835 6988
Email: philippines@seal-superyachts.com