In a triumph for Philippine tourism, the archipelago has been declared the “best cruise destination in Asia” at the prestigious World Cruise Awards held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Besting tough competition from countries like India, Japan, and Thailand, the Philippines has secured its place as the top cruise destination in the region for 2023. This accolade marks a significant milestone for the country and a testament to the global allure of its enchanting island destinations.
he Department of Tourism (DOT) proudly announced that the Philippines emerged victorious in the category of “Asia’s Best Cruise Destination 2023” at the World Cruise Awards. Competing against formidable contenders such as India, Japan, Singapore, and Vietnam, the Philippines stood out as the preferred cruise destination, according to the official website of the World Cruise Awards.
Expressing gratitude for the prestigious recognition, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco highlighted the impact of this accolade on Philippine tourism. Frasco remarked, “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.” The award serves as a testament to the country’s unparalleled beauty and allure, attracting cruise enthusiasts from around the world.
The World Cruise Awards, known as the sister event of the World Travel Awards, adds to the Philippines’ growing list of achievements in the tourism sector. Notably, the country was also honored as “Asia’s leading dive destination” for the same year by the World Travel Awards. These accolades position the Philippines as a multifaceted destination, offering not only captivating cruise experiences but also world-class diving opportunities.
Looking ahead, the Philippines is gearing up for an influx of cruise activity. The country anticipates a total of 128 cruise calls at 33 different destinations, potentially welcoming over 101,000 passengers and around 50,000 estimated crew members. Noteworthy locations like Manila, Palawan, and Romblon have already received cruise ships this year, while other popular destinations like Boracay and Subic are eagerly awaiting their turn. The Department of Tourism is actively promoting Mindanao as a burgeoning cruise destination, expanding the horizons for maritime tourism in the country.
Amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philippines remains resilient in its efforts to revive the tourism industry. With restrictions gradually easing, the government, through the DOT, is committed to making the country more appealing to travelers choosing cruise vacations. The recognition as Asia’s Best Cruise Destination 2023 serves as a catalyst for these efforts, signaling to the world that the Philippines is ready and eager to welcome cruise enthusiasts seeking unparalleled experiences.
The Philippines’ triumph at the World Cruise Awards solidifies its status as a premier cruise destination in Asia. This accolade not only recognizes the country’s natural beauty and diverse offerings but also positions it as a key player in the global cruise tourism industry. As the Philippines sets its sights on a future marked by increased cruise calls and expanding destinations, it stands ready to showcase the enchanting allure of its islands to a global audience, beckoning travelers to embark on unforgettable maritime adventures in the heart of Southeast Asia.
