Luxury cruise lines are expanding their presence in the Philippines with itineraries that prioritize extended stays and visits to lesser-known islands. Operators including Ponant, Silversea, and Scenic Cruises have scheduled a series of voyages through 2028 that move beyond traditional ports to include provincial destinations across Luzon and the Visayas, TTG Asia reported.
Expedition Itineraries for 2027 and 2028
The shift toward experiential cruising is marked by specific upcoming voyages designed to provide deeper access to the archipelago. Ponant has scheduled a nine-day cruise aboard the Le Soléal from February 3 to 11, 2028. The route begins in Manila and includes stops at Iloilo, the islands of Kalanggaman, Limasawa, and Higatangan in Leyte, and Sibuyan in Romblon, before visiting Calapan in Oriental Mindoro.
Ponant also plans to host its "Horizons of East Asia and the Philippines" cruise from October 23 to November 5, 2027. This 14-day journey spans South Korea, China, Japan, and Taiwan, with a four-day segment dedicated to the Philippines, featuring stops in Batanes, Claveria in Cagayan, and the Hundred Islands in Pangasinan.
Silversea’s Silver Cloud is set to undertake two expeditions in 2027. The first, running from June 9 to 23, covers Darwin, Australia, Malaysia, and Indonesia, with nine days allocated for shore excursions in Luzon and the Visayas. A return trip from Manila to Darwin, scheduled for June 23 to July 14, 2027, will include an additional six days in the Philippines. Later that year, the Silver Muse will sail from December 5 to 19, 2027, visiting Manila, Coron, and Puerto Princesa in Palawan as part of a wider regional itinerary. Scenic Cruises, which previously visited the country in 2025, is slated to return in 2028.
Market Trends in Luxury Travel
The push into provincial waters is driven by an increase in demand for upscale, experiential expedition travel in Southeast Asia. Shan Dioquino David, CEO and president of CITTI Elite—the preferred sales agent for Silversea, Ponant, and Scenic Cruises in the Philippines—noted that the post-pandemic luxury market is specifically seeking out the country’s diverse islands, beaches, and cultural heritage.
According to David, the current booking demographic for these luxury sailings is predominantly international. "Most clients who booked are sailing from all over the world. Domestic travellers are very minimal," David stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cruise lines are increasing their Philippine presence?
Ponant, Silversea, and Scenic Cruises have all confirmed plans for upcoming sailings in the region. These lines are focusing on luxury expedition itineraries that emphasize remote island destinations.
What specific Philippine locations are featured in the new itineraries?
Upcoming routes include stops at Limasawa Island, Kalanggaman, Higatangan, Sibuyan, Batanes, Claveria, the Hundred Islands, Coron, and Puerto Princesa. These locations supplement standard calls at major hubs like Manila and Iloilo.
Are these cruises intended for domestic travelers?
No, the current market for these luxury expedition sailings is almost entirely international. Industry data from CITTI Elite indicates that domestic participation in these specific high-end cruise offerings remains minimal.
The expansion of these itineraries follows a pattern of increasing maritime interest in the region, building on the return of operators like Scenic Cruises after their initial 2025 visit.
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