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Cuatros Islas, Philippines

Island Trails of the Philippines

Keelung to Manila16 nightsAll InclusiveFrom $13,600.00* PP

Join us on our inaugural journey of discovery through the hard-to-reach island trails of the Philippines. Departing from Keelung in Taiwan, this will be a unique adventure unveiling the rich colonial heritage of the region shaped by Spanish explorers and the historical conflicts of World War II. Share in traditional ceremonies, learn ancient customs, and enjoy the pristine natural marine and terrestrial environs of these secluded shores. On Taiwan’s east coast, hike across elevated boardwalks and suspension bridges that wind into the towering marble valleys and thundering waterfalls of Taroko Gorge National Park. Visit the historic Cabo Engano lighthouse on Palaui Island. Beachcomb on the idyllic shores, and explore the aquatic paradise of Catanduanes and Cuatro Islas. Explore local handicraft markets and visit the churches, houses and shrines of Marinduque, home of the culturally significant kalutang instrument. Along the way, enjoy the expert guidance and warm Australian hospitality of our crew.

  • Dive, snorkel and swim in pristine marine environments such as Cuatro Islas
  • Visit the township of Maripipi to taste local delicacies, watch wild vine weaving and experience traditional pottery making
  • Explore the historic Cabo Engano lighthouse and learn of its significance
  • Cruise the Loboc River on a leisurely river cruise with traditional song and dance entertainment
  • Visit the Tarsiers Conservatory to see the world’s smallest primate which are little bigger than a mango and are considered a near-threatened species
  • Be immersed in island village life on strolls through traditional markets, tasting local delicacies and witnessing cultural practices
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Itinerary

13 Expedition Days, 1 Full Sea Day, 4 Half Sea Days

Island Trails of the Philippines - Keelung to Manila Map

Keelung-Taiwan

Arrive at the Evergreen Hotel, in Keelung (Taiwan), at 2:00pm for SailSAFE check-in. A transfer from here to the terminal will be provided. Board Coral Adventurer at 4:00pm. Settle into your stateroom and relax as we set sail across the Pacific Ocean. Join the Captain’s welcome drinks and meet your crew and fellow guests as the sun sets.

Taroko Gorge, Hualien, Taiwan

This morning we arrive at Hualien City on the east coast of Taiwan. The central Pine Garden is a cultural centre set inside a former Japanese military office. The Hualien County Stone Sculpture Museum displays contemporary and traditional stone carvings. Tzu Chi Cultural Park is a tranquil green space, with statues and a meditation hall. On the Pacific Ocean coast, sprawling Nanbin Park features a popular traditional market.

Explore the myriad of walking trails and suspension bridges that wind through towering marble valleys and past thundering waterfalls of Taroko Gorge National Park. Carved by the Liwu River, the spectacular Gorge is the largest marble canyon in the world and boasts a wide variety of trails, temples and landscapes.

Claveria, Cagayan

Located on the north coast of Luzon and directly south of Taiwan, Claveria is known as the ‘Paradise of the North’. On our visit here, Learn the processes of rice growing and production in a local village and taste local food. Explore the rich biodiversity of the land, experience Daklis, a unique community fishing technique, and learn about the dwindling species that the community can now catch. See one of the heritage houses, the grotto of the Lady of Lourdes, and a 1948 church bell at the Santa Maria Eco Park.

Calayan Island

One of five major islands belonging to the Babuyan Group located along the Luzon Strait, Calayan Island boasts pristine white sand beaches and great hiking terrains. Beach comb at Sibang Cove and hike to Nagudungan Hills for a spectacular view of the town, hills and cliffs.

Palaui Island, Faro de Cabo Engano Lighthouse

Explore the historic Cabo Engano lighthouse and learn of its significance. The decommissioned 19th century Faro de Cabo Engano lighthouse on Palaui Island was built during the Spanish colonial period and is considered a National Cultural Treasure. Trek to faro de Cabo Engano at Cape Engano to be rewarded with a breathtaking view. This trek will require reasonable fitness. An optional scenic Xplorer cruise will also be available for those not participating in the trek.

A relaxed tropical island, Polillo is the largest of 27 islands that make up the archipelago. With white sand beaches and clear waters, we will spend time snorkelling, swimming and kayaking around the small islets. Beachcomb and bird watch along the coastline of Jomalig Island. 

Virac, Catanduanes - Virac Boulevard

Catanduanes Island offers a captivating blend of Filipino and Spanish culture and history. Visit the Museo de Catanduanes, housed in a restored Spanish-era building, to explore artifacts and exhibits that chronicle the island’s past. Nearby, the Virac Cathedral stands as a remarkable architectural gem, showcasing the fusion of Filipino craftsmanship and Spanish influence. Together, these sites provide a glimpse into the melding of cultures on the island, making it a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

Biri & Capul Island Rock Formations

Biri Island is a marine protected reserve with opportunities to explore the underwater marine wonderland, we also learn about Biri Island’s place in World War II history on our visit here. Visit the Magasang Rock formations for its view and take a dip in the water in the middle of these rocks. Those who choose to dive here have the opportunity to join the volunteer program by NGO Biri Initiative to help remove sea pests feeding on coral.

Capul Island’s church, Saint Ignatius of Loyola Parish Church, is a National Cultural Treasure designated by the National Museum of the Philippines. Equally well known is the Capul Lighthouse which has been safely guiding mariners through the San Bernadino Strait since the 1890’s. Visit these historic landmarks and take a walking tour leading to a natural spring once used by Spanish galleons to fetch water prior to their departure to Mexico.

Maripipi, Biliran, Leyte - Sambawan Island

Known as the ‘Isle of Gems’ for its clear waters, friendly locals and dazzlingly bright white sand beach, Maripipi along with Sambawan which offers opportunities for snorkelling, diving, kayaking as well as bird watching in the lush forests. Visit the township of Viga and experience cultural immersion such as tasting local delicacies, watching weaving of wild vines and participating in pottery making.

MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park in Palo - Tacloban, Leyte

Learn more about Leyte’s history at the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park in Palo. The park honours General Douglas MacArthur and his return to the Philippines to help defeat the Japanese forces on the 20th of October 1944. On your visit here you will see the bronze statues of the heroic general and his comrades on a shallow pool. View artworks from around the world at Santo Nino Shrine & Heritage Museum, visit the Anibong shipwreck memorial and stroll through local markets.

Cuatros Islas, Mahaba Island

Meaning ‘four islands’ in Spanish, Cuatros Islas is a group of elusive islands, three of which being inhabited and rarely visited by locals and tourists alike. They are an idyllic location for a full day of relaxing and water activities including snorkelling, diving, kayaking and cruising around the tropical paradise by Xplorer.

Tarsier

Board a riverboat for a leisurely cruise along the picturesque Loboc River while enjoying a buffet-style lunch of local delicacies accompanied by local musicians. Enjoy passing by waterfront villages and watching local children swinging from rope swings strung from coconut palms. Moor up against a floating platform where women and children dressed in traditional costumes perform a lively song and dance performance where you are welcome to join in. Visit the Tarsiers Conservatory to see the world’s smallest primate which are little bigger than a mango and are considered a near-threatened species. From the viewpoint lookout admire the cacao-coloured Chocolate Hills with their symmetrical mounds.

Lapu Lapu Monument, Mactan

Learn of Mactan history and visit the Lapu Lapu Monument is a majestic 20m bronze statue of the hero armed with a kampilan (a native sword) and a shield, erected to honour the bravery of the Datu on the very ground the battle was believed to have taken place. The Magellan Monument, on the other hand, is a large obelisk dedicated to the Portuguese explorer who brought Christianity to the Philippines. Learn about the art of making guitars at Alegre Guitar Factory, known for ukuleles and the bandurria, a plucked chordophone similar to a mandolin and used in Spanish folk music.

Ticao - Matangtubig Spring

Admire the old-style homes of San Jacinto before we stop in at Matangtubig Spring for a fresh-water dip. Later, enjoy watching the sunset onboard off San Miguel island.

Boac Cathedral, Marinduque

Go on a cultural tour by visiting heritage houses, churches and shrines. Visit the Century-old Boac Cathedral and the Biglang Awa Shrine as well as the Marl Insects and Butterfly Garden.

The area is also home of the Kalutang, a musical instrument made of two pieces of wood cited by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as one of the intangible cultural heritages of the Philippines. Browse traditional handicrafts stores to learn more about the island province’s local industries, with possible opportunity to purchase some traditional handicrafts.

Our voyage ends in the Philippines capital of Manila. Disembark Coral Adventurer at 9:00am and bid farewell to new-found friends, the Master and crew.

This itinerary is an indication of the destinations we visit and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition we may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions, and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. Coral Expeditions suggests that you do not arrive on the day of embarkation or depart on the day of disembarkation due to any changes that may occur in scheduling. 



Fares & Availability

Bridge-Deck-Suite---Coral-Adventurer

Bridge Deck Balcony Suite

Private Balcony - 55.8m2

Fully Booked

Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom

Private Balcony - 21.4m2

1 Available
Explorer-Deck-Stateroom---Coral-Adventurer

Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom

Private Balcony - 21.4m2

9 Available

Promenade Deck Stateroom

Picture Window - 17m2

7 Available

Coral Deck Stateroom

Porthole Window - 17m2

3 Available
Book this Departure

Bridge Deck Suites

Private Balcony - 37.5m2

6 Available

Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom

Private Balcony - 21.4m2

21 Available

Promenade Deck Stateroom

Picture Window - 17m2

16 Available

Coral Deck Stateroom

Porthole Window - 17m2

11 Available
Book this Departure

Prices are per person twin share, listed in Australian Dollars (AUD).  Booking Terms & Conditions >
For solo traveller rates see our Solo Traveller Program >


Additional Information

Inclusions:

  • All excursions with our Expedition Team
  • Use of Xplorer, Zodiacs and Kayaks
  • Snorkelling & SCUBA equipment (SCUBA diving at an additional cost)
  • Daily lectures and briefings with Guest Lecturers
  • All meals, chef-prepared on board
  • Captain’s welcome and farewell events, and open bridge access
  • Selected wines, selected beers and house spirits, juices, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner
  • 24-hour barista-style coffee and tea station
  • All entrance fees to National Parks, ports, traditional owner fees and charges imposed by governing authorities
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Use of all onboard facilities, incl. a reference library
  • Your expedition photos captured during the voyage
  • Post-cruise transfers (in most destinations)
  • Wifi Access – Standard speed connectivity enabling email, social image sharing, web browsing and messaging

Not Included:

  • Pre-cruise transfers
  • Pre and post cruise flights/charter flights
  • Pre and post cruise accommodation
  • Travel Insurance
  • SCUBA Diving (view Scuba diving rates)
  • Entry visas & travel permits for the country you are travelling to/from
  • Alcoholic drinks (including beer and wine) outside of lunch and dinner service
  • Laundry service (available at a cost)
  • Items of a personal nature such souvenir purchases
  • Optional Extras (in some destinations)

Visa and Health & Travel Information

Please ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity from the time the expedition commences, and two blank pages. Please email a scanned colour copy of your passport identification page to our team at [email protected] no later than 45 days prior to your departure.

Important: Please bring your physical passport with you on all international departures.

The travel advice information below is for Australian guests only. If you are a non-Australian passport holder travelling on these departures, please contact your relevant government department, embassy or your travel agent for applicable information.

Travelling guests are fully responsible for arranging their own health and visa requirements to travel abroad.
Taiwan: Australian Citizen can visit Taiwan without a Visa if visit is less than 90 days.
Philippines: Australian Citizen can enter the Philippines without a Visa for a period of stay 30 days or less. Guests must register their travel to and from Philippines on the eTravel Card online (https://etravel.gov.ph/ or https://www.visa.gov.ph/) portal in order to receive a QR Code to use for arrival and departure formalities. This needs to be done within 5 days of arrival or departure date.

Please see your doctor or travel clinic to plan any vaccinations you may need at least 8 weeks before you leave.

Taiwan

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) of Taiwan is responsible for enforcing the customs and quarantine laws and regulations of Taiwan. The BOC works to protect the health and safety of the people of Taiwan from harmful pests and diseases, and to ensure the fair and efficient trade of goods.

When arriving in Taiwan, all passengers are required to complete a customs declaration form and submit to a customs inspection. The customs declaration form asks for information about the items that you are bringing into Taiwan, including their value and quantity. The customs inspector may ask you to open your bags and suitcases for inspection.

There are a number of items that are prohibited from being brought into Taiwan, including plants and flowers, certain medications, narcotic drugs and controlled substances. If you are bringing any of these items into Taiwan, you must declare them to the customs inspector. You may be required to pay a duty or a fine.

Philippines

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) of the Philippines is responsible for enforcing the customs and quarantine laws and regulations of the Philippines. The BOC works to protect the health and safety of the people of the Philippines from harmful pests and diseases, and to ensure the fair and efficient trade of goods.

When arriving in the Philippines, all passengers are required to complete a customs declaration form and submit to a customs inspection. The customs declaration form asks for information about the items that you are bringing into the Philippines, including their value and quantity. The customs inspector may ask you to open your bags and suitcases for inspection.

There are a number of items that are prohibited from being brought into Taiwan, including plants and flowers, certain medications, narcotic drugs and controlled substances. If you are bringing any of these items into the Philippines, you must declare them to the customs inspector. You may be required to pay a duty or a fine.

We do not have currency exchange onboard. Guests are advised to exchange money into local currency prior to departure from their home port. Currency exchange and eftpos style point of sale is increasingly available in the regions we visit. We recommend carrying small denominations.

Taiwan: TWD (Taiwan Dollar)

Philippines: PHP (Philippines Peso)

Micronesia: USD

Pre-cruise Flights: Please ensure you have secured your own flights to Keelung prior to your voyage. We encourage guests to arrive at least one day prior to their schedule departure. There are flights to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport in Taipei City from Australia, including Qantas, China Airlines and Cathay Pacific. From Taipei City it is roughly 1 hour by car to our pre-cruise check-in location at Evergreen Hotel, Keelung.

Post-cruise Flights: Please ensure you have secured your own flights for your onward journey. There are flights to Manila with airlines Cathay Pacific, Qantas and China Airlines from Australia.

Pre Cruise: Guests are required to make their own way to the pre-cruise check-in location at Evergreen Hotel at 1400. From the check-in venue there will be a transfer to the ship to board at 5:00pm for a 6:00pm departure. (Check-in Location Address: No. 62之1號, Zhongzheng Rd, Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan)

Post Cruise Transfers: Disembark Coral Adventurer in Manila and bid farewell to new-found friends, the Master and crew. A post cruise transfers to Manila CBD hotels or the Manila airport is included.

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