A high-end French expedition cruise company is considering Iloilo City and the island province of Guimaras as stopover destinations in its Asian cruise itineraries.
Compagnie du Ponant’s shore excursion and port agents recently visited the city and the province for a site and operational inspection.
Facilitated by the Department of Tourism (DOT-6), the visit “allowed the delegation to experience firsthand the ports, attractions, shore excursions, and unique tourism experiences that [the city and province] can offer to international cruise passengers.”
Cruise tourism, according to the DOT-6, creates meaningful economic opportunities for local communities.
“Every cruise call generates business for transport providers, tour guides, restaurants, accommodation establishments, souvenir shops, farmers, fisherfolk, and other local enterprises,” the region’s tourism department said.
“It also provides a valuable platform to showcase the rich culture, heritage, gastronomy, and natural attractions of Western Visayas to high-value international travelers,” it added.
The DOT-6 is expecting that the validation team, which was composed of representatives from Travel People, Wallem Philippines Shipping, Inc., and Wilhelmsen-Smith Bell, to contribute to the finalization of cruise deployment plans for the city and the province.
“The initiative also strengthens efforts to position Western Visayas as a premier cruise destination and opens opportunities to attract more luxury and expedition cruise operators, including Hapag-Lloyd Cruises,” it said.IMT
