BOAC, Marinduque — For the fourth time, Australian-based Coral Expeditions returned to the Heart of the Philippines as its cruise ship Coral Geographer visited Marinduque on Thursday morning, December 18, further strengthening the province’s growing presence in the international cruise tourism market.
Around 120 cruise passengers, together with ship crew members, arrived at exactly 7:52 a.m. aboard two tender boats at Cawit Port in Boac. A light drizzle briefly welcomed the guests, but it soon gave way to bright sunshine and the rare sight of double rainbows—setting a memorable tone for the day’s activities.
Tourists were greeted with a vibrant cultural welcome organized through the coordination and support of the Marinduque Tourism and Cultural Office and the Provincial Government of Marinduque. The reception featured the iconic Moriones (Moryons), traditional putong rites performed by students of Marinduque National High School, musical numbers by the Capitol Choir, and performances by the unique Pangkat Kalutang band of Barangay Bangbang, Gasan.
Accredited tour guides trained by the Department of Tourism from the Marinduque Tour Guides Association, along with local tour operator Dream Favor Travel and Tours, facilitated the excursion. The visitors were transported by approximately 14 air-conditioned vans and divided into two groups to ensure a more relaxed and uncrowded experience at each destination.
The tour highlighted Marinduque’s rich cultural heritage and scenic countryside. Stops included live demonstrations of Moriones mask carving, armor making, and accessory crafting at the parish church patio in Mogpog, prepared by the Mogpog Tourism Office and the Local Government of Mogpog. Guests also enjoyed views of vast rice paddies and coconut groves along the Mogpog route before proceeding to Boac.
In Boac, the visitors explored the historic Immaculate Conception Cathedral and its patio, joined a walking tour of select ancestral houses, visited souvenir shops and the Marinduque Museum, and sampled local delicacies. The Boac Tourism Office and the municipal government offered light snacks such as fresh buko juice, special bibingka, and traditional panganan cookies. The group later made a brief stop at the Provincial Capitol Complex before returning to Cawit Port ahead of their 11:50 a.m. departure.
One of the tourists, Barry from Australia, shared his positive experience and revealed that many were impressed by the grand welcome, the serene provincial atmosphere, the richness of local traditions, and the warmth and hospitality of the locals—despite the limited time of their visit.
“Everybody here is so friendly, and it’s good to see how the locals interact with us and demonstrate their skills—from weaving to pottery. The food preparation and the opportunity to taste island cuisine made it a very happy and enjoyable experience,” he said.
Meanwhile, Susan Nace, president of the Marinduque Tourism Association and owner of Dream Favor Travel and Tours, said the visitors were deeply moved by the reception.
“We are truly delighted that Marinduque is now emerging as one of the preferred destinations for cruise ships, opening our province to the global market. We sincerely hope that this momentum continues to grow, attracting even more visitors, and we eagerly look forward to the time when larger cruise ships will grace our shores and make Marinduque a regular port of call,” Nace said.
After departing Boac, the Coral Geographer made a stop offshore at Natangco Island in Brgy. Silangan, Mogpog, where guests delighted in the islet’s unspoiled natural beauty and powdery white sand.
Coral Expeditions is set to return to the province as the Coral Geographer is scheduled to make another port call in Marinduque on December 21, underscoring the island’s growing appeal as a cruise tourism destination. (Photo by Toby Jamilla) -- Marinduquenews.com
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