Subic Bay officially signaled its return to the global cruise map as
the MS Crystal Symphony docked early morning on March 14,
bringing 550 international tourists to the freeport.
The arrival marks the first cruise visit of the year, effectively reviving Subic’s position as a major maritime stop in Southeast Asia.
Upon arrival, passengers were greeted with a traditional cultural welcome before departing on a fleet of tour buses for excursions across Subic’s shopping hubs and attractions, with two additional buses bound for Clark Freeport in Pampanga.
SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose Aliño highlighted the agency’s ambitious vision for the industry.
“Subic is positioning itself to become a premier cruise turnaround hub in Southeast Asia,” Aliño stated, noting that a P10.2-billion dedicated cruise ship terminal is currently in the planning stages.
The MS Crystal Symphony’s visit is a highlight of its 58-day voyage from Mombasa, Kenya, to Tokyo, Japan. Before arriving in Subic, the vessel made stops in Puerto Princesa, Coron, Boracay, and Manila.
This visit marks the start of a busy season for the freeport. Upcoming arrivals include:
March 26: MS Adora Mediterranea (3,592 passengers)
March 30: MS Amadea (916 passengers)
April 6 & 16: MV Piano Land (2,722 passengers
and crew)
Oct 25: Costa Serena, a frequent visitor to the bay.
Since the launch of cruise tourism in 2018, the SBMA has hosted 37 liners and nearly 50,000 passengers, generating approximately P173 million in tourism receipts for Central Luzon before the 2020 pandemic pause. (SNL)
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