Secrets of the Visayas archipelago

MANILA, the capital city of the Philippines, was founded in, 1571 by Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi. It is one of the oldest cities in the country and was the seat of power for most of the colonial rules of the Philippines. It is situated on the eastern shore of Manila Bay and contains a multitude of landmarks, some of which date back to the 16th century. It is home to the baroque 16th-century San Agustin Church as well as Fort Santiago, a storied citadel and military prison. In the 19th century Manila became one of the most modern cities in Asia. Before the Spanish–American War, Manila saw the rise of the Philippine Revolution. Under the American rule following the Spanish-American War, the United States changed the official language from Spanish to English. Towards the end of World War II, during the Battle of Manila, most of the city was flattened by intensive aerial bombardment. Today, tourism is a vital industry in Manila. Major shopping malls and bazaars thrive around Manila.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Dominated by the silhouette of the Mayon Volcano, Legazpi reveals a spectacular setting in the heart of the Bicol Peninsula. This elegant town, facing the Gulf of Albay, offers a rare balance between nature and cultural heritage. A veritable symbol of the Philippines, the Mayon Volcano is a source of fascination with its conical form and the legends that surround it. During your exploration, admire the panoramas from Daraga Church and the Cagsawa Ruins, witnesses to a past eruption. You will be able to continue on towards lush green hills, or discover local know-how, such as abaca fibre and pili nuts. Volcanic landscapes, living traditions, gastronomic immersion: this port of call will reveal the full beauty of Albay Province.

Classed as a protected natural landscape and seascape, Biri Island, off the island of Samar, reveals a spectacular decor shaped by the forces of nature. Beaten by the waves of the Pacific, the island shelters impressive rocky formations sculpted over millions of years, recognised today as a national geological monument. These striking reliefs, spread over several islands, offer almost surreal panoramas, between natural pools and sculpted cliffs. Reach the iconic sites in local vehicles, then make your way through the mangroves, to the viewpoints that give onto the unique rocky formations. The experience will continue in a fishing village, where scenes of daily life and traditional know-how set the pace of your exploration. Between raw nature, local immersion and moments of contemplation, this port of call will reveal one of the most fascinating facets of the Philippines.

Travelling through the eastern provinces of the Philippines enables us to discover some of the last remaining pristine environments and remote untouched villages scattered throughout this nation of contrasts. The Cuatro Islands is a 12,500-hectare protected landscape and seascape situated in the municipalities of Inopacan and Hindang. The Cuatro Islands are four small islands renowned for their white sand beaches, traditional fishing villages and colourful marine environment. Here you will have the opportunity to witness village life in a remote, traditional fishing village and snorkel in the clear tropical waters.

The town of Catbalogan, where you will disembark before a one-hour road journey, is the gateway to a truly exceptional site: the Samar Island Natural Park, one of the largest natural sanctuaries in the Philippines. This lush setting, covering over 300,000 hectares, is home to remarkable biodiversity, between primary forests and wild rivers. In the heart of this pristine nature, set off for an active immersion along the Paranas Ecotrail, punctuated with spectacular viewpoints and a suspension bridge, where each stage reveals the riches of the local flora. The adventure will continue on the Ulot River, aboard traditional boats that were used to transport wood in the past and have now been reinvented for an authentic discovery. Between exploration and grandiose scenery, this port of call offers a rare experience, bringing you as close as possible to pristine and inspiring nature.

Located off the coast of the large island of Sibuyan, in the Romblon Province, Cresta de Gallo offers a real change of scenery, thanks to its breathtaking natural landscapes and its tropical vegetation. This preserved sanctuary is composed of two islands connected by a long white sandbar. The island is known to shelter diverse marine life, particularly colourful tropical fish and sea turtles. It has no tourist infrastructure or local community, and its ecosystem is rich in coral reefs. You will be able to explore the island on foot and take a dip in its crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for relaxing and swimming.

Marinduque, a peaceful island in the heart of the Philippines, is known for rolling hills, pristine beaches, and vibrant traditions. Small fishing villages welcome visitors and preserve time-honored crafts and festivals, including the famous Moriones Festival. Surrounding waters host rich coral reefs and diverse marine life, ideal for snorkeling and diving. Inland, verdant forests and hidden waterfalls offer quiet exploration, blending natural beauty and cultural heritage in a serene island escape

MANILA, the capital city of the Philippines, was founded in, 1571 by Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi. It is one of the oldest cities in the country and was the seat of power for most of the colonial rules of the Philippines. It is situated on the eastern shore of Manila Bay and contains a multitude of landmarks, some of which date back to the 16th century. It is home to the baroque 16th-century San Agustin Church as well as Fort Santiago, a storied citadel and military prison. In the 19th century Manila became one of the most modern cities in Asia. Before the Spanish–American War, Manila saw the rise of the Philippine Revolution. Under the American rule following the Spanish-American War, the United States changed the official language from Spanish to English. Towards the end of World War II, during the Battle of Manila, most of the city was flattened by intensive aerial bombardment. Today, tourism is a vital industry in Manila. Major shopping malls and bazaars thrive around Manila.