16 Jun 2025

Making Cruise History (again!) on Sensational Samar Island

Another day, another cruise industry first – this time with visit to the beautiful island of Samar - the least populated of the Philippines islands and largest area of virgin tropical rainforest in the country. Today’s early morning visit saw us welcomed by Filipino dancers, local music and the smiling faces of the crowds as they welcome us, and their first ever expedition cruise ship, at the steps of Catbalogan Public Market.

An hour’s drive in 22, air-conditioned vans, escorted by police transfer, we made our way to the Paranas Ecotrail and Birding Site contained within Samar National Park. The forest was alive with the soundtrack of birds and cicadas, while verdant virgin forest, with a high canopy, added to the mystique. Park staff provided a selection of their local foods and chilled water as we climbed many steps through the forests to the lookout. 

Many went on to visit the Arboretum ni Papa Donoy in Paranas, a magnificent botanical garden busy with orchids, dragon fruits and many other tropical flower plants. The sweet snacks and local interpretation aided to the experience rounded off with a stunning view.  

The final stop of the morning was to the Torpedo Visitor Centre – providing yet more delicious delicacies with that famed Filipino love language of hospitality, cultural dance display, mat-making, head and shoulder massages and many conversations with the excited locals all wanting to know our story and to share their own.

In the afternoon we sailed to Daram Island to enjoy a Zodiac cruise around spectacular limestone islands with many birds observed from Pygmy Swiftlets to Brahminy Kites, followed by a swim in stunning azure water.

Images © C. Finch, Heritage Expeditions