TACLOBAN CITY – Biliran is set to welcome a cruise ship that will make a stop in three key destinations on the island, making the province the newest cruise destination in Eastern Visayas.

The provincial government announced on Thursday that Coral Expeditions — a pioneering Australian cruise line — will return to the province this year, through Coral Geographer, a vessel launched in 2021. The cruise line made its first visit to Biliran in November last year.

The ship will bring around 120 visitors to Higatangan Island in Naval town on Oct. 31, and to the picturesque islands of Maripipi and Sambawan, known for their breathtaking landscapes and rich marine life on Nov. 4.

“During their stay, the guests will enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, swimming, and sampling local food delicacies. Each stop will feature showcases of the unique livelihoods and cultural traditions of each municipality, offering guests a glimpse into the vibrant community life of the province,” the provincial tourism office said in a statement.

Coral Expeditions described Maripipi, Biliran, on its website as the "Isle of Gems" for its clear waters and white sand beaches.

“The province's inclusion in Coral Expeditions' itinerary underscores its growing reputation as a must-visit spot in the region, and we look forward to welcoming more visitors to explore our province and experience the warmth and hospitality of the people of Biliran,” the local tourism office said.

Aside from Biliran, other sites in the region where Coral Geographer will make stops are Biri Island and Lalaguna Mangrove Eco-Park in Northern Samar and Cuatro Islas in the southern part of Leyte province.

Since 2013, Eastern Visayas has been part of the cruise tourism industry through German company Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ MS Europa.

Since then, the region has become a regular port call for smaller vessels used on expedition cruises carrying around 100 to 600 guests.

“The growth of cruise tourism is not only measured by the number of cruise calls. It may be one cruise ship visiting several destinations in the region,” Department of Tourism Eastern-Visayas Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes said in an earlier interview.

Among the destinations frequently included in cruise ships' itinerary are Kalanggaman Island and Cuatro Islas in Leyte province, Limasawa Island in Southern Leyte, and Capul Island in Northern Samar.

Newly included places are Padre Burgos in Southern Leyte; Canigao Island, Tacloban City, and Palo in Leyte; Maripipi and Sambawan in Biliran; and Biri Island in Northern Samar. (PNA)