El Nido/Puerto Princesa

El Nido/Puerto Princesa

Philippines

Paddle through emerald lagoons surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and discover hidden beaches in this island paradise.

Currency Philippine Peso (PHP)
Language Filipino (Tagalog), English
Time Zone PST (UTC+8)
Best Time to Visit Nov–May
Typical Duration 13 nights
Price Range $18,400 per person
Port Type Port of Call
Tender Port Yes

Gateway to the stunning Palawan region, featuring pristine beaches, limestone cliffs, and world-class diving opportunities in one of the Philippines' most biodiverse areas.

Cruises that visit El Nido/Puerto Princesa

Build Your Day in El Nido/Puerto Princesa

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 7:00 PM
Usually about 11 hours ashore
Getting around:
Buhay Isla Ecotour - El Nido Onsite services Tour operator · ★ 5 · 3k Closed · Opens 8 AM
Bella Vita By far, the best restaurant in El Nido - we ended up eating here 3 times. Italian restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 3k Closed · Opens 12 PM
Osaka Castle El Nido Big size portions, the best dinner I had in El Nido. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 3k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
El Nido Tours "Sea Quest" - island hopping and expeditions to Coron. The boat tour in El Nido was well-organized, safe, and truly breathtaking. Travel agency · ★ 4.8 · 2k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Seatours Palawan Onsite services Tour agency · ★ 4.9 · 2k Closed · Opens 6 AM
Sip Sunset Lounge & Bar Cash-only·Rooftop seating·Outdoor seating Cocktail bar · ★ 4.8 · 2k Closed · Opens 7:30 AM
El Nido Boutique Artcafe The food is excellent and (for El Nido) reasonably priced. Restaurant · ★ 4.2 · 2k Closed · Opens 7 AM
El Nido Paradise Onsite services Boat tour agency · ★ 4.8 · 2k Closed · Opens 8 AM
Brunch El nido Delicious food and friendly staff One of the best place in El Nido Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 2k Closed · Opens 7 AM
The Food Truck @ El Nido The seasoning was perfect, easily one of the best meals I’ve had in El Nido. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 2k Closed · Opens 10 AM
Las Cabañas Beach Amazing beach with beautiful, clear, clean blue water. Beach · ★ 4.5 · 2k
Tutto Passa This is one of the best dining experiences you can have in El Nido. Italian restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 2k Closed · Opens 12 PM
OPPA Kitchen Great cocktails·Vegan options·High chairs Asian fusion restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Lio Beach Drinks & shopping by the beach Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Secret Lagoon Lovely hidden location with hidden pool for swimming and relaxation. Beach · ★ 4.4 · 1k
Punta Playa I came here to have dinner and one of the best in El Nido. Fusion restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 PM
Ver De El Nido It was so good we came to eat here twice during our stay in El Nido. Vegan restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Amigos bar Very attentive staff I think it's the best bar in El Nido #bestbarinElNido Bar · ★ 4.8 · 1k Open · Closes 4:30 AM
El Nido Beach Restaurant Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 1k
Blend & Grind Food was really good and the coffee is the best in town of el nido. Cafe · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Oceanview Chinese Restaurant (望海楼中式餐厅) All you can eat·Outdoor seating·Private dining room Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Hidden Beach ... beach on Mantiloc Island only accessible by boat (or swimming lol ... Beach · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Hama Coffee El Nido - Lovely staff 🫶 - Best coffee in El Nido - The best view!! Coffee shop · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Barakuda Seafood Restaurant Outdoor seating·Private dining room·Great cocktails Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 5 PM
Shimizu Island Tourist spot with beaches & snorkeling Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 1k
SAVA Beach Bar Outdoor seating·Great cocktails·Live music Bar · ★ 4.2 · 1k Closes soon · 2 AM
Papaya Beach Onsite services Scenic spot · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Seven Commandos Beach The water is clear and the beach is beautiful ❤️‍🔥 Beach · ★ 4.6 · 1k
Happy Home Restaurant Tasty food and great value for money in El Nido. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 5 PM
La Catrina Restaurant El Nido A must-visit in El Nido if you love authentic Mexican flavors! Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 PM
Piece of Sky El Nido Rooftop seating·Outdoor seating·Great cocktails Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 10 AM
BABA Street Food Greatest food we had in El Nido fresh, awesome taste and very unique 10/10 Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 8 AM
AP KALA beach bar & modern cafe Probably the cafe with the best view of El Nido bay. Cafe · ★ 4.5 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Discover El Nido We booked a private tour with Discover El Nido, and it was spectacular. Tour agency · ★ 4.8 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Chica Chica El Nido Outdoor seating·Great cocktails·Vegan options Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Luway Luway Cafe El Nido 100% Filipino coffee It was the best breakfast in El Nido, with nice people and great vibe. Cafe · ★ 4.9 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM Mon
Oz El Nido Prices are on a higher end but typical for touristic area of el nido town. Tattoo and piercing shop · ★ 4.8 · 1k Closed · Opens 7:30 AM
Centralè Great cocktails Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 1k
Grounded 100% Arabica Coffee, El Nido Branch Best coffee we had in El Nido and one of the best in the Philippines! Coffee shop · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 6 AM
Janu Coffee and Tea Janu, must try coffee shop in El Nido… Coffee shop · ★ 5 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 PM
Taas restaurant Highly recommend for a fancy dinner experience in El Nido. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 5:30 PM
The Treehouse Beach Club Outdoor seating·Great cocktails·Live music Bar · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closes soon · 2 AM
El Nido Public Market The price of dried fish here is much more cheaper than puerto princesa Market · ★ 4 · 0k Closed · Opens 5:30 AM
Prince Hypermart El Nido It's the largest and cheapest store in El Nido. Hypermarket · ★ 3.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Vanilla Beach El Nido Wonderful beach for swimming with sufficient shadow spots under the trees. Beach · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Cudugnon Cave Remote cave on a tranquil beach Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Taraw Cliff One of the best things I did in El Nido but not for the faint hearted! Scenic spot · ★ 4.5 · 0k Open 24 hours
The Clay Kitchen Bistro・Lio Beach, El Nido Outdoor seating·Great cocktails·Live music Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Small Lagoon Tucked-away cove for water sports Scenic spot · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Snake Island sandbar Walks across a squiggly sand bar Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Yacht Wreck Bar Cash-only·Happy hour·Great cocktails Bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closes soon · 2 AM
Straight Up Bar Happy hour·Great cocktails·Happy hour drinks Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k Open · Closes 3 AM
Rooftop Bar Rooftop seating·Happy hour·Great cocktails Bar · ★ 4.3 · 0k Closes soon · 2 AM
Bar 147 by SPIN Outdoor seating·Great cocktails·Live music Bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Twin Beach Wonderful scenery and clean water but the beach was littered. Beach · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Secret Beach Well worth the visit and amazing once inside the beach area. Beach · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Big Lagoon Stunning lagoon with crystal-clear water and breathtaking scenery. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.9 · 0k
El nido Adventures 360° We had an amazing experience with El Nido Adventures 360! Canoe & kayak rental service · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Ille Cave Nice formations and a good tour and background info by the guides. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Blackbird Coffee It is small but the vibes are good and the best coffee I had in El Nido. Coffee shop · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Cadlao Lagoon Activities here are like swimming and kayaking. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 0k Open 24 hours
Matinloc Shrine Abandoned religious shrine on a beach Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 0k
Inasal Eats Co. El Nido Palawan Food is delicious traditional Filipino food at a fair price. Filipino restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Hunt Restaurant - El Nido Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 6 AM
Talisay Beach Canoeing, swimming, snorkeling and walking trails are available here. Beach · ★ 4.6 · 0k
The Pangolin Cocktail Club Happy hour·Great cocktails·Live music Cocktail bar · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open · Closes 3 AM
Outpost Sunset Bar & Restaurant The staff was incredibly helpful and the food was delicious!! Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Coco Resto El Nido Outdoor seating·Vegan options·Live music Filipino restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 7 AM
TropicalTreats A small boutique café on the beach with great food, service, view and a/c. Coffee shop · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Bite and Brew, El Nido Palawan The owners were welcoming and very friendly, and the food was top-notch. Sandwich shop · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Uncle Yin's Hidden gem with nice ocean view, the noodle soup is highly recommended . Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Piggy’s sunset bar Happy hour·Great cocktails·Karaoke Cocktail bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 10:09 AM
The Moringa Tree Restaurant El Nido Dine-in·Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 6:30 AM
Palaweña Travel and Tours & Wellness Spa (El Nido, Puerto Princesa), Palawan Being able to customize our experience in El Nido was worth every penny. Tour operator · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 AM
Paradise Beach The sand is very fine and the trees provide great shade. Beach · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Abot Kaya Commercial It’s where the locals come to buy and it’s very cheap! Shopping mall · ★ 3.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 AM
Marchylle Souvenir And Pasalubong Center Prices are honest and store is in a convenient location. Shopping mall · ★ 3.6 · 0k Closes soon · 2 AM
A Little Corner of Paradise One of better places/shops in El Nido. Souvenir store · ★ 3.2 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 AM
Arafah Pearls & Souvenirs very nice jewelries & affordable souvenirs, the staff is so accomodating. Fashion accessories store · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Vanilla Beach strip mall Prices are acceptable, some items are even cheaper here than in town. Shopping mall · ★ 3.4 · 0k Open 24 hours
SUMMER EVRYDY PH The most beautiful sets and dresses at reasonable prices! Clothing store · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 12 PM

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from El Nido/Puerto Princesa

About El Nido/Puerto Princesa

El Nido and Puerto Princesa represent one of Asia's most enchanting cruise destinations, offering visitors a gateway to some of the Philippines' most pristine natural wonders. This remarkable region has earned international acclaim for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystalline waters, and extraordinary biodiversity, making it an increasingly coveted stop for discerning cruise travelers seeking authentic tropical experiences beyond the typical port itineraries.

As a primarily port-of-call destination, El Nido/Puerto Princesa welcomes cruise passengers seeking immersive encounters with Philippine culture and nature rather than serving as a turnaround port. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection currently offers voyages featuring this port, with most itineraries spanning 13 nights and connecting to other Southeast Asian highlights including Hong Kong, Cebu, Boracay Island, and the scenic islands of Busuanga. January emerges as the peak season, when favorable weather conditions make this an ideal time to explore the region's stunning seascapes and hidden lagoons.

Upon arrival, passengers discover a port that seamlessly blends modern facilities with access to world-class attractions. The proximity to Puerto Princesa's famous Underground River—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—combined with El Nido's breathtaking Bacuit Archipelago, means that exceptional adventures await just moments from your ship. Whether you're kayaking through emerald lagoons, snorkeling vibrant coral reefs, or exploring charming local villages, this destination delivers the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration that defines unforgettable cruise experiences.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Explore Puerto Princesa Subterranean River

Paddle through one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature—a navigable underground river flowing through a massive limestone cave system. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and pristine waters teeming with unique wildlife. The 45-minute boat journey into the cavern is an unforgettable natural spectacle accessible within your port day.

2

Island-Hop Through El Nido's Lagoons

Discover turquoise lagoons, hidden beaches, and dramatic limestone cliffs on a guided island-hopping tour departing from El Nido town. Visit Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon where you'll swim in crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering karst formations. This quintessential Palawan experience showcases some of Asia's most breathtaking coastal scenery.

3

Savor Fresh Seafood at Waterfront Markets

Browse Puerto Princesa's bustling fish markets and waterfront restaurants where local fishermen sell the day's catch. Enjoy grilled bangus, fresh prawns, and ceviche prepared with native coconut vinegar at casual seaside eateries. The authentic flavors and vibrant market atmosphere provide genuine insight into local life and culinary traditions.

4

Shop Local Crafts in Puerto Princesa Town

Wander through Puerto Princesa's compact downtown district discovering artisan shops selling handwoven textiles, shell jewelry, and indigenous Palawan crafts. The colorful market stalls and small boutiques offer unique souvenirs reflecting the region's cultural heritage. Perfect for finding authentic gifts while supporting local artisans during your limited port time.

5

Trek Through Mangrove Forests & Wildlife

Experience guided kayaking or walking tours through Puerto Princesa's protected mangrove ecosystems, home to endemic bird species and saltwater crocodiles. Spot Philippine eagles, monitor lizards, and vibrant birdlife in their natural habitat. This eco-adventure reveals the region's ecological importance and pristine natural environment beyond the beaches.

Cruise Lines at El Nido/Puerto Princesa

Cruises Departing From El Nido/Puerto Princesa

Cruises Visiting El Nido/Puerto Princesa

Ship Schedule at El Nido/Puerto Princesa

El Nido/Puerto Princesa Location

Other Cruise Ports in Philippines

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit El Nido?

The dry season from November to May offers sunny days and calm seas.

What activities are must-do in El Nido?

Island hopping to Bacuit Bay, snorkeling, kayaking, and sunset viewpoints.

How do I reach El Nido from Manila or Puerto Princesa?

Fly to Puerto Princesa or El Nido; road or domestic flights connect to nearby airports.

Are there family-friendly beaches in El Nido?

Yes, several beaches around Bacuit Bay have calm waters and shallow reefs.