Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Philippines

Paddle through an underground river beneath towering limestone cliffs in one of the world's most magnificent natural wonders.

💱 Currency Philippine Peso (PHP)

🗣 Language Filipino (Tagalog), English

🕐 Time Zone PHT (UTC+8)

☀️ Best Time to Visit Dec–May

🚢 Typical Duration 14-34 nights

💰 Price Range From $1,330 pp

⚓ Port Type Port of Call

🚤 Tender Port Yes

Gateway to the stunning underground river and pristine beaches of Palawan, offering cruisers access to one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

Cruises that visit Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Build Your Day in Puerto Princesa, Palawan

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 5:00 PM

Usually about 9 hours ashore

My ship arrives around: Getting around:

Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park Overall: A must-visit spot to complete the Puerto Princesa experience. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.2 · 6k 🕐 Closed · Opens 2 PM

Robinsons Place Palawan Big air conditioned shopping mall with variety of shops and great food court Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 4k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park A must do activity when in Puerto Princessa City in Palawan Philippines. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 4k

SM City Puerto Princesa Clean and organise mall with good prices. Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM

Tong Yang SM City Puerto Princesa, Palawan Accomodating staff, good food and a lot of food options! Buffet · ★ 4.9 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM

Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (Crocodile Farm) Don’t miss these if you visit Puerto Princesa. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.1 · 3k

Robinsons Supermarket Palawan Good selection of shops, plenty of parking. Supermarket · ★ 4.4 · 2k 🕐 Open · Closes 10 PM

Kinabuchs Grill and Bar The food is fantastic and the cocktails are fantastic for its price! Grill · ★ 4.3 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 4 PM

Kalui Seafood Restaurant Fast service, great atmosphere and awesome foods and drinks. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM

Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village Fun thing to do in Puerto Princesa. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 2k 🕐 Opens soon · 8:30 AM

Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa Best Hotel and Resort in Puerto Princesa Palawan! Resort hotel · ★ 4.3 · 2k

Badjao Seafront Restaurant The staff were so friendly and accommodating and the food was exceptional. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM

Mitra's Ranch I highly recommend this as one of your itinerary in Puerto Princesa. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.2 · 1k

Immaculate Conception Cathedral Well worth a visit while in Puerto Princesa. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 1k

Mendoza Park It is located in the city proper of Puerto Princesa city. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.2 · 1k

Tiki Resto Bar Great hangout with live music, good vibes, friendly staff and great service. Bar · ★ 4.1 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 5 PM

Luli Island It’s totally worth doing if you’re staying in Puerto Princesa Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 1k

Hundred Caves 5/5 experience and I would highly recommend to anyone traveling to Palawan Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 0k

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

Next Departures from Puerto Princesa, Palawan

About Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Puerto Princesa, Palawan has emerged as a vibrant cruise destination in Southeast Asia, attracting six major cruise lines including Oceania Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Silversea, Seabourn, and PONANT EXPLORATIONS. While primarily a port of call rather than an embarkation point, this charming Philippine port welcomes nearly 50 cruises annually, with most itineraries spanning 14 nights and connecting to regional highlights like Singapore, Hong Kong, and Manila. The peak season runs from December through April, when calm seas and pleasant weather make it an ideal stop on longer Asian voyages.

During your time ashore, you'll discover why Palawan consistently ranks among the world's most beautiful destinations. The iconic Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an underground river carved through dramatic limestone cliffs, offers an unforgettable excursion. Beyond this natural wonder, the port provides easy access to pristine beaches, vibrant local markets, and authentic Filipino culture, making even a brief visit memorable for cruise travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Explore the Underground River Wonder

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, where you'll paddle through a magnificent limestone cave system with an underground river. This natural marvel features stalactites, stalagmites, and diverse wildlife in a pristine ecosystem. The guided boat tour takes approximately two hours and is easily accessible from the cruise port.

Savor Fresh Seafood at Waterfront Markets

Browse the vibrant fish markets and waterfront restaurants near the port where local fishermen sell their daily catch. Enjoy grilled prawns, fresh tuna, and local delicacies prepared with authentic Palawaño flavors. The casual dining atmosphere offers authentic Filipino cuisine at reasonable prices with stunning bay views.

Trek Through Pristine Mangrove Forests

Experience Puerto Princesa's unique ecosystem by kayaking or walking through protected mangrove forests teeming with wildlife. Spot monitor lizards, migratory birds, and exotic flora in their natural habitat. These guided nature excursions provide an intimate connection with Palawan's biodiversity and are perfect for nature enthusiasts with limited time.

Shop Local Crafts at Public Market

Discover authentic Palawaño handicrafts, woven baskets, and souvenirs at the bustling Public Market in downtown Puerto Princesa. Browse locally-made jewelry, textiles, and indigenous artwork while interacting with friendly vendors. This colorful market captures the vibrant culture and offers genuine mementos of your visit.

Relax at Honda Bay's Island Beaches

Take a short boat ride to Honda Bay's pristine islands for swimming, snorkeling, and beach relaxation. Crystal-clear waters reveal colorful coral reefs and tropical fish just meters from shore. Island-hopping tours include stops at multiple beaches and are perfect for cruise passengers seeking tropical paradise within a few hours.

Cruise Lines at Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Oceania Cruises (17 cruises)
Holland America Line (9 cruises)
Norwegian Cruise Line (9 cruises)
Silversea (6 cruises)
PONANT EXPLORATIONS (5 cruises)
Atlas Ocean Voyages (4 cruises)

Cruises Departing From Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Cruises Visiting Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Ship Schedule at Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Puerto Princesa, Palawan Location

Other Cruise Ports in Philippines

El Nido/Puerto Princesa

Manila

Sabang

Salomague

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines sail from Puerto Princesa, Palawan?

Six major cruise lines operate from Puerto Princesa, Palawan: Oceania Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Silversea, Seabourn, and PONANT EXPLORATIONS. With 49 upcoming cruises available, you'll have numerous options to explore this stunning Philippine destination and surrounding regions.

When is the best time to cruise from Puerto Princesa, Palawan?

The peak cruise season for Puerto Princesa runs from January through April, with December also being popular. These months offer the best weather conditions with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures, making them ideal for exploring the port and enjoying outdoor activities in Palawan.

How much do cruises from Puerto Princesa, Palawan cost?

Cruise fares from Puerto Princesa range from $1,299.50 to $91,949 per person, depending on the cruise line, cabin type, itinerary length, and season. Luxury lines like Silversea and Seabourn command premium prices, while mainstream operators offer more budget-friendly options.

What are the main destinations from Puerto Princesa cruises?

Cruises departing from Puerto Princesa typically visit major Asian ports including Singapore, Hong Kong, Laem Chabang (Thailand), Manila, Kota Kinabalu, and Sabah. These itineraries allow you to experience diverse cultures, cuisines, and attractions across Southeast Asia and beyond.

What can I see and do during a day in Puerto Princesa?

Puerto Princesa offers incredible natural attractions including the UNESCO World Heritage Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, featuring an underground river through limestone caves. You can also explore pristine beaches, visit local markets, enjoy fresh seafood, and experience the vibrant culture of this charming coastal city.

How do I get from the cruise port to Puerto Princesa city?

Puerto Princesa port is located about 15 kilometers from the city center. Taxis and tricycles are readily available at the port for transportation to the city, attractions, and hotels. Many cruise lines also offer organized shore excursions that include transportation to popular destinations like the Underground River.

Is Puerto Princesa a tender port or dock port?

Puerto Princesa is primarily a port of call where ships dock at the terminal, allowing for convenient direct access to shore. This means you can disembark directly without waiting for tender boats, making it easier to maximize your time exploring the port and its attractions.