The Philippines - 14 days

The international and domestic air travel hub of Manila is like every capital city; lively, busy and bursting with life!  

If you’re starting your charter in Manila, it is worth taking a day in the city to visit the 16th century intramuros, founded by the Spanish, and the city’s colourful 400-year old Chinatown.

For shoe lovers, the Marikina Shoe Museum showcases - amongst others - 749 pairs of shoes of former First Lady Imelda Marcos.  The Makati district has many upmarket bars, restaurants and music clubs, for an entertaining night out on the town.

Alternatively, begin your itinerary in Subic Bay, which is a much quieter and cleaner port of embarkation and about a two-hour journey from Manila airport.

From Manila, cruise past historic Corregidor. There are still remnants of fortifications of World War II on the island, which now serve as military memorials to American, Filipino and Japanese soldiers.

Anchor in one of the Hamilo Coast coves for a refreshing swim and a relaxing evening on board.

North Cay and South Cay are perfect for those who are adventurous, like to explore and love nature. There is a small access fee, which goes towards preservation and care of the island and those who look after it. You may well find that you’re the only ones there! It is friendly, laid-back and never busy. You can swim and snorkel, trek around the small island and come evening, settle in for a wood fire cook-out on the beach.

West Nalaut Island has over two miles of coastline, half of which is white sandy beach and half has rocky outcrops and cliffs. Crystal clear water and a 1000-foot-wide coral reef, surround the island. It is a natural breeding ground for turtles and dugongs. There are several Japanese World War II wrecks nearby, good deep sea fishing for blue marlin, tuna and lobster and, if you are lucky, the opportunity to see whale sharks, dolphins, dugongs and fruit bats.

Go for an early morning visit to the seven, mixed-water Kayangan Lakes.  A zip-wire will speed those who are brave enough over the treetops, and for those seeking something more relaxing, there’s a salt water thermal spa.

Other attractions here include the Calauit Game Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary, and Tabon’s underground cave system.

In the many coves of Coron island you’ll see colourful local outriggers, called Bancas, curious crustaceans and other unusual marine life here.

Explore the area by jetski, quad bike, paraglide or jeep.  A hike to Mt. Tapyas will also deliver an incredible view of Coron town, where there are a few local eateries and a small market with handcrafted items.