The Department of Tourism (DOT) said the recent visit of a luxury cruise ship to Leyte’s Digyo Island reflects the growing potential of Eastern Visayas as a destination for boutique and expedition cruise tourism.
DOT Eastern Visayas Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes said the experience of cruise tourists in coastal Inopacan town provides authentic cultural connections and immersive community experiences as the jump-off point for the Cuatro Islas, especially Digyo Island.
“More than a demonstration, their experience became a meaningful cultural exchange. In every conversation, there was a connection, a reminder that tourism becomes more meaningful when it brings people closer to communities, traditions, and living culture,” Tiopes said Monday in a phone interview.
More than 80 guests aboard SH Minerva, a luxury expedition cruise ship operated by Swan Hellenic, made their maiden visit in the region on May 7 at the island destination of Digyo.
The cruise guests — mostly from Russia and Italy, along with travelers from Brazil, China, and the United States — immersed themselves in the local culture by learning about the community’s way of life and traditional livelihoods.
During the visit, the group witnessed the art of weaving using “romblon,” a type of screw pine locally crafted into bags, mats, and hats. They also observed residents repairing fishing nets and demonstrating the process of making dried fish.
Guests were likewise introduced to the gathering of coconut nectar, the primary ingredient in producing the local coconut wine known as “tuba.”
The visitors sampled a variety of local delicacies, including kabkab — a cracker made from grated cassava that is sun-dried and fried, as well as puto bilanghoy (steamed cassava cake), puto kutsinta (steamed rice cake), bibingka (baked rice cake), camote cue, and biko (sticky rice cake).
“Rather than an overly packed itinerary, visitors were given the opportunity to genuinely immerse themselves in the local experience — enjoying cultural interactions, food tastings, and community encounters, while still having time to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of Digyo Island,” Tiopes added.
Beyond the structured activities, guests warmly engaged with the community through music, dancing, and genuine conversations, fostering a relaxed and meaningful cultural exchange. Many also took the opportunity to support local livelihoods by purchasing handmade products and souvenirs, according to the tourism official.
Tiopes said Eastern Visayas has emerged as a preferred destination for expedition-style cruise itineraries, with recurring calls from luxury and boutique cruise liners.
Regular calls have been recorded at destinations such as Kalanggaman Island and Cuatro Islas in Leyte.
Emerging cruise stops include Capul Island, Biri Island, and Lavezares in Northern Samar; Maripipi Island, Sambawan Island, and Higatangan Island in Biliran; and Limasawa Island in Southern Leyte. (PNA)
