Sailing Philippine Paradise: From Manila to Coron

Manila is the capital of the Philippines, on the Asian western coast of the country at the inner end of Manila Bay — the largest natural harbour in Southeast Asia (1,994 square kilometres). The metropolitan area holds 14 million people and includes 16 cities (the political capital is Quezon City; the historical core is the old Intramuros walled Spanish-era city). Manila Bay is open to the South China Sea through the 11-kilometre-wide entrance south of Corregidor Island — the World War II fortress where the US Pacific defense made its final 1942 stand against Japan. The main charter pickup base is the modern Manila Yacht Club on the inner bay seafront. Day-sail routes south reach the offshore islands of Mindoro and Puerto Galera in 4-6 hours. Manila is the standard arrival point for Philippine charter cruises. Season runs year-round; dry season November-May.

Hamilo Coast is a 5,900-hectare planned tourism development on the South China Sea coast of Luzon, 90 kilometres southwest of Manila in Batangas Province. The development holds 13 small bays — the most-rated charter anchorage is Pico de Loro Cove, a 600-metre horseshoe bay named for the 664-metre Pico de Loro peak that rises directly behind. The cove holds the Pico Sands Hotel beach resort and the Pico de Loro Cove Yacht Club marina, with a small fringing reef ideal for shallow snorkel. The whole Hamilo coast area is managed under a Marine Protected Area framework with WWF Philippines, with 3 declared marine sanctuaries inside the development area. Hamilo Coast is 2 hours from Manila by road and 4-6 hours by sail. Season runs year-round; dry season November-May.

Puerto Galera sits on the north coast of Mindoro island in the Philippines, across the 12-kilometre Verde Island Passage from southern Luzon — a working fishing port and one of Asia's most-rated dive destinations. The waters of the Verde Island Passage have been confirmed as the global epicentre of marine biodiversity (1,736 marine species in 10 square kilometres, more than any equivalent ocean area in the world). The town's sheltered Muelle Bay holds the main harbour and visiting yacht moorings. Three close-by beaches hold the resort accommodation: Sabang (the dive shop concentration), White Beach (party resort), and Aninuan. The famous dive sites — Verde Island Pinnacles, Canyons, Sweetlips Cave — sit within 30 minutes by boat. Puerto Galera is 4 hours from Manila by sail. Season runs year-round; dry season November-May.

Apo Reef sits 30 kilometres off the west coast of Mindoro in the Sulu Sea — the second-largest contiguous coral reef system in the world (34 square kilometres), after the Great Barrier Reef. The reef is part of the Apo Reef Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage tentative site since 2006, with a permit-required visit and overnight anchoring restricted to designated zones. The reef is in a remote location with no inhabited islands — the only land surface is the small Apo Island (not to be confused with the better-known Apo Island near Negros) and two even smaller cays. The reef shape is two atoll-like ovals separated by a 6-metre-deep channel, with vertical drop-off walls outside dropping to 2,000 metres. Dive sites include the Hunters Rock reef-shark cleaning station and the Binangaan wall. Apo Reef is 6 hours from Puerto Galera by sail. Season runs November through May.

Dumunpalit Island is a small uninhabited limestone island in the Calamian archipelago of Palawan province in the western Philippines, near the larger Coron Island — one of dozens of small uninhabited cays in this region of Philippine waters, with vertical 100-metre limestone cliffs rising directly from the sea. The island holds a small interior lagoon accessible by tender through a narrow channel on the south side, with clear turquoise water and surrounding fringing reef. The Calamian Islands are part of the same limestone karst geology as Phang Nga Bay in Thailand and are equally photogenic from the water; offshore charter routes link the dozens of small islands and lagoons in 5-7 day Coron-area itineraries. The neighbouring Coron Island with the famous Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon sits within 30 minutes. Dumunpalit is 6 hours from Coron town by sail. Season runs November through May.

A Sanctuary for Adventurers and Nature Lovers
Nalaut Island, with its stunning North Cay and South Cay, is a paradise for those who love adventure, exploration, and nature. The island’s tranquil and uncrowded atmosphere offers a sense of exclusivity, making it perfect for a peaceful getaway. Visitors are required to pay a small access fee, which helps support the preservation of this pristine location. Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters surrounded by a 1000-foot-wide coral reef, or enjoy a leisurely walk along its two miles of coastline, featuring both white sandy beaches and dramatic rocky cliffs. West Nalaut Island is a haven for marine life, including turtles and dugongs, and is a great spot for deep-sea fishing for blue marlin, tuna, and lobster. Nearby, several Japanese World War II wrecks await exploration. If you’re lucky, you might even spot whale sharks, dolphins, fireflies, or fruit bats, adding to the island’s magical allure.

The Jewel of Palawan: Malcapuya Island is a true tropical paradise, boasting powder-like white sand and crystal-clear waters. This idyllic destination is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and lounging under the warm afternoon sun. The coral reef is located farther from the shore, making it a rock-free haven ideal for wading in the shallow waters or enjoying a refreshing swim. Visitors often bring picnic meals or indulge in a freshly prepared beachside BBQ by the chef.

• Nearby, Banana Island offers a livelier atmosphere, with friendly locals often playing soccer or volleyball on the beach. 
• For those seeking solitude, Ditaytayan Island is a quieter retreat.

Coron Island is one of Palawan’s most captivating destinations, perfect for nature and adventure enthusiasts. Start your day with an early morning visit to the famous Kayangan Lakes, known for their mixed waters and crystal-clear beauty. These serene lakes offer breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. Alternatively, explore the island’s hidden coves or experience the vibrant local life in Coron Town.

The island’s natural wonders extend beyond its lakes and coves; diving enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the shipwrecks and coral reefs beneath its pristine waters. As your adventure comes to an end, relax and soak in the unique charm of Coron Island. 

• For your return journey, transfer to Francisco Reyes Airport (formerly Busuanga Airport) to catch your flight back to Manila.