Port information & tips for Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is the gateway to the breathtaking island world of Palawan and is considered one of the greenest cities in the Philippines. This charming coastal town impresses with its relaxed atmosphere, tropical vegetation, and close proximity to untouched nature. Highlights in the immediate vicinity include the snow-white Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the historic Plaza Cuartel, and the lively City Baywalk Park. At the same time, the city serves as an ideal starting point for tours to the famous UNESCO World Heritage site of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Cruise ships dock at Puerto Princesa Port, which is located directly at the edge of the city center. Thanks to its central location, guests can reach the most important sights and markets within a few minutes conveniently on foot or with a typical local tricycle.
Puerto Princesa, located on the island of Palawan, is primarily accessible by air for cruise guests from the DACH region. The port is well connected to the city's infrastructure, and the terminal is centrally located.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS), located only about 3 to 5 kilometers from the cruise terminal. Although there are no direct flights from the DACH region, you can easily reach Puerto Princesa with stopovers, usually in Manila or Cebu. From there, local airlines offer numerous connections.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS), you can reach the cruise terminal in about 10 to 15 minutes by taxi or tricycle. Many hotels and cruise lines also offer their own transfer services. It is recommended to organize your transfer in advance to ensure a smooth arrival.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from the DACH region and the necessity of stopovers, arriving the day before embarkation is strongly recommended. Numerous hotels in Puerto Princesa City, many of them near the airport and the port, offer comfortable overnight accommodations to start your cruise relaxed.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually provide a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your arrival at the port and consider that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
Puerto Princesa, located on the island of Palawan, is primarily accessible by air for cruise guests from the DACH region. The port is well connected to the city's infrastructure, and the terminal is centrally located.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS), located only about 3 to 5 kilometers from the cruise terminal. Although there are no direct flights from the DACH region, you can easily reach Puerto Princesa with stopovers, usually in Manila or Cebu. From there, local airlines offer numerous connections.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS), you can reach the cruise terminal in about 10 to 15 minutes by taxi or tricycle. Many hotels and cruise lines also offer their own transfer services. It is recommended to organize your transfer in advance to ensure a smooth arrival.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from the DACH region and the necessity of stopovers, arriving the day before embarkation is strongly recommended. Numerous hotels in Puerto Princesa City, many of them near the airport and the port, offer comfortable overnight accommodations to start your cruise relaxed.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually provide a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your arrival at the port and consider that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
The Port of Puerto Princesa is located very centrally on the edge of the city center, allowing for a convenient start to your exploration of Palawan.
Tricycles
These charming motorcycles with sidecars are the city's primary mode of transportation and wait for passengers directly at the port exit. They offer a flexible and authentic local way to reach destinations in the city center quickly while also providing an individual city tour.
On Foot
Thanks to its immediate proximity to the city center, you can reach the popular Puerto Princesa Baywalk in just about 5 to 10 minutes. Historical sights such as the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and Plaza Cuartel are also just a relaxed walk of around 15 minutes away.
Jeepneys and Multi-cabs
The colorful Jeepneys and smaller Multi-cabs operate on main thoroughfares like Rizal Avenue and offer an authentic travel experience. They are ideal for longer distances within the city and also take you cost-effectively to larger shopping centers or local markets.
To make the most of your limited time in Puerto Princesa, we recommend a combination of the area's spectacular natural wonders and the charming, historic district right by the harbor.
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River
This fascinating underground river is a UNESCO World Heritage site and, thanks to guided tours through monumental stalactite caves, is an absolutely unique experience perfectly suited for an unforgettable shore excursion.
Cathedral & Plaza Cuartel
This cultural center is located in the immediate vicinity of the cruise pier and attracts visitors with the architecturally delightful Immaculate Conception Cathedral as well as the historic Plaza Cuartel; furthermore, the central location offers an authentic insight into local life.
Honda Bay
The picturesque bay is known for its dreamlike sandy beaches as well as crystal-clear snorkeling grounds and, thanks to its good accessibility, is an ideal destination for travelers who want to spend a relaxed day island hopping.
Cowrie Island
The idyllic Cowrie Island in Honda Bay is easily accessible in about 45 minutes—combining a short drive to the wharf and a relaxed boat crossing—and offers the epitome of a Philippine island paradise. Thanks to its fine white sand and crystal-clear water, this location is perfect for a refreshing swim and extensive relaxation under palm trees. The island also features excellent infrastructure with cozy cabanas, buffet options, and soothing massage offers right on the beach. Ideally, start your excursion in the morning to enjoy the tropical tranquility to the fullest before the larger crowds of visitors arrive, and plan your return to the port for a relaxed boarding no later than two hours before departure.
The journey back to the port of Puerto Princesa is very straightforward thanks to its central location and the variety of local transport options. You can reach your ship safely and punctually from all major points in the city and the surrounding area.
Tricycles and Taxis
Typical tricycles can be found on almost every street corner, as well as at designated stands in front of SM City Mall and Robinsons Place Palawan. In addition, drivers are always available at larger hotels and central locations like Rizal Avenue to take you directly and comfortably to the port entrance.
Shuttle Buses and Multicabs
Many cruise lines offer organized shuttle buses that run regularly between SM City Mall and the cruise terminal. Alternatively, you can use local multicabs, which travel along the main roads and, thanks to the short distances, easily drop you off in the immediate vicinity of the port grounds.
On Foot
From the popular Baywalk Park, you can walk directly to the port gate in just a few minutes, as the waterfront promenade directly borders the port area. Thanks to the flat terrain and clear landmarks, the path is easy to find and is additionally secured by the presence of port staff at the checkpoint.
