Subic Bay Cruise Port Guide

On a cruise to Subic Bay, you’ll discover a former U.S. naval base that has transformed into a thriving vacation destination in recent years. Discover the calm beaches along the bay’s gentle coast. Dive into its warm waters, and take in the vibrant marine life and fascinating shipwrecks that lie underwater.

There’s fun for the whole family to enjoy at one of Subic Bay’s theme parks, including a beachside inflatable area, an open marine park with live shows, and scenic hiking trails through the town’s untouched rainforest. Sail to Subic Bay in aboard one of our cruises to the Philippines.

 

Please Note: While we don't currently sail to Subic Bay, you can still discover the beauty of the region on one of our Southeast Asia cruises. Browse our cruises to Southeast Asia below.

Cruises to Southeast Asia

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Top Sights & Attractions for Cruises to Subic Bay

Ocean Adventure

Watch dolphins dance in the water and sea lions perform tricks at Ocean Adventure, the first open-water marine park in Southeast Asia. With daily live shows and two aquariums that spotlight the many colorful sea animals and creatures of Subic Bay, every member of the family will be joyfully entertained for hours. 

Camayan Beach

Right next to Ocean Adventure, you’ll find Camayan Beach, a more relaxed alternative for those who simply want to lounge under the sun. At this lovely resort, enjoy a white sand beach with crystal-clear waters, as well as plenty of water sports including kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. 

Zoobic Park

Get up close and personal with wild animals at Zoobic Park, a one-of-a-kind outdoor safari where you’ll interact with ostriches, crocodiles, caribou, and other exotic species. Watch animals perform tricks during entertaining shows, pet miniature horses and snakes, or head to the only tiger safari in the country, where you’ll experience the thrill of feeding tigers while inside a caged car.

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Top Things to Do in Subic Bay

Dive Around a Shipwreck

Explore some of the sunken shipwrecks that are a part of Subic Bay’s storied naval history during a scuba diving excursion just off of its shores. Explore the areas surrounding American naval ships like the USS New York and the USS Lanikai, and the colorful reefs that have flourished beside them.

Explore the Pamulaklakin Forest Trail

On a Subic Bay cruise, experience the area’s natural environment during a hike along the Pamulaklakin Forest Trail, an untouched rainforest area where you’ll feel like you’re miles away from civilization. Embark on a guided tour with one of the local people of the area, the Aetas, who will explain forest survival methods while you stroll through the forest’s lush trails.

Hike to El Kabayo Waterfalls

Make your way around the picturesque trails of El Kabayo, where you’ll stop by two lovely cascading waterfalls along the way. This accessible trail is easy for beginner hikers and takes about 20 minutes to reach the waterfalls. Once you’re there, reward yourself with a refreshing dip in the cool pool at the foot of the plunging falls.

Top Food and Drink in Subic Bay

In Subic Bay, you’ll find an eclectic mix of global cuisines, from Texas-style ribs to Thai barbecue. Don’t miss trying popular Filipino dishes during your time in port, like the famous stewed adobo or Kare-Kare, an oxtail dish with peanut sauce. For dessert, make sure to order a Halo-Halo, a refreshing cold treat made of mixed fruit.

Culture & History of Subic Bay

Subic Bay was first conquered by Spain in 1542. After the Philippine-American War ended, the United States gained control over the Spanish base in 1899 and went on to build the largest U.S. naval base outside of the United States. During World War II, the base was briefly captured by the Japanese, but was returned to the United States by 1944. In 1992, the U.S. returned the base to the Philippines. The area underwent a period of rapid expansion after it was established as a free port, including the creation of tourist attractions like theme parks, zoos, and beach resorts. 

Subic Bay Port Facilities & Location

The Subic Bay cruise port is located in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, which was previously a U.S. naval base. Within walking distance of the port, you’ll find restaurants, stores, and shopping malls. You can also take a short taxi ride to popular attractions like Ocean Adventure and Camayan Beach.

Transportation in Subic Bay

The main two options for getting around during your cruise to Subic Bay are on foot or via a taxi cab. Make sure to ask for a fixed rate before boarding a taxi, since meters aren’t used. 

Shopping in Subic Bay

Enjoy duty-free shopping at any of the large malls inside the Subic Bay free-port zone, where you’ll find everything from clothing to home goods. If you’re looking for local items, your best bet is to peruse the stalls that line the beaches, where you can buy seashells, jewelry, and other local knick-knacks.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

The local currency in the Philippines is the Philippine peso. Credit cards are widely accepted in major restaurants and stores, but in smaller cafes and shops, cash is always preferable. While most restaurants and services charge a 10% service fee, it’s never a bad idea to round up a taxi fare or bill as an extra gratuity.

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