Making the most of Cebu
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
On July 16, 2024, the Philippine government introduced its 'cruise visa waiver', intended to make entry easier and more seamless for visa-required foreign nationals holidaying aboard cruise ships. Those eligible can apply through the Bureau of Immigration's (BI) e-services portal.
Cebu is a Philippine city on Cebu Island, known as the Queen City of the South. It ranks among the country's most popular destinations for overseas visitors and has the Philippines' largest seaport, second-largest air hub and second-largest city.
Ships berth close to Cebu's town centre.
Explore the lovely island of Cebu and its capital, the Philippines' oldest city. Blending contemporary and traditional experiences, Cebu city's highlights range from two enormous shopping centres and fortune telling at the Taoist Temple to Cebu Tops, an observation deck with spectacular 180-degree views.
Getting around
Most visitors travel by taxi or colourful jeepney. Both are plentiful, inexpensive and efficient: flag one down and state your destination, as drivers generally know almost every location. Always request the meter because a negotiated price is nearly always much higher.
It is best to avoid "Private" taxis because they take advantage of tourists and may charge 5-10 times the normal fare. You will find them at some high-class hotels, which normally own the vehicles to make money. A driver may demand 500? for a trip that should cost 60?. Because some hotels make it difficult for other taxis to collect passengers on their premises, you may need to walk outside to save money.
Cebu is well suited to relaxing and enjoying the island. For more activity, most resorts arrange water sports such as diving, snorkelling, kiteboarding and windsurfing, as well as island trips to churches, fishing villages and the remarkable Kavasan Falls.
Pickpocketing and other theft are also common, affecting local people as well as visitors, so remain aware.
Food and shopping
Cebu City contains many malls. The largest, SM City Cebu, is a four-level centre with a major department store, supermarket, cinema and over 200 shops and restaurants. Ayala Mall is more upmarket, with a large department store, two supermarkets and a cinema, plus a greater choice of shops and restaurants aimed at tourists.
Money
Cebu Island uses the Philippine Peso (PHP), as it forms part of the Philippines. Banks and the many bureaux de change around the island will exchange US dollar (USD) and other currencies into PHP.
Staying connected
Cebuano, also called Bisaya, is spoken in Cebu City, while many residents also use English as a second language.
Opening Hours and
Shops open daily from 10am-8pm.