Making the most of Romblon Island
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 a ‘cruise visa waiver’ to make entry easier and more seamless for visa-required foreign nationals holidaying aboard cruise ships. Eligible foreigners may apply for the waiver through the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) e-services portal at
Ships use tenders at this port.
Romblon Island's port sits in downtown Romblon, within walking distance of the town.
Romblon is the provincial government seat and the province's centre of commercial and economic activity. The island lies between the two larger islands of Sibuyan and Tablas. Its well-sheltered harbour is regarded as the country's finest landlocked harbour. Bonbon and Tiamban beaches are a few kilometres from the town proper, while the three offshore islets of Logbon, Alad and Cobrador have white-sand beaches.
Fine white sand covers Bonbon Beach, Romblon, and its seabed slopes gently without sea grass or sharp stones. A small islet directly opposite can be reached on foot at low tide; there, a secluded swimming spot fronts a short strip of fine white sand.
Romblon Bay is a sheltered harbour regarded as the best landlocked harbour in the country. Inter-island ships seek refuge here during poor weather. Romblon town proper faces the sea, with colourful bancas and quaint houses along the dock.
Romblon is one of the Philippines' three principal islands in Romblon Province, the other two being Sibuyan Island and Tablas Island. Beaches, snorkelling and hiking are available. It is often called Marble Island because its marble deposits form the basis of local industry.
Getting around
Steep bluffs surround the port town, where colonial-style buildings mix with nipa-roofed houses beside one of the Philippines' safest natural harbours. Key sights include the lively market, the 1726 cathedral and its fine interior, and hilltop Fort San Andres.
Money
The Philippine peso is the local currency.
Major establishments in the Philippines' large cities widely accept American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. ATMs are available.
Staying connected
Most Filipinos speak English well, irrespective of their education level.