MV The World to visit the Philippines
The Department of Tourism (DOT), in a press release, said it is preparing to welcome to Philippine shores the world’s only private residential cruise ship.
Operated by US-based management company ResidenSea, MV The World, with some 150 residents and guests on board, is set to sail through the country’s prime tourist destinations including premier beaches in Palawan, Boracay, and historic places in Manila in November of this year.
Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said: “We are excited to welcome a first rate cruise ship like The World. Our pristine and majestic beaches, heritage sites and shopping haven, well complemented by a fantastic tropical weather and warm friendly people, shall serve as a great treat to its residents and guests.”
“There is more to the Philippines to see and explore. We aim to have other world-class cruise vessels to attract to our shores,” Secretary Durano said.
While the ship appears to be a typical holiday liner at 43,000 tons, The World is the only private community at sea offering residential options and rental travel experiences to the discriminating traveler. It has 165 homes onboard ranging from 30sq.m. (325 sq.ft.) up to 300 sq.m. (3,300 sq.ft.). The ship’s operator, ResidenSea, assists those who are interested to purchase a residence or rent a private home onboard the ship.
The luxury studios are designed by world renowned names in ship design, Nina Campbell, JP Molyneux Studio, TMT Design, Yran & Storbraaten, and Hirsch Bedner & Associates.
Tourism Planning Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque, Jr. said: “The World’s visit in the Philippines not only promotes the country but is also a great opportunity for us Filipinos to know about this one-of-a kind sea lifestyle which we may try to experience ourselves.”
Like in 2006, when The World last visited the Philippines, ResidenSea shall include the following elements into its onboard program when it visits the country this year.
These include having a special guest chef to prepare a unique Filipino dinner for both passengers and crew; a well known artist or photographer to showcase his or her works onboard; a travelling cultural show on each port; and a renowned specialist to talk about the Philippine political and economic landscape.
These are on top of authentic, original, and genuine cultural, social and experiential tour activities while ashore.