Sea travel is one of the most enjoyable and immersive ways to experience the natural beauty of the Philippines. Recognizing this, the inaugural 2GOkada Creators Cruise embarked on a journey to promote sea travel as the primary mode of exploration. Gathering over 100 content creators on board the 2GO Masagana vessel, this three-day cruise-like experience, referred to as the “Festival at Sea,” took participants on an unforgettable voyage to the enchanting cities of Iloilo and Bacolod.
In collaboration with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and TikTok, the trip aimed not only to showcase the wonders of sea travel but also to foster networking opportunities and skill development among participants in the creative industry.
“The Philippines is a wonderful destination to explore by sea. The country has 7,641 islands interconnected by majestic bodies of water that showcase the best of our natural wonders. Part of the travel experience in an archipelago like ours is the adventure of the open seas and exploring new shores that remind us how vast and diverse our tourism offerings are,” said Marga Nograles, chief operating officer of the Tourism Promotions Board, during her keynote speech at the 2GOkada Creators Cruise send-off ceremony.
The trip commenced at Manila North Port in Tondo on a beautiful Saturday morning. As the sun graced the horizon, the ship set sail, carrying the eager participants on their immersive journey. The following day, at noon, the vessel arrived in Iloilo, fondly known as the “City of Love.”
The participants had the opportunity to explore prominent landmarks such as the Museum of Philippine Maritime History, the Iloilo Esplanade, Molo Plaza, and the Molo Mansion. To fully embrace the local culture, they indulged in popular delicacies like the flavorful molo soup and delectable puto at the Garden of Love.
Continuing the adventure, the 2GOkada group sailed from Iloilo to the vibrant “City of Smiles,” Bacolod. Here, they were treated to an unforgettable dinner at the world-renowned The Ruins—a captivating structure steeped in history and architectural beauty.
Beyond sightseeing, the 2GOKada Creators Cruise offered participants an array of engaging activities on board the 2GO Masagana vessel. From KTV nights to a mesmerizing musical performance by Careless Music artists, talent shows, and even rejuvenating yoga classes, the itinerary was thoughtfully designed to provide a holistic and enriching experience for all.
2GO, a prominent entity within the SM Investments Corporation, has long been dedicated to making sea travel affordable, comfortable, safe, and enjoyable for all Filipinos. With an extensive network of 17 ports nationwide, they provide access to the Philippines’ must-see destinations, including Bacolod, Cebu, Coron, Dumaguete, Puerto Princesa, Boracay, Iloilo, and many more.
Catering to diverse travel preferences, 2GO offers a range of accommodation options on their passenger-cargo vessels, from staterooms to business class cabins, tourist class accommodations, and even mega value class options.
On board the vessels, passengers can delight in a variety of hotel-like amenities, such as lounge areas, multi-purpose rooms, cafes, restaurants, and even a salon.
As a staunch advocate for local tourism, 2GO continues to collaborate closely with the DOT to promote sea travel as the ultimate means of exploring the Philippines’ vast and diverse destinations.
The first-ever 2GOkada Creators Cruise was not just a remarkable sightseeing experience but a testament to the incredible potential of sea travel in showcasing the natural splendor of the Philippines.
Through their affordable and convenient sea travel options, 2GO invites every Filipino to embark on their own personal island-hopping adventure. The hope is to inspire a new generation of adventurers to set sail and embrace the wonders of the Philippines, one island at a time.
