A highlight of 2018 in Asia is Windstar’s President’s Cruise, setting sail on The Best of the Philippines & Borneo itinerary January 6 with Windstar President John Delaney and Star Legend Godmother Gloria Bohan. The cruise is made even more special because many of Windstar’s crew is from the Philippines, so it’s a homecoming of sorts. As such, this cruise is an incredible way to explore the culture and country alongside those who love and know it best: the Filipino crew will join guests on shore excursions to visit their native landmarks and will share tips on their favorite activities and beloved locations in their homeland.
“Windstar’s Asia Collection now offers larger-than-life adventures and exceptional experiences only possible on a small ship,” says Windstar President John Delaney. “Reaching dozens of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and bringing guests in contact with some of Asia’s less frequented landmarks. Windstar will also proudly sail straight into the heart of must-see Asian cities where larger ships typically dock on the outskirts. I’m really looking forward to hosting our guests and visiting some extraordinary locations on the President’s Cruise, along with Star Legend Godmother and legendary travel professional Gloria Bohan.”
Read An Inside Look at Windstar Cruisers’ First President’s Cruise
There are a variety of special events planned on board the 14-day cruise, including time getting to know the president of the cruise line and godmother of the small ship, and an itinerary chock-full of the most beautiful islands and beaches in the world like Palawan and Boracay. The voyage features an overnight in Manila and a stop at the oft-overlooked (and rarely visited by other cruise lines) Hundred Islands National Park. A visit to Brunei takes guests inside one of the wealthiest countries on the planet, affording a look at some of the largest and most beautiful mosques in Asia.
“Being godmother of Star Legend is one of the greatest highlights of my career,” says Bohan, who is founder and president of Omega World Travel. “I have grown to love her staff and crew, who now feel like family each time I board. The President’s Cruise will introduce the homelands of many of the crew and will let us experience a unique adventure to many exotic islands and ports, something Star Legend excels at.”
Popular Highlights
Tours To Take:
Kota Kinabalu, Ethnic Borneo
This experience will bring you to a cultural village that features the tribal cultures of this part of Borneo. You will board your motor coach at the pier and travel 45 minutes to the village where you will be welcomed and hear a short introduction to life there. Visit the traditionally constructed houses as they have always been built. You will learn how vests are made from tree bark, sample the local remedy for the warm weather and see how local cakes are made. You will be treated to a performance and you may want to remember your visit with a henna tattoo if you like. This is truly the genuine essence of Borneo!
Boracay, Puka Beach Escape
You will get away from the crowds of other beaches in the area for a relaxing escape at Puka Beach. You will board a van in Cagban for a 40-minute ride to the beach. Swim in the turquoise waters, and sunbathe on the white sand. Walking on Puka Beach is a unique experience because of the abundance of crushed Puka shells mixed in with the sand. You will have a buffet lunch here complete with entertainment. Optional activities at an addition cost include a massage, hair braiding or a Henna tattoo.
When You Go:
For additional information on private yacht-style cruising with Windstar, contact a travel professional or Windstar Cruises by phone at 877-958-7718, or visit www.windstarcruises.com.
