Puerto Princesa Cruise Port Guide: Things to Do & Practical Tips

Quick Take

Port Type

Small coastal city with nature-based attractions.

Best For

Cruisers seeking the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River (UNESCO site) and island excursions; adventure-minded travelers.

Avoid If

You want urban exploration, shopping, nightlife, or a relaxed beach day. Shore excursions here are often rushed and heavily booked.

Walkability

Downtown core is walkable (15–20 min), but most attractions require transport or organized tours.

Budget Fit

Mid-range. Subterranean River tours are ~$50–80 USD via cruise line; budget operators may be cheaper but less reliable.

Good For Short Calls?

Poor. Full-day port recommended; tours take 4–5 hours plus travel.

Port Overview

Puerto Princesa is a small coastal city on Palawan Island, famous as the gateway to the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Ships dock at the cruise pier, about 2–3 km from the city center. The port is primarily a day-trip hub; few cruisers stay for extended exploration. Most visitors book organized tours of the underground river—a genuine natural marvel—rather than explore the town independently.

Is It Safe?

Puerto Princesa is generally safe for tourists in the downtown and dockside areas, especially during daylight and in organized groups. Petty theft (bags, phones) is possible in crowded spots; keep valuables secure. The main risk is trip cancellation due to weather—the Subterranean River tour can be suspended if seas are rough or visibility poor, particularly during monsoon (June–November). Avoid informal tour operators offering suspiciously cheap rates; use cruise line excursions or reputable local agencies. Street crime is uncommon, but avoid isolated areas after dark and use registered taxis rather than hailing unmarked vehicles.

Accessibility & Walkability

Downtown Puerto Princesa has basic sidewalks and is relatively flat, but terrain is uneven in places and often crowded. The Subterranean River tour involves a boat ride (steps to board) and walking on uneven wooden platforms inside the cave; it is not wheelchair-accessible. Travelers with mobility issues should confirm accessibility with the tour operator before booking. Most shops and restaurants lack elevators or accessible facilities. If mobility is a concern, stick to a short downtown stroll.

Outside the Terminal

The cruise pier is about 2–3 km from downtown. Immediately outside the terminal, you'll see a mix of informal taxi touts, tour operators, and a few organized vendor stalls. The dock area is busy during arrival but not overwhelming. Main road (Rizal Street) leads toward the city center. Signage is minimal in English; have your hotel or tour meeting point written down. The area feels functional and a bit chaotic—typical of a small, tourist-oriented port rather than polished or manicured.

Beaches Near the Port

Local Food & Drink

Downtown Puerto Princesa offers simple seafood restaurants and casual cafés. Grilled fish, shrimp, and local crab are cheap and fresh ($3–8 USD per plate). Try Kusina, Balanghai, or Lands Creamery for local favorites and reliable hygiene. Street food (grilled seafood skewers, fresh fruit) is available but use judgment about cleanliness. Most establishments are basic—plastic tables, no air-con—but authentic. Cruise-organized tours often include meals; check beforehand. Bottled water is advisable; avoid tap water and ice from uncertain sources.

Shopping

Downtown Puerto Princesa has small souvenir shops and markets selling shell crafts, woven baskets, and local trinkets. Prices are very cheap, but quality is often low and repetitive. The public market (near Rizal Park) sells fresh produce and local goods but is geared to residents, not cruise tourists. Shopping is not a draw here; skip it unless you have idle time. No major malls or upscale shops.

Money & Currency

Currency

Philippine Peso (PHP)

USD Accepted?

Yes

Card Payments

ATMs accept Visa/Mastercard; restaurants and shops prefer cash. Some formal businesses take cards, but small eateries and vendors are cash-only.

ATMs

ATMs available in downtown Puerto Princesa near Rizal Park and main streets. Withdrawals often charge 200–500 PHP (~$3.50–9 USD) in foreign fees. Withdraw enough pesos at the port ATM if available, or downtown.

Tipping

Not expected but appreciated (5–10% for good service at sit-down restaurants). Porters, drivers, and tour guides often expect a small tip (50–100 PHP, ~$1–2 USD).

Notes

The exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 55–60 PHP (check current rate). Prices in this guide are in USD for cruise passenger convenience.

Weather & Best Time

Best months

December–May (dry season, calm seas, clear skies)

Avoid

June–November (monsoon, heavy rain, sea swells, tour cancellations)

Temperature

26–32°C (79–90°F) year-round; humidity always high

Notes

Subterranean River tours are frequently cancelled or delayed during monsoon due to rough seas and low cave visibility. If cruising June–November, confirm tour viability with the ship in advance and have a backup plan (downtown walk, beach, shopping). Bring light rain gear and sunscreen always.

Airport Information

Airport

Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS)

Distance

~15 km (~30 min drive)

Getting there

Taxi or van from port (~$8–15 USD); airport shuttle (check locally for current rates). Most cruisers do not use the airport; it is mainly for repositioning or pre-cruise flights.

Notes

The airport is modern and serves domestic and limited international flights. If pre-cruise or post-cruise, arrange transport with your cruise line or a hotel. Avoid informal taxis; use official airport taxis or pre-booked services.