Catch an Amazing Sunset View at This River Cruise Near Manila
Rates start at P3,500 for 15 people.
(SPOT.ph) When you think of river cruises, what usually come to mind are the famous Loboc River Cruise in Bohol or the San Rafael River Cruise in Bulacan. But given the many waterways near Metro Manila, you don't have to go far to experience a quiet ride on a bamboo-made boat or balsa. Just 90 minutes away from Metro Manila is a new river attraction that opened on March 18: Maragondon’s "Alegria del Rio" Balsa Cruises. Rates start at P3,500 for 15 people for three hours.
What to Expect at the "Alegria del Rio" Maragondon River Cruise
Alegria del Rio comes from the Spanish phrase "Happiness of the River." It speaks about the joy one may feel while cruising along the stretch of the Maragondon River, being one with nature, and getting lost in its pristine waters and lush vegetation.
While Alegria del Rio is not the first river cruise in Maragondon, it is the first one to introduce multiple amenities similar to that of a catamaran yacht—including Bluetooth speakers and comfortable bean bags. Each cruise is customizable with an option of converting the balsa into three different set-ups.
La Cama, which comes with a daybed and an overbed table, is perfect for that dreamy breakfast-in-bed experience. The Hapag set-up turns the balsa into a festive dining venue for families and friends. While Puesta del Sol comes with bean bags, lounge mats, and throw pillows to make a comfortable set-up for watching the breathtaking sunset.
The comes with a water hammock that is partially submerged in water, where you can lounge all you want. You may also get a full body massage or even get a private performance by a jazz saxophonist.
You also have the option to combine your three-hour river cruise with a Maragondon tour, including a visit to the Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion Parish, hiking Mt. Pico de Loro, and shopping at Likhang Maragondon.
How to Get There
Maragondon, Cavite is located 90 minutes away from Metro Manila and 30 minutes away from Tagaytay City. Public transport commuters from the Metro can take any Maragondon-Ternate-bound bus from the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange. Get off in Barangay Garita in Maragondon before the bus turns right to Ternate. From there, travelers can take a tricycle and ask to get dropped off at Caingin Fish Port, where your Alegria del Rio Balsa will be waiting for you.
To book a tour with Alegria del Rio, you may contact Rona at 0905-021-3026 or follow Maragondon’s "Alegria del Rio" Balsa Cruises on Facebook.
Also read:
The SPOT.ph Guide to Cavite
10 Under-the-Radar Spots In and Around Tagaytay for Your Next Getaway