28 Jun 2023

The Hundred Islands National Park of Alaminos City

A glorious day awaited us on arrival early morning at Hundred Islands National Park, Philippines. Outside temperature was 29°C, the same as the water temperature. The Hundred Islands National Park of Alaminos City is a protected area in Pangasinan that comprises 124 islands spread out along the Lingayen Gulf. It is also known as Kapulo-puloan or Taytay-bakes. While four of the 124 islands are developed, the rest are left untouched and uninhabited. The islands are spread out over a 1,844-hectare land area. It is believed that they date back to two million years ago and that they are part of the seabed.

After an energetic dance troupe welcome reception on shore at Quezon Island, we piled into the local outrigger boats and split into manageable sizes to enjoy a swim and snorkel at Mayor's Island, a hike on Pilgrimage Island and swim and snorkel at the Giant Clam Sanctuary. One of the world's biggest bivalve molluscs - the Giant Clam, resides here.

Back on board Heritage Adventurer we made ready for Manila. The afternoon was filled with lecturers and briefing presentations.

Image (c) by: F.Wardle