Star Cruises is now offering visa-free tours to two of Asia’s hottest summer destinations. This year, Star Cruises’ SuperStar Virgo will call Manila her home port from April until May.
The 5-day cruise takes you to Taiwan and Japan without the hassle of securing a visa.
The SuperStar Virgo is a 13-deck luxury cruise ship with 935 cabins including ‘sea-view’ and balcony suites.
There are a wide variety of international restaurants that range from; Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Western, and an al fresco bar.
The ship also has a number of facilities such as Duty-Free shops, jewelry boutiques, a salon, a spa and gym, karaoke rooms, a child’s activity center, a game room, and a two-level theater that can comfortably seat 800 guests.
Outdoor activities include a 100-meter mega slide, an outdoor swimming pool, mini golf course, and a calendar of themed activities.
Star Cruises
Home Port – Manila (until May)
Phone – (02) 836 – 6080
Web Booking – SuperStar Virgo
Email – SALESMANILA@GENTINGHK.COM
First Things First
The Terminal is located in Manila North Harbor.
You can reach The SuperStar Virgo at Manila Port close to H20 Hotel.
Although the trip is Visa Free, it is imperative that you have a valid Passport to present at the terminal.
Tip: Make sure to withdraw before boarding as there are no ATMs available on the ship.
The Rooms
The cabins are spacious for two and there is a pullout bed for a third. The rooms will fit a small family of 4 comfortably.
The restrooms come fully stocked with tiled floors and a shower and toilet.
What to Expect
There are a number of dining options on The SuperStar Virgo with cuisine ranging from Western to Eastern. The Star Dining Room is an inclusive restaurant that offers set menu items.
We enjoyed the vegetarian set! The cheese-stuffed mushroom with mashed potato and spinach cream sauce was filling and surprisingly very delicious.
If you’re in the mood for meat opt for the Pan-fried Sole with apple cider cream sauce and classic saffron rice.
The pool deck is a nice place to hang out for some fresh air, but expect it to be very crowded. Go early if you intend to get a table.
The indoor pool is perfect for a little privacy.
Make sure to not miss the top-deck buffets that happen on the penultimate dinner.
We loved the freshly grilled minute steak with pepper sauce. Keep an eye on it!
The Mediterranean is an all-day dining (this is also where breakfast and midnight snack is served). It is reminiscent of a school cafeteria so don’t expect too much.
The Galaxy Bar has got to be our favorite chill-out spot in the cruise.
It is located in the forward part of the ship and you get a good panoramic view.
The grand theater which comfortably seats 800 guests is where you can catch live entertainment on the vessel.
Professional acts that range from magic and acrobatics to musicals and plays are performed by some of Europe’s top performers and artists.
There are a number of boutiques and small shops on the plaza deck. As well as Duty-Free shopping.
Health buffs can stay in shape in the well-sized gym that boasts modern equipment.
A salon and spa are available for guests who are looking to be pampered or just relax.
A very large and spacious game room will keep the gamers busy with the latest in console gaming ready on demand.
And for the rock stars, there are a few Karaoke rooms ready for reservations.
Final Thoughts
Visa-free for Filipinos isn’t something that doesn’t come along often especially for Japan.
There are plenty of things to do on the ship, so while you are on the high seas you won’t get easily bored. The Magic and live shows are the best forms of entertainment on board, it gives you something to look forward to every day. Kids will definitely enjoy these family-friendly shows, just make sure to go 20-minutes early to secure a good seat.
The crew all seemed nice and professional and the food is good for the most part; we recommend skipping the Pavillion (Chinese Restaurant) as the set menu needs some work. There are a plenty of restaurants that are not inclusive, this is perfect if you want to avoid the queue and big crowds.
The Pool Deck is where most activities are held, from live bands to the farewell dinner. There are also a number of outdoor activities that you should check out like the mini golf, basketball court, and the viewing deck (one of the best spots to see the sunset.)
Expect the Pool Deck to be very… very packed.
If you are looking for a cruise that’s affordable and visa-free this is definitely your chance!
Star Cruises
Home Port – Manila (until May)
Phone – 02) 836 – 6080
Web Booking – SuperStar Virgo
Email – SALESMANILA@GENTINGHK.COM
Live an Awesome Life,
SEAN NOLAN of Team Our Awesome Planet
Disclosure: Our experience is courtesy of Star Cruises. I wrote this article with my biases, opinions, and insights.
P.S. Take the Bridge Tour!
Getting a chance to meet Captain Joakim Vonasek was pretty awesome! Getting to see the bridge crew in action was pretty cool and informative as well.
how much from manila taiwan japan on dec. 9-15, 2018
How much from manila taiwan japan manila from april 14 to april 20, 2019
WHEN YOU POST THE SCHEDULE OF CRUISE MANILA,JAPAN,TAIWAN,MANILA the the year 2019
When is the schedule for Manila – Taiwan or Japan – Manila? How much per person?
Any schedule for this year? How much per person?
looks good cruise put you miss the most important part PRIES ???
I am organizing a tour for our highschool batch. most of us are senior citizens. Taiwan and Japan are wonderful
destinations. How much and how many nights for Taiwan and Japan cruise tour. Thanks
When is the schedule of mnl-taiwan-japan- mnl, how much per person should we make ready? We are a family of 5 persons. Can you pls give us an idea. Thanks
Not sure. you have to check directly with them.
how much per head manila-taiwan-japan-manila? and can a 82 years old can travel thru cruise ship?
ARE THERE ANY CRUISES THAT SAILS IN LATE NOVEMBER OR EARLY DECEMBER 2019?
do you have any schedule coming this april or may 2020?
how much per adult and children?
thank you
my wife and i plan to travel by cruise this coming april 2020, may i know the price per couple on package basis, may i know also where is the exact place of destination and how many days tour, and also a place where we can aboard the vessel.