Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte and the island province of Dinagat have long been hidden gems of the Philippine archipelago, each offering unique attractions and experiences. However, until recently, reaching these pristine destinations required a convoluted journey involving multiple boat rides and considerable travel time.
All that changed on Monday, April 22, with the inauguration of a new sea route connecting Del Carmen in Siargao to Cagdianao in Dinagat. This direct route, serviced by the M/V French 777 of Nier Shipping Lines, slashes travel time to just one hour and 20 minutes, down from nearly four hours. The service, authorized by Special Permit No. 2024-04-042 from the Maritime Industry Authority, boasts a capacity of 120 passengers, including motorcycles.
A Boon for Tourism and Trade
Local officials are optimistic about the transformative impact of this sea route on both tourism and the economy. Dinagat Governor Nilo Demerey Jr. expressed his enthusiasm, emphasizing that this initiative aims not to compete with Siargao but to complement its offerings. He envisions Dinagat becoming an integral part of the broader island adventure experience that Siargao is renowned for.
Mayor Alfredo Coro II of Del Carmen, meanwhile, sees the route as a gateway to economic opportunities for both islands. By integrating Dinagat and Siargao’s tourism circuit, he believes that both islands can thrive, leveraging their respective natural assets and attractions.
Fostering Sustainable Development
The Department of Tourism-Caraga Director Ivonnie Dumadag hailed the sea route as the dawn of a "new tourism circuit." By connecting these two islands, it opens doors to lesser-known yet equally stunning destinations in the Caraga region. Dumadag stressed the importance of capitalizing on Siargao's accessibility to uplift nearby areas like Dinagat, ensuring sustainable development and inclusive growth for all.
Rapidly Growing Tourism
Tourism statistics from the Department of Tourism-Caraga underscore the potential of this collaboration. Dinagat Island witnessed a significant increase in tourist arrivals in 2023, while Siargao recorded the highest number of tourist arrivals in the region. This partnership between the two islands promises to further boost these numbers, providing travelers with more reasons to explore the wonders of Caraga.
Enhanced Accessibility
The M/V French 777 operates scheduled voyages four times a week, departing from Del Carmen at 7 am and from Cagdianao at 1 pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
For travelers on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the ship sets sail from Del Carmen at 1:30 pm and from Cagdianao at 3 pm.
Fares for regular passengers are priced at P350, with a generous 20% discount available for seniors, persons with disabilities, and students. Children aged 4-10 enjoy a reduced fare of P175.
