by During my most recent trip to Bohol, I decided to venture beyond the usual tourist trail and (finally) experience the popular Loboc River Cruise. And let me tell you, it was an experience that truly “hit different.”
When you hear the word Bohol, you almost always think about the iconic Chocolate Hills. But this island paradise holds so much more than this natural wonder. And I’m super glad that I finally got to give it a try this time!
Loboc River Cruise
When we arrived in Loboc, I was instantly amazed by the infrastructure that was already in place. The tourist hall was massive and their system to ensure that all guests had an amazing experience was pretty great. Even the walkway leading to the river bank where the boats were waiting got me so impressed.
Stepping onto the floating restaurant, I was immediately struck by the tranquility. The gentle sway of the boat and the soft murmur of the river created an atmosphere of pure calmness. As we began our journey, I was captivated by the beauty of the Loboc River. Towering coconut palms lined the banks, making the journey cool and relaxing. Nipa huts peeked out from the dense foliage, offering glimpses into the simple life of the locals.
But the Loboc River Cruise isn’t just a scenic tour; it’s a cultural immersion. As we moved slowly along, a live band serenaded us with classic Filipino songs. And I must say the singer is pretty awesome!
The food, a delectable spread of local delicacies and favorites, was served buffet-style. I came back multiple times to grab more rice and sweets! ๐
Cultural Experience
One of the highlights of the cruise was the stop at a small village along the riverbank. Here, a group of talented children performed traditional folk dances, their vibrant costumes, and infectious energy filling the air with joy. The performance was a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Bohol and a reminder of the importance of preserving these traditions for future generations.
During the performance, they also asked guests to dance with them and experience the ‘kuradang’ firsthand. It was loads of fun. And based on the reaction of the volunteers, it’s pretty evident that they had a great time. The song Kuradang (which is also about the dance) is one of my ultimate favorite Cebuano songs. So I was naturally pumped to hear the local kids sing it live.
We made a U-turn several hundred meters later when we reached a shallow part of the river. Our cruise back to the reception hall was slow, but because of all the singing and dancing on the boat, the journey felt like it was over in minutes!
Balik sa Bohol Balik
The highlight of this trip for me was the singing of the song Balik sa Bohol Balik, a popular theme that has been on my playlist since returning home from this trip. I don’t usually sing and dance in public, but for this one time, I actually did it.
My first Loboc River Cruise was more than just a tourist activity; it was a sensory experience that touched my soul. It was a chance to connect with nature, immerse myself in local culture, and experience the simple joys of life.
If you’re planning a trip to Bohol, I highly recommend adding the Loboc River Cruise to your itinerary. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
