Sights along Loboc River
For those who sometimes prefer the peaceful scenic surroundings of the river rather than the majestic allure of the sea, Loboc River is an amazing alternative. The town of Loboc was established on 1602 before the arrival of the Spaniards on the area, where the early inhabitants made homes along the river. It was in early 1980’s that the idea to promote the Loboc River as a tourist destination came about. The water of the river is green during the hot season and turns brown during the rainy season. The floating restaurants that are most famous cruise along the river and were envisioned to provide tourists first class dining experience while -on board. These floating vessels are made up of a covered platform on top of two large outrigger boats that are joined together and can hold a maximum of 50 people. The starting points are Loay Bridge, or at the Poblacion; about 20 Km and 25 Km from Tagbilaran City respectively. Filipino cuisine buffet and local delicacies are served here. Boholano songs are played by in-boat bands during the cruise, but classic and popular jazz music can also be requested and being played at the other boats. The trip winds up the river and ends at the Busay Falls, about less than 2 Meters high. Here at Busay Falls, the boat stops and the guests are treated to a rondalla (ensemble of stringed instruments played with the plectrum or pick) music. Local folks usually dip in the waters and enjoy bathing under the falls. Guests who have brought their swimwear could also have the same refreshing experience. Along Loboc River there is a spectacle of daring children diving into the river near the boats from large leaning coconut trees overhanging about 10 Feet high. The trip back from Busay Falls is downstream so the cruise is shorter to the starting point.
Floating Restaurants
The Loboc River cruise is about 45 minutes one way to Busay Falls and less than that time on the way back to starting point. Food is served as soon as the boat leaves in the beginning. The cruise along the river is exhilarating as the lush tropical forests and landscapes welcomes passengers along the way. One of the highlights to see on Loboc is the San Pedro church, which is built in 1608, rebuilt in 1670 after being destroyed by fire and survivor of many floods because it is situated near the riverbank; this church has a convent that has beautiful murals from centuries old. Expect an exhilarating chance to hear voices of the Children’s choir while the boat passes by the church. The Loboc children’s choir in 2003 had represented the country in an international folksongs festival in Barcelona and promptly bagged the gold medal in the Children/Youth category, and was awarded the Festival Cup for garnering the highest point average.
Book now in one of the hotels in Tagbilaran and experience this one of a kind cruise in Loboc River.