MOA Complex Opens Esplanade Seaside Terminal for More Accessible Cruises in Manila Bay

Personally, I find it amazing how the Mall of Asia Complex continues to grow rapidly as it unveils new developments year after year. Today, it is known to be a major retail, entertainment, and business hub housing iconic structures such as the E-Com buildings (read a related article I wrote for Manila Bulletin, here), the SMX Convention Center, the MOA Arena (read my blog post and see pictures while it was still being constructed, here), and the very popular Mall of Asia.

a spectacular Manila Bay sunset

SM Mall of Asia AVP for Operations Perkin So shared that SM continuously strives to innovate and provide more and new services for the public's convenience and enjoyment. The launch of their latest project, the Esplanade Seaside Terminal, provides a more accessible and easier gateway to Corregidor as well as a way for guests to enjoy the beauty of the famous Manila Bay Sunset via offerings of partners Sun Cruises, Prestige Cruises, and Orient Craft Cruises. 

the MV Eagle Cruiser of Prestige Cruises

MOA patrons would find it very easy to embark on new experiences and adventures via exciting activities such as the Manila Bay Cruise, Dinner Cruise, and Corregidor Tour. The convenient location is very accessible by public or public transportation. 

off to a Cruise by the Bay
photo credit: Azrael Coladilla

There is likewise sufficient and safe parking and it is close to commercial areas such as the SM Mall of Asia and SM by the Bay. So moreover disclosed that they will also be developing a certain section beside the parking area. "There will be another cluster that will be built there, which is a lifestyle spa."

my boarding pass

The Esplanade Seaside Terminal is accredited by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to accommodate both domestic and foreign vessels. "We are in talks with some other groups for other vessels as well. We are an open port," explained So. "That means if there are foreign vessels that would like to dock here, we can also accommodate them."

Manila skyline

He related, "In the past, we've had this partnership also wherein the US Navy, with their R&R for their aircraft carriers have done it, kilometers away from land. They would then have water taxis be brought to the shore. That can also be accommodated."   

with friends on board the MV Eagle Cruiser

"The Esplanade Seaside Terminal is actually part of the master plan for the Mall of Asia complex to take full advantage of the location, which is the fantastic Manila Bay," revealed So who confirmed that by July 1, Sun Cruises would be transferring from the CCP Complex Terminal to Esplanade. "They already have an office here accepting bookings for tours to Corregidor. I think the facilities in this particular area, including the ease of access for customers, is easier for them as well as for the public."

Esplanade Seaside Terminal entrance

As to safety and precautionary measures, "Even the Coast Guard holds main office here. We're always guided by [them and] the Philippine Ports Authority, which helped us set this up." 

Manila Bay at dusk

"Mall of Asia has always been known to attract people from all over, even friends and families of OFWs. Tourists would always go here. So it makes perfect sense for us to actually create this seaside terminal here where everybody goes. We look forward to all the guests to come and visit us here," concluded So.

go visit the terminal dear readers and enjoy cruising!

Esplanade Seaside Terminal is located at the far right side (when facing the Mall of Asia) of the MOA Complex behind One Esplanade building.