The Tagum City River Cruise was formally launched July 30, 2011 with high hopes of revitalizing the people's interest in safeguarding the mangroves as well as showcasing the wonders of nature inside the wetlands of the city. Start your journey at Punong Restaurant which is the official jump-off point for the 8.8-kilometer river cruise that will run for almost two hours. Along the way, be amazed with the wide varieties of mangrove trees as well of its unique roots. As you go along and feel the breeze of the relaxing air, a local guide can tell stories about tales of the mangroves. The sight of fisherfolks and children swimming along the way is also a sight to behold. Stop by at the Kagan Village, a Muslim community in Barangay Liboganon that is brimming with culture and history. There, you can buy Muslim Handicrafts and taste its yummy delicacies. In Maningo Farm, one of the stopovers of the 8-kilometer cruise, your group can savor sumptuous lunch with its famous soft-shelled crabs. A floating tiange is the place to look forward to by souvenir-hunters. There, one can buy packed goodies which include tropical fruits in season, tasty delicacies and handicrafts. The River Cruise experience would not be complete without preserving the memory in your digital cameras or in mobile phones which are important so that you can upload it right away in facebook or perhaps print a postcard and encourage your friends to experience the river cruise, Tagumeño style. Under the shades of the century-old mangroves, a boardwalk was constructed for people to have a closer look at those trees and be relaxed by the warmth it gives. This is a perfect spot for picture-taking and if you are very lucky enough, gentle wildlife inhabitants shall join you in your clicking moments.
In the next years, a channel will be constructed to connect the waters of Tancuan and Nabintad River which is located in Barangay Madaum. The proposed 600-meters channel will house the protected area perfect for kayaking and other boating activities.
The Tagum City River Cruise experience depends on whoever tells it. As for me, who have been like cruised the river for three times already, it feels like it's always my first time. Personally, I'd like to remember it as the river once so elusive and now ready to capture the heart of nature-lovers wherever they may be here on Earth. You have to be there and experience the River Cruise that is uniquely Tagumeño.
To try the Tagum City River Cruise, contact the City Information Office of Tagum or the City Tourism Office or visit www.tagumcity.gov.ph for more information. A fee of P 320.00 is charged per head with a minimum of 10 pax. Reserve your group two days ahead of your schedule at the Council of Women Satellite Office at Punong Restaurant.
