Vanishing Island in Samal waters on a high tide © Jojie Alcantara

I used to drop by the Vanishing Island (Salipaan Shoal) every time I was headed for Samal Island (and City).  It was nothing much but a piece of white sandbar and a cottage where the owner’s caretaker lives.  Young mangrove trees are lined up in the middle of the area, caught between currents where two cities sit across from each other. It was a spot we seldom take notice of.

For the first time in my years of existence as a Dabawenya, I was able to go down and explore in the clear waters.  Nothing much to see, especially on a high tide.  But the new Islands Banca Cruise makes it possible now for you to do so.

Vanishing Island in front of Samal Island City

Click here for my article about Islands Banca Cruise. More photos here.

Me in Vanishing Island taken by my sister

…And because my dear sister did not listen while she sits in my several photography workshops, I now look as if I carried the island on my shoulders, or I have just grown Popeye’s spinach muscles.

Update : This banca cruise has ceased operations now.