We recently checked into the Philippines at Subic Bay, after crossing from Hong Kong. Before arrival we took a “term membership” for 6 months and this reduces the marina costs to about 1/3 of the normal public price. Obviously there is a cost of membership, but if you plan to stay for a few months then it is worthwhile (for example, for the rainy season). For us coming from Hong Kong prices, the cost of Subic is peanuts …. so in relation to other comments, it is all subjective depending on where you are coming from.

There are numerous individuals available to provide all sorts of yacht services – but be careful and challenge prices as many of them see a foreign yacht as a cash cow! The going rate for a non-skilled worker (“boat boy”) for cleaning, polishing and general work is around 1,000 PHP per day – don’t pay more. For skilled work, negotiate the price you are happy with for a fixed price job – even if it is significantly less than they originally quote.

For the check-in procedure, the marina will take care of all of that for you and the process is very easy when you have taken membership. The 150$US is the standard fee now – 50$US per authority (quarantine, customs, immigration).

The marina water is disgusting – this is the most dirty place I have ever seen. However, this applies to the whole of Subic Bay and not just the marina so there is little the marina can do about it. Rubbish of all types floats on the water constantly.

In response to the previous comment about refuelling with jerry-cans, there are other alternatives. Since we are a motor yacht with large tanks, we could arrange a bunker delivery by truck (6000 litres) just outside the marina. We understand there is also another fuel pontoon which friends used for small quantities, but can’t comment on how that works.

The marina staff are very friendly and helpful – could not ask for anything more. In fact, everyone we have met in the area is very friendly.

For supplies, you can get everything you need here. There are several different “hypermarkets” – the Royal Duty Free and Puregold chains are close by. If you hire a car, you can also reach the S&R (Costco equivalent) in about 20 minutes. There is a great mall within about 20 minutes walking distance of the marina and all other services you need locally.

In summary, this is a great place for boat work and provisioning – but negotiate prices hard and ignore the dirty water!