Onboard a Sakanaw to Snake and Crocodile Islets

One of the latest tourist attractions developed by the LGU (local government unit) of Camotes and Provincial Government of Cebu in the Philippines is the “Sakanaw” (pronounced as sa-ka-nâw). It is a an outrigger boat, cube-like in design and it looks like a small Floating Restaurant in Loboc River in Bohol without the sumptuous food. It’s powered by a motor similar to speed boats and its steering bar is similar to an old bicycle.

The Sakanaw was established on May 24, 2009 by Governor Gwen Garcia during the time the “Suroy-Suroy Sugbo” (a group of locals and foreigners gathered to explore Cebu altogether) went there. One can only experience riding the Sakanaw at Lake Danao Park. The cost per ride for a maximum of 10 persons is P500.00. There will be a fee of P50 for each person in excess. The maximum number of persons the Sakanaw can carry is only 20. There is an on-going development of a new and bigger Sakanaw which can accommodate around 50 persons for each ride. One can say that the price of the Sakanaw is too expensive. This is because it is the only comfortable ride going around the largest and longest lake in the Visayas – the Lake Danao. One will also get to see the two islets in the south area of the lake, namely Crocodile and Snake Islets. Snake islet is like a small haven wonderfully maintained with coconut trees and tropical plants. The Sakanaw can dock to this island and picture taking is apparent. On the other hand, the Crocodile islet is densely covered with trees and shrubs at the moment. There have been plans to develop this islet so the Sakanaw can dock to it and the guests can step on the islet just like the other islet.

Sakanaw

Mark and Lisa enjoying the ride

Snake Islet

Crocodile Islet

Mark driving the Sakanaw

The collector of the fee for the Sakanaw ride is an employee from the municipal hall of San Francisco. There are a couple of drivers; one is named Marlou while I haven’t met the other. Their salary is only P150 per day. If you can give them a decent amount as tip after the ride, say, P30 or P50, it would surely make them happy. While riding, you can also ask to drive the Sakanaw by yourself. Just make sure not to bump it to a rock on shallow water or the kids swimming at the lake or any “bangka”.

About the author

Mark Anthony Maranga is an Educator-Parent to his 3 Homeschooling Kids. He sells Ice Cream and Balloons in Mandaue City, Cebu. Exploring the Philippines tourist attractions together with his family is his passion; they are learning without borders.