The Travel Executive: Davao Pearl Farm (Samal) - Day 1 of Davao Adventure 2011

We went to the Pearl Farm for a day-tour on the first day of our Davao trip. Day tour costs P 1,850 on weekdays and P 2,500 on weekends. Meet-up point for Davao Pearl Farm is at the Marina Wharf. From the airport, we took the taxi going to the Wharf. From the Wharf, you’ll be taken by a ferry to the Pearl Farm. Travel time is approximately 45 minutes. Before leaving the Wharf, you’ll be oriented by the Front Desk Staff for about 10 minutes before you board the ferry. Davao Pearl Farm is on Samal Island.

Upon arrival on Samal Island, you’ll be offered with complimentary drinks, normally pineapple juice. Pearl farm is quite huge - there are mini-shuttles that can bring you from one spot to another. If you’re the adventurous type, you may want to explore the Farm on foot.

Davao Pearl Farm Suites

There are 2 swimming pools which may be used by the guests: an infinity pool near the dock fronting a restaurant and a more private pool on the opposite end of the island. There are huts which may be used for free. There are showers near the pool areas. Guests may also swim in the beach which has very nice waters. The Farm is not very strict as regards swimming attire. You may swim in shorts and tank tops, but try not to cover yourself too much to get a good tan. Every guest is entitled with 1 free towel.

Infinity Pool Fronting the Maranao Restaurant

Swimming Pool at the Far Right End of Davao Pearl Farm

Pearl Farm also offers water activities (like snorkelling, kayak, etc.) for a fee. You need to approach one of their personnel on the island to reserve.

There’s a more secluded (smaller) island that’s just a minute away from the main island. You need to take a motor boat (free of charge) to visit this part of Peal Farm. We never got to actually set foot on the islet during our stay there, the main island was enough already keep us occupied for the day.

The Smaller Island is Still Part of the Farm and May Be Reached Through a Motor Boat or Jetski.

Another View of the Islet.

The day-tour package includes buffet lunch which is served at the Maranao Restaurant from 10AM to 3PM. You don’t need to present anything as you approach the restaurant. Just give the staff the name of the person who booked your accommodation and you’re all set. The food is superb! Dishes are Filipino, American and European. There’s a small air-conditioned room which is dedicated only for desserts. Take time trying everything to get your money’s worth.

Overall, every penny paid for is worth the experience. If you love peace and quiet, you’ll love this place. The Farm is a world-class resort which is frequented by locales and foreigners alike. Based on experience, you may even leave your things unattended in the huts without fear of loss or theft (but do this at your own risk). Every Staff is very cordial, courteous and has been trained to offer great customer service.

We booked our tour through phone. I called their reservation office in Manila. The booking officer will get your booking details and, afterwards, will email you a confirmation letter which contains instructions for settling the fees (you’ll be asked to deposit your payment to their bank account). You’ll then have to email them back the deposit slip. Upon receipt, they’ll send you the final confirmation letter which you have to print and present at the Reception Office at the Wharf.

The ferry to and from Pearl Farm strictly follows the trip schedule. Be at the boarding area on time. If you’re leaving Pearl Farm (going back to the Marina Wharf), make sure you secure your boat pass from the Front Office an hour before departure for a guaranteed seat at the ferry. You may avail of the ferry outside the trip schedules, but this will cost you around P 7,000. As per their Front Desk Officer at the Wharf, a ferry can accommodate as many as 60 persons per trip (only?).

Ferry From Pearl Farm to Davao Marina Wharf

You might also want to book an overnight accommodation, there are different room types that you can choose from. Visit their website for more details. Pearl Farm also has a booking office in Davao City, contact information can be found on their website.

More pictures taken during our trip.