May 2014 seemed to be the month for Ro-Ro (Roll-on, Roll-off) vessel experiences for me. π And I will share with you what I consider as my most pleasant Ro-Ro experience, while aboard the Regina Calixta vessel. π
Unlike theΒ other Ro-Ro vessels that I have embarked on which charges standard fees, the Regina Shipping Lines charges different fees for air-con and non-aircon areas in the ship. They also have ship attendants, who check on the purchased tickets and monitor the passengers. You will have that feeling of security while inside.
It was an ordinary day when my client and I boarded the ship at Tabaco Port; not that much passengers are bound to Catanduanes. The air-conditioned area is not full of passengers. There are numerous sockets on the wall so that passengers can charge their electronic gadgets. There’s a huge LCD monitor so that passengers can watch movies and concerts.
I was surprised how comfortable it is inside. I love the seats and the dim lights. It’s like being inside an airplane.
Since it was a sunny, summery day, the ride to Catanduanes is very smooth. Travel time is almost three (3) hours. According to my client, the vessel that we rode is one of the newest vessels of Regina Shipping Lines, which explains the quicker travel time and the modern amenities.
During the journey, I went out of the air-conditioned area to take a look outside. And I was surprised that even though we were already in the middle of Lagonoy Gulf, I could still see the Mayon Volcano. π
After almost three hours of waiting, I went out on the open deck and I got my first glimpse of the island province of Catanduanes. π So green and beautiful. π
This one is taken when disembarking at the Port of San Andres in San Andres, Catanduanes. Look at the skies.
Toploading. A normal view while at the Port of San Andres. π These passenger jeepneys will take you to the towns in Catanduanes, at Virac, Bato, or in Baras, the surf capital of Catanduanes. Why more fun to topload in Catanduanes? Well, the road towards the towns of Virac, Bato, Baras, Viga, and other towns would involve zigzag roads and scenic spots. It would be quite an adventure while traversing the zigzag roads, and a feast to the eyes when crossing scenic spots like the Bato Bridge and Bato River.
After three days in Virac, Catanduanes, I was once again going to board the MV Regina Calixta, this time early in the morning. We were inside the vessel before 8 ‘o clock.
The sea is calm and serene that morning. It would undoubtedly be another smooth ride. π
This one was taken before we embark the ship that picture-perfect morning. π
There were no turbulent waves during our journey, and while there are more passengers this time, still, the air-conditioned area maintained its cozy atmosphere. There is also a snack bar inside, with instant noodle soups, crackers and other food to keep the passengers full during the journey.
And again, after almost three hours of another pleasant Ro-Ro vessel experience, we are back at the Tabaco Port. π
Unfortunately, the Mayon Volcano was hidden by the clouds when we arrived at the Tabaco Port. But I was able to take a glimpse of its perfect cone barely an hour after we left the Port of San Andres. π