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Getting to know the Philippine Outrigger Boat photo by Benson Kua via Flickr

Getting to know the Philippine Outrigger Boat

por : Nicole Brown publicado :

When you think of the Philippines images of sandy beaches, days in the sun and water adventures fill your mind. But which island to choose? Well, if you do a custom adventure or go with an action-packed day trip, you don’t have to choose to visit just one island. And you have the Philippine Outrigger boat to thank for that.

The Philippine Outrigger boat started off as a fishing boat but over the decades, they have turned into the water taxis of the Philippines as well as the transportation of choice when island hopping. The unique design is reminiscent of a canoe and the magic trick is that while in operation the boat doesn’t disturb shallow coral reefs or animals swimming below.

So if you’ve booked a Filipino adventure, you’ll definitely get an opportunity to experience a Philippine outrigger boat ride. Below, we’ve curated some fun facts for you to know so that you can impress your tour guide with your local knowledge.


The majestic Bankga boat. photo by Ren Kuo via Flickr.
The majestic Bankga boat.

Call Me By Any other Name

By far the biggest advantages of the Philippine outrigger boat or the Bangka boat are that they are both durable and fish friendly. They can take on some weather without splitting yet they do not disturb the marine life below. They are also unique in that they come in a variety of sizes from 10 footers that fit one or two folks all the way up to bigger expedition boats and ferries that will fit dozens.

Aside from being known as the Bangka boats, they are also known as Paraw and pump boats. They are also highly adaptable as boaters put various mods on the original design depending on what the desired use is. There’s actually a saying in the Philippines that essentially says that the bangka boat is good for every application because it’s highly adaptable.

But regardless of what you choose to call the Philippine outrigger boat, in order to be considered one, there are three things that it must possess.The first is that the main hull needs to be narrow like a canoe, the second is that the boat has to be double-ended and the third is that these boats have at least one if not the most common two outriggers attached.


Outriggers equal stability. This man is tying two boats together using their outriggers to keep them stable while anchored. photo by brownpau via Flickr
Outriggers equal stability. This man is tying two boats together using their outriggers to keep them stable while anchored.

Original Materials

The simple design of the outrigger boat lends itself to a variety of building materials with modern ones being made out of plywood to help cut costs. But the original materials of the most traditional Bangka boats are made out of dungon, guisoc, ipil, duca baslayan, obacya, bayog, Philippine mahogany or molave.

The outriggers are made from bamboo or other available wood to help balance the boat and the main sails (on non-motorized versions) are made out of woven mats and readily available cloth.

Though humble in construction, these boats are powerhouses and have even been nicknamed the Jeeps of the Sea since they are the primary transportation used to hop between the country’s 7,000 islands.

Smaller boats are paddle operated and are engine free as some of the bigger ones have mods to move more people and are propelled by inboard engines. Most island resorts will have these boats available for rent for some island hopping during your Filipino vacation stay.


A Bangka with its outriggers. photo by Benson Kua via Flickr
A Bangka with its outriggers.

What Makes it Special

The simple construction and the eco-friendly design of these boats are definitely what make them special. The fact that they started out as fishing and trades boats used by the various indigenous tribes back in the day adds another level of nostalgia. When you’re in one of these boats, you truly feel more connected to the land and you’re vicariously experiencing the ingenuity and spirit of a people as well.

The look of these boats on the water is also very majestic. Some locals float in the water acting as food stops as they sell coconuts and other small treats. It’s like being a part of another culture that just resides on the water. And although the Bangka is just a means of transportation while you’re on your way to another lagoon, snorkelling location or the deep sea, it is also an all-encompassing experience all on its own that you’ll treasure long after your trip has ended.


For help in booking your once-in-a-lifetime Filipino adventure, reach out to the Uncharted Philippines team today and your knowledgeable in-the-know guide will give you even more interesting facts and history during your trip on an authentic Bangka.

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