General Santos is a city located in South Cotabato, Mindanao. It’s known as the “Tuna capital of the Philippines” due to the strong presence of the fishing industry as well as their tuna exports. Gensan is a place full of commerce, agriculture, and culture.
How to Get to General Santos City by Sea with 2GO Travel
You can sail to General Santos aboard MV Masikap or MV Masinag, from Manila and Davao. 2GO Travel’s port in Gensan is at Makar Wharf, Port of General Santos, General Santos City (Dadiangas), South Cotabato.
Whether you’re a returning resident or a first-time visitor, your sea journey with 2GO Travel will begin your enjoyable Mindanao experience.
Book your tickets online via 2GO Travel website, the 2GO App or through official ticketing outlets
People of General Santos City
The people of GenSan are a mix of indigenous groups like the B’laan and T’boli, along with settlers from Visayas and Luzon. This blend of cultures shaped the city into what it is today—a progressive hub with deep traditions. Generals are proud of their fishing heritage and are known for their hardworking and welcoming nature.
There is a diverse mix of people in the city, with various communities speaking Cebuano, Ilonggo, Blaan, Maguindanaon, and Tagalog, but most people speak Bisaya, Tagalog, and English.
Top Tourist Spots and Things to Do in General Santos City
General Santos offers more than just tuna. Travelers can enjoy both cultural and outdoor experiences that both tourists and locals enjoy.
Must-Visit Tourist Destinations
When in Gensan, be sure to visit the General Santos Fish Port Complex early in the morning to watch as freshly caught tuna is unloaded and exported. The city’s historic background can be seen when you stop by Plaza Heneral Santos and Pioneer Avenue. For nature and outdoor views, go to Sanchez Peak or Sarangani Highlands, which overlooks Sarangani Bay.
Tuna Festival
Held every September, this week-long celebration showcases GenSan’s fishing heritage through parades, street dances, culinary competitions, and cultural performances. It’s the best time to experience the city’s pride in its world-class tuna and vibrant community spirit.
Where to Eat and What to Eat in General Santos City
Food is at the heart of GenSan, and tuna is the star of almost every dining table. Try tuna sashimi, kinilaw, grilled tuna panga, and tuna sisig to experience the city’s signature flavors. But aside from tuna, the city also offers Filipino classics and Mindanaoan specialties that reflect its diverse culture.
Every September, the city celebrates the Tuna Festival, a week-long event filled with street parades, cultural shows, and culinary competitions that highlight the versatility of tuna. It’s the best time to visit if you want to taste GenSan’s freshest catch and see how locals turn tuna into both traditional and creative dishes.
Recommended places to eat in GenSan
- Tiongson Arcade – A popular night market-style dining strip where you can enjoy affordable tuna dishes and barbecue.
- Tuna Republic – Known for creative tuna meals and local seafood specialties.
- Ranchero’s Grill and Seafood Restaurant – A local favorite for family gatherings, serving grilled dishes and Filipino staples.
- Roland’s Steakhouse – Famous for both tuna and quality steaks.
- Cafe Amoree – A cozy café serving coffee, pasta, and cakes made with local ingredients.
Best Souvenirs and Pasalubong from General Santos City and Where to Get Them
Top General Santos Pasalubong to Try
- Tuna in all forms – bottled tuna, tuna chicharon, and frozen tuna cuts.
- Malong and T’boli crafts – handwoven textiles and beadwork.
- Local delicacies – durian candies, pastil (rice with chicken flakes wrapped in banana leaves), and polvoron.
Where to Buy Souvenirs in General Santos City:
- KCC Mall and SM GenSan – for tuna products and local delicacies.
- Pasalubong Centers near the port – convenient for last-minute shopping.
- T’boli souvenir shops – for woven malongs, brass accessories, and beadwork.
Why Travel to General Santos City by Sea with 2GO Travel?
Sailing with 2GO Travel gives you the freedom to carry more, relax during the journey, and enjoy affordable fares compared to flying or taking a 3-day bus trip. With spacious cabins, onboard entertainment, and hearty meals, the trip becomes part of the adventure. For balikbayans and big groups, the free 50kg baggage allowance alone makes sea travel the smarter choice.
Plan Ahead and Travel Smart
To make the most of your trip, book your 2GO Travel tickets in advance and check the latest sailing schedules. Since voyages take a few days, pack travel essentials for comfort onboard. Once in GenSan, plan your itinerary ahead so you don’t miss the chance to explore Sarangani Bay, taste the freshest tuna, and shop for unique pasalubong.
Traveling to General Santos City by sea with 2GO Travel is more than just a way to get there—it’s an experience that connects you with Mindanao’s culture, food, and people from the moment you set sail.
