🚢 The Ship Haus in Batuan, Bohol (2025 Guide) | Tour, Rates & Tips

🚢 A Dream Built on Determination

We were driving from Carmen to Tagbilaran when this incredible ship-shaped house caught our attention. At first glance, I thought it was just another quirky roadside structure — but as it turns out, this isn’t just a house. It’s The Ship Haus, one of Bohol’s most unique and inspiring attractions!

💡 Fun Fact: It was originally intended to be a residential house until locals and passersby couldn't stop admiring its unique design. It’s now a simulation hotel, museum, and Instagram favorite.

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👨‍✈️ The Man Behind the Helm

 

This four-story Ship Haus was built by Master Marine Capt. Gaudencio Dumapias — a true testament to his dream. As a young boy from humble beginnings, he promised himself he'd be somebody one day. And he did just that — becoming the youngest master mariner at the age of 34.

⚓ Inspired by years of life at sea, he began building this nautical home in 2006. By 2012, it transformed into the simulation hotel and mini-museum it is today — known to many as "Bay Barko".

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🧭 Tour Highlights and Experience

When I finally got to enter the Ship Haus during my 2025 revisit with family, I made sure we took the full tour. Here’s what you can expect:

🎫 Entrance Fee: ₱30.00 (comes with a "boarding ticket")
👕 Bonus: They’ll offer you a seaman’s uniform for photo ops — it adds to the fun and I totally recommend it!

🛠️ Inside the Ship Haus:

🧭 Ground Floor:

• Ship’s steering wheel & bar
• Galley and mess hall
• Chief cook’s cabin
• A dedicated nook for Rated K’s feature on the house

🧳 Second Floor:

• 🛏️ Captain’s cabin (available for overnight stay: ₱2,000/night, with breakfast for 2)
• 🧱 Ship simulator, gangway, and front deck with code flags
• 👨‍✈️ Cabins for crew: Chief Engineer, Chief Mate, 3rd Mate, and 2nd Engineer (₱1,000/night for 2 with breakfast)

☀️ Third Floor:

• Sundeck for small private events
• Lifebuoy & seafarer’s props for photo ops

🔭 Fourth Floor:

• View deck — perfect for selfies with Batuan’s green landscape

📷 Tip: Ask a guide to take your photo pretending to steer the ship — perfect for your social media stories.

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🧡 My Favorite Part

What I loved most was how immersive it felt — I could be silly and playful while appreciating a life I’ve never lived: that of a mariner. There’s something very nostalgic and hopeful about seeing someone’s dream (literally) built brick by brick.

🛍️ Souvenir Tip: Don’t forget to stop by their souvenir area. They sell cute marine-themed tokens that make great pasalubong!

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📍 How to Get There & Contact Info

📌 Address: Poblacion Norte, Batuan, Bohol (along the highway, near St. James the Apostle Church)
📅 Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Monday to Sunday
📞 Phone: +63(038) 533-9214
📱 Mobile: +63(907) 468-9900 | +63(905) 688-7469
📧 Email: shiphaus.bohol@gmail.com | gaydumapias@yahoo.com
🌐 Facebook: Ship Haus Bohol

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🧭 Travel Tips for 2025

✅ Stop here if you're en route to the Chocolate Hills — it’s conveniently located.
✅ Bring small bills for entrance and souvenirs
✅ Best time to visit: Mid-morning or early afternoon to avoid tour groups
✅ Overnight stay? Book ahead! Especially during peak season and holidays.
✅ Capture moments — this is one of Bohol’s most photogenic (and underrated) gems!

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📝 If you're traveling through Bohol, don't just pass this by. The Ship Haus is more than just a quirky roadside attraction — it's a story of grit, dreams, and a deep love for the sea. Whether you’re a traveler, sailor, dreamer, or just curious, this stop will surely stay with you.