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Travel & Food

How to Travel by Ferry in the Philippines

Heading home to the province for the holidays or dreaming of an island escape? Learning how to travel by ferry in the Philippines opens up a world of possibilities. It's often cheaper than flying, plus you can discover remote places you can’t access by plane, like Batanes or Siquijor. 

 

Use this guide to plan your trip. It covers everything you need to know—from choosing the right ferry to navigating major ports and routes. So, get ready to set sail on an unforgettable journey.

Choose the Right Ferry for Your Trip

There are three main types of ferries in the Philippines: RoRo, Fast Crafts, and Passenger Lines. Each offers different levels of comfort and amenities, and caters to various routes and schedules. Here's a breakdown to help you choose the best one for your needs.

1. RoRo (Roll-On, Roll-Off) Ferries

A RoRo ship docks in Caticlan, Boracay on a clear day.

RoRo ferries are the most affordable option, especially if you’re traveling by car.

The RoRo ferry allows you to bring your car on board, perfect for those who are planning road trips across multiple islands. Montenegro Lines is a great option, with a variety of vessels including RoRo ferries like the M/V Maria Josefa (as well as fast crafts and passenger lines) to suit your needs. Keep in mind that RoRo ferries only allow a limited number of vehicles on board, so make sure to reserve your slot early!

2. Fast Crafts

The inside of a fast craft ferry with rows of blue passenger seats and a spacious aisle in the middle, with a view of the ocean on the right side windows.

In the need for speed? Fast craft ferries offer shorter travel times between close destinations.

The RoRo ferry allows you to bring your car on board, perfect for those who are planning road trips across multiple islands. Montenegro Lines is a great option, with a variety of vessels including RoRo ferries like the M/V Maria Josefa (as well as fast crafts and passenger lines) to suit your needs. Keep in mind that RoRo ferries only allow a limited number of vehicles on board, so make sure to reserve your slot early!

Fast crafts are smaller ferries that offer shorter travel times and prioritize speed over scenic views. One popular option is SuperCat, with fast craft routes connecting Batangas, Bacolod, Cebu, IloIlo, and more. They’re commonly used by day trippers and business travelers seeking routes between nearby destinations, like Cebu to Bohol. With air conditioning and more comfortable interiors, fast crafts offer a more premium travel experience than RoRo types.

3. Passenger Lines

A happy young woman in sunglasses stands on the deck of a ferry ship and waves to someone in the distance.

Passenger lines are your top choice for long-haul or overnight trips, complete with amenities and flexible accommodation.

Great for long-haul routes, passenger lines are larger ferries with amenities like restaurants, lounges, and sleeping cabins. One example is Atienza Interisland Ferries Inc., which offers routes to Coron and El Nido. They provide the most comfortable experience for long-distance travelers, groups, and families traveling with kids or pets. Similar to airlines, passenger ferries can transport hundreds of people and organize passengers by tier.

Book Your Tickets Ahead

It's best to secure your slots in advance, especially during busy travel times. Here's how:

  • Online: Many companies let you book through their websites or apps. It’s also the easiest way to check schedules and compare prices. For seamless online booking, use GCash to purchase your tickets quickly and securely.
  • In-person: Some companies require you to buy tickets at their office.
  • Ferry terminals: You might find tickets at the port on your travel day, but it's risky during busy times.

 

Important to note: Passenger liners usually require advanced bookings, regardless if it’s peak season or not.

Research Major Ports and Routes

The Philippines has a vast network of ferry routes, but schedules and routes can vary between companies. To help you plan your trip, explore the major ports and popular routes below.

Manila North Harbor

A passenger drop-off area with people sitting in the waiting area.

Manila North Harbor services routes to Visayas and Mindanao, with spacious waiting areas and food stalls.

Image Credit: North Port

Manila North Harbor sits just outside Manila and is one of the capital's largest ferry ports. From here, you can catch ferries to destinations in both Visayas and Mindanao. Before you board your ferry, grab a bite to eat at one of the food stalls or relax in the waiting area. Check out their complete vessel schedule here.


Manila North Harbor, Tondo, Manila; (+632) 8-588-900

Major Routes

Manila to Cebu: This route takes about 25 hours and connects you to the heart of the Visayas region. From Cebu, you can easily explore other islands.

 

Manila to Palawan: Dreaming of pristine beaches? You can travel directly from Manila to several amazing spots in Palawan!

Batangas Port

 Inside the terminal building of the Batangas Port.

Batangas Port offers direct routes not available in Manila’s major ports.

Batangas Port is a nearby alternative to Manila’s ports, especially if you’re heading to Mindoro and Cebu. Its clean, spacious layout is easy to navigate. Plus, it offers handy amenities like luggage storage, restrooms, and places to grab a bite.

 

Batangas Port, Access Rd, Brgy. Santa. Clara, Batangas; (043) 722-2429

Major Routes

Batangas to Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro: Puerto Galera is a popular choice for Manila dwellers, and you can get there easily from Batangas Pier with multiple daily trips.

 

Batangas to Calapan, Oriental Mindoro: Calapan is an emerging destination for diving, as well as the home of the colorful Kalap festival.

 

Batangas to Caticlan, Boracay: Boracay on a budget is easier than ever with ferries traveling directly to Caticlan. This 10-hour journey is the most direct route from Manila.

 

Batangas to Romblon: Discover the beautiful island of Romblon, with its stunning beaches like Bonbon and Tiamban. It's a picture-perfect island-hopping paradise! A direct ferry usually takes around nine hours.

 

Batangas to Roxas, Capiz: Known for lively festivals like Diwal Festival and Capizan Festival, Roxas is a must-see destination in Western Visayas. A direct trip normally takes around 18 hours. 

Cebu Port Authority

 Photo of the crowd during the 2018 Sinulog Festival Fluvial Parade at Pier 1, Cebu Port.

Cebu Port Authority is the main port of the Visayas region, with plenty of routes connecting to nearby provinces.

Image Credit: Cebu Port Authority Facebook

Cebu Port Authority is your gateway to Visayas and parts of Mindanao. This major ferry port has modern facilities and tons of ferry options. It's got three terminals for trips between islands and two more just for ferries traveling around Cebu City and Mactan.

 

Cebu Port, Quezon Blvd, Cebu City

Major Routes

Cebu to Bohol: Looking for a quick island getaway? Bohol is just a short ferry ride from Cebu City, making it ideal for a day trip or a longer adventure. 

 

Cebu to Iloilo: Rich in culture and history, Iloilo is home to popular spots like Islas de Gigantes and white sand lagoons. It’s also a connecting point to other places in the region, with ferries going straight to El Nido, Palawan.

 

Cebu to Surigao: Want to surf the waves in Siargao? Take a ferry to Surigao, then hop on another to Siargao Island. 

 

Cebu to Bacolod: The City of Smiles is famous for its MassKara Festival, its beautiful beaches, and its growing art scene. 

 

Cebu to Dumaguete: Discover why tourists are falling in love with Dumaguete! It offers stunning beaches without the usual crowds, and it’s also a connecting point to the magical island of Siquijor. 

 

Cebu to Cagayan de Oro: Calling all thrill-seekers! Cagayan de Oro (CDO) is the whitewater rafting capital of the Philippines. It also has must-visit sites like the Malasag Eco-Tourism Village.

 

Cebu to Ormoc, Leyte: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and unwind in the beauty of Leyte. Enjoy swimming in Lake Danao or explore islands like Kalanggaman Island and Cuatro Islas. 

Sail Smoothly with These Tips

Two young girls take a selfie on the deck of a ferry ship with a view of a city in the background.

With the right planning and tools, ferry travel can open up a whole new way to experience the beauty of the Philippines.

Traveling by ferry can be an amazing adventure! Here are some tips to make your trip even better, whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or with your furry friend.

  • Prep for seasickness. Pack medication or patches. Choosing a larger vessel and a central seat can also help.
  • Arrive early. This gives you time for security, bag check-in, and finding a good seat.
  • Budget wisely. You can often find budget-friendly options like economy seats. If you want more comfort, consider upgrading to a cabin, especially for long journeys.
  • Check the shipping company’s pet policy. Most ferries allow pets, but they may have specific rules about vaccinations, documents, and carriers. Research and choose the best option for your fur baby.


Now that you know how to travel by ferry in the Philippines, you’re ready to plan your trip! Check schedules, look up routes, and book online. For convenient cashless transactions, use GCash to pay for your ferry tickets with ease. If you’re a balikbayan, make sure you grab a Traveler SIM to stay connected and access travel information on the go. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and embark on an unforgettable ferry adventure through the stunning islands of the Philippines.

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