Ferries in the Philippines are among the top ways to travel between islands. It is budget-friendly, convenient, and offers breathtaking views of the sea. Tourists can easily hop between Cebu, Boracay Island, Batangas, Bohol, Leyte, Surigao, and more while relaxing on a comfortable journey. Traveling by ferry also lets you appreciate the peaceful and scenic environment that flourishes across the country.

Don’t have a clue to plan your next adventure? Learn which ferry route to take, how to book tickets, and how to differentiate between the types of ferry services in the Philippines through this comprehensive guide.

10 Most Popular Ferry Routes in the Philippines to Try for Your Local Travel

Types of Ferry Services in the Philippines

• RoRo

Roll-on/Roll-Off or RoRo is one of the most convenient ferry services in the Philippines. It carries passengers, cargo, and diverse kinds of vehicles. It offers unparalleled convenience for passengers who wish to travel with their motorcycle, car, or truck. This is also how inter-island bus routes cross the sea to travel on land.

• Fast Craft

Fast ferries or fast crafts have a quicker travel time and smaller size than RoRo vessels. This allows them to prioritize passengers rather than cargo. Some of the downsides of fast ferries in the Philippines is their increased costs to cover speedier travel. Additionally, it lacks the capacity to carry and transport vehicles.

• Express Cargo

Many ferry services in the Philippines offer express cargo to supplement passenger travel. It enables timely and efficient delivery of goods along the available routes. Various boxes, parcels, agricultural goods, and even domestic animals/pets are delivered with care through express cargo solutions.

10 Most Travelled Ferry Routes in the Philippines

1. Batangas to Caticlan, Aklan (Boracay Island)

There is no better beach to hit than the pristine shores of Boracay Island. To get there, tourists must take one of the many ferries in the Philippines plying the Batangas to Caticlan route. Once you arrive at Caticlan Jetty Port, you must take a small boat or bangka to get to Boracay Island itself. This ferry route is a popular access point for domestic and international beachgoers.

2. Batangas to Roxas City, Capiz

The province of Capiz is known as the ‘Seafood Capital’, owing to its rich marine biodiversity and savory dishes. It is also home to river tours and historical sites like the Roxas Cathedral and Ang Panublion Museum. If you are a traveler from Manila and Batangas, take direct ferries in the Philippines to Roxas City, Capiz and enjoy mouthwatering seafood delights for yourself.

3. Batangas to Calapan, Oriental Mindoro

Calapan City is the capital of Oriental Mindoro, and a well-known destination for travelers. It is the gateway to ecotourism sites, such as the Harka Piloto Fish Sanctuary and Silonay Mangrove Ecopark. From this bustling port, tourists can travel inland and hike the towering Mount Halcon, or enjoy the night life in neighboring Puerto Galera. 

4. Batangas to Romblon

Romblon province is made up of three main islands. On the easternmost side is Sibuyan, to the west is Tablas, and Romblon is located between them. It is an emerging tourist destination that can be reached by ferries in the Philippines.

Tourists flock to experience a thrilling hike up Mt. Guiting-Guiting (one of the country’s most difficult mountains!). Others prefer to chill on the beach or go island hopping. Romblon is also recognized as the Marble Capital, boasting its vibrant artistry and handicrafts scene. There are three ports where ferries make calls, one for each island.

• Odiongan (Tablas) – This port is located on the west of Tablas island. Travelers can take additional ferry routes from Odiongan going to Roxas, Mindoro, and Caticlan.
• Magdiwang (Sibuyan) – Ambulong Port can be found on the northern part of Sibuyan Romblon. Aside from Batangas, tourists can travel from this port to Romblon and Roxas City, Capiz.
• Romblon (Romblon) – The provincial capital can be found on the northwest part of Romblon Island. From the port, you can take ferries back to Batangas, onward to Sibuyan Island, or even Roxas City, Capiz.

5. Cebu to Cagayan de Oro

Want to conquer the Cagayan River through a whiterafting adventure? Cagayan de Oro is just one ferry trip away from Cebu. This is quickly becoming one of the well-known ferry routes in the Philippines for adventurers in Visayas and Mindanao. The city’s main port is your gateway to unlimited urban escapes and nature thrills. It is also a key passage for goods coming in and out of the two regions.

6. Cebu to Surigao del Norte

If you dare to catch a wave at Siargao, or be enchanted by the blue Hinatuan River, take a ferry from Cebu to Surigao del Norte province. The area is abundant in natural attractions. At Surigao port, Siargao travelers must take a smaller ferry to get to the island. Meanwhile, bus transfers to Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Bukidnon, and Davao provinces are easily accessible from the port area.

7. Iloilo to Bacolod

The Iloilo to Bacolod route is one of the swiftest routes for ferries in the Philippines. Through this passage, many travelers can enjoy a day trip to either city and their neighboring towns. Although Iloilo and Bacolod ports have direct trips, tourists going to neighboring municipalities may opt for Dumangas Port from Banago and vice versa. 

8. Cebu to Tagbilaran, Bohol

The Cebu to Tagbilaran line connects you to some of the best tourist spots in Visayas, such as the Chocolate Hills, Magellan’s Cross, Bantayan Island, and Loboc River. Most ferry companies in the Philippines offer this route due to many residents and tourists crossing over from either province. 

9. Cebu to Iloilo

Sail to and from Iloilo, the City of Love in comfort. This route links a province with rich cultural heritage to Visayas’ key hub. For many locals, the Cebu to Iloilo route provides a convenient, reliable way to travel for work or leisure. It also makes popular tourist attractions like the Jaro Cathedral, Gigantes Islands, and heritage homes more accessible.

10. Cebu to Ormoc, Leyte

From Cebu, Ormoc City is your main gateway to Cebu. Explore the vast Lake Danao Natural Park, and trek up Mt. Aminduen to reach Alto Peak. Fastcrafts and ferries in the Philippines typically offer this as a regular route, connecting travelers from Central to Eastern Visayas.

How to Book Passenger Ferries in the Philippines

In-Person Booking

Visit an accredited ticketing agent or outlet. You just need to fill out a form, present your valid ID, make your payment, and receive an e-voucher. On your departure date, you will need to show your e-voucher and valid ID at the port to obtain your actual ticket.

Online Booking

Apps like the Chelsea Travel app allow passengers to check out a comprehensive list of routes, schedules, accommodation, and rates. 

1. Book your ferry ticket via the Chelsea Travel website or Chelsea Travel app.
2. Pay online and receive an e-voucher via email.
3. Arrive at the port at least three (3) hours before your departure and present your e-voucher.
4. Receive your actual ticket.
5. Locate your designated boarding gate or pier and wait for the signal to board.
6. Enjoy a safe and comfortable voyage!

Take this opportunity to slow down, relax, and appreciate the views while sailing safely. Ferry services in the Philippines aren’t just an affordable option, but also a convenient, reliable, and scenic way to travel between popular island destinations. 

ALSO READ: 6 Reasons to Travel by Ferry to Boracay

Starlite Ferries, Inc. offers all the perks and convenience of traveling by sea. Our RoRo and express routes currently operate across 14 key ports in the Philippines, connecting you to the best tourist spots in the country. Check out our updated schedule here and book today!