Ferry Travel from Cebu: Ultimate Guide in 2025

Looking to explore the Visayas or nearby islands from Cebu? Taking a ferry is not only scenic and affordable — it’s often the most practical way to travel between islands in the Philippines.

From the bustling piers in Cebu City to serene beaches in Bohol and Camotes, this 2025 Ultimate Guide will walk you through how to plan your ferry journey like a pro: routes, ports, ticketing, classes, safety, and local tips included.

1. Why Ferry Travel Is Essential in Cebu

The Philippines is an archipelago made up of over 7,000 islands. While Cebu has an international airport and extensive bus routes, many destinations — like Bohol, Camotes, Siquijor, Dumaguete, and Leyte — are best reached by sea.

Top Reasons to Travel by Ferry:

• ️ Island access: Visit remote beaches not reachable by road or plane

• Budget-friendly: Much cheaper than flights

• Scenic: Enjoy views of ocean and coastline

• ‍♂️ Walk-on convenience: No need for cars or rentals

• ⛴️ Frequent departures: Multiple trips daily

Whether you’re a backpacker heading to Malapascua or a family going to Bohol, ferries connect the islands — and Cebu is the central hub.

2. ⚓ Cebu’s Main Ferry Ports

Cebu City has several active passenger ports. The most commonly used piers are listed below, each servicing different destinations and ferry companies:

️ Pier 1 (Cebu City)

• Most popular ferry terminal for tourists

• Serves: Bohol (Tagbilaran & Tubigon), Ormoc, Iloilo, Dumaguete, Siquijor

• Ferry lines: OceanJet, SuperCat, Lite Shipping, Weesam Express

️ Pier 3

• Mainly used for routes to Bohol (Tubigon) and Camotes Islands

• Smaller, more laid-back than Pier 1

• Serves: Starcraft, Lite Ferries

️ North Cebu: Maya Port

• Not in Cebu City proper — located in Daanbantayan (North Cebu)

• Main departure point for Malapascua Island

• Small pump boats run every hour during daylight

️ Ouano Wharf (Mandaue)

• Access point for some routes to Leyte, Hilongos, and commercial ferries

• Not used much by tourists

Tip: Always confirm your departure pier on the ticket or booking app — Cebu has over 10 functional piers.

3. Top Ferry Destinations from Cebu

Here are some of the most popular ferry routes from Cebu, especially for tourists and inter-island travelers in 2025:

⛴️ Cebu → Tagbilaran (Bohol)

• Fastest route to Panglao beach resorts

• Duration: 2 hours

• Fare: ₱800–₱1,300

• Operators: OceanJet, SuperCat, Lite Shipping

⛴️ Cebu → Tubigon (Bohol)

• Budget option for Bohol, closer to Chocolate Hills

• Duration: 1.5 hours

• Fare: ₱350–₱600

• Operators: Lite Ferries, Starcraft, FastCat

⛴️ Cebu → Camotes Islands

• White sand, low-key alternative to Bohol

• Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours

• Fare: ₱350–₱550

• Operators: Jomalia Shipping, Lite Ferries

⛴️ Cebu → Ormoc (Leyte)

• For connections to Tacloban or Eastern Visayas

• Duration: 3 hours

• Fare: ₱700–₱1,000

• Operators: OceanJet, SuperCat

⛴️ Cebu → Dumaguete / Siquijor

• Scenic southern routes for backpackers and divers

• Duration: 4–6 hours total (with transfer)

• Fare: ₱900–₱1,400

• Via: Bato or Liloan Port in Southern Cebu + short ferry

⛴️ Cebu → Malapascua Island

• For diving with thresher sharks!

• Duration: 4-hour bus to Maya + 45-minute boat

• Fare: ₱300–₱400 (total)

• Small boats, no large ferries

4. ️ Ferry Operators You Can Trust

When traveling by ferry in Cebu, it’s crucial to choose reliable companies — especially during bad weather or peak seasons. Here are the most reputable ferry operators in 2025:

✅ OceanJet

• Fastcraft operator with high-speed vessels

• Routes: Bohol, Ormoc, Dumaguete, Siquijor

• Known for: punctuality, clean boats, multiple classes

✅ SuperCat (2GO)

• Another fast ferry operator with similar routes as OceanJet

• Known for: safety, online booking, air-conditioned lounges

✅ Lite Ferries

• Offers both fastcraft and roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) options

• Routes: Bohol (Tubigon), Camotes, Leyte

• Known for: lower fares, more space, multiple departures

✅ Weesam Express

• Serves select destinations like Tagbilaran and Ormoc

• Known for: decent mid-range service and budget-friendly fares

✅ Jomalia Shipping

• Exclusive operator to/from Camotes Islands

• Modern fastcraft with pre-booking options

Always check weather updates and vessel schedules — ferry trips can be delayed due to sea conditions.

5. How to Book Ferry Tickets (Online & Walk-in)

Booking your ferry in advance is strongly recommended, especially during weekends, holidays, or festival season (like Sinulog in January).

Online Booking Platforms:

• 12Go Asia (https://12go.asia)
  → English-friendly, great for international travelers

• Klook (https://klook.com)
  → Often has promo prices and combos (e.g. ferry + transfer)

• Official ferry operator websites
  (e.g., oceanjet.net, supercat.com.ph, liteferries.com)

Walk-in Booking:

• Most piers allow walk-in purchases at least 1–2 hours before departure

• You must pay a terminal fee (₱25–₱50) separately

Bring a valid ID, especially for inter-island travel. Some routes require ID verification at check-in.

6. What to Expect at the Port

Cebu’s piers can get chaotic, especially on weekends. Here’s a quick step-by-step:

1. Arrive Early
   → Be at the terminal 1 hour before departure, 2 hours if checking bags

2. Buy or Confirm Your Ticket
   → Online ticket? Show your QR code or confirmation email
   → Walk-in? Pay at the ticket window

3. Pay Terminal Fee
   → Ranges from ₱25 to ₱50 depending on the pier

4. Security Check
   → Bags are screened; ID may be required

5. Wait in the Boarding Area
   → Air-conditioned lounges available at Pier 1 and some terminals

6. Board When Announced
   → Listen to announcements or follow boarding instructions

Bring snacks and water — food kiosks are limited at some piers.

7. Luggage Rules and Tips

Ferry travel allows you to bring more luggage than flights — but there are still rules to follow.

Standard Allowances

Most ferries allow 7–15 kg of free hand-carry baggage. Oversized or heavy luggage may incur extra charges (₱50–₱200 depending on size and route).

Oversized / Checked Baggage

• Larger suitcases, boxes, or sports gear are stored below deck

• Inform the ferry staff if you need to check something in

• Tag and label your bags clearly

Safety Tips

• Keep valuables (passport, wallet, phone) on you

• Use combination locks or tie-down straps

• Don’t leave bags unattended at the terminal

Lite Shipping and some RoRo ferries allow motorbike transport for an additional fee.

8. ️ Ferry Classes: Economy to Business Class

Ferries offer different seating classes — comfort varies depending on the operator and price.

Choose tourist or business class if traveling more than 2 hours or with family.

9. ⚡ Fastcraft vs Regular Ferry: Which One to Choose?

Not all ferries are built the same — here’s how Fastcraft compares to Regular Ferries (RoRo).

️ Fastcraft (e.g. OceanJet, SuperCat)

• Speed: 1–2 hours

• Airconditioned seating

• Smaller waves = less seasickness (in good weather)

• Best for: tourists, day-trippers, light travelers

⛴️ Regular Ferry / RoRo (e.g. Lite Shipping)

• Speed: 2–5 hours

• Larger ships, some allow vehicles

• More space, but less comfort

• Best for: long haul, travelers with motorbikes or boxes

If you’re prone to motion sickness, sit near the center of the ferry where movement is less noticeable.

10. Best Ferry Routes for Tourists

Tourists love ferries in Cebu because they unlock quick access to tropical paradises. Here are the top-rated routes by traveler type:

️ For Beach Lovers:

Cebu → Tagbilaran (Bohol)

• Direct access to Panglao and Alona Beach

• 2 hours via OceanJet or SuperCat

For Snorkeling/Diving:

Cebu → Camotes Islands or
Cebu (Maya) → Malapascua Island

• White sand and coral reefs

• Camotes has calm beaches; Malapascua is more rugged and remote

️ For Nature and History:

Cebu → Tubigon

• Fast and budget route to Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary in Bohol

For Island Hopping Travelers:

Cebu → Ormoc / Hilongos (Leyte)

• Connects you to Southern Leyte, Maasin, and Sogod Bay

For Backpackers:

South Cebu → Dumaguete / Siquijor (via Liloan or Bato Port)

• Less touristy and more adventurous; may involve bus + ferry combo

If you’re based in Cebu City, Pier 1 and Pier 3 are your best starting points.

11. ️ Safety and Weather Considerations

The Philippines is prone to typhoons and monsoon rains, especially between July and October. Here’s how to stay safe and informed:

⛔ When Ferries Might Be Canceled:

• Storm Signal #1 or higher issued by PAGASA

• Rough sea warnings or port advisories

✅ How to Check Ferry Status:

• Visit operator websites or Facebook pages

• Call ticketing offices 2–3 hours before departure

• Ask your hotel staff or local contacts for real-time info

⚠️ Travel Insurance:

Consider getting travel insurance that covers cancellations and delays due to weather. It’s inexpensive and useful, especially during rainy season.

Personal Safety Tips:

• Avoid late-night ferry departures unless it’s a trusted operator

• Stay alert at ports — watch out for touts or fake ticket vendors

• Wear life jackets on small pump boats when offered

12. ✅ Final Tips for Smooth Ferry Travel

Before you head to the pier, here are a few pro-level tips to make your ferry journey easier:

• Book early during peak months (April–May, December–January)

• Print your tickets (or screenshot QR codes)

• Bring small bills for fees and snacks (₱20, ₱50, ₱100)

• Arrive 60–90 minutes early, especially for check-in and terminal lines

• Bring snacks and water – food options are limited at piers

• Pack earplugs or headphones for long rides

• Travel early in the day – calmer seas, fewer cancellations

✨ Conclusion: Is Ferry Travel Worth It?

Absolutely. Whether you’re heading to Bohol’s famous beaches, the quiet charm of Camotes, or the scuba haven of Malapascua, ferries from Cebu make inter-island exploration affordable and accessible.

With some planning and local know-how, you can ride like a pro — and enjoy one of the most scenic ways to experience the Philippines.