Inter-island ferries in the Philippines are affordable and versatile. This mode of transportation connects locals, tourists, and even goods across the archipelago. Most domestic shipping companies offer diverse options for travelers, such as RoRo/RoPax ferries and fastcrafts, and operate along some of the most popular maritime routes in the country, such as Batangas, Cebu, Boracay, Bohol or Surigao.
No matter whether you’re and experienced traveler or it’s your first time, it is always worth knowing some fundamental facts about ferry travel in the Philippines. Discover how inter-island ferries lead local travel experiences.
9 Essential Facts to Know About Inter-Island Ferries in the Philippines
1. Inter-island ferries connect 10 major ports in the Philippines (and more!)
Ferries typically make trips to a couple of key ports in the country, which are usually located in provincial capitals and key regional hubs. Ports are vital to connecting travelers to other modes of transportation across an island.
The most common ports visited by an inter-island ferry in the Philippines are:
Luzon
- Port of Manila
- Port of Batangas
- Port of Lucena
- Port of Subic (mainly cargo and cruises)
Visayas
- Port of Cebu
- Port of Iloilo
Mindanao
- Port of Cagayan de Oro
- Port of Davao
- Port of General Santos
- Port of Zamboanga
Additionally, ferries in the Philippines also serve small to medium sized ports near popular tourist destinations, such as Mindoro, Romblon, Panay Island, Bacolod, Bohol, Leyte, and Northern Mindanao.
2. Ferry travel has at least 3 main services.
The main highlight of ferry travel in the Philippines is its flexible solutions. There are three main services you can access:
- Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) – The most common type of vessel that carries passengers, vehicles, and cargo. Unfortunately, electric vehicles are not accepted on RoRo.
- Express Cargo – Additional service for shipping agricultural goods, small to large boxes, parcels, and domestic animals.
- Fastcraft – The quicker and faster option for travelers. These are smaller, speedier vessels that can only accommodate passengers and small cargo.
3. Travelers choose inter-island ferry for major domestic routes.
Passengers coming from Batangas, Cebu, Iloilo, Tagbilaran, Romblon, Surigao, and other popular regional destinations prefer sea travel for many reasons. It could be the lack of an airport or that their destinations are in close proximity.
Here are popular routes for inter-island ferry in the Philippines:
- Batangas to Caticlan
- Batangas to Calapan
- Batangas to Roxas City, Capiz
- Batangas to Romblon (including Sibuyan Island, Romblon, and Tablas Island)
- Cagayan de Oro to Tagbilaran
- Cebu to Cagayan de Oro
- Cebu to Iligan
- Cebu to Iloilo
- Cebu to Masbate
- Cebu to Ormoc
- Cebu to Ozamiz
- Cebu to Surigao
- Cebu to Tagbilaran
- Iloilo to Bacolod
- Ozamiz to Iligan
4. Passenger rates for ferries are cheaper than air travel.
Cost is another reason why ferry travel in the Philippines is preferred. Despite a longer travel time, ferry travelers can enjoy cost-saving benefits, lower fuel prices, and a massive capacity compared to that on airlines. Shipping companies also offer discounted rates for senior citizens, PWDs, students, and children. You can also access discount vouchers and loyalty perks when you purchase a ticket through platforms like Chelsea Travel.
5. Ferry travel allows you to pack more.
An inter-island ferry in the Philippines has limits and weight restrictions, but are much more generous than airlines. For example, Starlite Ferries allows up to 50 kilograms of baggage allowance for regular adult passengers, with an extra charge per kilogram for excess. It is exactly why ferries are a prime choice for travelers with heavy cargo going home for the holidays, such as Christmas, New Year, and Holy Week.
6. Provincial bus lines also use RoRo ferries.
Buses that travel from Manila to destinations in Visayas and Mindanao are loaded as rolling cargo on RoRo or RoPax vessels. This allows them to safely and efficiently transport passengers to another island without the hassle of multiple separate transfers. Bus tickets for these long-distance hauls usually include ferry seats and accommodation. All passengers need to do at the destination port is disembark the ferry then wait for the bus to be unloaded to board it again.
7. Pets are allowed for ferry travel.
You can definitely take your furbabies and feathered friends along for the trip. Shipping companies like Trans-Asia and Starlite Ferries allow accompanied and unaccompanied pets (dogs, cats, fighting cocks) on board provided they are in proper pet carriers and have a valid permit to transport from the Bureau of Animal Industry. Be sure to secure the necessary documents ahead of time for a hassle-free trip with your furbaby.
8. You can choose from various types of accommodation.
If you are traveling on an inter-island ferry in the Philippines, you will know that not all trips can be that quick. Fortunately, shipping companies offer diverse types of accommodation.
- Reclining Seats – Convenient for short-haul trips up to 2 or 3 hours.
- Non-Airconditioned Bunk Beds – Budget, open-air option for longer trips and overnight schedules.
- Airconditioned Bunk Beds – Closed, shared accommodation type fit for long trips.
- Tourist Cabins – Safer, more private, and comfortable room shared between 4 passengers, includes a separate bath and restroom.
- Private Rooms – Great for families and large groups, includes their own bathroom, and private quarters.
9. Booking ferry tickets online is cheaper and stress-free.
Passengers who are unable to visit a ticketing agency or outlet can book their tickets online. For Starlite Ferries, SuperCat, and Trans-Asia Shipping Lines, visit the Chelsea Travel website, an integrated booking platform for all three ferries in the Philippines. Here’s how.
- Open Chelsea Travel (https://www.chelseatravel.ph/) and select “Ferries” from the dropdown options.
- Select your Origin and Destination, preferred Travel Date, and Number of Passengers. Click “Search”.
- Choose your desired ferry schedule and submit all the passenger details.
- Settle your payment online. Chelsea Travel accepts both mobile banking and e-wallet payments.
- Check your email for the e-ticket voucher.
For Starlite Ferries and SuperCat, a printed copy and valid ID is required on your date of departure.
For Trans-Asia, a soft copy is accepted provided you have a valid ID.
- Bring your tickets and IDs with you to the port of origin.
- Board the vessel at the designated time and enjoy your trip!
For frequent travelers, the Chelsea Loyalty Program allows you to collect points, redeem rewards, and get exclusive freebies and discounts. Be sure to sign up to access members-only perks.
Inter-island ferries in the Philippines are not just a convenient way to travel. They offer flexible accommodation, safe voyages, and accessible passenger facilities so you don’t have to worry about your trip. The next time you ride a ferry, you can comfortably sit back, relax, and watch the waves on the way to your destination.
ALSO READ: Essential Tips for Specialized Cargo Shipping Services in the Philippines
Chelsea Logistics provides unparalleled passenger, RoRo, and cargo services for Filipinos. We operate three prime ferries in the Philippines: Starlite Ferries, SuperCat, and Trans-Asia Shipping Lines, where you can sail to any travel destination in South Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Plan your trip now and book with us! Got any questions? Don’t hesitate to send us a message here.
