Traveling between Bacolod and Iloilo has never been easier! These two bustling cities in the Philippines are connected by several reliable ferry and RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) services, ensuring a smooth journey for commuters, tourists, and business travelers alike. To help you plan your trip efficiently, here’s an updated guide to the Bacolod to Iloilo ferry schedule, including essential travel tips and the best options available.
Ferry Companies and Routes
Several reputable shipping companies operate on the Bacolod-Iloilo route:
- OceanJet
- Weesam Express
- Montenegro Lines
- FastCat
- Book your ticket at bus and ferry discounted tickets
Travel time ranges from approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on the service and type of vessel.
OceanJet Ferry Schedule
OceanJet offers fast and reliable service between Bacolod and Iloilo. Here’s their current schedule:
From Iloilo to Bacolod:
- Daily: 7:20 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM
From Bacolod to Iloilo:
- Daily: 5:45 AM, 8:50 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM
Fares:
- Tourist Class: Php550
- Business Class: Php800
OceanJet is known for its punctuality and comfortable vessels. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard.
Weesam Express Ferry Schedule
Weesam Express provides a reliable service with the following schedule:
From Iloilo to Bacolod:
- Daily: 6:30 AM, 10:20 AM, 1:10 PM, 4:45 PM
From Bacolod to Iloilo:
- Daily: 7:00 AM, 8:20 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:20 PM
Fares:
- Economy (Non-air): Php525
- Tourist Class: Php550
- First Class: Php650
Weesam Express is ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for a comfortable journey.
Montenegro Lines Ferry Schedule
Montenegro Lines offers multiple sailings daily:
From Iloilo to Bacolod:
- Monday to Saturday: 5:30 am, 8:30 am, 9:30 am, 12:30 pm, 3:30 pm
- Sunday: 8:30 am, 11:30 am, 3:30 pm
From Bacolod to Iloilo:
- Monday to Saturday: 7:30 am, 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 2:30 pm, 5:30 pm
- Sunday: 10:30 am, 2:30 m, 5:30 pm
Montenegro Lines is a well-established operator known for its reliable service.
FastCat RoRo Schedule
FastCat operates from Banago Port in Bacolod and offers both passenger and vehicle transport:
From Iloilo to Bacolod:
- Daily: 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 8:00 PM
From Bacolod to Iloilo:
- Daily: 5:45 AM, 11:00 AM
Passenger Fares:
- Business Class: Php400
- Premium Economy: Php350
- Economy: Php300
Vehicle Rates: Vary from Php204 for bicycles to Php19,698 for a 40-footer container.
FastCat’s RoRo service is perfect for those traveling with vehicles.
Travel Tips
- Tickets: Purchase your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Tickets can often be bought online or at the ferry terminals.
- Security: Ensure you arrive at the port at least 30 minutes before departure to allow for security checks and boarding.
- Weather: Ferry schedules may be affected by weather conditions. Always check for updates if a typhoon or adverse weather is forecasted.
- Comfort: Bring snacks and entertainment for longer waits or trips. Some ferries have onboard amenities, but it’s best to be prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does a ferry ticket from Iloilo to Bacolod cost?
- The cheapest fare is Php300 for FastCat’s RoRo service. Fast ferries start at Php550 for OceanJet.
2. Is there a direct flight from Iloilo to Bacolod?
- No, there are no direct flights. The ferry is the most common method for this route.
3. How long is the ferry ride?
- The journey typically takes 1 hour on fast ferries and up to 2 hours on RoRo services.
4. Can I bring my car?
- Yes, you can bring your car on FastCat’s RoRo service. Fast ferries like OceanJet and Weesam do not accommodate vehicles.
5. How many daily trips are there?
- There are around 13 daily trips available, with variations depending on the day and ferry company.
6. What are the departure and arrival ports?
- From Iloilo, ferries depart from Fort San Pedro Iloilo Pier. In Bacolod, you can arrive at either Bredco or Banago Port.
7. What are some top attractions in Iloilo?
- Explore Iloilo’s historic Spanish architecture, enjoy the beautiful beaches of Isla de Gigantes, or taste the local delicacies like La Paz Batchoy.
Things to Do in Iloilo
1. Visit Calle Real: Wander through this historic street in Iloilo City to admire beautifully preserved Spanish-era architecture.
2. Explore Jaro Cathedral: A stunning example of neo-gothic architecture, this cathedral is one of the oldest in the region and houses the miraculous image of Our Lady of the Candles.
3. Taste La Paz Batchoy: A must-try local noodle soup, La Paz Batchoy is a delicious dish found in many eateries throughout Iloilo.
4. Visit Molo Church: Another historic site, Molo Church is known for its all-female ensemble of saints in its beautifully maintained interior.
Things to Do in Bacolod
1. Check Out The Ruins: This grand, ruined mansion is a popular tourist spot, often described as the “Taj Mahal of Negros” due to its picturesque and romantic ambiance.
2. Explore Bacolod City’s Public Plaza: A great place to experience the local atmosphere and enjoy various events and activities.
3. Visit Negros Museum: Learn about the rich history and culture of Negros Occidental through its various exhibits and artifacts.
4. Enjoy the MassKara Festival: If you’re visiting in October, don’t miss the MassKara Festival, famous for its colorful masks and lively street dances.
5. Savor Bacolod Chicken Inasal: This unique style of grilled chicken is a local favorite, marinated in a special blend of spices and served with rice and a tangy dipping sauce.
Have you traveled this route recently? Share your experiences in the comments below and help fellow travelers with updated information!