This is an updated guide on how to get from Cebu to Bohol – Tagbilaran, Tubigon, and Getafe + ferry schedule and fare for your easy reference.
Bohol is a must-visit destination for travelers to the Philippines, offering stunning natural scenery and world-class diving opportunities. From watching the sunrise over the famous Chocolate Hills to spotting Tarsiers in their natural habitat, there’s plenty to see and do in Bohol.
If you’re traveling from Cebu to Bohol, taking a ferry is a simple and affordable option. Ferries provide regular service between the two islands, with several departures daily. Depending on the type of ferry you choose, the journey can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours.
To ensure a hassle-free journey, it’s best to book your ferry ticket in advance. You can easily do this online or at one of the many travel agencies in Cebu. It’s also important to note that ferry schedules can be subject to change, especially during bad weather conditions, so it’s a good idea to check the latest updates before you travel.
There are three popular ferry routes from Cebu to Bohol: via Tubigon, Getafe, and Tagbilaran. Tubigon is closer to Cebu and will only take an hour to cross.
What’s Included in this guide
Cebu to Tagbilaran, Bohol
If you’re traveling from Cebu to Bohol and staying in Panglao, Tagbilaran is the most popular destination to arrive at. The journey from Cebu to Tagbilaran takes around 2 hours, with several ferry companies offering daily departures.
From Tagbilaran, it’s just a short 30-minute drive to reach Panglao’s tourist hub, Alona Beach. This area is a popular choice for visitors to Bohol, with a range of accommodation options, restaurants, and bars.
While there are other ports in Bohol, Tagbilaran is the most convenient option for those heading to Panglao. However, it’s important to note that traffic in Tagbilaran can be heavy at times, which may cause some delays in getting to your final destination.
Cebu to Tubigon, Bohol
For those staying on the mainland of Bohol, taking a ferry from Cebu to Tubigon is a fast and convenient option. The journey takes just 45 minutes, making it the quickest ferry route between the two islands.
Tubigon is located on the northwest side of Bohol, making it a great choice for those staying near popular attractions like the Adventure Park, Oyster Farm, or even the Chocolate Hills. However, it’s important to note that Tubigon is farther from other tourist hotspots like Alona Beach, so it may not be the best option for those looking to explore other parts of the island.
If you’re considering taking the ferry from Cebu to Tubigon, it’s worth noting that there are fewer departures compared to the Tagbilaran route. However, with some planning and flexibility, you can easily make the most of your time in Bohol by taking advantage of this speedy option.
Cebu to Getafe
If you’re looking to explore the far north of Bohol, taking a ferry from Cebu to Getafe is a viable option. This route is less common than the Tagbilaran or Tubigon routes, but it’s a great choice if you’re staying in destinations like Danao or Alicia.
Getafe is also home to the largest mangrove forest in the Philippines, which makes for a unique and memorable experience. The journey from Cebu to Getafe takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it slightly longer than the Tubigon route but shorter than the Tagbilaran route.
It’s important to note that Getafe is further from popular tourist destinations like Alona Beach, so it may not be the best option if you’re looking to explore those areas. However, if you’re seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience in Bohol, taking the ferry to Getafe is definitely worth considering.
Ferry Operators and Ferry Schedule
Cebu to Tagbilaran Ferry Schedule
OCEANJET: runs 10 ferry trips per day from Cebu Pier 1 to Tagbilaran Seaport, with the first trip at 6:00 am and the last trip at 5:40 pm. Prices start at Php450 or roughly around USD17 in the economy class. The journey takes around 2 hours long. The trip interval is between an hour to two hours.
SUPERCAT: runs 2 ferry trips per day from Cebu Pier 1 to Tagbilaran Seaport, with the first trip at 8:00 am and the second and last trip at 1:45 pm. Prices start at Php9200 or roughly around USD16 in the economy class. The journey takes around 2 hours long.
LITE FERRIES: runs 1 trip per day at 10:00 pm from Monday to Saturday and 1 additional trip at 1:00 pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday. This is a slow ferry so the travel time is longer at around 4 hours. The fare is also cheaper and it starts at around Php480 or around USD8.
Cebu to Tubigon Ferry Schedule
FASTCAT: runs 6 ferry trips per day from Cebu Pier 1 to Tubigon Port, with the first trip at 1:30 am and the last trip at 8:00 pm. Prices start at Php440 or roughly around USD8 in the economy class. The journey takes around 1.5 hours. Book your ticket at bit.ly/buyferryticket
LITE FERRIES: runs 4 ferry trips per day from Cebu Pier 1 to Tubigon Port, with the first trip at 1:00 am and the last trip at 7:00 pm. Prices start at Php440 or roughly around USD8 in the economy class. The journey takes around 3 hours long. Book your ticket at bit.ly/buyferryticket
MV STARCRAFTS: runs 5 ferry trips per day from Cebu Pier 1 to Tubigon Port, with the first trip at 6:00 am and the last trip at 6:45 pm. The journey takes around 1.5 hours. Book your ticket at bit.ly/buyferryticket
Cebu to Getafe Ferry Schedule
OCEANJET: runs 5 ferry trips per day from Cebu Pier to Getafe Port, with the first trip at 6:30 am and the last trip at 1:30 pm. Prices start at Php600 or roughly around USD10 in the economy class. The journey takes around an hour and 15 minutes.