LOOKING FOR HOW TO GET FROM CEBU TO BANTAYAN ISLAND?
Bantayan Island is an off-the-beaten-path tourist destination in Cebu! There are so many epic things to do in Bantayan Island including white sand beaches, saltwater lagoons, mangrove boardwalks, cave pools, old ruins, skydiving and island hopping! Bantayan Island is said to be the Boracay of the south and it sure gives it a run for its money!
RELATED ARTICLE → 15 THINGS TO DO IN BANTAYAN
In this guide, I’m going to sort you out with all the information you need to know on how to get from Cebu to Bantayan Island.
I’m going to be covering everything from getting from Cebu to Bantayan Island via the ferry but also how you can get from Cebu City to Bantayan Island if you are arriving by plane.
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Cebu To Bantayan Island – Bus & Ferry
The most common route is from Cebu City to Bantayan Island with the use of the public bus and then a short ferry ride to Bantayan Island.
The bus from Cebu to Bantayan Island operates on a daily basis and departs every hour from the Cebu North Bus Terminal bound for Hagnaya Port on the northwestern coast of Cebu Island.
The cost of the bus is around 185 pesos and the journey time is 4 hours.
Another option of how to go to Bantayan Island is to ride in a shared minivan or take a private transfer which includes a pick-up from your hotel in Cebu City and drop-off at Hagnaya Port in North Cebu.
This is the option that I went for because it was much more comfortable than the bus and the journey time was faster.
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Book Now ∼ Private Transfer from Cebu to Bantayan Island
Ferries depart from Hagnaya Port, mainland Cebu to Bantayan Island, 7 days a week, between 4:00 am and 4:30 pm. The cost of the ferry from Hagnaya to Bantayan is 185 pesos.
You can book both your private and public transport from Cebu City to Bantayan Island using klook.com. They have some great deals and I’ve used them so many times before to book my tickets.
Cebu to Bantayan Island
How To Go To Bantayan Island – Plane, Bus & Ferry
Not many people know but you are also able to get to Bantayan Island via plane. This is a slightly more complicated and less direct route, however, if you’re coming from overseas outside of the Philippines, this is a great option for you.
One of the most convenient ways to reach Bantayan Island is via Cebu City. If your route is Cebu airport to Bantayan, you’re going to fly into Mactan-Cebu International airport which is the second busiest and most important hub in the Philippines.
Check out below exactly how you can get from Cebu to Bantayan Island if you’re arriving by plane:
After landing at Mactan-Cebu airport, you’re going to take a mybus to the Cebu North Bus Terminal which leaves every 20 to 30 minutes for around 25 pesos. Alternatively, you can grab a taxi or Uber which will cost around 200 to 300 pesos, depending on traffic.
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Upon arrival at the Cebu North Bus Terminal, you’re going to board a Ceres bus, bound for Hagnaya Port.
Travel time between the Cebu North Bus Terminal and Hagnaya Port is around 4 hours and will cost 165 pesos.
You’ll find for 200 pesos you can take a direct route, where the bus boards the ferry and drives directly onto Bantayan Island. This route, however, is a little more complicated.
Board the Island Shipping or Super Shuttle ferry at Hagnaya Port bound for Santa Fe Port in Bantayan Island. The travel time for this journey is 1 hour and the fee is 170 pesos. An additional 10 pesos terminal fee will also apply.
At Santa Fe Port, take the covered walkway to the Tourism Office where you will also have to pay a 30 pesos ecological fee.
From here you can find your transport to your resort on Bantayan Island with the most popular form of transport being tricycle for 20 to 30 pesos. If you have pre-arranged a shuttle service, this is also where they will collect you.
So there you go, a little more complicated journey but that’s to be expected when flights are involved. The total journey time from Cebu City to Bantayan is around 5 to 6 hours, excluding waiting times.
Cebu to Bantayan Island
MALAPASCUA TO BANTAYAN ISLAND
If you happen to be on Malapascua Island and heading to Bantayan Island from here, the most convenient option is taking an outrigger boat and the cost is around 800-900 pesos per person.
It’s best to find a small group of people heading from Malapascua to Bantayan so you can split the cost of the boat between you all. Simply ask your accommodation on Malapascua and they will be able to help organise a boat and skipper for you.
The journey time between Malapascua Cebu and Bantayan Island is 2 to 3 hours depending on the sea conditions.
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Malapascua Island
THINGS TO DO IN BANTAYAN ISLAND
Now that you’ve got all the information on how to get from Cebu to Bantayan Island, you may want to read my Ultimate Bantayan Travel Guide which includes 15 Awesome Things To Do In Bantayan Island!
WHERE TO STAY IN BANTAYAN
Bantayan Island has dozens of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay in Bantayan to fit the needs of budget backpackers and luxury travelers.
See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:
Luxury: Coral Blue Oriental Beach Villas
Coral Blue Oriental is one of the best semi-luxury accommodations on Bantayan Island and centrally located in Santa Fe. Offering beachfront villas and suites with free wifi, private beach area, seaside restaurant and a bar. There are one-bedroom and two-bedroom villas available which air-conditioned and fitted with a flat-screen tv, dvd player, lock safe, fridge, and balcony with ocean views. Recommended for couples, families and friends!
Mid Range: Sf Cantina
I personally stayed at Sf Cantina, a small and cosy guesthouse located right on the beach in Sante Fe. The property features a beach bar and restaurant, free wifi, lounge chairs and oceanfront accommodation. The rooms have air conditioning and fitted with a flat-screen tv, large bed, wardrobe and private bathroom. Continental breakfast is also available at Sf Cantina. Affordable place to stay fro couples, friends and families.
Budget: Edsan Apartments
Edsan Apartment is the best budget accommodation in Bantayan Island. The property is centrally located in Santa Fe and features a garden, bbq facilities, shared kitchen area, terrace and free wifi. Enjoy your privacy in these budget apartments which can sleep 2 people and up to 6 people and fitted with air-conditioning/fan-cooled, large beds, private bathroom and a patio. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, friends and families!
FOR ALL OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN BANTAYAN, SEARCH ON AGODA OR SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM
GETTING AROUND BANTAYAN
There’s a couple of options on how to get around Bantayan Island and they are by scooter, habal habal, tricycle or jeepney.
You can rent a scooter in Bantayan for as little as 250 pesos per day and make your own way around to all of the Bantayan Island tourist spots at your own pace. The best place to rent a scooter is via your accommodation.
If you are not confident driving a scooter, the other option is to hail down a tricycle or habal habal (motorbike taxi) along the main road in Santa Fe. For a 15-minute drive, you can expect to pay around 50-100 pesos.
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Exploring Bantayan Island by scooter
CEBU TO BANTAYAN ISLAND MAP
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AIRBNB BANTAYAN
Another option for accommodation in Bantayan Island is to stay at an Airbnb, which generally has some great deals.
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LONELY PLANET – PHILIPPINES
One of the best books to take on your trip is the Lonely Planet Philippines Travel Guide!
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MORE PHILIPPINES TRAVEL GUIDES
- Philippines Travel Guide: 3 Weeks Philippines Itinerary
- Cebu: 15 Things To Do In Cebu
- Bohol: 31 Epic Things To Do In Bohol
- Siargao: 15 Things To Do In Siargao
- El Nido: El Nido Island Hopping
- Coron: Coron Island Hopping
- Boracay: 15 Things To Do In Boracay
- Siquijor: 3 Day Siquijor Itinerary
- Bantayan: 15 Things To Do In Bantayan
- Malapascua: 11 Things To Do In Malapascua
- Camiguin: 13 Best Camiguin Tourist Spots
- Romblon: 12 Epic Things To Do In Romblon
- Tablas: 10 Things To Do In Tablas
- Carabao: 7 Best Things To Do In Carabao
- Dumaguete: Best Dumaguete Tourist Spots
- Sumilon Island: Sumilon Island Itinerary
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WHAT TO PACK FOR BANTAYAN
Everyday Backpack: One of the best backpacks on the market! The Nomatic 20L Backpack is perfect for on the go adventures. Featuring multiple storage spaces for valuables, drink bottles, chargers, notebooks and more. This sleek backpack was designed for you.
Universal Power Adapter: Don’t leave home without one! I highly recommend getting this Universal Power Adapter so that you are able to charge all of your electronics when you’re on the road. Compatible in Asia, UK, Europe, Africa, USA, SA and Australia.
Hidden Money Belt: I never go on a trip without one! The best thing is they are always out of sight, hidden beneath your clothing. With RFID blocking, they are perfectly designed to keep your credit cards, cash and other valuables safe when you’re out adventuring!
Waterproof Phone Case: A waterproof phone case is a must-have item! This universal case will keep your phone safe from water damage, sand and scratches during your adventures. Suitable for all smartphone models.
Portable Charger: One of the best portable chargers on the market! The Anker Power Bank keeps your phone and accessories charged on those longer adventures. Featuring 2 USB charging ports, rechargeable battery, works with iPhone, iPad, Samsung, Oppo and Android.
Microfibre Travel Towel: To pack a towel or not to pack a towel? A standard bathroom towel can take up a lot of space in your travel bag. Get your hands on a quick-dry Microfibre Travel Towel which is perfect for the beach, backpacking, camping and general traveling.
Rain Jacket: A light-weight rain jacket is an absolute must when traveling! North Face waterproof rain jackets come in both men and women sizes, featuring a breathable mesh lining and adjustable hood that can be tucked away inside the collar.
Kindle: The best alternative for books! Kindle e-readers are perfect for long haul flights, reading on the beach or a quiet evening away from the bars. Kindle’s are waterproof with rechargeable batteries and adjustable light settings to suit indoor/outdoor conditions.
Packing Cubes: My favorite item in my backpack! Perfect for organizing your shirts, pants, jackets, socks, underwear and more. This 5 Set Packing Cubes makes packing easier and more efficient, adding extra space in your bag for your next trip.
Activated Charcoal Tablets: Want to avoid food poisoning? Most of us have been a victim of travelers diarrhea from eating street food. Organic Activated Charcoal Tablets are fast-acting and will rid your system of the bad bacteria that causes stomach upset.
MY CAMERA GEAR
Everyday Camera: The most affordable mirrorless camera on the market! I personally use the Sony A7ii Mirrorless Camera on all of my adventures. It’s compact, lightweight and super easy to use for all levels of photography. A 28-70mm Sony lens is also included.
Drone Camera: Take your photography to new heights! The DJI Mavic Pro 2 Drone is at the top of the game when it comes to high-quality images and video, easy to control functions and traveler-friendly capabilities. I guarantee you won’t regret purchasing one.
GoPro Hero 8: One of the most popular cameras on the planet! I love using the GoPro Hero 8 for all of my underwater shots and fast-paced adventures. The GoPro Hero 8 captures the best moments with its wide range of functions that are very simple to use!
Camera Bag: My favorite camera bag I have ever owned! The Lowepro Protactic 450 AW II Camera Bag features a waterproof rain cover, drink bottle holder, padded compartments for cameras, drones, lenses, accessories and it also has a laptop pocket.
Selfie Stick: Everyone loves a good selfie, right!? The Sandmarc Metal Edition Selfie Stick is sleek, stylish and can extend to 1.2m. I find it much easier to take photos and videos with the GoPro when it is mounted to the Sandmarc Selfie Stick!
Camera Tripod: The Joby GorillaPod is suitable for all cameras. This tripod is easy to use and perfect for setting up a time-lapse video or even using it as a selfie stick. The legs are flexible so you can wrap it around a tree or a pole to get creative with your shot.
GoPro Dome: Have you ever wanted to capture those under/over water shots with the GoPro? This epic underwater GoPro dome housing is the best camera accessory to have to create the perfect 50/50 shot. I use mine every time I am in the ocean!
Memory Card: The best thing about SanDisk Extreme Pro is that it delivers maximum speed for images and videos. Having 64GB of storage means that you can store hundreds of files on this SD card for 2-3 days and not have to worry about running out of space.
External Hard Drive: As a photographer, my images and video files take up a lot of space on my MacBook so I use the WD Elements External Hard Drive to store everything. With 4TB worth of storage space, this is more than enough for 1 year worth of content.
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MY SHOP
Before you go, don’t forget to check out My Online Shop!
I’ve got a wide range of digital products for sale and I’m sure you’ll find something that will come in handy during your travels!
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FINAL THOUGHTS
I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions at all about getting from Cebu to Bantayan Island, please leave me a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
Happy Travels!
