Island-Hopping Made Easy: Your Gateway to the Visayas
The stunning islands of Bohol and Cebu are connected by crystal-clear waters that span just 72 kilometers – roughly a 2-hour ferry ride that opens up endless Philippines adventures. With Bohol’s 4,821 km² of tropical destinations featuring the famous Chocolate Hills and tarsiers, and Cebu’s 4,943 km² of pristine beaches and rich Cebu history, ferry travel is your ticket to exploring the best of the Philippines islands.
Whether you’re planning Bohol travel to see the world’s smallest primates or seeking Cebu beaches for snorkeling and diving, the ferry networks connecting these islands make island hopping seamless and affordable.
“Taking the ferry between Bohol and Cebu is half the adventure – the views of the Philippine archipelago are absolutely breathtaking!” – Maria Santos, Local Travel Guide
Fast Ferry Services: Quick Connections Across the Islands
OceanJet Ferry – The Speed Champion
OceanJet dominates the Bohol to Cebu ferry routes with modern, air-conditioned vessels that slice through the Bohol Sea in comfort. Their primary route connects Cebu Pier 1 to Tagbilaran Port, making it perfect for tourists heading to Bohol attractions like the Chocolate Hills or the tarsier sanctuary.
Route Details:
- Cebu City to Tagbilaran: 2 hours travel time
- Daily departures: Multiple schedules from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Ticket prices: ₱800-₱1,200 for tourist class
- Distance: 72 kilometers across the Bohol Sea
Book OceanJet Ferry via 12Go | Reserve through Klook – BOHKLO1029 | Book with Viator
SuperCat Ferry – Comfort Meets Reliability
SuperCat offers spacious seating and excellent onboard amenities for travelers exploring Philippines tourism. Their vessels feature comfortable reclining seats, entertainment systems, and food service – perfect for families planning Bohol travel adventures.
Features:
- Air-conditioned passenger lounges
- Onboard refreshments and WiFi
- Spacious baggage compartments
- Tourist-friendly staff
Book SuperCat via Klook – BOHKLO1013
Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo) Ferries: Bringing Your Wheels Along
FastCat RoRo – Perfect for Road Trippers
FastCat operates the Cebu to Tubigon route, ideal for travelers bringing motorcycles, cars, or extensive luggage for exploring Bohol geography. Tubigon Port provides easier access to northern Bohol destinations like Anda’s white sand beaches and the Philippines wildlife in the Rajah Sikatuna Protected Landscape.
Route Advantages:
- Cebu Pier 3 to Tubigon: 1.5 hours travel time
- Vehicle and motorcycle transport available
- Less crowded than Tagbilaran routes
- Direct access to Anda and Carmen attractions
Book FastCat RoRo via 12Go – Perfect for motorcycle adventures through Bohol attractions!
Lite Shipping – Budget-Friendly Overnight Options
For budget-conscious travelers, Lite Shipping offers overnight ferry services with generous baggage allowances. These ferries are perfect for backpackers exploring tropical destinations on a shoestring budget.
Services:
- Budget-friendly overnight routes
- Large luggage allowance
- Basic but clean accommodations
- Connects Tagbilaran and Tubigon
Reserve Lite Shipping via 12Go
Special Island-Hopping Routes: Beyond Bohol and Cebu
Cebu to Getafe (Northern Bohol Access)
OceanJet’s Cebu to Getafe route opens up northern Bohol travel opportunities, providing quicker access to pristine destinations like Anda Beach and the limestone cliffs of Candijay.
Why Choose Getafe:
- Faster access to Anda’s powdery white beaches
- Gateway to Ubay and Talibon’s untouched coastlines
- Less crowded alternative to Tagbilaran
- Perfect for exploring Bohol geography‘s northern treasures
Book Cebu to Getafe Ferry via Klook – BOHKLO1069
Bohol to Siquijor Island – Mystical Island Adventures
Continue your island hopping journey to the mystical island of Siquijor, famous for its healers, waterfalls, and pristine beaches. This route extends your Philippines adventures to one of the country’s most enchanting destinations.
Book Bohol to Siquijor via Klook – BOHKLO1053 | Reserve through Viator – BOHVIA1094
Bohol to Dumaguete – University Town and Dolphin Watching
Dumaguete in Negros Oriental offers a perfect blend of university culture, Philippines wildlife (including dolphin watching), and access to Apo Island’s world-class diving.
Book Bohol to Dumaguete via Klook – BOHKLO1041
Door-to-Door Convenience: Ferry + Transfer Packages
Complete Travel Solutions
Skip the hassle of coordinating multiple bookings with ferry + transfer packages that include hotel or airport pickup plus your ferry booking Philippines ticket. These packages are ideal for families or travelers with heavy luggage exploring Cebu travel and Bohol travel destinations.
Package Benefits:
- Hotel/airport pickup included
- No need to navigate unfamiliar ports
- Perfect for families with children
- Seamless connections to major Bohol attractions
Popular Routes:
- Mactan Airport to Bohol (Tagbilaran)
- Cebu hotels to Panglao Island
- Oslob whale shark tours to Bohol
Book Ferry + Transfer Packages via 12Go – Start your adventure stress-free!
Essential Ferry Travel Information
Booking and Departure Tips
Best Booking Practices:
- Book 1-2 days in advance, especially during peak season (December-April)
- Weekend and holiday departures fill up quickly
- Arrive at the port 45-60 minutes before departure
- Bring valid ID and printed/digital tickets
“I always book my ferry tickets online before arriving in Cebu. It saves so much time and guarantees my seat, especially during the busy Christmas season!” – James Rodriguez, Frequent Island Hopper
Luggage and Transportation Guidelines
Ferry Type Comparisons:
- Fast Ferries: Carry-on luggage only (up to 7kg)
- RoRo Ferries: Large baggage and vehicle transport allowed
- Overnight Ferries: Generous luggage allowances
Seasonal Considerations
Best Travel Seasons:
- Dry Season (December-May): Smooth seas and reliable schedules
- Wet Season (June-November): Possible delays due to weather
- Peak Season (December-April): Higher prices but perfect weather for island hopping
Popular Ferry Routes Quick Reference
Route | Operator | Travel Time | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Cebu to Tagbilaran | OceanJet/SuperCat | 2 hours | First-time Bohol travel |
Cebu to Tubigon | FastCat | 1.5 hours | Northern Bohol exploration |
Cebu to Getafe | OceanJet | 1.5 hours | Anda Beach access |
Bohol to Siquijor | OceanJet | 2.5 hours | Island hopping adventures |
Bohol to Dumaguete | OceanJet | 2 hours | Negros Oriental exploration |
Car Rental and Onward Transportation
Maximize your tropical destinations experience by renting a vehicle upon arrival. Both Cebu travel and Bohol travel are enhanced when you have the freedom to explore hidden beaches, mountain viewpoints, and remote Philippines wildlife sanctuaries.
Vehicle Rental Options:
- Motorcycles for solo or couple adventures
- Cars for family exploration
- Vans for group island hopping tours
Book Car Rental in Cebu via 12Go | Reserve Bohol Vehicle Rental via Klook
Complete Booking Resource Center
Fast Ferry Bookings:
- 🚤 Book OceanJet to Tagbilaran
- 🚤 Reserve SuperCat via Klook
RoRo Ferry Services:
- ⛴️ Book FastCat to Tubigon
- ⛴️ Reserve Lite Shipping
Special Island Routes:
- 🌊 Cebu to Getafe Ferry – Klook
- 🌊 Bohol to Siquijor – Klook | Viator
- 🌊 Bohol to Dumaguete – Klook
Complete Travel Packages:
- 🚖 Ferry + Transfer Combos via 12Go
- 🚗 Vehicle Rentals – Cebu & Bohol
Start Your Island Adventure Today
The ferry networks connecting Bohol, Cebu, and neighboring islands transform what could be complicated island hopping into an effortless adventure. From the moment you step aboard an OceanJet fast ferry to watch the Philippines islands slip past your window, to arriving at your destination ready to explore Bohol attractions or Cebu beaches, these reliable services are your gateway to unforgettable Philippines adventures.
Whether you’re planning to photograph the unique tarsiers in their natural habitat, dive the coral reefs surrounding these tropical destinations, or simply relax on pristine beaches while island-hopping, booking your ferry transportation in advance ensures a smooth start to your journey.
“The ferry ride itself is part of the magic – watching the sunrise over the Bohol Sea while heading to explore the Chocolate Hills is an experience I’ll never forget!” – Sarah Chen, Travel Photographer
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