Cebu Pier 1 is a key ferry terminal in Cebu City, Philippines, connecting travelers to various islands across the Visayas and Mindanao. The terminal fee is ₱25 per person, payable before boarding. Note that there might be an additional baggage fee of 100-200₱ per big bag, depending on the size of your luggage. Below are some major destinations from Cebu Pier 1, along with travel times and transfer details:
Major Destinations from Cebu Pier 1:
Tagbilaran, Bohol – 1.5 to 2 hours (via OceanJet, SuperCat, or Weesam Express)
A direct fast craft route with multiple daily departures.
Tubigon, Bohol – 1 hour (via Lite Ferries or Star Crafts)
A shorter and often cheaper alternative to Tagbilaran, with more cargo ferries available.
Dumaguete, Negros Oriental – 3.5 to 4 hours (via OceanJet or Cokaliong)
Some ferries continue to Siquijor after Dumaguete.
Siquijor – 5 to 6 hours (via OceanJet)
Requires a stopover in Dumaguete \ Bohol for a ferry transfer.
Ormoc, Leyte – 3 to 4 hours (via OceanJet, SuperCat, or Lite Ferries)
A common gateway for travelers heading to Kalanggaman Island or Southern Leyte.
Hilongos, Leyte – 4 to 5 hours (via Lite Ferries)
Mostly used for cargo and local passengers traveling to Leyte’s southern towns.
Surigao City, Mindanao – 9 to 10 hours (via Cokaliong or Starlite Ferries)
Some routes require a stop in Maasin, Southern Leyte.
Nasipit (Butuan), Mindanao – 10 to 12 hours (via Cokaliong or 2GO Travel)
The closest seaport to Butuan City, with overnight ferry options available.
Booking & Travel Tips:
Booking: Tickets can be purchased online through ferry company websites (e.g., OceanJet, SuperCat) or third-party booking platforms. On-site ticketing counters are available, but long lines occur during peak hours.
Best Time to Travel: Avoid rush hours (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM) and book early during weekends and holidays.
Arrival at Pier: It’s recommended to arrive at least 1 hour before departure for check-in and security screening. For long-distance ferries, especially overnight trips, arriving 1.5 to 2 hours early is best.
Transfers & Stopovers: Some destinations (e.g., Siquijor) require a transfer at another port like Dumaguete. Check ferry schedules to ensure seamless connections.
The terminal has waiting areas, food stalls, baggage counters, and porters available for assistance. However, delays due to weather or congestion are common, so always check for schedule updates before departure.
Here are some reliable websites where you can easily book ferry tickets from Cebu Pier 1 to various destinations:
Official Ferry Operator Websites:
OceanJet – https://www.oceanjet.net
Covers Tagbilaran, Dumaguete, Siquijor, and Ormoc.
SuperCat (2GO Travel) – https://travel.2go.com.ph
Operates fast craft services to Tagbilaran, Ormoc, and other destinations.
Weesam Express – https://www.weesamexpress.net
Services Tagbilaran and Ormoc.
Lite Ferries – https://www.liteferries.com.ph
Offers RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off) services to Leyte, Dumaguete, and Mindanao.
Cokaliong Shipping – https://www.cokaliongshipping.com
Operates overnight ferries to Surigao, Nasipit, Dumaguete, and Ormoc.
Third-Party Booking Websites:
BookAway – https://www.bookaway.com
A user-friendly platform for booking ferry and bus tickets in the Philippines.
12Go Asia – https://www.12go.asia
Offers ferry, bus, and van transfers with real-time availability.
PH Bus & Ferry – https://www.phbus.com
Provides schedules and ticketing for various Philippine ferry routes.
Booking Tips:
✔ Book in advance during peak seasons (weekends, holidays, and festival periods).
✔ Print or screenshot your e-ticket in case of internet issues at the terminal.
✔ Compare prices across platforms to find the best deals.