Siquijor had always intrigued me – not just for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters but also for the island’s mysterious, almost mystical reputation. So when I finally decided to pay a visit, I figured getting there from Cebu would be simple. Just hop on a ferry, right?
Well, not exactly.
Booking the ticket was simple enough, but the real challenge started at the port. The ferry schedule changed last minute, leaving me scrambling to find an alternative. I was stuck for hours with nothing but a vending machine sandwich and a slowly dying phone (thankfully, I found a charging station just in time).
Pro tip? Make sure you’ve got an eSIM loaded before you go – it saved me when I needed to check ferry updates and message my Airbnb host.
The ride itself was long but smooth, and as we approached Siquijor, the sight of palm trees and turquoise waters made every delay worth it.
And if you’re building a bigger island-hopping itinerary like I did, I highly recommend spending some time in Bohol too – think Chocolate Hills, Loboc River cruises, and even helmet diving off Panglao.
Or maybe you’re chasing surf and sunsets? Then Siargao is a no-brainer.
If you’re planning your trip from Cebu to Siquijor, I’ll walk you through the best ferry options, potential hiccups, and everything I wish I’d known beforehand so you can avoid the same mistakes.
READ ALSO: 2025: Boracay or Palawan for a Vacation in the Philippines? Things to Do in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines Things to Do in Coron, Palawan, Philippines
At A Glance
- How To Get From Cebu To Siquijor
- Fastest Way To Get From Cebu To Siquijor
- Cebu Port And Check-In Process: What To Expect
How To Get From Cebu To Siquijor
Getting from Cebu to Siquijor isn’t as straightforward as hopping on a single ferry. You’ve got a few options, each with its own pros and cons depending on your budget, schedule, and comfort level.
Cebu itself is worth exploring before you jet off – there are a ton of things to do in Cebu, from canyoneering at Kawasan Falls to hiking Osmeña Peak.
But when you’re ready to trade the city buzz for laid-back island life, here’s a breakdown of the best ways to reach Siquijor from Cebu.
Option 1: Direct Ferry from Cebu to Siquijor – Most Convenient
The easiest way to get to Siquijor is by taking a direct ferry from Cebu City. OceanJet is currently the only ferry operator running this route, with a fast craft service from Cebu Pier 1 to Siquijor.
The journey takes about 4-5 hours, and tickets typically range from ₱1,500-₱2,000/ USD 27 – USD 36 depending on the class (open-air, tourist, or business class).
Pros: No transfers needed, relatively fast, comfortable seating options.
Cons: Limited daily trips, tickets sell out quickly, pricier than other routes.
If you prefer a hassle-free trip, I highly recommend booking your ticket in advance, especially during peak seasons.
The ferry is air-conditioned, has assigned seating, and sometimes even has Wi-Fi (though don’t rely on it).
BOOK YOUR FERRY HERE
Option 2: Cebu to Dumaguete + Ferry to Siquijor – Fastest
Another popular way to reach Siquijor is via Dumaguete City, a coastal city on Negros Island. This option is great if you’re looking for more ferry schedule flexibility.
Step 1: Take a ferry or flight from Cebu to Dumaguete
By Ferry: Cokaliong Shipping and Lite Ferries operate overnight ferries from Cebu Pier 3 to Dumaguete Port, taking around 6-7 hours. Fares start at ₱400/ USD 7 for economy class and go up to ₱1,500/ USD 27 for private cabins.
By Flight: A much faster option is taking a direct flight from Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) to Dumaguete (DGT). Cebu Pacific operates this route, and flight time is just 45 minutes. If booked in advance, fares can be as low as ₱1,500/ USD 27.
Step 2: Take a ferry from Dumaguete to Siquijor
Once in Dumaguete, head to Dumaguete Port, which is just a 5-minute tricycle ride from the airport. Multiple ferry companies operate on this route, including Montenegro Lines, OceanJet, and Aleson Shipping, with departures almost every hour from 5 AM to 6 PM.
The ferry ride to Siquijor takes 1-1.5 hours, and fares range from ₱250-₱500/ USD 4.50 – 9.
- Pros: More ferry schedule options, the fastest route if you fly.
- Cons: Requires a transfer, potential delays between ferry and flight.
BOOK YOUR FERRY HERE
Option 3: Cebu to Bohol + Ferry to Siquijor – Best for Exploring
If you want to add Bohol to your trip (and you should!), this route is a great option. You can first explore Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, or Panglao’s beaches before heading to Siquijor.
Step 1: Take a ferry from Cebu to Tagbilaran, Bohol
OceanJet, Lite Ferries, and SuperCat operate fast ferries from Cebu Pier 1 to Tagbilaran Port, taking 2 hours.
Tickets cost between ₱600-₱1,000/ USD 11 – 18.
Step 2: Take a ferry from Bohol to Siquijor
OceanJet offers a fast ferry from Tagbilaran Port to Siquijor, which takes 1.5 hours and costs around ₱800/ 4 USD. There are limited daily trips, so check schedules in advance.
- Pros: Great for travellers who want to visit Bohol before Siquijor.
- Cons: Requires 2 ferry rides, longer total travel time.
BOOK YOUR FERRY HERE
Which Cebu to Siquijor Transport Option Is Best?
If you want the easiest and most direct route → Take the Cebu-Siquijor direct ferry.
If you want the fastest way with a good schedule → Fly to Dumaguete, then ferry to Siquijor.
If you want to explore more islands along the way → Take the Cebu-Bohol-Siquijor route.
Fastest Way To Get From Cebu To Siquijor
If you’re short on time and want to get to Siquijor as quickly as possible, flying is your best bet. While there’s no direct flight from Cebu to Siquijor (the island doesn’t have an airport), you can fly to Dumaguete and then take a short ferry ride to Siquijor.
Here’s everything you need to know about flying to Dumaguete and getting to Siquijor fast.
Airlines From Cebu To Dumaguete Route
There are a couple of airlines that offer flights between Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) and Dumaguete Airport (DGT).
Cebu Pacific is the most popular option, with daily flights from Cebu to Dumaguete. These flights are typically affordable and fast, making them a solid choice for budget-conscious travellers.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) also operates flights on this route, but they tend to be slightly more expensive than Cebu Pacific. However, the service is generally considered more premium, with added perks.
Flight Duration & Costs
The flight from Cebu to Dumaguete is short, typically taking about 45 minutes. It’s the quickest way to get to Dumaguete, where you’ll hop on a ferry to Siquijor.
As for costs, Cebu Pacific fares are often cheaper, especially if you book in advance. Prices can start as low as ₱1,500/ USD 27, but they can go up depending on the time of booking and demand.
Philippine Airlines flights tend to start at ₱2,500/ USD 45, but you might find occasional deals or discounts.
Once you land in Dumaguete, the airport is relatively small, but it’s easy to navigate. Grab a tricycle or taxi from the airport to Dumaguete Port, which will take about 10 minutes. From there, it’s a 1.5-hour ferry ride to Siquijor, with several trips throughout the day.
Ferry Operators & Schedules
Here’s a quick look at the operators for both routes and their schedules:
Direct Ferry (Cebu to Siquijor)
Cokaliong Shipping Lines – This operator runs daily services from Cebu to Siquijor. The ferry departs in the morning (around 8:00 AM), and you can expect to arrive in Siquijor in about 4.5 hours.
OceanJet – OceanJet offers direct ferries a few times per week, typically in the afternoon (around 2:00 PM). The travel time is similar, taking about 4.5 hours.
CHECK AIRLINES AVAILABLE HERE
Ferry via Dumaguete (Cebu to Dumaguete to Siquijor)
Cebu to Dumaguete – Cebu Pacific and OceanJet run ferries multiple times a day, with morning and evening departures.
Dumaguete to Siquijor – Ferries from Dumaguete to Siquijor are operated by OceanJet and Delta Ferries. These ferries depart regularly, with the earliest leaving in the morning (around 7:00 AM), and the latest around 5 pm.
The schedule can change depending on the season, so it’s always a good idea to check the ferry operator’s website or call ahead for updated times.
Ticket Prices & Where to Book
Ferry tickets for both direct and via Dumaguete routes are affordable, with prices ranging from ₱300 to ₱500/ USD 5 – 9 for the Cebu to Siquijor route.
For the direct ferry
Cokaliong Shipping Lines tickets start at ₱300/ USD 5, and you can book them directly at the terminal or online through their website.
OceanJet tickets cost around ₱400 – ₱500/ USD 7 – 9, and these can also be booked online or at the port.
For the Cebu to Dumaguete route
OceanJet tickets cost about ₱300 – ₱500/ USD 5 – 9, and the same goes for Cebu to Dumaguete ferries.
Dumaguete to Siquijor tickets on OceanJet or Delta Ferries are priced around ₱200 – ₱300/ USD 3.50 – 5.
Where to Book
Online Platforms
I’ve normally use 12Go for ferry bookings, which I found to be reliable and easy to use. They offer a range of options for both Cebu to Siquijor and Cebu to Dumaguete routes.
Booking through 12Go allows you to secure your ticket without having to stand in line at the terminal, which is especially handy when you’re short on time. Plus, 12Go gives you a good overview of schedules for multiple ferry operators.
At the Terminal
If you’re more the spontaneous type or just prefer doing things the old-school way, you can always buy your ferry tickets directly at the port.
But here’s a tip locals swear by: get there early, especially during weekends or peak travel seasons like Holy Week or Christmas. Some locals even show up before sunrise just to beat the crowd. If you’re catching a RoRo ferry, don’t be surprised if ticket booths operate on “Filipino time” (aka a little slower than expected).
Cebu Port And Check-In Process: What To Expect
Getting to Cebu Port (Pier 1 or Pier 3)
Ferries to Siquijor depart from either Pier 1 or Pier 3, depending on the ferry operator. While both are part of Cebu’s main port, they are in different locations and offer different experiences.
Pier 1 is the main passenger terminal, located near Plaza Independencia. It serves most fast ferries, including OceanJet, SuperCat, and Weesam Express. If you’re taking an OceanJet ferry to Siquijor, you’ll depart from Pier 1.
This terminal is more organized, with an air-conditioned waiting area, comfortable seating, and plenty of food stalls. Since it’s one of the busiest piers in Cebu, lines for check-in and security can take a while, so it’s best to arrive early.
Pier 3, on the other hand, is the terminal for RoRo (Roll-on, Roll-off) ferries like Lite Ferries and Montenegro Lines. It’s a bit further from downtown Cebu, near the North Reclamation Area.
Unlike Pier 1, Pier 3 has fewer passenger facilities and is more focused on cargo and vehicles. The waiting area is more basic, and check-in lines can be long, especially during peak hours.
If you’re taking a RoRo ferry, expect a slower but more budget-friendly journey, especially if you’re bringing a motorbike or a vehicle.
Since the 2 piers are about 10-15 minutes apart by taxi, going to the wrong one could mean missing your ferry. Always double-check your ticket to know exactly where you need to be before heading out.
By Taxi or Grab
The easiest and most stress-free way to get to the port is by taxi or Grab. Depending on traffic, the ride takes about 20 to 30 minutes from Cebu City and costs around ₱200/ USD 3.60.
I’ve taken a Grab to the port several times, and it’s hands-down the most convenient option, especially if you have luggage. The app makes it easy since you won’t have to deal with haggling or explaining your destination. But if you’re catching an early morning ferry, finding a Grab might take longer – so plan accordingly!
By Jeepney
For budget travellers, jeepneys are an option, with fares as low as ₱10/ USD 0.18. But let me be honest – it’s not the most comfortable way to get there, especially with luggage.
I once took a jeepney to the port, and let’s just say it wasn’t the smoothest ride. Between the unpredictable stops and cramped space, I was constantly shifting my backpack to avoid bumping into other passengers.
If you’re traveling light and don’t mind the adventure, go for it. But if you have big bags, a taxi or Grab is definitely the better choice.
Terminal & Check-In Process
Once you arrive at the port, follow the signs to your ferry terminal. The main operators for the Cebu to Siquijor route are OceanJet, Lite Ferries, and Montenegro Lines, and each has its own designated counter.
I recommend getting there at least an hour before departure, especially during peak travel times. While the check-in process is generally smooth, long lines can slow things down.
Step 1: Security Check
Before anything else, you’ll go through a security checkpoint. It’s similar to an airport, but you won’t need to remove anything from your bags.
The process is quick, though I once had to open my bag because of a power bank – they’re strict about lithium batteries, so make sure yours meets the airline-style safety limits.
Step 2: Boarding Pass Exchange
If you booked online, you’ll need to exchange your voucher for a physical boarding pass at your ferry operator’s counter. Just show your confirmation email and ID, and they’ll print it for you.
One time, I almost missed my ferry because I assumed my online ticket was enough – turns out, I still needed a physical pass!
Lesson learned: always check what’s required before heading to the gate.
Step 3: Waiting Area & Boarding
Cebu Port’s waiting areas are decent. Plenty of seats, food stalls selling snacks, and clean restrooms. If you need to charge your phone, there are free power outlets – a lifesaver if your battery’s running low.
But here’s a tip: if you’re traveling on a weekend or holiday, expect crowds. The waiting area can get packed, and finding a seat might be tough. I’ve had times where I was lucky to grab a quiet spot, and others where I had to stand for half an hour before boarding.
Getting to Siquijor from Cebu is pretty straightforward once you know your options. If you’re short on time, a flight’s the quickest choice, but for a budget-friendly and scenic journey, the ferry is definitely the way to go.
Whether you’re travelling alone or coming with friends, Siquijor has a way of fitting into whatever vibe you’re chasing. It’s even a great spot for a work vacation – with a decent internet connection and ocean views that’ll make any Zoom call a little more bearable.
And if you’re a foodie? You’ll love the culinary side of Siquijor. From fresh seafood BBQs by the beach to local dishes like budbud and kinilaw, there’s something new to try at every stop – usually served with a sunset on the side.
Whether it’s your first visit or not, it’ll make the journey feel like a distant memory the moment you step onto its shores.
