How to Get From Bohol to Moalboal

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5hFastest

$7.90From

Written by Abegail · Reviewed by Ela, Selene·

Ferry + Bus via Cebu City · Ferry + Bus via Argao

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Map showing route from Bohol to Moalboal - 85 km

Bohol → Moalboal85 km

Moalboal is a diving town on the west coast of Cebu island. It's famous for the sardine run, a huge shoal you can snorkel with straight off the shore. The cheapest way to get from Bohol to Moalboal is the ferry and bus via Argao at $7.90 (480 PHP). The route through Cebu City costs more at $10 (610 PHP) and takes 5-8h.

DISTANCE

Distance from Bohol to Moalboal

Bohol and Moalboal are about 85 km (53 miles) apart. Depending on the option, the trip takes between 5h and 8h.

Travelling the other way?Moalboal to Bohol→

COMPARE

2 ways to travel from Bohol to Moalboal

There are two ways to travel from Bohol to Moalboal. The journey takes 5h–5h 10m and the quickest way is by ferry. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by ferry + bus via Argao with tickets starting at $7.90 (480 PHP).

TransportDurationPrice

We recommend travelling from Bohol to Moalboal via Cebu City if you want more flexible ferry schedules. This option is a few dollars more expensive compared to the route via Argao, but it involves fewer transfers. You'll only have to take a ferry and a bus.

Combined prices start from $10 (610 PHP) for the journey that takes 5-8h.

Step 1: Bohol to Cebu City by Ferry

2-5h$7.10 (430 PHP)

There are two types of ferries from Bohol to Cebu: fast crafts and slower car ferries.

Fast crafts are the most common option and take around 2 hours to reach Cebu City. They’re more expensive, but they save you a lot of time. Oceanjet, FastCat, and Lite Shipping all operate high-speed ferries from Bohol to Cebu.

If you’re travelling with a car or motorbike, your only option is Lite Shipping. Expect the journey to take around 4 hours.

There are two departure ports in Bohol: Tagbilaran and Tubigon. If you’re coming from the tourist centre in Panglao or if you’re travelling with a car, we recommend departing from Tagbilaran City Port because it is nearer. You can get there via a 40-minute jeepney, bus, or taxi from Panglao. Fares start from $0.80 (50 PHP).

If you’re coming from northern Bohol, you can take one of the ferries departing from Tubigon Pier.

Ferry schedule from Tagbilaran, Bohol to Cebu

2-4h$8.90 (540 PHP)

4hLite ShippingStandardTagbilaran PierCebu Pier11:59$9540 PHPTickets

4hLite ShippingTouristTagbilaran PierCebu Pier11:59$12710 PHPTickets

2hOceanJetOpen AirTagbilaran City Port TerminalCebu Pier 106:0007:0508:2010:4011:4013:00+5$171,020 PHPTickets

2hOceanJetTouristTagbilaran City Port TerminalCebu Pier 106:0008:2010:4111:4013:0014:01+4$181,080 PHPTickets

2hOceanJetBusinessTagbilaran City Port TerminalCebu Pier 106:0007:0508:2009:2010:4011:40+6$261,540 PHPTickets

Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.

Ferry schedule from Tubigon, Bohol to Cebu

2h$7.50 (455 PHP)

2hLite ShippingEconomyTubigonCebu Pier01:0004:0007:0010:0013:0016:00+2$8455 PHPTickets

2hFastCatEconomyTubigon PortPier 3 Terminal, Cebu Port05:0010:3017:3022:30$8485 PHPTickets

2hFastCatPremium EconomyTubigon PortPier 3 Terminal, Cebu Port05:0010:3017:3022:30$9520 PHPTickets

2hLite ShippingTouristTubigonCebu Pier01:0004:0007:0010:0013:0016:00+2$9540 PHPTickets

2hFastCatBusinessTubigon PortPier 3 Terminal, Cebu Port05:0010:3017:3022:30$9570 PHPTickets

Show all 6 companies

2hLite ShippingBusinessTubigonCebu Pier01:0004:0007:0010:0013:0016:00+2$10620 PHPTickets

Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.

Booking Tip

Most ferries dock at Cebu Pier 1, the main passenger ferry terminal in Cebu City. But check your booking details beforehand, because some ferries also dock at the nearby Cebu Pier 3.

From either of these ports, you’ll have to take a tricycle or a taxi to cross the 2 km to South Bus Terminal.

Check out our page from Bohol to Cebu for more details.

Step 2: Cebu City to Moalboal by Bus

3h$2.80 (170 PHP)

Ceres Bus is the main operator for the Cebu to Moalboal route. You can choose between two routes:

Direct buses to Moalboal leave every 3 hours from 06:00 to 14:00.
Buses to Bato via Barili run every 30 minutes from 03:00 to 18:30 and make a stop in Moalboal.

The journey takes about 3 hours, but can take longer during peak hours. A ticket costs $2.80 (170 PHP) for ordinary buses and $3.50 (210 PHP) for air-conditioned trips.

Visit our page on Cebu to Moalboal for more info.

Getting from Moalboal town centre to Panagsama Beach

There is no official bus station in Moalboal, so you will only be dropped off along the main road. If you’re staying at the tourist area near Panagsama Beach, you’ll have to take an additional tricycle or motorbike taxi to your hotel.

It’s better to take a tricycle if you’re carrying a lot of luggage. Rates start from $2.50 (150 PHP) for a tricycle ride. Otherwise, you can take a motorbike for $0.80 (50 PHP).

Moalboal

When travelling from Bohol to Moalboal via Argao, prepare to make several transfers — you’ll need to take at least three buses and one ferry.

The entire journey takes a little over 5h 10m. Combined fares start from $7.90 (480 PHP).

Step 1: Tagbilaran to Loon, Bohol by Bus

1h$1.60 (100 PHP)

Ferries to Argao depart from the town of Loon, about 35 km north of Bohol's capital, Tagbilaran City.

To get to Loon, you'll have to take a bus from Dao Integrated Bus Terminal in Tagbilaran. A ticket costs around $1.60 (100 PHP), and the journey takes about 1 hour.

Ask the driver or conductor to drop you off near Catagbacan Port in Loon.

Getting from Panglao to Tagbilaran City

Are you coming from the tourist centre on Panglao Island? If yes, then you’ll first have to take a jeepney, bus, or taxi to get to Tagbilaran City. Travel time is around 40 minutes, and fares start from $1.20 (70 PHP).

Step 2: Loon to Argao by Ferry

2h$3.50 (210 PHP)

Lite Ferries operates two daily trips from Loon (Bohol) to Argao (Cebu). The ferry journey takes around 2h, with ticket prices starting at $3.50 (210 PHP).

These ferries are mainly for cargo but also carry passengers. Only open-air economy seats are available, so the setup is very basic. It's fine for the short trip, but don't expect much in terms of comfort.

Ferries depart from Catagbacan Port in Loon, Bohol. They dock at the Port of Taloot in Argao, about 40 km east of Moalboal.

In addition to the regular schedule, there are extra sailings every Wednesday and Friday. But keep in mind that departures may be delayed or cancelled depending on cargo availability.

2hLite FerriesEconomyCatagbacan PortPort of Taloot06:3013:30$4210 PHPNo Online Tickets

Step 3: Argao to Carcar by Bus

40m$1.20 (70 PHP)

There's no direct public transport from Argao to Moalboal. So even though the distance between the two towns is only 40 km, you’ll need to take a detour through the northern city of Carcar.

From Taloot Wharf, walk around 200 metres to the main road. There, you can flag down any bus heading to Cebu City. Tell the driver or conductor that you’re getting off at the rotunda in Carcar.

The bus journey from Argao to Carcar takes around 40 minutes, and tickets cost about $1.20 (70 PHP). You can pay directly to the bus conductor.

Alternatively, you can rent a tricycle from Argao to Carcar for around $3.30 (200 PHP). Note that tricycles are much slower than the bus and can feel quite cramped if you're carrying a lot of luggage.

Once in Carcar, transfer to another bus going to Moalboal.

Step 4: Carcar to Moalboal by Bus

1.5h$1.60 (100 PHP)

At the Carcar rotunda, ask around to know where exactly you can catch a bus bound for Moalboal. The two well-known companies operating this route are Ceres Liner and Librando.

Buses run regularly throughout the day, but note that there are still a few buses operating at night.

A ticket costs around $1.60 (100 PHP), and you will reach Moalboal in around 1.5 hours.

Getting from Moalboal town centre to Panagsama Beach

At Moalboal, you will be dropped off along the main road. If you’re staying at the tourist area near Panagsama Beach, you’ll need to take an additional tricycle or motorbike taxi to your hotel.

Take a tricycle if you’ve got a lot of luggage. Fares start at $2.50 (150 PHP). Travelling light? A motorbike ride costs around $0.80 (50 PHP).

Moalboal

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STAY

Our favourite places to stay in Moalboal

Moalboal is a paradise for marine life, and that’s what you want to be focusing on — finding the best snorkelling trips, witnessing the Sardine Run if you’re there at the right time.

If you’re looking to stay close to the action, we recommend staying close to Panagsama Beach. It’s the main town boasting a lively atmosphere. This is where most of our favourite stays are located.

Your time shouldn’t be spent finding the right hotel. We’ve done that for you:

Treat Yourself

Secret Paradise Moalboal

Area: Next to Panagsama beach, only a 1-minute walk

The name says it all for this place. It actually does feel like a secret paradise, hidden amongst its green gardens and away from the business of the town. All of the rooms are centred around a large and inviting swimming pool that even has tables in the water.

Secret Paradise feels like a mini resort, whilst still maintaining an intimate vibe.

Huge swimming pool
Tropical paradise
Spacious and quirky rooms
On-site bar

Double rooms start from $50 (3,050 PHP) per night

Check availability

Mid-Range

Vailtin Home Point

Area: Basidot — approx. 10-minute drive to Moalboal town centre

Slightly out of town and surrounded by lush greenery, Vailtin feels like a secluded bubble from the outside world. Especially when you’re relaxing in the pool and soaking up the sun.

The rooms are spacious and offer all of the amenities you could need. The staff here will also ensure that all of your needs are satisfied.

Outdoor pool
Tropical garden areas
Great staff
Nice location

Double rooms cost $30-$50 (1,820-3,050 PHP) per night

Check availability

Mid-Range

Maayong Hostel

Area: Panagsama Beach — approx. 10-minute walk to famous Moalboal Sardines Run

Whether you choose the funky bamboo bungalows or the dorm rooms, you’ll love your stay at Maayong Hostel. The bungalows feel like little oases with their tropical outdoor bathrooms and peaceful design.

When you’re not making the most of your bungalow, there are plenty of spots to hang out in throughout the hostel — the bar, restaurant, chill out areas with hammocks and bean bags. The vibe here is perfect!

Quirky bamboo bungalows
Dorm beds with curtains
Bar, restaurant and chill out areas
Great vibe

Double rooms cost $30-$50 (1,820-3,050 PHP) per night

Check availability

Budget

Garden Village Resort

Area: Panagsama Road — approx. 10-minute walk from the centre town

You’ll be blown away that Garden Village Resort is a budget friendly option. Not many places for under $30 (1,820 PHP) offer a swimming pool, bar and a good restaurant.

The bungalows are relatively basic but still provide everything you need and offer great value for money. The affordable price does mean that you compromise on location a little. Here you’ll be a 25-minute walk or a 6-minute drive from the centre of town.

Large swimming pool
Relaxing pool area
On-site bar and restaurant
Cute cottages

Double rooms cost $15-$30 (910-1,820 PHP) per night

Check availability

Budget

RNA Guesthouse

Area: Just outside Moalboal town — approx. 15-minute drive from the town centre

RNA Guesthouse is a great budget option in Moalboal. The rooms are basic, but have everything you need. They're the perfect place to rest your head and get a good night's sleep.

The hosts are what give this place a few extra gold stars. They are incredibly helpful and will make sure you have the best time in Moalboal.

Great value for money
Helpful hosts
Spacious and clean rooms
Good location

Double rooms cost $15-$30 (910-1,820 PHP) per night

Check availability

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

Why Visit Moalboal?

Moalboal is a small yet vibrant resort town on the west coast of Cebu Island. World-famous for its sardine run, here you can swim with millions of sardines — just a few metres off the shore!

It also boasts a vibrant coral wall, making it a popular diving destination. The best part? You won't have to swim far or rent a boat, some of Moalboal's best underwater worlds can be found metres from the shore. For the best diving visibility, visit between November and May.

Rounding it up

That's the full picture for getting from Bohol to Moalboal, roughly 85 kilometres (53 miles) apart. In all, there are 2 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $7.90 (480 PHP). The quickest trip takes 5h.

Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the distance from Bohol to Moalboal?

The distance from Bohol to Moalboal is 85 kilometres (53 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Bohol to Moalboal?

Journey times from Bohol to Moalboal overlap: ferry + bus via cebu city 5-8h, ferry + bus via argao 5h 10m. Depending on the departure, no single option is always the fastest.

What is the cheapest way to get from Bohol to Moalboal?

The cheapest way to get from Bohol to Moalboal is by ferry + bus via argao with ticket costs starting from 480 PHP.

About the Authors

Abegail

Travel Writer

Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She's loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand's beaches also have a special place in her heart.

ElaReviewer

Senior Travel Writer

Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.

SeleneReviewer

Travel Writer

Selene is a writer who loves coffee, travel, and planning. After spending a decade in Manila, she left the city and her career in banking to embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Now, she is discovering the beauty of slow-paced travel and finding joy in meaningful experiences.

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Ferry Schedule Notice

Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.

How to Get From Bohol to Moalboal

Distance from Bohol to Moalboal