How to get from Cebu to Puerto Princesa
Why visit Puerto Princesa?
Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan in the Philippines. A popular gateway to gorgeous destinations on the archipelago (like El Nido and Port Barton), travellers often skip a visit to Puerto Princesa.
If you’re just passing through, we recommend that you at least check out the interesting cuisine and cosy cafes in Puerto Princesa. But if you have extra time, why not also explore the iconic Underground River? It’s the longest subterranean river in the world! You can also visit Puerto Princesa’s white-sand beaches during the day and watch fireflies across the Nagsaguipi River at night.
What are the 2 ways to travel from Cebu to Puerto Princesa?
There are 2 ways to travel the 569 kilometre (354 miles) distance from Cebu to Puerto Princesa. You can choose between the flight and ferry. The journey takes 2 hours 35 minutes to 2 days and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by flight with tickets starting at 1,900 PHP ($31.50).
Where to stay in Puerto Princesa?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Puerto Princesa at the bottom of this page.
Cebu to Puerto Princesa by Flight
If you’re in a rush to travel from Cebu to Puerto Princesa, then we suggest you book a flight. This option is the only direct way to travel this route.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Cebu City to Cebu Airport by Bus
When flying from Cebu to Puerto Princesa, your journey starts at Cebu Airport. This airport is located on Mactan Island, about 15 km from Cebu city centre.
Travel time from the city to the airport is around 1 hour, depending on traffic.
Buses run daily from 07:00 to 22:00, with fares starting at 50 PHP ($0.80).
You can also take a taxi for around 250 PHP ($4.20).
Step 2: Cebu to Puerto Princesa by Flight
Two airlines operate direct flights from Cebu to Puerto Princesa: Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines.
Cebu Pacific usually has two afternoon flights daily, except on Thursdays, when there’s only one flight at 14:40. Philippine Airlines operates one flight per day, and it departs at 14:35.
Flights take around 1h 25m, and fares start from 1,800 PHP ($30).
When booking, make sure to check that the flight is a direct flight from Cebu to Puerto Princesa, as both airlines also offer flights for this route with stops in Manila.
PRO TIP: Cebu Pacific offers many promotions annually. Keep an eye out for these seat sales so you can book cheap flights for this route!
Step 3: Puerto Princesa Airport to Puerto Princesa City by Tricycle
Flights from Cebu to Puerto Princesa land at Puerto Princesa Airport, in the southern part of Palawan. Outside the airport, you can take a tricycle or an airport shuttle to the town.
Read our full guide for more info about travelling to and from Puerto Princesa Airport.
Cebu to Puerto Princesa by Ferry
There are no direct ferries from Cebu to Puerto Princesa. You’ll need to take two separate ferries with a long stopover in Iloilo. The whole journey can stretch over 5 to 7 days, depending on your timing.
It’s a scenic and adventurous route, but definitely not the fastest. Go for it only if you have time to spare — and treat the layover as a bonus. Exploring Iloilo is actually a great side trip!
It’s a long journey by ferry
Taking the ferry from Cebu to Puerto Princesa involves more than a few steps. Let’s break it down:
1. Cebu to Iloilo — 15h
There are only two ferries a week from Cebu to Iloilo — one on Monday and one on Friday, both departing at 18:00 and arriving the next morning at 08:45.
2. Waiting in Iloilo
Here’s the tricky bit: the ferry from Iloilo to Puerto Princesa only sails once a week, every Saturday at 08:00.
- Arriving in Iloilo on a Tuesday? You’ll need to wait four days.
- Arriving on a Saturday morning after 08:00? You’ve just missed it — and will have to wait a full week for the next one.
3. Iloilo to Cuyo — 12h
Departs Saturday at 08:00, arrives Saturday at 20:00.
4. Layover in Cuyo — 18h
From Saturday 20:00 to Sunday 14:00.
5. Cuyo to Puerto Princesa — 16h
Departs Sunday at 14:00, arrives in Puerto Princesa on Monday at 06:00.
Is taking the ferry worth it?
If you’re looking for a slow-travel experience and don’t mind spending several days en route, this ferry trip can be a memorable one. Just make sure you’re okay with the long waiting times, especially in Iloilo.
For those short on time or looking for a faster and more convenient option, a direct flight from Cebu to Puerto Princesa is the better option.
If you’re set on taking the ferry, we explain each step of the journey below.
Step 1: Cebu to Iloilo by Ferry
The ferry ride from Cebu to Iloilo takes at least 14h 45m, but note that ferries don’t sail daily.
You’ll find the schedule below.
- 24/7 customer support
You can book Trans-Asia Shipping tickets online or in person at their ticketing offices. If you prefer to buy the tickets early, you can do so via 12Go.Asia or BookAway.
The ferry leaves from Cebu Pier 3 and arrives at Port San Pedro in Iloilo City.
Step 2: Iloilo to Puerto Princesa by Ferry
Once you arrive in Iloilo, your next step is to catch a ferry to Puerto Princesa. Just keep in mind that Montenegro Shipping Lines only operates this route once a week, with the ferry boarding at 05:00 and departing at 08:00 every Saturday.
If you arrive in Iloilo on a Tuesday, you need to wait four days for the next ferry. And if you arrive on a Saturday morning, you have just missed it, so you will need to wait a full week for the next departure.
IMPORTANT: Always double-check the schedule in advance. Montenegro reminds travellers that boarding times are subject to change without prior notice, and there have been cases where departure was moved to the afternoon.
The good news? Iloilo is a great place to spend some time. The city is known for its wide roads, riverside esplanade, and relaxed vibe compared to Metro Manila. It is also famous for its delicious local food — like batchoy and pancit molo — and well-preserved heritage buildings that reflect its Spanish colonial past.
Plus, there are beautiful beaches and islands nearby!
Here’s what to expect on the ferry trip from Iloilo to Puerto Princesa:
- Iloilo to Cuyo: 12 hours — departs Saturday at 08:00, arrives Saturday at 20:00
- Layover in Cuyo: 18 hours — from Saturday 20:00 to Sunday 14:00
- Cuyo to Puerto Princesa: 16 hours — departs Sunday at 14:00, arrives Monday at 06:00
Total sailing time is 28 hours, excluding the layover in Cuyo.
Cuyo is a peaceful island with beautiful beaches and a super laid-back atmosphere. You will have almost a full day there to relax or explore before continuing to Puerto Princesa.
Tickets are not available online, so you will need to buy them at the port or contact Montenegro Shipping Lines directly in advance.
Note: Milagrosa Shipping Lines used to run ferries from Iloilo at 19:00 every Monday and Thursday, but it looks like they are no longer operating. You may check their Facebook page for any recent updates or changes in the schedule.
Best places to stay in Puerto Princesa
Most people use Puerto Princesa as a jumping off point to other spots in the Philippines, meaning they’re only looking for a place for 1-2 nights. We’ve made sure our favourite stays tick that box, but are also great options if you want to stay a little longer.
All of our favourite stays are located in Puerto Princesa City. Here, you’ll be close to the airport, have easy access to the city’s attractions and have local markets to explore.
Panja Resort Palawan - Treating Yourself
Area: San Jose town — approx. 30-minute drive to Puerto Princesa city Baywalk Park and restaurants
An infinity pool overlooking the sea and jungle, a rooftop bar and an on-site spa. Can you ask for much more than that? Well, they’ll give you more! For every three nights that you book here, you get a free massage.
At Panja Resort, you’ll be able to escape the hustle and bustle of Puerto Princesa, but if you do need to get to the city, the hotel offers a free shuttle. This is the kind of place where you literally have to think about nothing!
- Infinity pool
- Incredible views
- Complimentary massage after a three nights’ stay
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Summer Days - Mid Range
Area: Next to BM beach — approx. 10-minute drive to city centre
This place is an absolute steal! Summer Days feels like a high-end boutique hotel, just without the high price tag. Lucky for you! The hotel boasts an open and minimalist design, where every corner looks perfect.
The perfection continues with the owner and staff. They are fantastic and there to help with everything! Even better, you’re not far from the beach either.
- Beautiful design
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Great location
- Exceptional breakfast included
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Cleon Villas Pension - Budget Friendly
Area: Puerto Princesa city centre — approx. 5-minute drive to Puerto Princesa International Airport
Staying here feels like you’ve got your own tiny home! The bungalows look like little houses from the outside, but feel spacious inside. You even have your own front porch to sit on and relax.
Whether you’re looking for help getting to El Nido, scooter rentals or a hidden beach recommendation, the owners will lend you a helping hand. They make this place truly special.
- Cute bungalow-style accommodation
- Clean and modern
- Amazing owners
- BBQ facilities
Double rooms cost $15-$30 per night
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Cebu to Puerto Princesa. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Cebu to Puerto Princesa
What is the distance from Cebu to Puerto Princesa?
The distance from Cebu to Puerto Princesa is 569 kilometre (354 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Cebu to Puerto Princesa?
The fastest way to get from Cebu to Puerto Princesa is by flight and takes 2 hours 35 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Cebu to Puerto Princesa?
The cheapest way to get from Cebu to Puerto Princesa is by flight with ticket costs starting from 1,900 PHP ($31.50).
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.
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.
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.
