What to expect when visiting Cebu
Cebu is a highly urbanized city in the Philippines’ Visayas region. Often, it is the gateway to the province’s world-famous gems — diving in Malapascua, sardine run in Moalboal, canyoneering in Alegria, and snorkelling in Oslob.
If you have a day to spare, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to spend it here. Cebu City played a huge role in the country’s history. You can learn all about it with a visit to Magellan’s Cross and Fort San Pedro. Love trying good food? You will find the best lechon (the Philippines’ iconic roasted pig) in Cebu City!
3 ways to get from Malapascua to Cebu
There are 3 ways to travel the distance of 115 kilometers (71 miles) from Malapascua to Cebu by bus (4 hours 45 minutes), Shared minivan (4 hours 45 minutes) and Taxi (4 hours 30 minutes). The journey duration ranges between 4 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours 45 minutes and the quickest way is by taxi. The lowest priced tickets start from 460 PHP ($8) for the bus.Where to stay in Cebu?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Cebu at the bottom of this page.
Malapascua to Cebu by Bus
When travelling from Malapascua to Cebu you will first have to take a ferry to Maya Port on the mainland. And then, you can transfer to a bus bound for Cebu City.
Step 1: Malapascua to Maya by Boat
Boats operating from Malapascua to Cebu via Maya Port are available from 06:30 to 16:30, with a 30-minute interval. A ticket costs 200 PHP ($3.50) for a public boat.
If you prefer a private ferry, operators are happy to oblige, but the fare will be much higher as the ferry can fit about 10-15 people. A private ferry costs about 1,500 PHP ($26). Agree on the price first before boarding the ferry.
Boats depart from the Maya-Malapascua Boat Station and dock at the New Ferry Terminal in Maya.
Step 2: Maya to Cebu by Bus
At the New Maya Ferry Port, you will find buses that will take you to Cebu City. Two well-known companies operate on this route: Ceres Bus and Rough Riders.
Bus trips from Maya to Cebu City begin at 01:00 in the morning, so you should have no problem getting one. The last trip departs at 18:00. A bus ticket costs 260 PHP ($4.50) - 360 PHP ($6.30), depending on whether it’s an aircon or non-aircon bus.
The journey takes approximately 4 hours with a non-aircon bus as they go straight from Maya to Cebu City. Airconditioned buses make a lot of stops and take 5-6 hours to complete the journey.
Departure and arrival station
Ceres buses depart from the New Maya Ferry Port, so you can easily transfer from your boat to the bus. On the offchance that there are no buses available, you can also take a motorbike taxi to the Old Ferry Terminal, where Rough Rider buses are parked.
All buses arrive at the North Bus Terminal, just beside SM City Cebu.
Malapascua to Cebu by Shared Minivan
If you want to get from Malapascua to Cebu fast, you can take a minivan from Maya. Combined minivan and boat costs start from 550 PHP ($9.60) and travel time is around 4 hours 45 minutes.
Step 1: Malapascua to Maya Port by Boat
From the Maya-Malapascua Boat Station, you can take a boat to the New Maya Port for 45 minutes. A ticket costs 200 PHP ($3.50) per person. You can also rent an entire boat for 1,500 PHP ($26).
For more details, check the bus section.
Step 2: Maya Port to Cebu by Minivan
Vans going to Cebu are available at the New Maya Port. These vans depart when they are full, and that usually doesn’t take too long.
A minivan seat costs 350 PHP ($6.10) and travel time is around 4 hours. Vans park at Cebu City’s North Bus Terminal.
Many tourists prefer taking a minivan because it is faster than an airconditioned bus. But keep in mind that these vans do not have a lot of legroom and may be a bit tight for tall passengers and those carrying big luggage.
Malapascua to Cebu by Taxi
If you’re travelling in a group or if you’re headed straight to the airport and don’t want to risk missing your flight, it would be a great idea to take a combined boat and taxi from Malapascua to Cebu.
Step 1: Malapascua to Maya Port by Boat
Also with the taxi option from Malapascua to Cebu, you will first need to take a ferry from Malapascua to the New Maya Port. A ticket costs 200 PHP ($3.50) and travel time is 45 minutes.
Step 2: Maya to Cebu by Taxi
You should be able to find a few taxis on Maya Port. But for a guaranteed ride, it’s best to ask your hotel or guesthouse to help arrange a taxi ride for you. Taxis can be costly, but they’re definitely faster and more convenient than taking the bus.
Taxi rates from Maya to Cebu start from 3,500 PHP ($61). Be prepared to haggle because most drivers will try to charge more.
Get a private transfer with Klook
You can also pre-book your ride via Klook, which offers comfortable cars with professional drivers. Rates start from 4,400 PHP ($77) for a one-way trip for up to 3 people.
Best places to stay in Cebu
Whilst we wouldn’t recommend spending too long in Cebu City, there might be a night or two where you need to relax and recover from a long journey. We’ve selected the perfect places for you to do just that.
Our favourite stays in Cebu are great value for money, comfortable and run by amazing staff. Check them out below!
Seda Central Bloc Cebu - Treating Yourself
Area: Cebu City centre — approx. 10-minute drive to Cebu City business area and Ayala Centre Cebu Mall
If you want to spend your time in Cebu surrounded by ultimate comfort, then Seda Central Bloc is where you need to book. The rooftop pool and bar offer spectacular views of the city. You have to come watch the sunset here!
The rooms are sleek and modern, containing anything you could possibly need. Every morning you can visit their gym after enjoying the delicious complimentary breakfast.
- Rooftop bar and swimming pool
- On-site gym
- Sleek and elegant design
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Goldberry Suites and Hotel - Mid Range
Area: Cebu City centre — approx. 5-minute drive to Cebu City business area and Ayala Centre Cebu Mall
Goldberry Suites is another spot in Cebu where you can’t complain about the price tag. The rooms are elegantly designed with small touches that make them feel that little bit more luxurious.
The staff are extremely helpful, especially the security guard who will always put a smile on your face.
- Helpful and friendly staff
- Great showers
- Elegant rooms
- Good location
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Felix Residences - Budget Friendly
Area: Mandaue City centre — approx. 15-minute drive to main Cebu City centre
Felix Residences is exceptional value for money. The standard of everything is much higher than you’d expect for the price tag. The rooms are comfortable, clean and modern, with the beds being the highlight of most people’s stay here. You’ll sleep like a baby!
The staff are great, offering a service that makes you feel well looked after from the get go.
- Very comfortable beds
- Clean and modern rooms
- Great staff
- Amazing value for money
Double rooms cost $15-$30 per night
Frequently Asked Questions about Malapascua to Cebu
What is the distance from Malapascua to Cebu?
The distance from Malapascua to Cebu is 115 kilometers (71 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Malapascua to Cebu?
The fastest way to get from Malapascua to Cebu is by taxi and takes 4 hours 30 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Malapascua to Cebu?
The cheapest way to get from Malapascua to Cebu is by bus with ticket costs starting from 460 PHP ($8).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Malapascua to Cebu. 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!
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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.
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.
Thank you so much for this article, it is very helpful !
But I have 2 questions :
First, when you say that ferries going from Malapascua to Cebu start operating early in the morning, how early is it ?
And second, when you say that trips to Cebu begin at 1:00, do you mean 1:00 in the morning ?
Thanks in advance for your answers !
🙂
Hi Julie! From what I know, the earliest ferry from Malapascua to Maya port departs at 6:30 AM. But to be sure, I think it’s best to ask your hotel a day before your departure. As for the bus from Maya to Cebu, the first bus departs at 1:00 AM. Have a great trip!