Malapascua to Cebu

How to Get From Malapascua to Cebu

3Options
4h 20mFastest
$9.50From
AbegailElaFayeWritten by Abegail · Reviewed by Ela, Faye · Updated 1 month ago

Boat + Bus · Boat + Shared Minivan · Boat + Taxi

Malapascua is a small island off the northern tip of Cebu. Divers come for the thresher sharks at Monad Shoal, which surface at dawn. Every option starts with a boat to the mainland, so there's no direct route. The cheapest way to get from Malapascua to Cebu is the boat and bus at $9.50 - $11 (590 - 700 PHP). A boat and taxi is the quickest, taking 4h 20m, though the fare is steep.

DISTANCE

Distance from Malapascua to Cebu

Malapascua and Cebu are about 118 km (73 miles) apart. The quickest way to get from Malapascua to Cebu is by taking the boat + taxi, which takes around 4h 20m.

~118 km
Straight-line distance
4h 20m
Fastest
Map of Malapascua – Cebu
Travelling the other way?Cebu to Malapascua→

3 ways to travel from Malapascua to Cebu

There are three ways to travel from Malapascua to Cebu. You can choose between the bus, minivan, and boat + taxi. The journey takes 4h 20m–4h 35m and the quickest way is by boat + taxi. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at $9.50 (590 PHP).

Boat + BusVia MayaDuration4h 35mPricefrom$10590 PHP

Malapascua to Cebu by Boat + 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

35m$5.40 (340 PHP)

Boats operating from Malapascua to Cebu via Maya Port are available from 04:30 to 16:30, with a 30-minute interval.

Total fees cost $5.40 (340 PHP).
  • Boat ticket: $3.20 (200 PHP)
  • Environmental fee: $1.90 (120 PHP) for foreigners and $1.20 (75 PHP) for locals
  • Terminal fee: $0.30 (20 PHP)

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 boat costs about $32 (2,000 PHP). 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

4h$4 - $5.70 (255 - 360 PHP)

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 White Stallion Express (formerly known as Cebu 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 17:40. A bus ticket costs $4 (255 PHP), 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 stations

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 White Stallion Express buses are parked.

All buses arrive at the SM North Bus Terminal, just beside SM City Cebu.

Cebu
Boat + Shared MinivanWith transfersDuration4h 35mPricefrom$11690 PHP

Malapascua to Cebu by Boat + Shared Minivan

If you want a quick and comfy ride with air-con from Malapascua to Cebu, you can take a minivan from Maya. Combined minivan and boat costs start from $11 (690 PHP) and travel time is around 4h 35m - 5h 5m.

Step 1: Malapascua to Maya Port by Boat

35m$5.40 (340 PHP)

From the Maya-Malapascua Boat Station, you can take a boat to the New Maya Port for 35 minutes. You’ll pay around $5.40 (340 PHP) for this boat ride, including the environmental and port fees.

Alternatively, you can get a private boat for $32 (2,000 PHP).

For more details, check the bus section.

Step 2: Maya Port to Cebu by Minivan

4h - 4h 30m$5.60 (350 PHP)

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 $5.60 (350 PHP) and travel time is around 4h - 4h 30m. Vans park at SM 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.

Cebu
Boat + TaxiWith transfersDuration4h 20mPricefrom$613,850 PHP

Malapascua to Cebu by Boat + Taxi

If you’re travelling in a group or headed straight to Cebu 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

35m$5.40 (340 PHP)

Also with the taxi option from Malapascua to Cebu, you will first need to take a ferry from Malapascua to the New Maya Port. The total cost per person is $5.40 (340 PHP), including the boat ticket, environmental fee and terminal fee.

Do you prefer a private boat? You can rent one for $32 (2,000 PHP).

The boat journey takes about 35 minutes.

Step 2: Maya to Cebu by Taxi

3h 45m$56 (3,500 PHP)

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 $56 (3,500 PHP). Be prepared to haggle because most drivers will try to charge more.

Get a private transfer with 12GoAsia or Klook

You can also pre-book your ride via 12GoAsia or Klook — both offer comfortable cars with professional drivers. Rates start from $62 (3,900 PHP) for a one-way trip for up to 3 people.

Cebu

Reach out to our Community

1

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 !
:)

E
ElaGeckoRoutes team

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!

0
1
STAY

Our favourite 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
Treat Yourself

Seda Central Bloc Cebu

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 (3,150 PHP) per night

Check availability
Goldberry Suites and Hotel
Mid-Range

Goldberry Suites and Hotel

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 (1,880-3,150 PHP) per night

Check availability
Felix Residences
Budget

Felix Residences

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 (940-1,880 PHP) per night

Check availability

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

Why Visit 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!

Rounding it up

That's the full picture for getting from Malapascua to Cebu, roughly 118 kilometres (73 miles) apart. In all, there are 3 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $9.50 - $11 (590 - 700 PHP). The quickest trip takes 4h 20m.

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 Malapascua to Cebu?

The distance from Malapascua to Cebu is 118 kilometres (73 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Malapascua to Cebu?

The fastest way to get from Malapascua to Cebu is by boat + taxi and takes 4h 20m.

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 590 PHP.

About the Authors

Abegail
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.

Ela
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.

Faye
FayeReviewer

Travel Writer

A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.

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