Planning a trip to the stunning white beaches of Bantayan Island? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting from Cebu City to Bantayan Island in 2026, including updated ferry schedules, transportation costs, and insider tips to make your journey smooth and hassle-free.
Quick Overview: Cebu City to Bantayan Island
Total Distance: Approximately 170 kilometers (3-4 hours total travel time)
Route: Cebu City → Hagnaya Port (by bus) → Santa Fe Port (by ferry)
Total Cost: ₱460-570 per person (one way)
Best Time to Travel: Early morning (5:00-7:00 AM) to arrive by midday
Step-by-Step: The Complete Journey
Step 1: Cebu City to Hagnaya Port (North Bus Terminal)
Your journey begins at the Cebu North Bus Terminal located at SM City Cebu in Cebu City. This is where you'll catch a bus heading to Hagnaya Port in the town of San Remigio, northern Cebu.
Bus Route Details
- Departure Point: Cebu North Bus Terminal (SM City Cebu)
- Destination: Hagnaya Port, San Remigio, Cebu
- Travel Time: 3-3.5 hours (depending on traffic)
- Fare: ₱250-300 per person (air-conditioned bus)
- Bus Schedule: Buses depart every 30-45 minutes from 4:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Bus Companies: Ceres Bus, Sunrays, and other provincial bus operators
Pro Tips for Bus Travel
Book Early Morning: Catch the 5:00 AM or 6:00 AM bus to arrive at Hagnaya Port in time for the morning ferry departures.
Ask the Driver: Tell the conductor you're going to "Hagnaya Port for Bantayan" so they'll remind you when to get off.
Bring Cash: Most buses don't accept cards. Have small bills ready (₱200 or ₱500 notes).
Comfort Items: Bring a light jacket (buses can be cold) and snacks for the journey.
Step 2: Hagnaya Port to Santa Fe Port (Ferry Crossing)
Once you arrive at Hagnaya Port, you'll board a ferry to cross the Tañon Strait to Santa Fe Port on Bantayan Island.
Ferry Route Details
- Departure Point: Hagnaya Port, San Remigio
- Arrival Point: Santa Fe Port, Bantayan Island
- Crossing Time: 60-90 minutes
- Ferry Fare: ₱200-250 per person
- Terminal Fee: ₱10-20 per person
- Ferry Schedule: Multiple trips daily from 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Ferry Schedule 2026 (Subject to Change)
| Departure Time (Hagnaya) | Arrival Time (Santa Fe) | Ferry Type |
|---|---|---|
| 5:00 AM | 6:30 AM | Standard Ferry |
| 7:00 AM | 8:30 AM | Fast Craft |
| 9:00 AM | 10:30 AM | Standard Ferry |
| 11:00 AM | 12:30 PM | Fast Craft |
| 1:00 PM | 2:30 PM | Standard Ferry |
| 3:00 PM | 4:30 PM | Fast Craft |
| 5:00 PM | 6:30 PM | Standard Ferry (Last Trip) |
Important Ferry Notes
Weather Dependent: Ferry schedules can change based on weather conditions, especially during monsoon season (June-November).
Peak Season: During holidays (Holy Week, Christmas, New Year), ferries get VERY crowded. Arrive 1-2 hours early.
No Advance Booking: Most ferries operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Buy tickets at the port.
Total Cost Breakdown (One Way)
| Item | Cost (₱) |
|---|---|
| Cebu City to Hagnaya Port (Bus) | ₱250-300 |
| Ferry Ticket (Hagnaya to Santa Fe) | ₱200-250 |
| Terminal Fees | ₱10-20 |
| TOTAL | ₱460-570 |
Alternative Route: Via Kawit Port
There's an alternative ferry route from Tabuelan's Kawit Port, but it's less frequent and not recommended for first-time visitors.
Alternative: Kawit Port Route
- Departure: Kawit Port, Tabuelan
- Arrival: Bantayan Town Proper
- Schedule: 2-3 trips per day only
- Cost: Similar to Hagnaya route
- Recommendation: Stick with Hagnaya Port for your first visit
Step 3: Arriving at Santa Fe Port
Congratulations! You've made it to Bantayan Island. Once you disembark at Santa Fe Port, you have several options to get to your accommodation:
Transportation from Santa Fe Port
- Tricycle: ₱50-150 depending on distance to your hotel/resort
- Habal-habal (Motorcycle Taxi): ₱30-100 per person
- Resort Pickup: Many resorts offer free pickup if you book in advance
- Scooter Rental: The BEST option for island exploration (more on this below!)
Best Travel Schedule: Sample Itinerary
5:00 AM - Depart Cebu North Bus Terminal at SM City Cebu (Ceres Bus to Hagnaya)
8:00-8:30 AM - Arrive at Hagnaya Port
9:00 AM - Board ferry to Santa Fe, Bantayan Island
10:30 AM - Arrive at Santa Fe Port
11:00 AM - Pick up rental scooter and check into accommodation
12:00 PM onwards - Start exploring Bantayan Island!
Travel Tips & Insider Advice
1. When to Travel
- Dry Season (November-May): Best weather, calm seas, consistent ferry schedules
- Rainy Season (June-October): Possible ferry cancellations, bring raincoat
- Avoid Peak Holidays: Holy Week and Christmas mean packed ferries and higher prices
2. What to Bring
- Valid government ID (required for ferry boarding)
- Cash (ATMs are limited on Bantayan Island)
- Light jacket for air-conditioned bus
- Snacks and water for the journey
- Seasickness medicine if you're prone to motion sickness
- Sunscreen and hat (you'll be outside at the port)
3. Safety Considerations
- Check weather forecasts before traveling (ferries cancel in bad weather)
- Keep valuables secure during the journey
- Wear a life jacket on the ferry (provided onboard)
- Stay hydrated, especially during hot weather
4. Money-Saving Tips
- Travel on weekdays (ferries less crowded, easier to negotiate tricycle fares)
- Share tricycle rides with other travelers to split costs
- Bring your own food and drinks instead of buying at ports (marked up prices)
- Rent a scooter for multi-day stay instead of paying for tricycle rides daily
Returning to Cebu City
The return journey follows the same route in reverse:
- Santa Fe Port → Hagnaya Port (ferry)
- Hagnaya Port → Cebu North Bus Terminal at SM City Cebu (bus)
Return Trip Advice
Leave Early: If you have an evening flight, take the 5:00 AM or 7:00 AM ferry to be safe.
Buffer Time: Always add 2-3 hours buffer for unexpected delays.
Last Ferry: The last ferry from Santa Fe is usually around 5:00 PM. Don't miss it!
Why Rent a Scooter on Bantayan Island?
Once you arrive on Bantayan Island, renting a scooter is the absolute BEST way to explore. Here's why:
- Freedom: Go wherever you want, whenever you want
- Cost-Effective: Much cheaper than hiring tricycles multiple times per day
- Convenience: Explore hidden beaches, local restaurants, and scenic viewpoints at your own pace
- Island-Hopping: Easily visit all three municipalities: Santa Fe, Bantayan, and Madridejos
- Authentic Experience: Feel the ocean breeze and experience island life like a local
Arrived on Bantayan Island? Rent Your Scooter Now!
Bobby's Motorbike Rental is located in Talisay, Santa Fe - just minutes from the port. We offer well-maintained Honda Click 125 and Yamaha Mio scooters starting at ₱250/day with free helmets and 24/7 roadside assistance.
Book Your Scooter Now!Contact us via WhatsApp: +63 907 352 7234
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the entire journey take from Cebu City to Bantayan Island?
The total travel time is approximately 4.5 to 5.5 hours, including bus travel (3-3.5 hours), ferry crossing (1-1.5 hours), and waiting time at the port.
Q: Can I bring luggage on the bus and ferry?
Yes, both buses and ferries accommodate luggage. Large bags may require an additional fee on some ferries (around ₱20-50).
Q: Is there WiFi on the bus or ferry?
Some air-conditioned buses have WiFi, but it's unreliable. Ferries do not have WiFi. Download offline maps and entertainment before your trip.
Q: Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance?
No, ferry tickets are purchased at the port on a first-come, first-served basis. However, arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.
Q: Are there ATMs on Bantayan Island?
Yes, but they're limited and often run out of cash during weekends and holidays. Withdraw money in Cebu City before traveling.
Q: Can I bring a scooter from Cebu to Bantayan Island on the ferry?
Yes, but it's expensive (₱300-500 for the scooter). It's more practical to rent a scooter directly on Bantayan Island from Bobby's Motorbike Rental.
Final Thoughts
Getting to Bantayan Island from Cebu City is straightforward once you know the route. Start early, bring cash, and be prepared for a scenic journey through northern Cebu. Once you arrive, the pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back island vibe make every minute of travel worthwhile.
And don't forget - rent a scooter from Bobby's Motorbike Rental to make the most of your Bantayan Island adventure!