Getting from Cebu to Panglao is easier than most travelers think. Whether you’re heading to Bohol’s white-sand beaches or planning a fishing trip in Panglao, there are multiple ways to cross. From fast ferries to scenic routes through smaller ports.
Here’s everything you need to know: routes, schedules, and a few worthwhile stopovers along the way.
⛴️ Option 1: Fast Ferry from Cebu to Tagbilaran (Most Popular)
This is the quickest and most comfortable way to reach Panglao.
Duration: 2 hours
Average Cost: ₱600–₱900 (depending on class and operator)
Operators: OceanJet, Lite Ferries, SuperCat, and Weesam Express – We recommend OceanJet
Departure Point: Pier 1, Cebu City
Arrival Point: Tagbilaran City Port
From Tagbilaran, Panglao Island is just 30–40 minutes away by van or taxi.
Most travelers arrange transport directly at the pier. ₱500–₱700 for a private car or ₱200–₱400 per person for shared rides. We highly recommend the Grab App.
Pro-Tips:
- Use Grab: ~₱500 to Alona Beach (Hassle-free and fair pricing, download the Grab app, it works like Uber) Android iOS
- Book your ferry ticket (Ocean Jet) in advance during peak months (March–June and November–February).
🚗 Option 2: Ferry to Tubigon + Scenic Drive to Panglao
If you enjoy road trips and local scenery, take the Tubigon route. This will take more overall time and is for the adventurous.
Duration:
- Ferry: 1.5 hours Cebu → Tubigon
- Drive: 2 hours Tubigon → Panglao
Why go this way:
- Less crowded ferries than the Tagbilaran route.
- Beautiful countryside drive through Calape, Loon, and Dauis.
- You can stop for lunch at local seafood spots or the Clarin Ancestral House.
Estimated Total Cost: ₱1,200-₱1,500 (ferry + van rental or private transfer).
You’ll arrive in Panglao through the causeway, a stunning welcome view over the mangroves and blue water.
✈️ Option 3: Fly Directly to Bohol-Panglao International Airport
If you’re connecting from outside Cebu (Manila, Davao, or Cagayan de Oro), you can skip ferries entirely.
Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG) is located right on the island.
From Cebu City, flights take just 25 minutes, but costs can vary from ₱2,000–₱5,000 depending on season and airline.
For most travelers already in Cebu, the ferry remains the best balance of cost and convenience, but if you’re short on time, flying is unbeatable.
🛑 Great Stopovers Along the Way
If you have time, here are spots worth checking out around Tagbilaran and Panglao:
- Baclayon Church: One of the oldest churches in the Philippines, just 15 minutes from Tagbilaran Port.
- Blood Compact Site: A quick heritage stop with ocean views and local souvenir stalls.
- Hinagdanan Cave: On Panglao itself, an underground pool perfect for a swim after your trip.
🚐 Getting from Tagbilaran to Panglao
Once you arrive at Tagbilaran Port:
- Grab: ~₱500 to Alona Beach (Easy and upfront pricing, download the Grab app, it works like Uber) Android iOS
- Tricycle: ₱300–₱500 to Alona Beach (You can haggle here, this is the budget-friendly option for solo travelers).
We recommend Grab for the smoothest experience. Most resorts can also arrange airport or pier transfers in advance, message your host before arriving.
For more details, check out our Tagbilaran to Panglao guide
🎯 Travel Tips
- Check ferry schedules the day before, weather can affect departures.
- Bring motion-sickness tablets if you’re prone to seasickness.
- Arrive at Cebu’s Pier 1 at least 45 minutes early to check in smoothly.
- Cash is still king at both ports, ATMs are limited near piers. Plan for this, have cash, smaller denominations are usually better.
🏝️ Ready to Explore Panglao?
Once you’re on the island, you’re minutes away from world-class beaches, diving spots, and local adventures.
👉 Book a sunrise half-day Panglao fishing tour for the perfect island morning, or explore our Things to Do in Panglao guide to plan your trip.
Need help planning? Check the current weather in Panglao and learn which months are the best to visit.