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Boracay is a small island famous for White Beach. Manila, the capital, sits well to the north on Luzon. Flying via Caticlan is the quickest way to get from Boracay to Manila, taking 1h 45m - 2h 10m. It costs $37 (2,270 PHP). The ferry is far slower at around 12h 30m - 13h 30m, and it costs $40 (2,430 PHP).
Distance from Boracay to Manila
Boracay and Manila are about 309 km (192 miles) apart; the sea crossing itself covers around 440 km over water. The quickest way to get from Boracay to Manila is by taking the flight via caticlan, which takes around 1h 45m - 2h 10m.
3 ways to travel from Boracay to Manila
There are three ways to travel from Boracay to Manila. You can choose between the flight, flight via Kalibo, and ferry. The journey takes 1h 45m–12h 30m and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by flight with tickets starting at $37 (2,270 PHP).
2 legs — see itinerary
- Boracay Island→Caticlan, Panay Island30m
- Kalibo→Manila1h 5m
3 legs — see itinerary
- Boracay→Caticlan30m
- Caticlan, Panay Island→Batangas11h
- Batangas→Manila2h
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Boracay to Manila by Flight via Caticlan
When taking a flight from Boracay to Manila, it is best to take one from Caticlan, where the nearest airport is located. This route can be quite expensive though, especially during peak season (summer and Christmas).
A cheap alternative that is available all year round is the flight route via Kalibo, which we also talk about in detail in this post.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Boracay to Caticlan by Bus + Ferry
From your hotel, take a tricycle or multicab going to Cagban Port. The ride takes around 15 minutes.
Once at the port, head to the ticketing office to pay for your boat ride and the port fee. Keep your ticket, then follow the signs that will take you to the boarding area. It takes about 15 minutes to get to Caticlan Jetty Port by boat.
From the port, you can hop on a tricycle heading to Caticlan Airport.
Here’s a quick breakdown of costs for this part of the trip:
- Multicab ride from your hotel to Cagban Port: $0.60 (35 PHP)
- Boat ticket: $0.80 (50 PHP)
- Port fee: $2.40 (150 PHP)
- Tricycle ride from Caticlan Port to Caticlan Airport: $0.80 (50 PHP)
Alternative: Private transfer from Boracay to Caticlan Airport with Klook
For a more convenient option, you can book a private transfer with Klook. It includes hotel pickup in Boracay, the ferry ride, and a van transfer straight to Caticlan Airport. Rates start at $32 (1,950 PHP) per person for a group of 3 (cheaper if there are more people in your group).
Alternative: Shared transfer from Boracay to Caticlan Airport with BookAway
You can also book a shared direct transfer from your Boracay hotel to Caticlan Airport via BookAway. You can choose from two tour operators:
- Southwest Travel and Tours includes the terminal fee, so there's nothing extra to pay at the port.
- With Island Star Express, you'll need to pay the $2.40 (150 PHP) port fee at the terminal.
Check their schedule below.
Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.
Step 2: Caticlan to Manila by Flight
AirAsia, Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines (PAL) all operate direct flights from Caticlan Airport to Manila.
Airfares from Boracay to Manila via Caticlan start from $30 (1,800 PHP) but can go as high as $80 (4,900 PHP) during peak season. We recommend booking at least a month in advance for cheaper flights.
Flights arrive at either Terminal 2 or Terminal 3 of Manila Airport after 1h 10m.
Tip: Cebu Pacific and AirAsia offer many promotions annually. Keep an eye out for these flight promos so you can book cheap flights for this route!
Boracay to Manila by Flight via Kalibo
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Boracay to Caticlan by Ferry
For the first leg of this journey, you’ll have to take a tricycle or multicab to Cagban Port. Multicab fares start from $0.60 (35 PHP) per person.
From Cagban Port, take a boat going to Caticlan Port. You’ll have to pay $0.80 (50 PHP) for the boat ride and $2.40 (150 PHP) for the terminal fee.
Step 2: Caticlan to Kalibo Airport by Van or Bus
Once you arrive at Caticlan Jetty Port, you can take either a bus or a van to Kalibo Airport. You can find them right outside the port.
We recommend taking the bus because it is more spacious and comfortable. You can pay the driver directly or reserve a seat in advance through 12Go.Asia for $4.90 (300 PHP).
A van ride is a bit cheaper at $4.10 (250 PHP), but it can feel cramped if you’re carrying a lot of luggage.
Alternative: Private transfer from Boracay to Kalibo Airport with Klook
If you're travelling in a large group and want to skip the queues at the port, you can book a private transfer from Boracay to Kalibo Airport via Klook. It’s an all-in-one package that includes land and sea transfers, along with ferry and port fees.
Rates for a private transfer via Klook start from $42 (2,550 PHP) per person for a group of 4. It’s on the pricier side, but the more people you’re travelling with (or if you’re booking round trip), the better the value overall.
Alternative: Shared transfer from Boracay to Kalibo Airport with BookAway
We recommend checking out BookAway for shared transfers from Boracay to Kalibo Airport.
- Southwest Travel and Tours offers a door-to-door shared service that already includes the terminal fee, so you won’t need to pay anything extra at the port.
- Island Star Express also provides a door-to-door shared service, but keep in mind the port fee isn’t included. You’ll have to pay $2.40 (150 PHP) separately at the ferry terminal.
Both companies are known for their reliable service and offer multiple departures throughout the day. Just keep in mind that the journey from your hotel in Boracay to Kalibo Airport takes about 3 hours, so be sure to leave plenty of time before your flight.
Check the schedule below for departure times of BookAway transfers.
Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.
Step 3: Kalibo to Manila by Flight
You can book flights on this route with either AirAsia or Cebu Pacific — both airlines operate regular services between Kalibo and Manila.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) used to operate flights on this route too, but these are currently suspended, and there’s no word yet on when they’ll resume.
Ticket prices from Boracay to Manila via Kalibo start from $20 (1,230 PHP), and the journey takes around 1h 05m.
Tip: Cebu Pacific and AirAsia offer many promotions annually. Keep an eye out for these "seat sales" so you can book a cheaper flight for this route!
Boracay to Manila by Ferry
Want to travel by ferry from Boracay to Manila? It is certainly doable – if you don’t mind travelling for about 12h 30m - 13h 30m.
Since there are no direct ferry trips from Boracay to Manila, you’ll have to make several transfers — a boat to Caticlan, a ferry to Batangas, and then a bus going to Manila.
Step 1: Boracay to Caticlan by Ferry
From your hotel in Boracay, it takes about 30 minutes to get to Caticlan Port. This includes a 15-minute tricycle or multicab ride going to Cagban Port on the island. And then a 15-minute boat ride going to Caticlan Port.
Combined land and sea fares plus port fees cost around $3.80 (235 PHP).
Step 2: Caticlan to Batangas by Ferry
You have two options when taking the ferry from Caticlan to Batangas: 2Go Travel and Starlite Ferries. Both are reputable ferry operators. Starlite, however, caters more to locals, while 2Go Travel is popular among tourists.
If you want to save some time, Starlite usually gets you there about an hour faster than 2Go. Some travellers have also mentioned that 2Go’s restrooms are not always clean. That might not be a big deal on a short trip, but for an overnight ferry, it is something to think about. If that matters to you, Starlite could be the better option.
Ticket prices for a reclining seat start from $29 (1,790 PHP), but if you want more comfort, it is worth booking at least an economy or tourist bunk.
All ferries depart from Caticlan Jetty Port and dock at Batangas Pier. Travel time takes around 10-11h.
Step 3: Batangas to Manila by Bus
Several bus companies operate routes from Batangas Pier to Metro Manila. The advertised travel time is 2h, but it really takes closer to 3.5 hours because of the traffic in Metro Manila.
Ticket prices start from $6.30 (385 PHP), and you can usually buy one from the driver.
When travelling on weekends or holidays, we recommend booking your tickets online beforehand via BookAway. Buses can get full pretty quickly during peak times, so booking ahead gives you a better chance of getting the time you want.
You will find a lot of buses at Batangas Pier. But if you want to grab a bite or take a short break before your trip, you can also board at Batangas City Grand Terminal. It is about 5 km north of the port.
Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.
Arrival stations
When choosing your bus, make sure to check which station they’re headed to in Manila. There are at least four bus arrival points available. Pick the one that will bring you closest to your destination.
- Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), 3.5 km west of Manila Airport
- Ceres Bus Terminal in Buendia, 4 km west of Makati
- Ceres Bus Terminal in Cubao, 12 km north of Makati
- Citystate Tower Hotel in Ermita, Manila, about 8 km west of Makati
Our favourite places to stay in Manila
Manila is a bustling metropolitan city that can be slightly overwhelming at first. Not just because of the busy streets and towering skyscrapers, but also because of the number of hotels to pick from. There are a lot!
No matter your price range, we’ve found some great places to stay in the best locations so you don’t have to do that research.
Before you start reading about our favourite stays, it’s good to know a bit about the best areas to stay in Manila. That way, you’re picking the best accommodation in the area that’s right for you.
- Makati is our favourite area to stay in Manila, and where most of our favourite stays are. It’s one of the most upscale areas in Manila and is known for its shopping malls, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is a newer development in Manila and is known for its modern architecture, restaurants and shopping centres.
- Malate is a lively area known for its bars, nightclubs and restaurants. It's also close to several tourist attractions, such as Rizal Park and Intramuros.
Treat YourselfSomerset Central Salcedo Makati
Area: Makati City centre — approx. 10-minute walk to shopping malls and business centre
As soon as you step into Somerset Central, you forget about the hustle and bustle going on outside the doors. Inside the hotel you’re met with luxury, relaxation and a chance to rejuvenate yourself in the gym or outdoor pool.
The grandeur of the hotel continues in the rooms, decorated in a stylish and modern design. The highlight of the room are the beds. They’re huge and super comfortable, guaranteeing you a great night's sleep.
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Gym
- A la carte restaurant
- Continental breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Mid-RangeHotel 101 Manila
Area: Along Mall of Asia complex — approx. 10-minute drive to shopping malls and airport
Hotel 101 Manila has everything you could ask for from a city hotel. It has a refreshing outdoor pool, a delicious on-site restaurant and it’s close to the airport — perfect if you’re flying in or out of Manila.
The rooms are large, comfortable and exceptionally clean. With their incredible hospitality, the staff make you feel like you’re staying in a 5-star hotel.
- Outdoor swimming pool
- On-site restaurant
- Amazing staff
- Great and convenient location
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
BudgetHop Inn Hotel Makati Avenue
Area: Makati City centre — approx. 5-minute drive to nearest shopping mall
Only passing through Manila? Hop Inn Hotel is perfect for those spending just a few nights in the busy city. It’s clean, modern and has all of the basic amenities that you could possibly need.
Modern minimalism would be a good way to describe this place. Plus you won’t be spending too much time in your room as you’re located in Makati, one of the best neighbourhoods in Manila.
- Clean and modern rooms
- Great location
- Air conditioning
- Helpful staff
Double rooms cost $15-$30 per night
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Manila?
Manila is the capital of the Philippines — an old city often disregarded by travellers who use it only as a gateway to the country's more visually appealing islands. But if you have an extra day in your itinerary, we think Manila's colourful history is a great way to kick off your trip.
Explore the walled city of Intramuros, Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church — all of which were first built in the late 1500s. Art and anthropology also attract many locals to Manila. You will find here the National Museum, a complex of three museum buildings that tell the story of the Filipinos.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Boracay to Manila, roughly 309 kilometres (192 miles) apart. In all, there are 3 ways to make the trip. The cheapest non-flight fare is $40 (2,430 PHP), though if you're lucky with timing you might find a flight ticket for even less. The quickest trip takes 1h 45m.
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 Boracay to Manila?
The distance from Boracay to Manila is 309 kilometres (192 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Boracay to Manila?
The fastest way to get from Boracay to Manila is by flight and takes 1h 45m - 2h 10m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Boracay to Manila?
The cheapest way to get from Boracay to Manila is by flight with ticket costs starting from 2,270 PHP.
About the Authors
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.
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.
Travel Writer
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.
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Ferry Schedule Notice
Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.
