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Moalboal is a diving town on the west coast of Cebu. Its sardine run swirls just off Panagsama Beach, close enough to reach with a snorkel and fins. The ferry from Dumaguete to Moalboal costs $11 (690 PHP) and takes 2h 40m.
Distance from Dumaguete to Moalboal
Dumaguete and Moalboal are about 72 km (45 miles) apart; the sea crossing itself covers around 90 km over water. The trip takes around 2h 40m.
How to get from Dumaguete to Moalboal?
The ferry is the only suitable way for travellers to travel from Dumaguete to Moalboal. The journey takes around 2h 40m, and ticket prices start from $11 (690 PHP).
3 legs — see itinerary
- Dumaguete→Sibulan Port20m
- Sibulan Port→Liloan Port20m
- Liloan→Moalboal2h
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Dumaguete to Moalboal by Ferry
Step 1: Dumaguete to Sibulan Port by Tricycle
From Dumaguete town centre, you’ll have to travel by land for about 7 km north to Sibulan Port. The tricycle is a convenient and direct transfer with fares from $1.60 (100 PHP).
Tricycles are easily available in town, but you can also ask for assistance from your guesthouse. If you’re coming from Dumaguete Port, you will find tricycles just outside the gate. Travel time to Sibulan Port takes about 20 minutes.
A cheaper option is to take a jeepney, which costs around $0.20 (13 PHP). However, they are only available from the main road, so you may need to walk a bit from your guesthouse.
Coming from Apo Island?
If you’re coming from a diving adventure at Apo Island, you’ll most probably have to depart from Dauin. From here, you can take a Siaton-Dumaguete bus that passes along the main road in Dauin. Just flag it down and let the conductor know you're headed to Dumaguete. This takes about 30 minutes and you'll get off at Ceres Bus Terminal. A ticket costs $0.40 (26 PHP) - $0.60 (36 PHP) for a non-AC and AC bus, respectively.
From Dumaguete, you can take a jeepney to Sibulan Port. The jeepney ride takes another 30 minutes. Fares start from $0.30 (20 PHP).
Step 2: Sibulan Port to Liloan Port by Ferry
From Sibulan Port, you will take a ferry to cross the waters to Liloan Port in Santander on Cebu’s southern tip.
There are ferries operating from Sibulan to Liloan Port every hour from 04:30 to 20:00. Travel time is around 20 minutes. A ticket costs $2.30 (140 PHP) — this covers the $2 (120 PHP) boat ticket and $0.30 (20 PHP) terminal fee.
Step 3: Liloan to Moalboal by Bus
At Liloan Port, you’ll have to take a tricycle to Bato Terminal. A “special” ride costs $2.40 (150 PHP), but you can also wait for the tricycle to fill up for $0.50 (30 PHP) per person. The tricycle ride takes about 20 minutes.
At Bato Terminal, transfer to a yellow-coloured Ceres Bus heading towards Cebu South Bus Terminal. Tell the conductor you're getting off in Moalboal. A ticket for an air-conditioned bus costs $2.40 (150 PHP). Non-aircon buses are also available for a slightly lower price.
The bus ride from Bato to Moalboal takes around 1.5 - 2 hours. Ask to be dropped off at the town centre.
Take a tricycle to Panagsama Beach
If you’re staying at Panagsama Beach, you’ll need to take a tricycle or motorbike taxi — called a "habal-habal" in the Philippines (if you don’t have a lot of luggage). A tricycle ride usually costs $0.30 (20 PHP) per person. Expect to pay around $2.40 (150 PHP) to $4.90 (300 PHP) if you want the ride to yourself.
Habal-habal fares range from $0.80 (50 PHP) to $1.60 (100 PHP), depending on your bargaining skills. Be ready to haggle because drivers often charge higher when they spot tourists.
Our favourite places to stay in Moalboal
Moalboal is a paradise for marine life, and that’s what you want to be focusing on — finding the best snorkelling trips, witnessing the Sardine Run if you’re there at the right time.
If you’re looking to stay close to the action, we recommend staying close to Panagsama Beach. It’s the main town boasting a lively atmosphere. This is where most of our favourite stays are located.
Your time shouldn’t be spent finding the right hotel. We’ve done that for you:
Treat YourselfSecret Paradise Moalboal
Area: Next to Panagsama beach, only a 1-minute walk
The name says it all for this place. It actually does feel like a secret paradise, hidden amongst its green gardens and away from the business of the town. All of the rooms are centred around a large and inviting swimming pool that even has tables in the water.
Secret Paradise feels like a mini resort, whilst still maintaining an intimate vibe.
- Huge swimming pool
- Tropical paradise
- Spacious and quirky rooms
- On-site bar
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Mid-RangeVailtin Home Point
Area: Basidot — approx. 10-minute drive to Moalboal town centre
Slightly out of town and surrounded by lush greenery, Vailtin feels like a secluded bubble from the outside world. Especially when you’re relaxing in the pool and soaking up the sun.
The rooms are spacious and offer all of the amenities you could need. The staff here will also ensure that all of your needs are satisfied.
- Outdoor pool
- Tropical garden areas
- Great staff
- Nice location
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Mid-RangeMaayong Hostel
Area: Panagsama Beach — approx. 10-minute walk to famous Moalboal Sardines Run
Whether you choose the funky bamboo bungalows or the dorm rooms, you’ll love your stay at Maayong Hostel. The bungalows feel like little oases with their tropical outdoor bathrooms and peaceful design.
When you’re not making the most of your bungalow, there are plenty of spots to hang out in throughout the hostel — the bar, restaurant, chill out areas with hammocks and bean bags. The vibe here is perfect!
- Quirky bamboo bungalows
- Dorm beds with curtains
- Bar, restaurant and chill out areas
- Great vibe
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
BudgetGarden Village Resort
Area: Panagsama Road — approx. 10-minute walk from the centre town
You’ll be blown away that Garden Village Resort is a budget friendly option. Not many places for under $30 offer a swimming pool, bar and a good restaurant.
The bungalows are relatively basic but still provide everything you need and offer great value for money. The affordable price does mean that you compromise on location a little. Here you’ll be a 25-minute walk or a 6-minute drive from the centre of town.
- Large swimming pool
- Relaxing pool area
- On-site bar and restaurant
- Cute cottages
Double rooms cost $15-$30 per night
BudgetRNA Guesthouse
Area: Just outside Moalboal town — approx. 15-minute drive from the town centre
RNA Guesthouse is a great budget option in Moalboal. The rooms are basic, but have everything you need. They're the perfect place to rest your head and get a good night's sleep.
The hosts are what give this place a few extra gold stars. They are incredibly helpful and will make sure you have the best time in Moalboal.
- Great value for money
- Helpful hosts
- Spacious and clean rooms
- Good location
Double rooms cost $15-$30 per night
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Moalboal?
Moalboal is a small yet vibrant resort town on the west coast of Cebu Island. World-famous for its sardine run, here you can swim with millions of sardines — just a few metres off the shore!
It also boasts a vibrant coral wall, making it a popular diving destination. The best part? You won't have to swim far or rent a boat, some of Moalboal's best underwater worlds can be found metres from the shore. For the best diving visibility, visit between November and May.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Dumaguete to Moalboal, roughly 72 kilometres (45 miles) apart. The cheapest fare is $11 (690 PHP). The quickest trip takes 2h 40m.
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 Dumaguete to Moalboal?
The distance from Dumaguete to Moalboal is 72 kilometres (45 miles).
What is the cheapest way to get from Dumaguete to Moalboal?
The cheapest way to get from Dumaguete to Moalboal is by ferry with ticket costs starting from 690 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
A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.
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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.
