Malapascua to Cebu

How to Get From Malapascua to Cebu

115 km4h 20m – 4h 35mFrom $10Research Verified

Bus · Minivan · Boat + Taxi

In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 115 kilometre (71 miles) distance from Malapascua to Cebu. By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly how to get there — whether you want to travel on a budget, reach Cebu as fast as possible, or enjoy the ride in comfort. We base our information on verified schedules, ticket prices, and on-the-ground insights from recent travellers.

Abegail
Written by Abegail
Travel Writer
Ela
Reviewed by Ela
Senior Travel Writer
Faye
Reviewed by Faye
Travel Writer
Updated
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What are the 3 ways to travel from Malapascua to Cebu?

There are three ways to travel the 115 km distance from Malapascua to Cebu. You can choose between the bus, minivan, and boat + taxi.

The journey takes between 4h 20m–4h 35m and the quickest way is by boat + taxi (4h 20m). If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 595 PHP ($9.60).

BusCheapest
Duration

4h 35m

Price

595 PHP ($9.60)

Minivan
Duration

4h 35m - 5h 5m

Price

690 PHP ($11)

Boat + TaxiFastest
Duration

4h 20m

Price

3,840 PHP ($62)

Where to stay in Cebu?

Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Cebu at the bottom of this page.

Already in Cebu?

Onward from Cebu

Once you're in Cebu, here's where to next — 9 researched onward routes to pick from.

From

Malapascua to Cebu by Boat + Bus

4h 35mFrom 595 PHP ($9.60)
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

35 minutes340 PHP ($5.50)

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 340 PHP ($5.50).
  • Boat ticket: 200 PHP ($3.20)
  • Environmental fee: 120 PHP ($1.90) for foreigners and 75 PHP ($1.20) for locals
  • Terminal fee: 20 PHP ($0.30)
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 2,000 PHP ($33). 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

4 hours255 PHP ($4.10) - 360 PHP ($5.80)

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 255 PHP ($4.10), 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.

Malapascua to Cebu by Boat + Shared Minivan

4h 35m - 5h 5mFrom 690 PHP ($11)
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 690 PHP ($11) and travel time is around 4h 35m - 5h 5m.

Step 1: Malapascua to Maya Port by Boat

35 minutes340 PHP ($5.50)

From the Maya-Malapascua Boat Station, you can take a boat to the New Maya Port for 35 minutes. You’ll pay around 340 PHP ($5.50) for this boat ride, including the environmental and port fees.

Alternatively, you can get a private boat for 2,000 PHP ($33). For more details, check the bus section.

Step 2: Maya Port to Cebu by Minivan

4h - 4h 30m350 PHP ($5.70)

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 350 PHP ($5.70) 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.

Malapascua to Cebu by Boat + Taxi

4h 20mFrom 3,840 PHP ($62)
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

35 minutes340 PHP ($5.50)

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 340 PHP ($5.50), including the boat ticket, environmental fee and terminal fee.

Do you prefer a private boat? You can rent one for 2,000 PHP ($33).

The boat journey takes about 35 minutes.

Step 2: Maya to Cebu by Taxi

3h 45min3,500 PHP ($57)

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 3,500 PHP ($57). 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 3,900 PHP ($63) for a one-way trip for up to 3 people.

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 per night

View on Booking.com
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 per night

View on Booking.com
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 per night

View on Booking.com

Rounding it up

We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Malapascua to Cebu. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.

PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!

Frequently Asked Questions

The distance from Malapascua to Cebu is 115 km.

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!

TRUST

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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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