
How to Get From Malapascua to Cebu
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.
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).
4h 35m
595 PHP ($9.60)
4h 35m - 5h 5m
690 PHP ($11)
4h 20m
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.
Malapascua to Cebu by Boat + Bus
Step 1: Malapascua to Maya by Boat
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)
Step 2: Maya to Cebu by Bus
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
Step 1: Malapascua to Maya Port by Boat
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
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
Step 1: Malapascua to Maya Port by Boat
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
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.
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!
Treat YourselfSeda 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
Mid-RangeGoldberry 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
BudgetFelix 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
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!
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