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Dumaguete is a university town on Negros, across the strait from Cebu. It's the gateway to Apo Island's turtles and coral walls. The ferry costs $11 (690 PHP) and takes 3h, with boat changes along the way.
Distance from Moalboal to Dumaguete
Moalboal and Dumaguete are about 72 km (45 miles) apart; the sea crossing itself covers around 90 km over water. The trip takes around 3h.
How to get from Moalboal to Dumaguete?
The ferry is the only suitable way for travellers to travel from Moalboal to Dumaguete. The journey takes around 3h, and ticket prices start from $11 (690 PHP).
3 legs — see itinerary
- Moalboal→Liloan Port2h 20m
- Liloan Port→Sibulan Port in Dumaguete20m
- Sibulan Port→Dumaguete20m
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Moalboal to Dumaguete by Ferry
Step 1: Moalboal to Liloan Port by Bus
If you’re staying at Moalboal’s Panagsama Beach, you can get to the town centre by tricycle or a motorbike taxi (called "habal-habal" in the Philippines) if you don’t have a lot of luggage. Ask to be dropped off at the main road, where you can hail a southbound bus.
A tricycle ride usually costs $0.30 (20 PHP) per person, but if you want the whole ride to yourself, expect to pay around $2.40 (150 PHP) to $4.90 (300 PHP). If you're taking a habal-habal, fares can range from $0.80 (50 PHP) to $1.60 (100 PHP). You might need to haggle a bit — drivers often ask more from tourists.
Your destination is Bato Bus Terminal in Talisay, some 60 km south of Moalboal. You should see the Bato signboard in front of the bus.
Ceres Bus is the main operator for this route. You can easily spot it on the road by its bright yellow colour. Ceres buses pass by every 30 minutes or so.
An air-conditioned bus ticket costs $2.40 (150 PHP), but you can also take a non-aircon bus for a slightly lower price.
Tricycle from Bato to Liloan Port
The bus stops at Bato after around 2 hours. From here, you’ll need to take a tricycle to Liloan Port. Rates start at $2.40 (150 PHP) for a “special” ride, which means you'll have the tricycle to yourself or to your group. But if you don’t mind waiting for the tricycle to fill up, the per person rate is $0.50 (30 PHP).
Step 2: Liloan Port to Sibulan Port in Dumaguete by Ferry
From Liloan Port in southern Cebu, you will have to take the ferry and cross the waters to Sibulan in Negros Oriental.
Ferries bound for Sibulan Port depart every hour from 03:30 to 19:30. A ferry ticket costs $2.30 (140 PHP), including the $0.30 (20 PHP) terminal fee. Travel time takes only 20 minutes.
Step 3: Sibulan Port to Dumaguete by Tricycle
From Sibulan Port, Dumaguete town centre is some 7 km away. If you’re carrying bulky luggage and are not familiar with the place, we recommend taking a tricycle that will take you straight to your guesthouse (or Dumaguete Port if you’re bound for Siquijor).
Depending on your destination, the tricycle ride costs around $1.60 (100 PHP).
There is also an option to take a jeepney, which costs only $0.20 (13 PHP) per person. Keep in mind that jeepneys only pass by the main road. Tell the driver where you’re headed beforehand so they can drop you off somewhere near your destination. The rest, you’ll have to do on foot.
Heading to Apo Island?
Dauin is the most convenient gateway point for those heading to Apo Island. From Sibulan Port, you can take a jeepney to the Ceres Bus Terminal in Dumaguete. This takes 30 minutes and costs about $0.30 (20 PHP).
At the bus terminal, ask around which bus you can take to Dauin. Any bus going south to Bayawan or Siaton should be good. This should take another 30 minutes and ticket prices cost around $0.40 (26 PHP) - $0.60 (36 PHP) for a non-AC and AC bus, respectively.
Our favourite places to stay in Dumaguete
Dumaguete is the perfect jumping off spot for Apo Island, a diving hotspot. There’s the option to stay in Dumaguete city, but we’d recommend picking an accommodation a bit further from the hustle and bustle of the city.
That’s where most of our favourite stays are located, so that you can head back to a relaxing spot after a day of diving.
Treat YourselfMahi Mahi Dive Resort
Area: Near Zamboanguita beach — approx. 45-minute drive to the centre of Dumaguete
If you’re willing to splash the cash a little, then Mahi Mahi Dive Resort is the best of the best in the Dumaguete area. Everything is brand new and of the best quality at this ultra-modern resort.
The rooms are so nice it’ll be tempting to stay in but the swimming pool that you can see from your balcony will be too hard to resist. Or the sound of the waves from Zamboanguita Beach will be calling your name. It’s only a few steps from the resort!
- Ultra-modern resort
- Stunning rooms with pool views
- Right next to the beach
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Treat YourselfPura Vida Beach & Dive Resort
Area: Municipality of Dauin — approx. 30-minute drive to the centre of Dumaguete
Staying at Pura Vida feels like you’re a world away from the busy city of Dumaguete. Instantly the sight of the palm trees, pools, waterfalls and cosy bungalows floods your body with relaxation. Exactly what most of us are looking for!
In between relaxing or working out at the on-site gym, you can make full use of their highly professional dive shop. It’s the perfect place to go snorkelling or make a trip to Apo Island.
- Dive shop
- Swimming pool overlooking the beach
- On-site gym
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Mid-RangeKookoo’s Nest Eco-lodge
Area: Antulang Neighborhood — approx. 1-hour drive from the centre of Dumaguete and a minute walk to Cliff beach Siaton
Not far from Grandview Cottage Resort is Kookoo’s Nest. This eco-lodge is the perfect escape into nature, with the incredible bamboo bungalows brilliantly combining nature and comfort.
Everything about this place feels intimate. Whether it’s lounging on your hammock overlooking the sea or walking along the private beach right in front of the eco-lodge, it’s the perfect place to escape people.
- Private beach
- Bamboo bungalows
- On-site restaurant
- Amazing location
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Mid-RangeGrandview Cottages Resort
Area: Andulay rural area - approx. an hour from the city centre of Dumaguete
Some of us can’t stand cities and are itching to leave as soon as we arrive. If this is you, and don’t want to stay in Dumaguete city, head south to Grandview Cottages Resort.
As the name suggests, the views are pretty grand. As you step out onto your private balcony, you’ll be met with views of the ocean and nature. And lucky for you, that enticing ocean is only a few minutes’ walk away. Or you can go for a dip in the resort’s infinity pool.
- Unique thatched cottages
- Sea views
- Infinity pool
- Tasty breakfast included
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
BudgetAmazi Homestay
Area: Dumaguete City centre - approx. 5-minute drive from the city centre
If you’re looking for a cheap and cheerful spot in the centre of Dumaguete, then Amazi Homestay it is! The homestay offers spacious, modern and clean rooms with air conditioning.
The staff will also make sure all your needs are cared for with their professional and attentive service. This place is great value for money!
- Great location
- Clean and spacious rooms
- Modern bathrooms
- Friendly and helpful staff
Double rooms cost $15-$30 per night
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Dumaguete?
Dumaguete is a vibrant city and capital of Negros Oriental. Also called the City of Gentle People, you will meet here some of the best folks in the Philippines. Its charm calls for a long-term stay, making it a retirement home for many ex-pats.
Dumaguete is often used as a gateway to the diver’s mecca around Apo Island and the paradise island of Siquijor. It may not hold the tropical adventure you seek, but if you do find yourself with a few hours to spare here, we recommend checking out its interesting cafes, walking along Rizal Boulevard, and getting to know the beautiful people of Dumaguete.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Moalboal to Dumaguete, roughly 72 kilometres (45 miles) apart. The cheapest fare is $11 (690 PHP). The quickest trip takes 3h.
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 Moalboal to Dumaguete?
The distance from Moalboal to Dumaguete is 72 kilometres (45 miles).
What is the cheapest way to get from Moalboal to Dumaguete?
The cheapest way to get from Moalboal to Dumaguete 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.
