How to Get to Bantayan Island from Cebu: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Last Updated on June 26, 2025 by Roxanne Tamayo

In Cebu, Bantayan Island is the most destined place for summer vacation by locals and foreigners. How to get to Bantayan Island? There are several places to stay here from a very affordable price to expensive ones. You can even bring your own tent and go camping there. The food is accessible, from a local carenderia in the market to restaurants owned by some foreigners.

The image above was taken from the ferry boat. Sta. Fe Beach Club is the first resort you can see before arriving the port.

Avail the 4D3N Cebu Highlights and Bantayan Island Tour with Klook

Table of Contents

How to get to Bantayan Island from Cebu?

Step 1: Travel from Cebu City to Hagnaya Port

The journey to Bantayan Island starts with a trip to Hagnaya Port, the main jump-off point for ferries to the island. Here are the available options:

Bus (Most budget-friendly option)
- Head to the North Bus Terminal in Cebu City.
- Look for buses bound for Hagnaya Port (travel time: 4–5 hours).
- Fare: PHP 250–350 (depending on the type of bus, air-conditioned or non-aircon).
Van (Faster but less comfortable)
- Vans are available at the SM City Cebu Van Terminal.
- Travel time: 3–4 hours.
- Fare: Around PHP 350–400.
Private Car (Best for convenience)
- You can rent a private car or hire a taxi.
- Travel time: 3–4 hours.
- Estimated cost: PHP 3,000–5,000 depending on vehicle type.

Step 2: Ferry from Hagnaya Port to Santa Fe, Bantayan Island

Once you arrive at Hagnaya Port, take a ferry to Santa Fe Port in Bantayan Island.

Ferry Operators: Island Shipping and Super Shuttle Ferry
Travel time: 1–1.5 hours
Fare: PHP 350 (one-way)
Terminal Fee: PHP 10

The ferry schedules are:

7:00 AM

8:00 AM

10:30 AM

12:30 PM

2:30 PM

4:30 PM

It takes 1 and 1/2 hours for sea transportation.

Note: The schedule posted above may subject to change without prior notice.

Alternative Route: Air Travel

Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Bantayan Airport (chartered flights available, around ₱2,500-₱3,500 per person).

Things to Prepare for your Trip

Valid ID – Required at the port.
Cash – ATMs on the island are limited.
Sun Protection – Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
Advance Booking – For peak seasons, book accommodations in advance.

3D2N Bantayan Island Itinerary & Budget Guide

First Day: Arrival & Beach Hopping

Morning: Arrive at Santa Fe, check into your accommodation.
Afternoon: Visit Paradise Beach, Sugar Beach, and Kota Beach.
Evening: Sunset at Kota Beach & seafood dinner at a local eatery.

Second Day: Island Hopping & Adventure

Morning: Start early for Virgin Island and Hilantagaan Island (Island hopping package: ₱1,500-₱2,000 for 4 pax).
Afternoon: Visit Ogtong Cave & Bantayan Nature Park.
Evening: Enjoy Bantayan’s nightlife at Kermit or MJ Square.

Third Day: Culture & Departure

Morning: Visit Omagieca Mangrove Eco Park & St. Peter and Paul Church.
Afternoon: Last-minute souvenir shopping at Bantayan Public Market before heading back to Cebu.

Avail the 4D3N Cebu Highlights and Bantayan Island Tour on Klook

Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)

Expense	Cost
Bus from Cebu to Hagnaya	₱250
Ferry to Bantayan	₱350
Tricycle Transfers	₱300
Accommodation (3D2N)	₱1,500-₱3,000
Island Hopping	₱500-₱1,000
Food & Drinks	₱1,500
Entrance Fees	₱500
Miscellaneous	₱500
Total Estimated Budget	₱5,500 – ₱8,000