A Complete Guide to Getting to Boracay! How to Travel Cheaply by Plane and Boat from Manila and Cebu

Check out the quickest way to get to Boracay Island

To get to Boracay, fly from Manila or Cebu to Caticlan Airport or Kalibo Airport, andTake a boat to the islandThat's the basic principle.

In this column, we’ll cover everything from the most affordable routes and travel times to how to board the ferry and what to watch out for, so please use this information to help plan your trip!

[Boracay Island] A 15-minute aerial tour at a height of 70 meters! Take in the breathtaking coastal views while parasailing (Choose between single or tandem rides) (No. 37)開始時間: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
*Please enter your preferred start time.所要時間: About 15 minutes17,600 yen

[Boracay Island / Half-Day] No license required—open to participants ages 10 and up! Introductory Diving for Beginners☆ Pool Practice + Try a 12-meter Boat Dive (No. 38)開始時間: 8:30 / 10:30 / 12:30所要時間: About 4 hours (*Varies by course)14,700 yen

[Boracay Island / Approx. 2 hours] Enjoy the Ocean to the Fullest☆ Sightseeing Cruise Tour Around Crocodile Island & White Beach! Free for Children 5 and Under 《Includes Life Jackets and Towels》 (No. 39)開始時間: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. / 2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 2 hours17,600 yen

Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Cebu Island.

There are two ways to get to Boracay Island

There is no airport on Boracay Island, so you'll need to use one of the two airports located on the opposite shore.

Your choice will affect both travel time and cost, so be sure to choose the option that best suits your travel style!

[Departing from Boracay / Approx. 3 hours] Three Must-See Spots! Snorkeling at Crocodile Island + Crystal Cove + Beach Landing at Puka Beach (Snorkeling gear, island entrance fee, and towel included) (No. 40)開始時間: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. / 2:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.所要時間: About 3 hours21,500 yen

[Boracay Island] Get Your Adrenaline Pumping in the Waters of Boracay! Tube Rides, Jet Skis, Wakeboarding, and Water Skiing☆Experience 4 Types of Water Sports (Insurance Included) (No. 41)開始時間: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
*Please enter your preferred start time.所要時間: About 1 hour (*Varies depending on the water sport)11,700 yen

Katiklan Airport (Godfredo P. Ramos Airport)

It is the closest airport to Boracay Island, and it is a drive to Katiklan Port, the ferry terminal,About 10 minutesThat's about it.

There are direct flights from Manila and Cebu, making this a good option for those who want to save time.

However, since the number of flights is limited, it's best to book early to be on the safe side.

Calibo International Airport

Located about 70 km from Katiklan Airport, Kalibo Airport is a major airport that handles international flights.

From the airport to Katiklan Port,About 2 hours by vanIt takes time.

With so many flights available and low fares, it's easy to find a good deal, so this is recommended for those who prioritize cost.

Which route is the cheapest way to get to Boracay Island?

If you want to get to Boracay on a budget, the route via Kalibo Airport is the standard option.

Depending on how you choose your flights and transportation, you can significantly cut down on your travel expenses.

How to Get There by Van from Calibo Airport

There are shared vans running from Kalibo Airport to Catiklan Port. The fare isa few hundred pesosIt's about that level, and it takes about 2 hours.

Some companies offer packages that include boat tickets, which is convenient because it helps you avoid getting lost after you arrive.

Tips for Making the Most of Low-Cost Airlines

There are low-cost carrier (LCC) flights from Manila and Cebu. The appeal is that you can save significantly on fares if you take advantage of sales.

However, when it comes to LCCs,Checked Baggage Is Subject to a FeeSince this is often the case, let's compare the total cost, including shipping.

When to Book and When to Travel

Airline tickets are available for departure on2 to 3 months agoIf you search from there, it's easier to find affordable plans.

During the rainy season (around June through October), hotel rates and airfares tend to be lower.

However, since rough seas can often cause boat cancellations, be sure to allow plenty of time in your itinerary.

How long does it take to get to Boracay Island?

The travel time to Boracay varies significantly depending on your departure point and the airport you use.

If you're traveling from Japan, it's a good idea to allow about half a day, including layovers.

Travel Time from Japan

Since there are no direct flights from Japan to Boracay,via ManilaThis is common.

The flight from Japan to Manila takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes to 5 hours, and from there, the domestic flight takes about 1 hour.

Including transfers and boat rides, the total travel time is approximately 8 to 12 hours.

Travel Time from Manila and Cebu

From Manila to Caticlan Airport or Kalibo Airport, by planeAbout 1 hourIt is.

It takes about 50 minutes to 1 hour from Cebu.

Be sure to allow plenty of time in your schedule, taking into account the travel time from the airport to the port or hotel.

Travel time by boat from Katiklan

By boat from Katiklan Port to Cagban Port on Boracay Island,About 15 minutesIt is.

To be on the safe side, you should allow about 30 minutes to an hour, including port procedures and waiting times.

Key Points and Things to Keep in Mind When Taking a Boat to Boracay Island

From Katiklan Harbor, you take a small boat to the island.

If you know how to pay the fees and what to do in case of bad weather, you won't have to rush around on the day of the event.

How to Take a Boat from Katiklan Port to Kagban Port

At the HarborTerminal FeeAfter paying the environmental tax, you buy a ticket and board the ship.

The total comes to a few hundred pesos, but the amount may vary, so be sure to check it when you get there.

It's best to have some pesos in cash on hand to make things go more smoothly.

Response to Severe Weather

During typhoons or periods of strong winds, ferry services may be suspended, or the ports of departure and arrival may change.

Depending on the season, on the other side of the island...Tabon Port...may also be used in some cases.

Please check with your hotel or travel agency for the latest flight status.

Things to Keep in Mind While There

Around the harbor, porters and tricycle drivers call out to attract customers.

Check the rates in advanceIt's a good idea to do this just to be on the safe side.

Keep your valuables with you at all times, and make sure you have your hotel reservation confirmation handy.

5 Recommended Optional Tours on Boracay Island

Once you arrive on Boracay Island, be sure to enjoy all the water activities!

Here are five popular optional tours.

parasailing

Where you can look down from the sky at the island's breathtaking scenery,A sense of refreshmentThere are plenty of activities.

One of its appeals is that even beginners can easily give it a try.

[Boracay Island] A 15-minute aerial tour at a height of 70 meters! Take in the breathtaking coastal views while parasailing (Choose between single or tandem rides) (No. 37)開始時間: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
*Please enter your preferred start time.所要時間: About 15 minutes17,600 yen

↓Click here for more information on parasailing↓

[Cebu Island / Approx. 4 hours] A trio of excitement, thrills, and relaxation! Enjoy a half-day tour featuring parasailing, banana boat rides, and snorkeling 《Japanese-speaking staff available》 (No. 44)開始時間: 9:00 a.m.–12:45 p.m. / 1:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m.所要時間Approx. 4 hours37,800 yen

[Cebu Island/Mactan Island · Approx. 1 hour] Experience Two Thrills in One! ☆ Parasailing + Banana Boat Value Package 《Japanese-Speaking Staff Available》 (No. 43)開始時間: To be discussed
*Please enter your preferred start time between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.所要時間: About 1 hour25,700 yen

[Cebu Island / Approx. 4 hours] Ages 10 and up ☆ A combo package featuring parasailing with breathtaking views from the sky and a beach experience dive with an underwater walk! 《Choose Morning or Afternoon & Transportation Available》 (No. 55)開始時間: 8:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m. / 1:00 p.m.–4:30 p.m.所要時間Approx. 4 hours33,200 yen

[Cebu Island / Approx. 3 hours] A Luxurious Half-Day Tour! Parasailing with Breathtaking Views from the Sky & Coral Reef Snorkeling Tour 《Choose Morning or Afternoon & No Gear Needed》 (No. 54)開始時間: 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. / 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.所要時間: About 3 hours33,200 yen

[Mactan Island / Half-Day] Two Super-Popular Water Sports: Parasailing & Banana Boat Ride, with a Japanese-Speaking Guide♪ 《Free GoPro Video Recording》 (No. 18)開始時間: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
*You can choose the time that works best for you.所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours16,450 yen

Introductory Diving

No license requiredSince you can give it a try here, it's also recommended for first-time divers.

Let's take a peek into the underwater world with an instructor.

[Boracay Island / Half-Day] No license required—open to participants ages 10 and up! Introductory Diving for Beginners☆ Pool Practice + Try a 12-meter Boat Dive (No. 38)開始時間: 8:30 / 10:30 / 12:30所要時間: About 4 hours (*Varies by course)14,700 yen

↓Click here for other introductory diving experiences↓

Cebu Island/Half Day】Two experience dives in the paradise of beautiful tropical fish☆Full support by Japanese speaking guide, beginners can feel at ease ◎Pickup and drop off included, Photos (No.2)開始時間9:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 12:00 / 13:00所要時間Approx. 4 hours9,800 yen

[Cebu Island / Approx. 5 hours] Beach & 2-Boat Introductory Diving Package☆ Dive into the real underwater world—no license required! (Equipment rental included) (No. 27)開始時間: 7:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m. / 12:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m.所要時間Approx. 5 hours33,200 yen

[Cebu Island / Half-Day] Open to ages 10 and up—no license required! Try scuba diving in the waters off Cebu☆ Choose between beach or boat departure 《Japanese-speaking staff available, equipment included》 (No. 45)開始時間: 7:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. / 12:30 p.m.–4:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 4 hours32,800 yen

[Cebu Island / 1.5 hours] A casual one-dive experience right from the beach☆ Beginners welcome! 《Free underwater photos & videos & round-trip transportation included》 (No. 50)開始時間9:00-15:00
*Please consult us regarding the times listed above.所要時間: About 1 hour and 30 minutes7,000 yen

[Cebu Island / 3 Hours] Meet Sea Turtles and Colorful Fish! Two Easy Introductory Dives Right from the Beach☆《Free Underwater Photos & Videos & Round-Trip Transportation Included》 (No. 51)開始時間: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
*Please consult us regarding the times listed above.所要時間: About 3 hours9,800 yen

[Cebu Island / 4 Hours] 2 Introductory Dives ☆ About a 10-minute speedboat ride! Head to Olango Island with exceptional water clarity 《Free Underwater Photos & Videos & Round-Trip Transportation Included》 (No. 52)開始時間8:30 / 12:30所要時間Approx. 4 hours12,700 yen

Sightseeing Cruise

Around the islandExploring by BoatSo, this is a tour where you can leisurely enjoy the scenery of Boracay.

It's perfect for those who want to relax and for families, too.

[Boracay Island / Approx. 2 hours] Enjoy the Ocean to the Fullest☆ Sightseeing Cruise Tour Around Crocodile Island & White Beach! Free for Children 5 and Under 《Includes Life Jackets and Towels》 (No. 39)開始時間: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. / 2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 2 hours17,600 yen

↓Click here for other cruises↓

Cebu Island/2 hours] Spectacular sunset cruise around Mactan Island☆Wine & light meal included! Enjoy the tropical sunset on the sea 《Release for private parties OK》（No.34）.開始時間16:00 (October to February) / 16:30 (March to September)所要時間Approx. 2 hours30,200 yen

Cebu Island/ 1 Day] 1-Day Tour of Bohol Island by chartered private car♪River Cruise Lunch & Tasha the Spectacled Monkey & Chocolate Hills《Japanese speaking guide & free pickup & drop-off》（No.7開始時間: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.所要時間: About 11 hours19,500 yen

snorkel

In the crystal-clear ocean, colorfultropical fishYou can observe them up close.

It's popular among people who want to enjoy the ocean in a casual way.

[Departing from Boracay / Approx. 3 hours] Three Must-See Spots! Snorkeling at Crocodile Island + Crystal Cove + Beach Landing at Puka Beach (Snorkeling gear, island entrance fee, and towel included) (No. 40)開始時間: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. / 2:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.所要時間: About 3 hours21,500 yen

↓Click here for other snorkeling gear↓

Cebu Island/Half Day】Two experience dives in the paradise of beautiful tropical fish☆Full support by Japanese speaking guide, beginners can feel at ease ◎Pickup and drop off included, Photos (No.2)開始時間9:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 12:00 / 13:00所要時間Approx. 4 hours9,800 yen

[Cebu Island / Mactan Island / Approx. 5–6 hours] A rare sight anywhere in the world! Land on the “Sandbar,” a mythical island made entirely of pure white sand ☆ Snorkeling & a stroll through breathtaking scenery 《Half price for children, free for children 2 and under》 (No. 46)開始時間: To be discussed
*Event times may vary depending on the tide on the day of the event.所要時間Approx. 6 hours28,400 yen

[Cebu Island / Approx. 4 hours] A trio of excitement, thrills, and relaxation! Enjoy a half-day tour featuring parasailing, banana boat rides, and snorkeling 《Japanese-speaking staff available》 (No. 44)開始時間: 9:00 a.m.–12:45 p.m. / 1:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m.所要時間Approx. 4 hours37,800 yen

Snorkel around Nalusuan Island or Hilutugan Island + Landing at Pandanon Island, the closest island to heaven! You can choose a boat and a meal (No.36)開始時間10:00-14:15 / 10:00-15:00所要時間Approx. 4-5 hours28,400 yen

marine sports

A variety of water sportsEnjoy it all at once...This tour is recommended for those who enjoy active pursuits.

You're sure to have a blast with your friends and family!

[Boracay Island] Get Your Adrenaline Pumping in the Waters of Boracay! Tube Rides, Jet Skis, Wakeboarding, and Water Skiing☆Experience 4 Types of Water Sports (Insurance Included) (No. 41)開始時間: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
*Please enter your preferred start time.所要時間: About 1 hour (*Varies depending on the water sport)11,700 yen

↓Click here for other water sports↓

[Cebu Island/Mactan Island · Approx. 1 hour] Open to children ages 2 and up! Choose from authentic water sports like banana boat rides, jet skiing, and wakeboarding. Includes insurance and Japanese-speaking staff. (No. 42)開始時間: To be discussed
Please enter your preferred start time between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.所要時間: About 1 hour (*Varies depending on the water sport)8,800 yen

Cebu/6 hours] Landing on a remote island x Assorted marine activities x BBQ on the boat 》 《Free GoPro shooting・Japanese speaking guide》（No.19開始時間9:00-15:00所要時間Approx. 6 hours23,030 yen

[Mactan Island / Half-Day] Two Super-Popular Water Sports: Parasailing & Banana Boat Ride, with a Japanese-Speaking Guide♪ 《Free GoPro Video Recording》 (No. 18)開始時間: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
*You can choose the time that works best for you.所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours16,450 yen

Cebu/6 hours/Chartered]Tour of Remote Islands x Snorkeling x Tour with BBQ Lunch☆Additional marine activities OK 《Japanese speaking guide, free photo gift》（No.17開始時間9:00-15:00所要時間Approx. 6 hours16,450 yen

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About How to Get to Boracay Island

summary

To get to Boracay Island, the standard route is to fly from Manila or Cebu to Caticlan Airport or Kalibo Airport, and then take a boat. If you're looking for the cheapest option,Via CaliboIf you're looking for the fastest option, the direct flight to Katiklan is your best bet.

Be sure to familiarize yourself with how to board the boat and the weather precautions, and enjoy your time on the island to the fullest! If you book a tour as well, you’ll be able to make the most of your time there.

▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.