Malapascua is a must-visit in any Philippines itinerary, especially for divers. However, reaching this remote island can take almost a full day, depending on your starting point. In this guide on how to get from Cebu to Malapascua, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your journey smooth and hassle-free.
Where is Malapascua?
Malapascua is a small island located in the Visayan Sea, just off the northern coast of Cebu, Philippines. It is part of the municipality of Daanbantayan, in the province of Cebu. The island is about 2.5 kilometers long and 1 kilometer wide, making it easy to explore on foot.
Home to just 4000 people, Malapascua is best known as one of the only places in the world where divers can consistently see thresher sharks, making it a top diving destination. It also boasts stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back island vibe.
How to get from Cebu to Malapascua
Getting to Malapascua typically requires an early start, depending where you’re coming from. Here is a step by step guide on how to get from Cebu to Malapascua:
Step 1 – Get to Cebu SM North Bus Terminal
No matter where you’re coming from, your first stop is Cebu SM North Bus Terminal. Here are the estimated Grab fares for a 4-seater ride from popular locations in Cebu City:
- From Cebu South Bus Terminal: 160 pesos ($2.75 USD), for those coming from Moalboal
- From Pier 1 at Ferry Terminal: 140 pesos ($2.40 USD), for those coming from or via Bohol
- From Cebu Airport: 320 pesos ($5.50 USD), for those coming by plane
There are two locations listed as Cebu North Bus Terminal—one of them refers to the old station, which is no longer in use. Make sure you’re heading to the correct one, which is called “SM North Bus Terminal“. Find the exact location on the map below.
Step 2 – From SM North Bus Terminal to Maya Port
Once you’re at the bus terminal, you will find both buses and minivans offering the same ride. Look for the ones going to Maya Port.
Bus vs Minivan
Both buses and minivans are affordable options for getting to Maya Port, but the comfort of your ride depends on the vehicle and other factors, which can vary. We’ve heard both good and bad experiences with each, and ultimately chose the minivan. Here’s what you need to know:
- Buses: A ticket to Maya Port costs 300-350 pesos ($5.15 – $6.00 USD) and the journey takes about 5 hours. There is no need to book your ticket in advance, and buses leave regularly, typically every 30 minutes.
- Minivans: Going to Maya Port by minivan costs 350 pesos ($6.00 USD) and the ride takes about 4 to 4.5 hours. You don’t need to book your ticket in advance, and buses leave once they’re full. We had to wait about 15 minutes before leaving.
Note: For some reason, the minivan keeps stopping to pick up more passengers even when it’s already full. This leads to overcrowding, and in our experience, it wasn’t any more comfortable than the bus as we had expected.
Private car
If you’re looking for a more comfortable ride to get from Cebu to Malapascua, hiring a private car is your best option. A private transfer from Cebu to Maya Port typically costs 3,500–4,500 pesos ($60–$77 USD) and can be split among up to four travelers.
Step 3 – Maya Port
Cebu is notorious for long travel times, and getting to Maya Port can be a bit of a challenge. But once you make it to the port, you’ll need to catch a boat to Malapascua.
Before that, though, there are a few more steps. As you walk toward the harbor, you’ll be guided to a small yellow house built over the water, where you’ll take care of the next part of your journey.
Inside, you’ll need to show your ID, fill out a form and pay the required fees: the environmental fee (120 pesos – $2 USD) and the passenger fee (20 pesos – $0.30 USD). The place isn’t busy at all, and the atmosphere is laid-back and relaxed. Everyone working at Maya Port is incredibly friendly, making the experience even more pleasant.
After paying the fees and filling the form, you can head to the yellow container outside where you can buy your boat ticket. Once again, there is no need to reserve it in advance (to be honest, we don’t even think it’s possible).
Boat tickets from Maya Port to Malapascua Island cost 200 pesos ($3.50 USD) per person.
Boats operate all day from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you happen to arrive late at the harbor, you can try renting a private transfer to Malapascua for around 2,000 pesos ($35 USD). Alternatively, if no transfer options are available, you can book a night at Arriyus Apartelle, or consider staying at Joyful Hut or Suba Beach Nipa Huts.
Step 4 – From Maya Port to Malapascua
The boat ride from Maya Port to Malapascua takes about 35 minutes, with boats leaving approximately every 30 minutes. Each boat can accommodate around 20 passengers, and backpacks are stored in the middle.
When we went, there was no risk of getting our stuff wet. However, depending on the tide and the type of boat, you may need to step into the water to board.
Step 5 – Once in Malapascua
After a short boat ride, you’ll finally arrive at the island of Malapascua. The pier is located on the southeast side of the island, and keep in mind that it’s small—there are no cars on the island.
Depending on where your accommodation is, you can either walk or take a bike ride. The typical fee to go from the southern part of the island to the north is just 50 pesos ($0.90 USD), so be mindful and avoid being overcharged.
Our accommodation was in the southern part of the island, so we ended up walking.
Total Cost to Get from Cebu to Malapascua
Overall, getting from Cebu to Malapascua can be a bit strenuous, but it’s not overly expensive. Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved:
- Transfer to Cebu North Terminal: 150 pesos (~$2.60 USD)
- Bus to Maya Port: 350 pesos (~$6 USD)
- Fees (Environmental + Passenger): 140 pesos (~$2.40 USD)
- Boat ticket: 200 pesos (~$3.50 USD)
In total, you’ll spend around 840 pesos (~$15 USD) on transportation and fees to get from Cebu to Malapascua. Keep in mind that while the journey may take some time and effort, it’s definitely worth it for the beautiful destination awaiting you on Malapascua!
Tips to Get from Cebu to Malapascua
The main tip we’d have if you want to get from Cebu to Malapascua in the same day, is to leave early in the morning. This will ensure you don’t miss the boat, and you can still enjoy the afternoon on the island after checking in, as well as planning the activities for the next day.
Also, have small change ready. When paying for the fees at the harbor or for a bike ride, it’s handy to have small notes to avoid problems with change.
If you’re not overly concerned about your budget and want a smoother ride, look for people going to Malapascua on your flight / ferry and share a private transfer to Maya Port with them.
Lastly, bring cash. You want to withdraw cash before embarking on this transfer from Cebu to Malapascua, as most businesses on the island charge extra fees when paying with card. Most dive shops also accept foreing currencies.
