Coron to Manila Ferry Guide: Price, Schedule & Smart Booking Tips

The ferry cost just $60, so I went for it. And honestly? It turned out to be a great choice. Here’s a quick guide if you are in a hurry.

Why Take the Ferry from Coron to Manila?

Taking the ferry between Coron and Manila can save you a significant amount of money — not just on airfare, but also on accommodation, since it’s an overnight journey.

The downside compared to flying is definitely the travel time. Instead of a quick 1.5-hour flight, you’re looking at around 13 hours on the boat, plus another 3–4 hours for check-in, waiting around, and getting off at the other end. But honestly, when you break it down, it’s not that bad. You’ll probably sleep for 8 hours, spend another 4–6 hours eating, chilling, or maybe even singing karaoke. That leaves just a couple of hours to kill. And the best part? You get a more local, immersive travel experience — way more memorable than just hopping on a plane.

The ferry departs from Coron every Sunday at 20:30 and arrives in Manila at 09:30 the following morning — a total journey of 13 hours. This schedule lets you enjoy a full day in Coron before boarding, so you don’t lose a travel day. And if you book a decent accommodation class on the ferry, the trip is surprisingly comfortable — easy on both body and mind — and leaves you with a unique story to tell.

Coron Manila Ferry Price: What I Paid and What are the Options

There are a total of seven accommodation classes on the ferry, ranging from the very basic Super Value Class — imagine 25+ bunk beds in a shared room — to a private suite for two people.

Unfortunately, the best option available when I booked was a bed in a 6-bed Business Class dormitory. I paid PHP 3,680 (~$62.80) and a delicious breakfast included. If you book early, the same bed can cost around PHP 3,400 (~$57). And if you are traveling with somebody, you can get a suite for two people for less than $120 — great deal compared to flying.

Tip: Lower-class options don’t include thick blankets. You’ll need to rent one onboard — and they run out fast. I missed out and froze under the AC. Rent early or bring your own hoodie or blanket.

If you book in advance, you can get a suite for two people for about half the cost of flight tickets — and you’ll also save on a night’s accommodation, with the added bonus of traveling in comfort.

Cabin Options

• Super Value Class (+50-bed)
  The most budget-friendly option. Large shared room with 25+ bunk beds. Expect minimal privacy and more noise.
• Mega Value Class (+20-bed)
  A slightly smaller shared room with around 10 bunk beds. Popular with families, so it can still be noisy.
• Tourist Class (8-bed)
  Offers more comfort and only 4 bunk beds per room. A good middle-ground option.
• Business Class (6-bed)
  This was the best class available when I booked— shared with five other people and a baby (thankfully a quiet one). Comfortable and relatively peaceful.
• Cabin Class (4-bed)
  A more upscale private room with better amenities.
• Stateroom Class (2-bed)
  A private cabin for two. These sell out quickly, so book early if you want privacy without splurging on a suite.
• Suite for Two (2-bed)
  The most luxurious option. Ideal for couples or travelers who want comfort and privacy. At times, the price for a suite for two people is nearly half the cost of flying. Under $120 for two people, last I checked.

What Are the Amenities on the Ferry From Coron to Manila?

The ferry isn’t huge, but it’s got the basics covered. There’s a restaurant and a bar onboard — the bar had karaoke and live music, so it’s a fun way to kill time in the evening. You can grab some food or drinks, or just hang out and people-watch. The price of a beer was around PHP 100 (~$1.7), and meals slightly higher — still affordable.

There’s also a small hair salon onboard that doubles a massage place. I didn’t try it myself, but it’s there if you want a haircut or a quick massage during the trip.

Cabins are air-conditioned (at least the Business Class ones), and there are shared bathrooms and showers. Not fancy, but functional. There are charging spots scattered around the ferry, and a few arcade machines to keep you entertained.

All in all, it’s not luxury — but it’s enough to make the 13-hour ride pretty comfortable.

Tips for Your Ferry from Coron To Manila

• Bring your own snacks: The food onboard is affordable and pretty tasty, but if you’re picky or have favorites snacks, pack them. There’s no guarantee they’ll have what you like.
• Rent a blanket early: The air-conditioning is cranked up, and if you’re in a lower class, blankets aren’t included. I waited too long and they were all gone — it gets cold.
• Want to sleep well? Book at least Business Class. Lower classes are noisy and packed with people. Business Class gives you space, peace, and a better night’s rest.
• Sing some karaoke: Seriously. It’s a fun way to pass time, meet people, and make the ride more memorable.
• Don’t rush to disembark: Everyone wants off the boat the moment it docks, but it’s a slow process. I’d actually recommend hanging back and getting out last. Otherwise, you’ll end up standing in line for forever just to get off 20–30 minutes earlier. Chill a bit, avoid the crowd, and save yourself the hassle.

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