About the ride from Bohol to Cebu
Kissing Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, ancient stone churches, and gorgeous heritage sites goodbye is bittersweet. But the farewell is easier when traveling to Cebu City, another incredible destination waiting to be explored.
Cebu City is another island province in the Philippines that all visitors need to see. With white-sand beaches, lush green scenery, and out-of-this-world diving tours, falling in love with Cebu is inevitable.
But before you start your romantic affair, you must plan your travel!
The journey from Bohol to Cebu takes you 72 km (45 miles) northwest across the Cebu Strait via ferry. This distance can take anywhere from two to five hours, so contemplate how long you want to be on the road (or sea) before you book your tickets.
When leaving Bohol, you’ll likely depart from Tagbilaran City Port Terminal, Tubigon Port, or Jatafe Port. In Cebu, you’ll arrive via Cebu Pier, Cebu International Port, or Tubigon Port. Make a note of your arrival point for a smooth onward journey.
Blissful beach days are only a ride away. Find out how to get from Bohol to Cebu without stress below.
Stunning sights you should see in Cebu
Cebu is a province like no other. Made up of over 170 different islands, this area has no shortage of fun things to do and delicacies to enjoy. It’s dubbed “The Gateway to a Thousand Journeys” for a reason!
Here are some of the highlights to add to your Cebu to-do list.
Kawasan Falls: If you’re passing through Cebu, Kawasan Falls is a must. This three-tiered turquoise waterfall is one of the most famous in the country and a popular spot for canyoneering tours. Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you!
Sirao Flower Garden: Also known as “The Little Amsterdam,” the Sirao Flower Garden transports you to a vivid world of flowers and natural beauty. The perfect backdrop for your vacation pics.
Osmena Peak: Located southwest of Cebu City, Osmena Peak is a 1,013 m (3323 ft) climb and, unsurprisingly, the highest point on the island. If you’re a keen hiker or camper, this adventurous excursion could be up your trail.
Diving and snorkeling: While not a place, you should check out the diving tours in Cebu. In Oslob (southeast Cebu), you can even swim with gentle Whale Sharks. Not for the faint of heart!
Simala Shrine: You’ll find the incredible Simala Shrine church in Sibong, southern Cebu. Inspired by European cathedrals, this religious structure and its intricate details impress all guests.
What is Cebu famous for?
Cebu is considered one of the oldest cities in the Philippines. It is the current center of commerce, trade, and tourism within the Visayas archipelago. Whether you want to stroll across white-sand beaches, take in old Spanish forts, climb mountains, gaze at waterfalls, or relax in a modern city, Cebu ticks all the boxes.
How to get from Bohol to Cebu
Getting from Bohol to Cebu is easy. Travel in style with the routes below.
By ferry
Since the Cebu Strait separates these two destinations, the main route from Bohol to Cebu is via ferry. But there’s more than one option to consider.
The most affordable ferries start at $6 per person. There are multiple ferry departures per day.
Ferries from Tubigon take two hours, and ferries from Tagbilaran take four hours. Double-check when you’re departing from get an accurate journey time.
Amenities you can expect from a ferry include WCs, large luggage storage, A/C, and individual seats. Some ferries also have TVs, but these aren’t guaranteed.
Depending on where you depart from, you may have to pay a departure port terminal fee. You pay this extra charge at the port. If your route has a fee, it will be in the “Useful Info” section.
Pro tip: While some ferries have on-board food and drink shops, they’re not guaranteed. Buy snacks and water before you board to ensure you don’t get peckish on the journey.
By van + ferry
Alongside ferry journeys, you can also book van + ferry rides.
These take you from Panglao to Quartel Beach, Oslob, a coastal town on the southeast side of Cebu Island. This isn’t Cebu City. However, it’s a great route if you want to skip the city and head straight to nature.
Van + ferry rides take 2.5 hours to arrive. They include WCs, ample baggage storage, and A/C.
Prices start at $9 per person.
About the journey from Bohol to Cebu
The ride from Bohol to Cebu takes you northwest through the Cebu Strait. But this isn’t your average ferry ride. During the journey, you’ll pass tiny islands and catch unforgettable views of pristine beaches.
Some sights you might see on the way include Olango Island and the San Vicente Marine Sanctuary, Mahanay Island, Banacon Island, Pandanon Beach, and Pandao Sandbar. Don’t fall asleep on this ride!
Ferries from Bohol to Cebu are safe for all travelers. This route is well-traveled, and most staff and ferry stewards have basic English skills.
The best time to travel from Bohol to Cebu
Plan your trip for success. The best time to travel from Bohol to Cebu is from December to May. These six months mark the dry season in Cebu.
From June to November, there’s a higher chance of rain, making it harder to sunbathe in peace. June, July, September, and October receive the most rain, so avoid these for a dry trip.
Despite a dry and rainy season, Cebu’s temperature doesn’t change much throughout the year. Expect an average of 28 to 31°C (82 to 87°F) for your visit.
Want to see one of Cebu’s most famous festivals? Schedule your trip for the third Sunday of January. This is the Sinulog Festival, where locals celebrate Santo Nino (Baby Jesus).
Where to visit after Cebu?
If you can’t get enough of the Philippines and can extend your vacation, don’t stop after Cebu.
Travel from Cebu to Manila and uncover the warm hospitality of the country’s capital. Known for exciting museums, shopping districts, and historic colonial architecture, you won’t regret this stop.
The journey to Manila takes anywhere from one hour and 20 minutes by flight to one day and 20 hours by ferry. Choose wisely!