Cebu to Dipolog

About the ride from Cebu to Dipolog

Traveling around the Philippines can be tricky because it’s 7,640 different islands. However, infrastructure is improving throughout the country, and ferries are relatively easy to come by. The downside is that they can take quite a long time to travel from one island to another.

A positive of travel in this region is that no matter which option of transport from Cebu to Dipolog you choose, you are bound to have a beautiful ride. You’ll be treated to amazing views of the Sulu Sea, as well as the stunning islands that dot the journey.

Dipolog is located south of Cebu on an entirely different island. Because of this, you will need to take a ferry or fly. 

If you have your sights set on amazing eco-tourism in the Philippines, why not consider Dipolog City in Zamboanga del Norte? The area is known for beautiful wild orchids that grow in droves and the abundance of stunning waterfalls and impressive peaks.

Plus, the distance from Cebu to Dipolog is only 217 km (~135 miles), so it’s an easy journey from one island to the other.  

Once you arrive, check out 3003 Steps to Linabo Peak. It offers breathtaking views of Dipolog and is a great way to get your steps in for the entire vacation! 

Sungkilaw Falls is also fantastic for nature lovers. This natural waterfall is a great place to bring a picnic and enjoy some quiet time surrounded by the lush forest. 

Dipolog Sunset Boulevard is a popular scenic promenade you can explore as well. You can use the 2.5 km stretch to go for a run, bring your friends for a game of pick-up basketball, or simply stroll along the walkway and enjoy the sounds of the ocean.

Keep reading for some options to help you get from Cebu to Dipolog as quickly and efficiently as possible.

 

How to get from Cebu to Dipolog

The best way to travel from Cebu to Dipolog is by flight. 

Flights take only an hour, but they can be expensive if you wait too long to book. 

Ferriers are consistently a cheap option, but they take nine hours. This obviously isn’t ideal if you are prone to seasickness or struggle on longer journeys. 

 

Taking a flight

Flying is a great way to travel if you like to maximize your time at your next destination. 

The Cebu to Dipolog flight can cost as little as US$22. To score a fantastic deal, set a fare alert for Philippine Airlines and try to be flexible with your travel plans. If you are, you’ll be able to get a cheap ticket.

Philippine Airlines and Cebugo offer a direct economy flight to Dipolog each day.

For budget airlines, both Philippine Airlines and Cebgo are relatively comfortable. The only issue is that you may have to pay for baggage if you book the cheapest ticket. If that’s the case, pack as light as you can and travel carry-on only.

You’re not able to cancel or change your ticket once it’s booked. So make sure you double-check your travel plans before purchasing that ticket.

If flying seems like a good option for you, check out the Cebu to Dipolog flight schedule for the most up-to-date information on departure times.

 

By ferry

Another way to get to Dipolog is by ferry. Medallion Transport offers three different ferry classes: economy, tourist, and business.

Regardless of which option you take, you’ll cover the Cebu to Dipolog distance in approximately nine hours. You’ll depart Cebu Pier and arrive in Dipolog Port, northwest of the city center.

Luggage allowance is the same no matter which ticket class you book. You are allowed to bring 15 kg of luggage. You can pay US$3 more for every 10 kg of overweight baggage you have. 

Economy ferries are the least expensive, starting at US$21 per person. This ticket gets you a bunk bed in a large communal area, like a dorm in a hostel. But the boat only has a bathroom and a snack bar, no AC, so it can get a little stuffy.

Pro tip: Bring something to use as a blanket and a pillow because these items are not provided. 

Tourist ferry tickets have bunk beds in a common area, but they provide a little more privacy as these beds have panels around them. You’ll have AC, bathrooms, a snack bar, and TVs. 

You’ll definitely want a blanket here. The AC can actually make it a little chilly on this journey!

Expect to pay about US$30 per person for a tourist ferry ticket. 

If you’re sold on traveling by boat, the best way to get from Cebu to Dipolog is on the business ferry.

These tickets are only US$37 per person and include everything that the tourist ferry offers. However, as an added bonus, there are only four bunk beds per room, so you’ll have a little bit more privacy. There are also mattresses and pillows on these beds, unlike on the other ferries.

Pro tip: Treat these bunk beds like you would a hostel bed. Bring your own pillowcase and/or sleeping bag liner to be extra hygienic.

Make sure to double-check the ferry and flight schedules to find the best fit for your travel plans. Whether you travel quickly by air or slowly by sea, the journey will be well worth it when you climb those 3003 stairs to catch a glimpse of Dipolog from above!