Cebu to Bohol Ferry: Everything You Need to Know
TL;DR
Fast ferries (OceanJet, SuperCat) run multiple times daily from Cebu Pier 1 to Tagbilaran, Bohol. Crossing takes about 2 hours. Tickets start around ₱850. Add a hotel pickup to skip the terminal queue and get door-to-door service. Weather cancellations get a full refund.
Which Ferry Operator Should You Book?
Three operators run the Cebu–Tagbilaran crossing. Here's the honest breakdown:
| Operator | Duration | Frequency | From | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OceanJet | ~2 hrs | 6–8 daily | ₱800 | Most reliable, most departures |
| SuperCat | ~2 hrs | 3–4 daily | ₱750 | Slightly cheaper, good alternative |
| Lite Ferries | ~3.5 hrs | 2–3 daily | ₱450 | Budget option, slower but comfortable |
Our recommendation: OceanJet for most travellers. Highest frequency means if you miss one, another follows within the hour. SuperCat is a solid backup. Lite Ferries only if you're on a tight budget and don't mind the extra time.
Which Port in Cebu?
Fast ferries (OceanJet and SuperCat) depart from Pier 1 at Cebu City port. Lite Ferries depart from Pier 3. If you're adding a hotel transfer, the driver knows which pier — you don't need to worry about it.
Arrive at the terminal at least 60 minutes before departure. Peak season (December–May) gets busy, especially morning sailings.
What "With Transfer" Actually Means
When you book through us, you can add a private hotel pickup. A driver collects you from your Cebu hotel, takes you directly to the correct pier, and handles the terminal walk-through. At the Bohol end, another driver meets you at Tagbilaran port and drops you at your accommodation.
The transfer isn't a shared bus — it's a private vehicle. That's what makes this a door-to-door service rather than just a ferry ticket.
What Happens If the Ferry Cancels?
Weather cancellations (typhoons, heavy swells) happen. When they do, you get a full refund — no arguments, no fine print. The ferry companies suspend sailings when conditions are unsafe, and refunds are processed automatically.
The months with the highest cancellation risk are June through November (habagat season). December through May is the dry season and the most reliable for crossings.
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
Peak season (Dec–May): Book 3–7 days ahead, especially for morning sailings and weekends. Seats fill up fast around Christmas, Easter, and Sinulog Festival.
Off-peak (Jun–Nov): Same-day booking usually works, but availability can shift quickly if a sailing cancels and passengers pile onto the next one.
Book Your Cebu → Bohol Crossing
Ferry ticket + optional hotel transfer. One booking, one confirmation.
Search Available DatesFrequently Asked
Can I bring a motorbike on the fast ferry?
No. Fast ferries (OceanJet, SuperCat) are passenger-only. For vehicles, you need a RORO ferry from a different terminal. Contact a shipping line like Lite Ferries or Trans-Asia directly.
Is there food on board?
OceanJet and SuperCat have a small snack bar. The options are limited and overpriced — eat before you board.
Where do I go after arriving in Tagbilaran?
If you've booked a transfer, your driver will be holding a sign with your name at the terminal exit. If not, taxis and tricycles are available right outside the port — expect to negotiate the fare.