How to get to Malapascua?

Many travelers hesitate to visit Malapascua because getting there takes time. And yes, it’s a bit of a journey, but if you’re dreaming of diving with thresher sharks, it’s absolutely worth the effort. Since Malapascua has no airport, you first need to travel by land from Cebu to Maya Port, located at the northern tip of Cebu Island. From there, you take a short boat ride on a banca to reach the island.

The most budget-friendly option is the 🚌 public bus. From Cebu City, head to the North Bus Terminal (near SM City Cebu) and look for a Ceres bus going to Maya. The ride takes about 4 to 5 hours and costs around 300–350 PHP per person. Non-AC buses are even cheaper and are mostly used by locals. The windows stay open, so it’s usually comfortable while the bus is moving. In an AC bus, I recommend bringing a sweater, as it can get quite cold. The bus makes a few stops for snacks and toilet breaks and drops you directly at Maya Port.

If you prefer something a bit faster and more comfortable, you can take a 🚐 shared van. Vans leave from the North Bus Terminal and can be booked online through platforms like 12Go Asia. The journey takes around 3.5 to 4 hours. Vans leave once they are full and cost sometimes slightly more than the bus, but they are still much cheaper than a private transfer. 

The most convenient option is a 🚖 private transfer. This can be arranged through your accommodation in Malapascua or directly with a taxi company. A private car will take you from your accommodation in Cebu or from the airport directly to Maya Port, and in some cases, a private boat transfer is also included. There is no waiting time, and the journey is smooth and comfortable. However, it can cost up to 5,000 PHP one way. This option is ideal if you are traveling in a group and can split the cost.

Once you arrive at Maya Port, walk to the harbor, pay the terminal and environmental fees, purchase your boat ticket, and board the boat to Malapascua. There is no fixed departure schedule: the boat usually leaves once it is full. The price, however, is fixed. If someone tries to charge more because the boat is not full, you can politely negotiate or say you are happy to wait. In most cases, they will keep the standard price and depart even if the boat isn’t full.

Important!

No matter which transport option you choose, it’s strongly recommended to leave Cebu in the morning. The last boat usually departs around 5:00–5:30 PM, and if you arrive after that, you may have to spend the night in Maya, where accommodation options are quite limited.

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