How to Get to Palawan by Ferry (Puerto Princesa & Coron)
Updated Sep 30, 2026 · Philippines Ferry
Palawan has two main ferry gateways: Puerto Princesa in the middle of the island and Coron (Busuanga) in the far north. Both are served by weekly overnight sailings from Manila.
Manila to Puerto Princesa
2GO Travel runs a weekly overnight RoPax from Manila North Harbor to Puerto Princesa, roughly 24–30 hours at sea. You board in the evening, sleep one or two nights in a bunk or cabin, and arrive in the morning. It is the budget alternative to flying and doubles as your accommodation for the night.
Manila to Coron
Coron is served by overnight ferries from Manila taking around 11–14 hours. Coron town is the base for the famous wreck diving and island-hopping lagoons. There is also a fast-ferry link between Coron and El Nido (around 3.5–4.5 hours), which makes a Manila → Coron → El Nido → fly-out itinerary very workable.
Ferry vs plane for Palawan
Flights to Puerto Princesa, Coron and El Nido are frequent and often discounted. The ferry wins when fares spike (holidays), when you carry dive gear or a vehicle, or when you simply prefer slow travel. Book the ferry early for December–April — cabins sell out weeks ahead.
Live schedules for this route
More ferry travel guides
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Check current ferry cancellations and sea conditions before you travel, because sailings can be suspended during typhoons or when the Coast Guard raises a gale warning. Browse all ferry schedules or ferries by destination to compare operators.