What Really Is The Best Way To Ferry From El Nido To Coron?
Wandering how to get from El Nido to Coron? If you want to take the ferry from El Nido to Coron or vice versa (because there is some seriously amazing diving there), there are two ways you can get there. You can fly (apparently…but the evidence is severely lacking) or take the boat. I decided to ride the waves for you, and discovered some essential tips! Take note happy travellers; this is what you need to do.
How to go from El Nido to Coron with the ferry
There are FOUR different ways that you can take a boat from El Nido to Coron and vice versa. There’s the Regular El Nido Coron ferry, the fast craft, a passenger/cargo ship OR you can take your own private boat!
Getting from El Nido to Coron: how about your own private boat?
These services from El Nido to Coron and back, all have different prices, departure times and travel durations. All of the services’ times and prices are included in this guide.
I personally took the regular ferry. At the time I wasn’t aware of the private option, however. If I had known about that, I would have chosen this! It’s perfect for teaming up with strangers or going with your family or a good bunch of friends. Check private boat prices here.
What times does the ferry leave from El Nido to Coron?
Remember that this is Filipino time. Boats never leave when they say they will :) Depending on whether you want to get the fast, regular or cargo ferry, there are different times that they leave from El Nido. If you choose to book your own private boat, you can go whenever you want! Whichever option you choose, be prepared to pay the ferry tax which is around 20 pesos.
The Regular Ferry from El Nido to Coron
As there are two regular ferry companies, they leave at different times on different days.
The Bunso boat leaves every day of the week from El Nido at 08:30 in the morning. Boarding starts at 08:00 so make sure you’re there early and ready to go! The ferry terminal in El Nido is at the west point of the main beach.
Wondering how to get to El Nido from Coron? The Bunso Boat Coron to El Nido ferry leaves at 08:30 in the morning daily. Boarding starts at 08:00. Go to Coron Port to catch the ferry.
You can call the Bunso company on both of these numbers: 0910-720-8443 or 0906-637-4258.
The MBCA Jessabel 2 leaves on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday from El Nido. It leaves at 07:30 in the morning so make sure you are there by 07:00 latest.
Wondering how to get from Coron to El Nido? The MBCA Jessabel 2 leaves on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 07:30 in the morning.
You can call the Jessabel on these numbers: Smart: 0918-967-6837 or 0918-967-6838 and Globe: 0915-850-1391.
Travel from El Nido to Coron from a choice of 4 different services
The Fast Ferry from El Nido to Coron
The fast ferry leaves from El Nido at 06:00 in the morning daily! Get there early so you have time to board. Book your ticket here.
Are you leaving from Coron? The fast ferry from Coron to El Nido leaves at 12:00 noon daily. Go to Coron Port to catch the ferry. Book your ticket here.
The Cargo/Passenger Ship from El Nido to Coron
The cargo/passenger ship from El Nido leaves at 07:30 in the morning on Wednesdays only.
Are you leaving from Coron? It leaves on Monday only at 07:00 in the morning. This boat basically only travels once a week from either side, so if you want to take this (as it is the cheapest option), make sure to plan ahead a little bit.
Private Boat
You will have the freedom to choose your own schedule if you hire a private El Nido to Coron boat. Safety standards are excellent and the facilities onboard so much better than the other options. You can dictate when you leave, where you go and when you stop.
How long does the ferry from El Nido to Coron take?
Honestly…be prepared because we’re essentially asking ‘How long is a piece of string?’ here haha! Don’t let this put you off though! You HAVE to get to Coron for a magical time and the travel time is worth it.
Regular Ferry
The regular ferry reportedly takes 5 to 9 hours. A word of warning about the Bunso 4 which leaves El Nido on Tuesday and Thursday and Coron on Tuesday and Thursday! It takes longer than the other Bunsos (about 8 to 9 hours).
Fast Ferry
The fast ferry reportedly takes 4 hours. Check the schedule and times here.
Passenger/Cargo ship
For the passenger/cargo ship, it reportedly takes 8 hours.
Private Boat
With your private boat, you can choose how long you want to take to travel from El Nido to Coron. Maybe you want a direct comfortable service. Or maybe you want to take your time exploring some of the amazing, deserted islands along the way. Whatever you want, it can be arranged. Check your options and prices here.
Getting from El Nido to Coron: how about your own private boat?
How much is the ferry from El Nido to Coron?
You can get tickets from your hotel, booking agencies in town or there are always tickets at the port itself.
The cost of the ticket depends on which ferry you want to take.
Regular Ferry
The regular ferry costs 1400 pesos. It holds 70 to 80 passengers and is made up of two boat companies: ‘Bunso’ and ‘MBCA Jessabel 2’.
Fast Ferry
The fast ferry costs 1760 pesos. It holds 110 passengers and is called ‘Montenegro Lines’. Book your ticket instantly here.
Passenger Cargo Ship
The passenger cargo ship costs 1150 pesos for air-conditioned seats and 1000 pesos for non-air-conditioned seats. It is run by MV May Lillies (Atienza Shipping).
Private Boat
Prices are going to vary on how long you want to sail and how many of you will be going on one boat. If you want to make the most of all of the beautiful islands on the El Nido Coron boat, I recommend taking your time and booking at least a couple of days. Plan your private trip and request prices here.
The best places to sleep in El Nido before you leave
Regular ferry from El Nido to Coron Travel Tips
There are some essential travel tips that I have for you if you decide to take the regular ferry, from sleeping, eating and not getting dehydrated. Read carefully so you can have as much of a comfortable journey as possible.
The ferry from El Nido to Coron takes a long time
Weirdly, local folks will keep telling you the journey takes five hours. That is a lie I’m afraid. This is a ferry ruled by the weather gods and lovely laid-back Filipinos. Journeys take around 8 to 10 hours. Be prepared to entertain yourself. There is WiFi on board but it’s like the Loch Ness monster: It’s apparently meant to be there but very few people have seen it.
Surfaces are hard, really hard
There is one continuous bench on either side of the boat from El Nido to Coron for everyone to sit on. Yet soon enough, people want to take a kip and lie down. This is gonna be on the floor. There are signs everywhere telling you not to use your life vest as a pillow. Lots of people try to do it but the captain will come by and take them right back off you soon enough. Try and use your bag or something folded to keep you comfy.
You’ll be fed on the ferry from El Nido to Coron
Lunch is served and the food is good! What you’re given is what you get though. There’s no vegetarian option so for the animal-friendly folks out there, you may wanna pack your lunch. The food is rice, vegetables and meat and the portion size is good! You’re also given fruit for dessert. All yummy, all good, no stomach surprises.
Wear sunscreen or sit below the deck!
It sounds like a no-brainer but Teacake came off the boat like a little roast pork. Many people sat up top excited to fly through the waves and act like pirates discovering new islands for the first time. I did this too but a) There’s barely any cover b) The sun’s heat is ridiculous c) You need to apply suntan continuously d) You might fall asleep (oh yes I did).
Bring water and drink it like a fish
There’s nothing for sale on this boat. Nothing. You’ll be given one bottle of water and that’s it. Make sure you’re stocked up like you’re running a marathon. If you’ve been drinking the night before, you might just hate yourself a little bit (oh yes I did).
The best places to sleep in Coron Town
I hope this has answered all of your questions about how to get to Coron from El Nido. If you need help, do not hesitate to leave a comment below. I keep a close eye on these services to make your journey as easy as it can be – and can find out the answer for you.
You have travel insurance, right?
I know a number of you have expressed worries about taking these boats. With any adventure, there is always a chance that something could happen (but let’s face it, you could hurt yourself making vegetable soup in the kitchen). Regardless, travel insurance whilst having the time of your life is ESSENTIAL. Check travel insurance prices with World Nomads here.
Related Reading
5 Awesome Things To Do in El Nido
How to Travel to El Nido Easily on Palawan Island
The Ultimate 3 Day Puerto Princesa Itinerary
Comment Below!
Have you taken any of the ferry services recently? Share your experience below!
Gettiing from El Nido to Coron: how about your own private boat?
Join the conversation
91 Comments
Erica6 August 2015
8-10 hours isn't that bad, I actually thought it was supposed to be an entire 24 hour ride! I'll probably do this next time I go to El Nido, I still want to explore the islands I didn't get to see. And I don't really need a reason to go back to Coron, do I. Hah. Love love your blog! www.girlunspotted.com
aliceteacake6 August 2015
Oh wow no haha, it's definitely not 24 hours! Thank you for your support, get to those islands girl!
tharp28 September 2015
I did this trip some years back and the weather was a bit uncooperative. Because of rough seas it took us a full twelve hours to get to Coron. After nine hours, the Germans (who made up most of the twenty or so travelers on board) started complaining to the captain, who, nonplussed, just shrugged and said, "I can't control the weather." The Germans carried on complaining anyway.
aliceteacake28 September 2015
The Captain is always right!
Aizel Agustin9 October 2015
Do you know any hotel or cheap accommodation near the ferry terminal? Do you know where exactly the terminal is? thanks for your help.
aliceteacake9 October 2015
Are you asking about El Nido or Coron? :) El Nido has lots of options to suit all budgets! Admittedly, if you're sharing with someone it is going to be cheaper. I shacked up with a couple of mates in one of the beach bungalows in El Nido but naturally, the further back you go from the ferry terminal and beach, the cheaper the rooms will be. In fact, if you check out my 'Secret Sunset in El Nido Post' https://www.teacaketravels.com/2015/04/15/the-secret-sunset-in-el-nido-philippines/ that location has some awesome cheap beach bungalows as it's local and away from the tourist hub. As for Coron, accommodation is not super super cheap but there is the odd hostel there where you can rough it a little bit and get a cheap price. From the Coron Ferry Terminal, head West for lots of accommodation options.
Sarah23 October 2015
hey hun, thanks for sharing this with us! I just looked into ferries in between these two stops and everyone seems to be worried about safety. Do you remember which company you went with? It looks like there is a car ferry and one for people, I guess you took the people one?
aliceteacake24 October 2015
I took the people one! I had no concerns about safety (but this is me we're talking about: I'm a rogue one). However truly, I felt very safe on board. If one shipwrecks however, please don't blame it on the Teacake. As an alternative, you can always fly. Flights aren't exactly 100% safe either though lately (?!) ><
MARC29 November 2015
Hi You talked about a big and SAFE boat from El Nido to Coron City (Im talking about the City on Busuanga Island not Coron Island which is close by). You said that the company's name was "The people one", do you have any website or email for this company ? Bc I would like to make a reservation or at least send them an email bc Im goin there in February (so the peak season for foreigners so boats are quicly fully booked !). Thanks in adavance :-)
Alice teacake29 November 2015
Hello Marc! Thanks for your comment and question. Yes, the boat does go to Busuanga Island. I'm afraid I don't have a website or email for these companies. I have to say that things just aren't that organised there. Try to get to the port a couple of days before you want to depart to book your ticket and you should be fine! I was there in February myself and had no problem getting on those boats from El Nido or Coron. Good luck and have a great time in the Philippines!
Janine Suyac25 December 2015
Hey there. Im planning to go on a trip to El Nido and Coron. I've researched ferryboat companies that will take me from El Nido to Coron but I can't find any. I've researched more and found some boats that will take me to Coron but I'm really concerned about the safety coz Ive read some horrible stories. Can you recommend me the ferryboat company that you went on to? Youre reply will be really appreciated.
Alice teacake26 December 2015
Hello Janine! Yes, information about these on the internet is scarce! In all honesty, I cannot remember what company I went with. I hopped on the boat that was available on the days I wanted to go - it seemed to be the same company back and forth. Boat rides in Asia can be touch and go and there is some level of risk. If you're not feeling that this is the way to go for you, I recommend flying instead. Good luck and hope you make it to both places! They're absolutely worth it!
Elden Gatley29 February 2016
I think it's great that they give fruit as dessert on the ferry. I think doing so caters to more people. Most people who avoid sugary desserts are likely to still eat fruit. I think that even people who do eat desserts would also generally be willing to eat fruit.
Raushan18 August 2016
Hey, Sorry this is a stupid question but I'm travelling to El Nido (and hopefully Coron) in the next two weeks and I want to make sure I'm doing this right! The boat services you've suggested (Jessabel Boat and Overcomer Boat) will pick us up from the El Nido Ferry Terminal located near the El Nido airport, right? I'm having troubles trying to locate the drop off point in Coron, I'm trying to find a hotel closeby you see. Thanks, Raushan
Alice teacake4 September 2016
Hello Raushan! Yes, these services and times are from El Nido to take you to Coron :) I hope you find some suitable accommodation for yourself once you get there! Agoda is a great place to look. They have excellent deals for Asia and the Philippines specifically.
fadiyah9 September 2016
Thanks for complete, great and helpful information. Wish to visit this awesome island as soon as possible
Nathan TheTRVLBlog23 October 2016
We didn't manage to get to Coron from El Nido, but I seriously wish we did! Everything about the place looks out of this world. How were the beaches compared to the ones at Bacuit Bay? Definitely next time we are in the Philippines though. At least we know what we'll be in for with the ferry, heard it was a bit of a nightmare. Hope you had a great time.
Alice teacake23 October 2016
The beaches are just as good! Hope you do get there Nathan and yes, at least you've got a heads up about that ferry now haha! ⛴⛴⛴
Zoe29 October 2016
Hello! You mentioned you can fly from El Nido to Coron... how? I've been looking and I can't find any information on that! Of course I know you can fly from El Nido to Manila and then from Manila fly to Coron, but are there ANY direct flights between El Nido and Coron?! Thanks so much in advance!
Alice teacake31 October 2016
Hi Zoe! I'm going to double check this for you and get back to you on this one! I was told there were but let me get more specific details for you <3
Jesse19 November 2016
Hello, Someone may have already asked, but is it recommended to fly from Manila to Coron first? Then maybe fly from Coron to Puerto Princesa > rent a car > and drive to El Nido? If so, would I be able to return the rental car in El Nido and fly back to Manila from there? Thanks in advance.
Jay30 November 2016
I have read a review recently on trip advisor that said The Jezebel sank and the cause was deemed to be unsafe ie. not because of the weather. I recommend removing this recommendation.
Alice teacake2 December 2016
This was a long time ago. Naturally, taking a boat in the Philippines is going to have some element of risk, just like riding a motorbike in Vietnam, or doing the Mongol Rally. I've done them all and am happy for taking the risk!
Trave28 December 2016
I plan to travel from el nido to coron. Do i need to buy the ferry ticket in advance or can reach the ferry port at 7 am buy the ticket and get on board at 8 am ( i presume). Also i could not find the address of the ferry port at el nido and Coron. Any help would be highly appreciated.
Alice teacake2 January 2017
Hi Trave! You can certainly buy your ticket there but there's no harm in booking ahead by asking the receptionist/local you're staying with to call ahead. Locals are your best friends. Ask them for directions and you'll get there in no time :)
Michele R16 January 2017
Hi there, we are planning to travel in March. How did the ferry connection go? Is the terminal near the airport? We will fly to Coron then take a tour Coron - El Nido, then ferry back to Coron. Grateful for you to share any tips you found along the way.
leigh carter31 December 2016
hi there, my husband and i are travelling to Phillipines. he likes to dive so was thinking about going to corn, then to El nido. we only have a week in palawan, what do you suggest the best itinerary for a week. and how to get between the places.
Alice teacake1 January 2017
Hello Leigh! Coron is certainly the place to be. An excellent choice! Depending on your budget, there are a ton of different transport options. I recommend starting your travels in Puerto Princesa which is easily accessible from Manilla. They have the best food in Palawan here! Check out the restaurants or eat right down on the seafront and make sure you don't miss the brewery run completely by women. You can go island hopping down here if you wish before visiting the infamous underground river. Make your way up to El Nido (with a ton of transport options to choose from) and once you're there, here's 5 ideas for you. The ferry to Coron still seems the best way in my opinion. Once you're there, 2 days of diving will keep you happy!
Marj Rose14 January 2017
Hi! We have 2 kids travelling with us to Palawan soon. Ages 3 & 1 upon travel. Will you recommend the Ferry ride to us from El Nido to Coron with these two little ones? or should we just skip going to Coron this time? We will start in Puerto Princessa then to El Nido & then to Coron as the last trip.
Alice teacake14 January 2017
If you are happy travelling with basics, you'll be fine. There are no 'plush' seats and fancy toilet facilities and nothing to keep the kids entertained on board. There is cover downstairs and good free food provided however :) Have an amazing time in the Philippines. Making it to Coron is 100% worth it!
Nancy17 January 2017
We are traveling with 2older kids but just arrived at the coron port and found out the ferry was cancelled due to choppy sea. Some tourist just arrived n said so many people were sick on board. If u go, take the fast ferry 3.5hours. Pay slightly more i definitely would not take the slow ferry with little kids, but our trip to coron took us 6hr 15m with calm sea and was pleasant. But not suited to little kids as there are open areas, holes in the floor etc
Nancy17 January 2017
We came to coron on the regular ferry and traveling time was just over 6hrs with calm sea plus an hour waiting at the port, however going back by fast ferry 3hr 30m with Montenegro lines which cost 1760 peso . The tour shops sells these ticket but we got ours at the hotel. Our return ferry was cancelled due to weather and when we return to our hotel it was fully booked. We found a room but hopefully ferry will sail tomorrow!
Alice teacake17 January 2017
Thank you for the update Nancy!
Marck22 February 2017
Hi, Almost all the comments or questions posted here are on the regular ferry from El Nido to Coron. My family and I are trying to plan a trip there and I was wondering if there is a big difference in the fare if we were to ride on the fast ferry and will it be worth it? Thanks.
Alice teacake23 February 2017
Hi Marck! I'm checking information on this and will get back to you asap with the information I find <3
Nancy24 February 2017
Hi Marck, I would definitely take the fast ferry (4 hrs)which took us half the time of the regular one for an extra 300 peso each way. only thing is the fast ferry leaves at 6 am from El Nido but from Coron it leaves at 12. Its enclosed with an out door section, much more comfortable and modern and safer boat. They ask that you be there an hour before..
Anna12 April 2017
Hello :) Thanks for all the super useful info above. I'm planning on visiting Palawan (Coron, El Nido and PP) on June 23rd for 10 days. I haven't booked this yet, but I was wondering if anyone here had been to Palawan in late June and could offer me some insight into what the weather may be like? I know it is the the start of the rainy season, however I've been told that unless there is a typhoon we would probably be okay to still go then and would still see some sunshine. Apparently the rain is worst in August? I don't mind a bit of rain, just would be a shame if it was all day everyday and ruined the trip. If anyone could offer some insight/advice I would be so grateful :) Thanks, x
Alice Teacake14 April 2017
Hi Anna! The best time to visit Palawan are the Summer months from March to June. You should fit yourself nicely into that window :)
Eve7 August 2017
I just visited in May and it was scorching hot! A little or big rain would have been great. My boyfriend burned big time despite his coveralls and sunscreen while snorkelling. No amount of aloe vera helped and speaking of which, bring a TUB lol!
Justine5 May 2017
Hi! Thank you for the information here, going to Palawan in June and so this is definitely going to be handy! Just wondering though, are those prices just one way? Do you by any chance know if its cheaper to buy return or just the same price as we're going there on a budget. Thanks again!
Alice Teacake10 May 2017
Hi Justine! I believe these prices are one way (and most likely for a good reason). Boat times can change, companies can change. The rules just aren't as hard and fast in the Philippines :)
Roselle27 July 2017
Hi! Love this post, it's so helpful. My concern and question is if there's a ferry that leaves early morning from Coron to El Nido?? So far all I've seen leave at 12nn. And I can't do that because if I arrive at El Nido at 3:30 pm (lets not forget filipino time), and I'll have to take a van from El Nido to PPS on time for my 7:40pm flight to Manila. Can't rebook or refund. :'( Any help? Thank you!
Alice Teacake23 August 2017
Hi Roselle! I am SO SORRY if this reply is too late for you. I really don't believe there is a ferry earlier than this right now from Coron to El Nido :( If you do find one, please let me know so we can tell everyone else! <3
Andrea3 August 2017
Hi Alice, Your blog is so helpful..! If you had only 5 nights and had to split your time between Coron and El Nido, how would you split it i.e. 2 in Coron, 3 in El Nido? We don't have our dive certs so will only be scuba diving. We are staying in Coron first, then the fast ferry to El Nido Thanks, Andie :)
Alice Teacake7 August 2017
Hey Andrea. Ooooooh good question! The only thing to watch out for is that ferry. It can be cancelled at short notice and take longer than you think! Coron is amazing for diving - if you just want to snorkel, El Nido has endless opportunities. Is this what you are asking? You say you don't have your diving certificates but are scuba diving, so I'm a little confused ><
Christine11 October 2017
Hi Alice, I have a question. The price for the fast boat P1760 is it one way or two way already? :) Thank you !
Alice Teacake6 December 2017
Hi Christine this is for one way :)
Teri30 November 2017
Hello, Me and my partner are going to the Philippines in January. We are staying in El Nido for 4 days and then looking to get the fast ferry to Coron to stay for 3 days. Would you recommend that we book the fast ferry online now at https://www.facebook.com/montenegroinc/ (which adds lots of fees + my bank fees) or would you recommend to book it once we are there? We would really like the fast ferry as it wont cut into our first day in Coron. Do they sell out quickly? Thanks!
Alice Teacake6 December 2017
Hi Teri! It's a bit of a tough call! If time is of the essence to you, you don't mind the charges, and you want 100% peace of mind (well almost 100% - the boats can be cancelled at any minute) then it might be worth it. However, as you're in El Nido for 4 days, I feel you should be fine buying your ticket once you're there. Sending good luck vibes to you for a smooth and easy transfer to Coron!
Sheamon1 December 2017
Hey Alice, great write up! My friends and I are visiting Coron then making our way down to El Nido. Could you recommend if we should pre book accommodation or book when we get there? We normally just wing it but I'm a little nervous this time around.
Alice Teacake6 December 2017
Hi Sheamon! The off-peak season is May to September. If you're planning to travel outside of this, you might not mean you get your first choice and the best location. For the best deals, I highly recommend booking your accommodation with Agoda before you go (then if you change your mind, you can easily cancel). Have a great journey!
AL Murgy21 January 2018
Hi Alice We're going to El Nido from Coron. I have read everything you wrote and everybody's comments as well. But I didn't see any mention of cabins/beds available. I am a very poor sea traveller. I get seasick unless I am horizontal on any boat/ship. Also, to save time and hotel fee, I want to travel overnight. Is there any ferry that does overnight crossing? Thanks.
Alice Teacake22 January 2018
Hi Al. I do not think there are any boats going overnight :( And as for cabins and beds...I don't think they deem the journey long enough for this. There was space for people to lie horizontal on the boat I was on - but this is hardly luxury. You essentially find a space on the bench or the floor and take it. This is what everyone leaned towards doing. I really do feel for you though - I get terribly seasick - even on a pedalo boat!
Lisa Mitchell3 February 2018
Hello, Thanks for the fantastic and helpful post! Would you say that Coron is just as nice as El Nido? I am wondering if El Nido is worth it if I want to go to Coron for diving. I am mostly interested in the limestone scenery. Thank you!
Alice Teacake15 February 2018
Hi Lisa! Coron is certainly less touristy than El Nido - and you will get just as much limestone scenery over there as you will do in El Nido! Coron is one of my favourite places in Palawan - go for it!
katie23 February 2018
Hello, Thank you for your post. We are heading to cebu for 4 days. We are then flying to El Nido and have 4 and a half days. Would you recommend staying in El Nido for the whole time, or split the time with coron (will be a bit tight). We will not be diving just snorkelling. Thank you, Kate
Alice Teacake24 February 2018
Hi Kate - time is tight for you here. I recommend staying in El Nido. You'll have plenty of opportunity for some beautiful snorkelling right here :)
Tomas6 April 2018
Hi Alice. Your post is really helpfull... I was wondering how much will it cost me to rent my own boat from el nido to Coron and if that is a easy and worth choice? Thank you
Alice Teacake7 April 2018
Hi Tomas! The cost is going to differ depending on whether you want to stop off anywhere on the way - and whether you want the trip to be one day or more leisurely, taking a few days. You can get a quote here.
Comments are closed.