Dumaguete to Siquijor — The Most Popular Ferry Route to the Island

Eighteen daily ferries, a one-hour crossing, and fares from ₱328. The Dumaguete route is how most people reach Siquijor — here's everything you need to book the right one.

The Three Ferry Operators

Three operators run the Dumaguete–Siquijor route with slightly different schedules, vessel sizes, and comfort levels. All three are reliable and safe; choice depends on time preferences and comfort budget.

1. Bohol Strait Shipping (BSS)

Vessels: Mid-sized ferries (500–800 capacity) with air-conditioned cabins and open deck space. Quality: Consistent, older fleet but well-maintained. Schedule: Most frequent operator; runs approximately every 45 minutes from 5:30am–9:00pm. Fares: ₱328 (deck/open seating), ₱380–₱420 (cabin). Best for: Budget travelers, frequent ferries, flexible timing.

2. Ceres Shipping

Vessels: Larger ferries (1,000+ capacity) with wider seating, better ventilation. Quality: Newer fleet, more spacious than BSS. Schedule: ~6–8 departures daily, typically 7:00am, 9:30am, 12:00pm, 2:30pm, 5:00pm, 7:30pm, 9:00pm. Fares: ₱350–₱400 (deck), ₱450–₱500 (cabin). Best for: Comfort seekers, families, those willing to pay slightly more.

3. Sunlight Express

Vessels: High-speed express ferries (400 capacity, newer ships). Quality: Premium comfort; air-conditioned throughout, fewer stops. Schedule: ~3–4 departures daily (typically 7:00am, 10:00am, 2:00pm, 5:00pm). Fares: ₱450–₱550 (express class). Crossing time: 45 minutes (vs. 60 min standard). Best for: Time-conscious travelers, those valuing comfort, last-minute bookings.

Complete Schedule & Fare Breakdown

Schedules change seasonally and by operator. Below is a representative March 2026 schedule. Always confirm current times via ferry websites or at the pier the day before.

Note: This is a representative schedule. Peak season (Dec–March) may add extra ferries; low season (June–Sept) may reduce frequency. Always check with operators for current times.

How to Book Your Ferry Ticket

Option 1: Book Online (Recommended)

All three operators have online booking systems (accessible via their websites or 2GO Travel, Philippines' ferry booking aggregator). Benefits: guaranteed seat, no waiting at pier, confirmed schedule. Process: search route, select date/time/operator, enter passenger info, pay online (credit card or local payment methods), receive confirmation email with ticket. Book 1–7 days in advance for best selection.

Websites: 2go.com.ph (aggregator), ceres.shipping.com.ph, sunlight-shipping.com (these change frequently; Google for current URLs)

Option 2: Book at Dumaguete Pier

Walk to the pier ticket counters, choose operator/time, pay cash or card, receive paper ticket. Process takes 10–20 minutes depending on crowd. Best for: spontaneous travelers, small groups, last-minute changes. Availability is usually guaranteed except during peak holidays (Dec 20–Jan 5, Holy Week).

Option 3: Book Through Your Hotel

Most hotels can arrange ferry tickets as part of concierge service. Convenience: no need to visit pier; pickup at hotel. Downside: small markup (₱50–₱100). Best for travelers avoiding logistics.

What to Bring When Boarding

Valid ID (passport for foreigners, national ID for Filipinos). If booked online, printed or digital confirmation. Luggage: most travelers carry backpacks or small roller bags; large suitcases fit but can be awkward on crowded ferries.

Dumaguete City Pier (Port Details)

Location & Access

Dumaguete City Pier is located in the downtown waterfront, within walking distance of most hotels in central Dumaguete (Rizal Boulevard area). GPS: 9.3075°N, 123.3062°E. If staying outside downtown, tricycle from hotel costs ₱50–₱150.

Arriving at the Pier

Arrive 30–45 minutes before departure for standard ferries; 20 minutes for express. Check in, proceed to boarding gate, wait for boarding call. Once called, proceed to vessel and find your seat (deck seating is first-come-first-served; cabin booking assigns assigned seats).

Facilities

Bathrooms: Yes, on all ferries (use before boarding if possible; onboard can be crowded). Food/drink: Snack vendors board ferries selling pastries, coffee, soft drinks. Bring your own water and snacks for longer security. WiFi: Sunlight Express has it; other ferries do not. Seating: All ferries have covered deck seating (bench-style) and enclosed cabins (air-conditioned, more comfortable).

Pro Tips for a Smooth Journey

Best Time to Travel

Early morning (5:30am–8:00am): Fewer crowds, calmer seas, less likely to feel seasickness. Arrives early to maximize island time. Downside: early wake-up, potentially colder weather. Midday (11am–2pm): Warmer, more social vibe, moderate crowds. Seas can be slightly rougher from afternoon wind. Late afternoon/evening (5pm–9pm): Avoid if possible; seas rougher, ferries more crowded, may feel rushed. Best reserved for return journeys when timing is fixed.

What to Pack for the Ferry

• Seasickness remedy: If prone to motion sickness, take dramamine or ginger before boarding. Eat light breakfast. Sit on deck (fresh air helps) or near the center of the ferry (less motion).
• Light layer: Air conditioning on ferries is aggressive; bring a light jacket or sweater.
• Water: The sea journey is dehydrating; bring 500ml+ of water and a refillable bottle to fill at Larena.
• Entertainment: Phone/e-reader for the hour-long journey. Ferry WiFi is limited.
• Toiletries: Onboard bathrooms are basic; hand sanitizer is useful.
• Sun protection: If sitting on open deck, sunscreen and hat are essential; you'll be in sun for an hour.
• Cash (Philippine pesos): Tickets can sometimes be purchased with credit card, but cash is safer; no ATMs at Dumaguete pier.

Luggage Handling

Luggage goes to the cargo hold (staff will take it as you board). It's secure but not climate-controlled. Avoid packing valuables in checked luggage. Keep essentials (phone, wallet, medications, passport) in a small day bag you carry aboard.

If You Miss Your Ferry

If your ferry leaves without you, go to any operator's ticket counter and rebook on the next available ferry. Standard rebooking fee: ₱100–₱200 depending on operator. Ferries run so frequently that wait time is rarely more than 45 minutes.

Upon Arrival at Larena

Disembark, collect luggage from hold, proceed through informal immigration checkpoint (usually just officers scanning IDs). Larena port has tricycle stands; negotiate rate to your accommodation (typically ₱200–₱400 depending on destination). No ATMs at pier; use ATM in Siquijor town (5 min away) if you need cash.

Return Journey: Siquijor to Dumaguete

The return route uses the same ferries and operators but departs from Larena Port. Schedule is slightly different due to turnover times. See the full return ferry guide for complete details on departure times, booking, and journey tips.

Some links above are affiliate links — if you book through them, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps fund the IN Travel Network and keeps our guides free and independent. We only recommend tools and services we use ourselves.