A little Filipino sunshine awaits!
What if your journey to paradise began long before your feet touched the white sand? Maybe it’s a morning flight to the beautiful Philippine islands, a view out of your window of turquoise waters and a quick boat trip that gets you closer to one of the country’s most popular beach destinations.
Boracay has a way of making travellers fall in love with the life on the island. Its white powder beaches, the gentle waves, the beautiful sunsets and laidback vibe make it a great getaway. However, you can’t savour all those wonderful moments until you are asked one simple question: How do you get there from Manila?
When figuring out how to get to Boracay from Manila, It’s possible to fly nearer to the island from Caticlan, or head to Kalibo for another airport or take the sea route for a longer journey. Each will be different and the best one will be determined by your budget, travel time and plans.
So, let us take a look at the road map together, and discover the road that can take you to the island of Boracay without the headache and with extra excitement.
Your journey at a glance
There is no commercial airport in Boracay. It is accessible by the adjoining Mainland of Panay Island, and a short boat ride.
The principle of the main routes work is as follows:
Fastest route: Take a flight from Manila to Caticlan Airport and then, proceed to Caticlan Jetty Port and a boat to Boracay.
Alternative way: Air from Manila to Kalibo International Airport then road to Caticlan Jetty Port and then Boat.
Sea journey: Take bus from Manila to Batangas port, overnight ferry to Catcian and local boat to Boracay.
What matters is that your flight or ferry ticket is just the first step to your journey. In addition, you should also consider transfers to and from the airport, port and hotel.
1. Flying from Manila to Boracay – two airports, two experiences
Most travellers prefer to fly to Boracay. From Manila you can leave in the morning and depending on connections and waiting time get on to the island on the same day.
The two major airports to choose are Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan and Kalibo International Airport.
Manila to Caticlan – the quickest way to the island
When less time on the road and more time at the beach is the right thing to go for, Caticlan is the right one to go!
The nearest airport to Boracay is Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (MPH) or Caticlan Airport. There are direct domestic flights from Manila which takes approximately 1 hour to an hour and 15 minutes.
Upon arrival, you’ll be close to the island’s main passenger port. Tricycle and/or shuttle or pre-arranged vehicles are available to Caticlan Jetty Port. The short boat ride from there is to Boracay.
Great for families, couples and travellers who don’t want to make a long trip after their flight.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Caticlan Airport is small so please provide ample time for check-in and boarding.
- Availability and prices may vary by date.
- Before purchasing a ticket, check the baggage allowance.
- If you are travelling at a peak holiday time, decide for your journey onward.
Manila to Kalibo – another way to reach Boracay
Do you want to do more research on the flights before you decide which one to take? Kalibo is an option that should be considered.
Kalibo International Airport (KLO) is located further away from Boracay than Caticlan, but it may be a better option if flight costs or schedules are more convenient for your travel dates.
The flight from Manila takes about an hour. But once you’ve landed, the adventure is just beginning. From Kalibo Airport, you will have to take a bus, shared van or private transfer to Caticlan Jetty Port.
The ride normally takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending upon the traffic and the mode of transport you take. From the jetty, you can then proceed by boat to Boracay.
Kalibo is ideal for people who:
- Find a more attractive airfare.
- Do not mind spending extra time on the road.
- Prefer to compare different flight schedules.
- Are not in a rush to get to their destination.
Keep in mind that it’s not just the cost of the flight but the full package.
2. Caticlan or Kalibo – which airport should you choose?
One of the most crucial plans when travelling is deciding between Caticlan or Kalibo for your arrival. You can fly into both airports to the same destination, but once you reach it, it’s a different experience.
| Travel detail | Caticlan (MPH) | Kalibo (KLO) |
| Flight from Manila | Around 1–1 hr 15 mins | Around 1 hour |
| Road transfer to jetty | Around 10–15 mins | Around 1.5–2 hours |
| Boat journey | Around 10–15 mins | Around 10–15 mins |
| Main advantage | Closest to Boracay | Alternative flight options |
| Best suited to | Travellers wanting a shorter transfer | Travellers comparing fares and schedules |
My suggestion: If convenience is important, then pick Caticlan. If you think it’s worth adding the road transfer to your trip if you’re saving money on the flight, then look into Kalibo.
There is no one right or wrong answer. If you think a cheaper flight might be better value, it might not be.
3. Manila to Boracay flight time – how long should you allow?
The actual flight is quite brief, but the entire trip is made up of several segments.
The time for the Manila to Boracay flight usually takes from one hour to one hour and fifteen minutes if direct flights are taken to Caticlan. There is also a direct flight to Kalibo which takes about an hour.
But don’t confuse the time flying with the time you will take to travel. Even if you decide on Caticlan you will still have to pick up your suitcases, drive to the port, get the paperwork done at the port and then board the boat to head for your hotel.
If you opt for Kalibo, there’s also the long road transfer to consider. I suggest spending a few hours after landing and before the start your hotel, to be more comfortable. Lots of things can cause delays, such as queues, boat schedules, and the weather.
If you’re coming from an international flight in Manila, allow enough time to check in, pick up your bags, and then transfer to your domestic flight (especially if your connection requires a NAIA terminal transfer). Domestic tickets should not be regarded as protected connections.
4. From Caticlan Airport to Boracay – the final island crossing
This is where the fun really begins!
Once you get off the plane in Caticlan Airport, you will proceed to Caticlan Jetty Port. It typically takes 10-15 minutes.
Upon arrival at the port, passengers must go through the necessary passenger registration process and pay the required fees. These include the boat fare, terminal fee and environmental fee, if applicable, according to the eligibility criteria and local regulations.
When the matter is organised, you can ride across the water on a local boat.
Typically, the crossing lasts for 10-15 minutes, but can be longer depending on conditions and operating procedures. Normally, the boats land in Cagban Port, while at times alternative landing spots are used; depending on the weather and sea conditions.
Then, you can transfer to an e-trike, multi-cab or hotel-arranged car to your accommodation. If you’re interested in the trip, read our guide to Caticlan to Boracay transfer.
What should you prepare at the jetty?
With a little preparation, the arrival process will be easier.
- Keep your passport or accepted identification ready.
- Have your hotel booking details available.
- Keep some cash for local transport and any payments not made online.
- Look at the most up to date fare prices before your journey.
- Follow the instructions given by port staff.
- Keep your luggage manageable when boarding smaller boats.
Boracay also has visitor registration and accommodation requirements. Please refer to the most up-to-date official guidance from thePhilippine Department of Tourism before travelling, especially for travelling during one of the busier periods.
5. Manila to Boracay ferry – can you travel by sea?
Not all people like to fly and some people like the idea of a longer journey by sea.
There is no direct Manila to Boracay ferry service from Manila city to Boracay Island but you can get a land bus to Batangas port and then a ferry to Caticlan. This is another option to get to the island without flying domestically.
Typically, it goes something like this:
Manila → Batangas Port → Caticlan Jetty Port → Boracay
To go from Manila to Batangas Port, take a bus. Plan for 2-3 hours to make the road trip depending on your travel distance and traffic.
Then, ride a ferry from Batangas to Caticlan. Certain sailings are around 12 hours long, depending on the service and the operator. From Caticlan go to the passenger terminal and board the local boat to cross over to Boracay.
This is for this option, and you should verify sailing dates, departure times, accommodation class and baggage policies from the ferry operator. Services and schedules may be subject to change and not all sails are in service every day.
This route might appeal to those who like sea travel, have more time on their hands and are interested in the total cost in comparison to a flight. When you have limited time for your holiday, however, you are better off taking a plane trip.
6. Boracay Manila Without Stressful Ways to get there
Now that you know how to get to Boracay from Manila, a holiday should not start on a disorganized note at the airport or port. It can make a big difference if a little planning is done.
Here are some simple tips to organise your trip.
- Purchase tickets in advance. During busy tourist seasons, like holiday and long weekends, the demand may increase.
- Compare the total transport charges. Airfare, Baggage, Road transfer, Boat fare and applicable port charges are included.
- Maintain an adequate connection time. If you are coming in from abroad, make sure to reserve enough time for immigration and collection of bags/transfers to/from the airport.
- Confirm your accommodation. Ensure you have the name of your hotel and booking information on hand for any form that may request it from you.
- Check the weather. Plan with some flexibility as sea conditions can impact boat operations.
- Make all the hotel bookings. Make hotel bookings. Some accommodation providers can assist you in arranging to be picked up from the port, this will make your arrival much easier.
For more tips on travelling between the Philippines’ islands and destinations, check out our how to get around the Philippines guide.
7. Can you combine Boracay with other Philippine destinations?
Absolutely! Boracay can be a part of a much larger Philippine adventure.
You can start in Manila, spend a couple of days at Boracay and then sail on to another island. If you enjoy more dramatic limestone cliffs and lagoon hopping and secret beaches, El Nido in Palawan may be another great place to visit. In our Manila to El Nido guide, we’ll explain the various ways of planning the trip.
You may also want to check out our guide to domestic flights in the Philippines to find out more routes and connections throughout the country.
If you’re thinking about a longer trip to the Islands, our Manila to the Islands: Route Guides can provide you with some more inspiration for your next trip.
The journey may begin with a flight, a road trip or a boat crossing, but the memories will stay long after the holiday ends. Golden sunsets, soft white sands and little moments make travelling special, Boracay awaits. Let World Pinoy Flights help you find your way to your next island adventure. There’s so much more to see in the Philippines!
FAQ
1. Does Boracay have its own airport?
No, you have to get on the plane to Caticlan or Kalibo, which is the nearby mainland, and then take a small boat ride.
2. Which airport is closer to Boracay, Caticlan or Kalibo?
Caticlan is much closer. It only takes about 10-15 mins by road to the ferry port, whereas Kalibo takes about 1.5-2 hrs by road.
3. How long is the flight from Manila?
Both Caticlan and Kalibo can be reached in approximately an hour by direct flights.
4. Can I travel from Manila to Boracay by ferry?
There is no direct ferry. In total, you will have to take a bus ride of 2 to 3 hours to get to Batangas Port and an overnight ferry ride (around 12 hours) to Caticlan, before boarding a small boat to Boracay.
5. What do I need ready at the Caticlan ferry port?
Carry your passport/ID, hotel booking and some local money for terminal fees, environmental fees and boat fees.
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