What Really Is The Best Way To Ferry From El Nido To Coron?

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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!

ferry from el nido to coron
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.

ferry from el nido to coron
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.

Find out more here!

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.

how to go to Coron from El Nido
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

ferry from el nido to coron

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

El nido sunset Corong Corong Beach

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!

ferry from el nido to coron 3
Gettiing from El Nido to Coron: how about your own private boat?

91 thoughts on “What Really Is The Best Way To Ferry From El Nido To Coron?”

  1. 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!

    http://www.girlunspotted.com

    Reply
      • Someone asked if boat to Coron or El Nido is safe? It is safe. I did NOT feel safe for one big guy who was hanging outside the deck. One move and he could have been someone’s yummy food! Show off!! But the toilet…yikes. There’s a few ferry. Maybe we got on the run down one. Apparently it was a “fast ferry” ⛴

  2. 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.

    Reply
  3. Do you know any hotel or cheap accommodation near the ferry terminal? Do you know where exactly the terminal is? thanks for your help.

    Reply
    • 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.

      Reply
      • Different companies work together to run the ferries. There is a boat in the morning every day. The only reason for cancellation would be a massive weather tragedy. Ask at your accommodation for them to help you out. They will make sure you’re all set but by all means, head down to the ferry terminal yourself too. Their English is great.

      • Could you tell me about the boat that takes you from el nido to coron. How big and did you think it was safe??

  4. 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?

    Reply
    • 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 (?!) ><

      Reply
      • I took the ferry today and it wasn’t scary at all, you were absolutely right!
        I hung out on the deck the first half and napped the second half. I definitely prefer 8 hours on a boat to 8 hours in a mini bus!

  5. 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 :-)

    Reply
    • 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!

      Reply
  6. 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.

    Reply
    • 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!

      Reply
  7. 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.

    Reply
  8. 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

    Reply
    • 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.

      Reply
  9. 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.

    Reply
  10. 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!

    Reply
    • 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.

      Reply
      • Jesse! Apologies for the terribly late reply. If you want to avoid this ferry, flying from Manilla to Coron is not a bad idea and then flying to Puerto Princesa and driving to El Nido. You can certainly rent a car. I’m not sure if you can return it in El Nido though. Personally, I would take the ferry but I understand it’s not for everyone <3 Hope you have a great time! Palawan is simply stunning.

      • No worries. My wife and I made it to El Nido today. We ended up flying from Manila into El Nido. It was a bit more expensive than having taken the ferry but after traveling for almost 18 hours from the US. we didn’t want to spend an additional day on a boat lol. We will be flying back to Manila in about a week and then flying to Coron from there as well. Thank you for the advice anyhow. =)

  11. 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.

    Reply
    • 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!

      Reply
  12. 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.

    Reply
    • 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 :)

      Reply
    • 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.

      Reply
      • Hi Michele. I never came or went from Coron airport but it is called Francisco B Reyes Airport (USU). It’s 22km away from the Ferry Terminal which is in Coron Town proper.

      • We flew to EN and ferry to coron and ferry back to EN. Next time, i would try and do a round trip and limit to one ferry esp if you can get the fast ferry. Montenegro lines leaves EN at 6am, takes 3~4hr cost 1720peso, it leaves coron at 12noon. Unfortunately, our ferry was cancelled 2 days in a row due to choppy sea, even though it’s sunny and beautiful here in Coron. There’s a Montenegro office near the coron port but we bought our ticket thru our hotel. Had trouble getting ticket in EN but caught the regular boat and on a calm sea it was quite ok but i wouldn’t like to do that twice

  13. 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.

    Reply
  14. 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.

    Reply
    • 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!

      Reply
      • My husband & I don’t mind travelling with the basics. I’m just worried about the safety & comfort of my kids :) Thank you very much for the encouragement as my husband would really like to go to Coron as well. Your website is very helpful! ;)

    • 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

      Reply
  15. 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!

    Reply
  16. 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.

    Reply
    • 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..

      Reply
      • Hi from Vancouver Canada. Which website did you book your ferry ride at? Our first time travel to Palawan. I’d like to book the fast ferry from Coron to El Nido and fly out from El Nido to Manila. I’ll be asking about flying from El Nido to Manila too haha! Any tips or anyone you know flew out from El Nido? Thanks a bunch! Cheers!!

      • Hi Eve. In all honesty, I would not book ahead. Sort your tickets out there whilst you’re on the ground. You never know what boats could be running / or not due to the weather and Filipino elements! I can’t imagine that you’ll miss out by not booking ahead. I personally flew in and out from Puerto Princesa. I’m sure someone on this thread can help you out though!

      • Hi Eve, We bought our ticket for the fast ferry at Coron thru our hotel but there is a Montenegro office just 100m before the port. You can only get the regular ferry ticket on line via http://www.coronferry.com but I would go with the fast ferry. From El Nido, the boat tour shops sells the fast ferry ticket. We flew with Air Swift from Manila to El Nido. Have fun we love Coron and El Nido but not PP!

      • Hi Nancy
        Thank you for the reply. I still have to book a flight from Manila to Coron. I just wasn’t sure where, when or how to get from coron to el nido via boat. Fast ferry it is! I’ve already booked a flight from El nido to Cebu (ran out of flights the date we want for Manila). Incidentally it will work out great because we want to explore Cebu. And probably closer to Boracay though I hear it’s only good for night life. We like rugged kinda travel (i.e snorkelling, scuba diving, mostly outdoors stuff) so we might end up in Island of Gigantes? I’m reading on how to get there now so I can coordinate these dates without missing our flight back to Canada. yikes!

  17. 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

    Reply
    • 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!

      Reply
  18. 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!

    Reply
    • 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 :)

      Reply
  19. 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!

    Reply
    • 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

      Reply
  20. 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 :)

    Reply
    • 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 ><

      Reply
      • That’s what you get for staying up late researching your holiday haha! I meant we will only be snorkelling! Have decided on 2 nights in Coron and 4 nights in El Nido, flying into Coron from Cebu then taking the ferry to El Nido :)

      • Hi Alice
        Your blog definitely helped us when we went to Coron & el nido back in May. We stayed at Sunzine inn. Great for a price! Their restaurant had good food so don’t bother with downtown restaurants unless you know a really high end cafe etc. So thank you! And you’re right, the ferry was over 10 hours instead of 8 as advertised haha! And by the way, no lunch was served on ferry just fyi. This was the “fast” ferry. Also, be prepared for a “less” than clean toilet on ferry haha! It got broken while we were on it. But the reserved/assigned seats were awesome! Ferrying from Coron to el nido was a nice sightseeing but we flew from el nido to Cebu. They recently just had a cheap deal where you can fly straight from el nido to Boracay (just fyi). But Cebu was great! Stayed at best western hotel. They had a roof top gym, pool & bar. Definitely worth the price for 66 a night. Oops I’m yakking on & on lol. Have a great day Alice!

      • Hello! My husband and I are also planning on going to the phillipines in May. We are planning on taking the ferry from coron to el nido and wondering if we should book now, or wait til we get there and try and find someone to book it with 1 or 2 days before. What was your experience and if you did book online what company? Thanks!

      • That helps a ton thank you! What about flights for island hopping? would you suggest I buy them now or the day of in the airport to get the best price?

      • Hi Alyssa – there is no flight between Coron and El Nido – can you tell me what flights you mean? Generally speaking, it’s best to book your flights sooner rather than later! I’m not sure where you’re enquiring about flying to and from though :) Let me know and I can help.

      • we were thinking puerto princessa to cebu, cebu to davao (my husband has a friend there) or siargao, and then davao to legaspi

      • Hey Alyssa – oh yikes if it is May we’re talking, in my experience and many others, book ASAP! I recommend the Skyscanner app to search for the best deals!

        For hostels, you can certainly try and bargain face to face with the owners to get a better deal. Peak season in El Nido is December to April. You might be OK as you’re going in May – but if you want the reassurance that you’re arriving and definitely have somewhere to sleep, Hostelworld will give you the best prices. Good luck! :)

      • Also, what about for hostels, I heard they get booked pretty quickly in el nido, but could we get a better price from them upon arrival rather than booking online?

  21. 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!

    Reply
    • 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!

      Reply
  22. 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.

    Reply
    • 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!

      Reply
  23. 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.

    Reply
    • 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!

      Reply
  24. 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!

    Reply
    • 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!

      Reply
  25. 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

    Reply
  26. 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

    Reply

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