I never planned to document getting from Caticlan to Boracay Island, Philippines. After all, it is only a 15-minute journey; how difficult could it be? Well, it isn’t difficult, but it is a real faff, even by Philippine standards. This guide will take you step by step from the moment you arrive at the ferry terminal to the moment you arrive on Boracay Island.
Getting to Caticlan Jetty Port.
This was simple for us; we arrived at the docks after a 10-hour ferry ride from Batangas. The main terminal building we needed to find was right beside where we got dropped off. However, if you are arriving at Caticlan Airport, you can take one of the many tricycles that are on offer to the port. Journey time shouldn’t be more than 5 minutes.
Once at Caticlan Jetty Port.
Caticlan Jetty Port has a sign posted for tourists; all you have to do is follow the big sign “TOURISTS.” This is when it becomes faff.
Step 1: Fill out the Tourist Arrival Form. The form is easy to fill out and requires your passport details and where you are staying on the island. That is the number one rule: you need pre-booked accommodation if staying overnight, or you will not be allowed to cross. The reason for this form is to track how many visitors are on the island.
Step 2: Once done with the Tourist Arrival Form, head over to the first of three queues where you will pay your environmental fee (300 pesos), terminal fee (150 pesos), and ferry fee (50 pesos). You will pay each fee at each individual hatch; I have no idea why one person can’t take it all.
All prices are correct as of March 2024.
Step 3: After you have collected all your papers (ironic after paying an environmental fee) and paid your fees, You will head towards the boats; they are well signposted. However, before you reach the boats, you will get to fill out more forms and get all your documents checked once again.
Step 4: Once the final round of checks is done, your tickets are exchanged for pieces of paper that have a seat number on them, where you must sit on the boat that will take you from Caticlan Port to Boracay.
Step 5: The staff will point you in the direction of the boat you are to use. Don’t rush unless you are told to, as the ferry won’t go until it is full.
Step 6: Enjoy the short journey across the water to Boracay Island.
Arriving in Boracay
Once off the boat, follow the path, which will take you towards the many waiting e-Trikes that will take you to your hotel on the island of Boracay.
Really easy, but easy to get lost in the mound of paper work and fee receipts you will collect.
Returning to Caticlan
The good thing is that there is absolutely no difference in the process for the return journey.
Thanks for taking the time to read our guide on getting from Caticlan to Boracay Island, Philippines.
If you have any questions, leave them in the comments. Also, why not have a read about more of our Philippines adventures.
Check out our full journey on YouTube
Thanks
The Lewis family.
