Getting around
El Nido to Coron by boat: ferry or private expedition
By the El Nido Private Tours team
Updated:
5 min read
Short answer
| Fast ferry | Private expedition | |
|---|---|---|
| Time | About 3½ to 4 hours | 2 to 5 days |
| Price | About ₱1,760 to ₱1,830 per person (as published) | From ₱51,500 for 2 guests |
| Departures | Usually once a day each way | On your dates |
| On board | A full passenger ferry | Only your group and crew |
| Stops | None | Remote beaches, reefs and island camps |
| Best for | Getting there | Making the journey part of the trip |
The fast ferry
Fast ferries leave El Nido around midday and Coron in the early morning, and the crossing takes about 3½ to 4 hours. They are the quickest and cheapest way between the two, but the open-water crossing can be rough, and trips are suspended when the Coast Guard stops sea travel. Book a day or two ahead in peak season.
A private boat expedition
An expedition crosses the Linapacan islands slowly, over 2 to 5 days. You island-hop by day, snorkel reefs that day boats never reach, and sleep at simple island camps. Meals, the crew, an expedition guide, snorkelling gear and the itinerary’s island and camping fees are included. See the El Nido to Coron expedition for starting prices by length.
- 2 days / 1 night is a taste of the route, with one island camp.
- 3 to 4 days is the most popular length, with time to slow down.
- 5 days / 4 nights covers the route at an unhurried pace.
Weather and timing
Both options depend on the sea. The crossing is calmest in the dry season, from about December to May. From June to October the southwest monsoon can delay ferries and move expedition dates, so leave a buffer before any onward flight from Coron. See the best time to visit El Nido.
Ask about an El Nido to Coron expedition
Plan my day