How to get fro Manila to Dumaguete
Located approximately 930 kilometres from Manila via Western Nautical Hwy, Dumaguete can easily be reached by air and by sea. Two commercial airlines currently ply the Manila-Dumaguete route and it only takes a little more than an hour and costs around PHP4,000 one way. However, if time is not an issue, you can also get to Dumaguete by sea. Sailing normally takes about 26 hours and ticket prices depend largely on your accommodation. They can cost you anywhere from PHP2,500 to PHP7,500. More and more people are coming to Dumaguete for its laidback city life and its surrounding tourist destinations.
Ferry from Manila to Dumaguete
Sailing from Manila to Dumaguete can be a viable option especially if you have a fear of flying or just want to take things slow.
2Go Travel has two ships that regularly navigate the waters between Manila and Dumaguete. Saint Francis Xavier or St. Michael The Archangel depart Manila every Sunday at 8 pm and arrive in Dumaguete at 10 pm the following day.
Note! 2GO sails from Manila to Dumaguete on SUNDAY.
2GO boats have several types of accommodations depending on the vessel.
The cheapest is the non-airconditioned Super Value Class where you'll be sleeping in bunk beds. Tickets costs between PHP2,000-PHP2,400.
An upgraded version would be the Mega Value Class for PHP2,300-2,500. Note that it can get really cold at night but pillows and linens can be rented from the lobby.
Next up is the Tourist Class section (PHP2,500-PHP2,700) which still offers bunk beds but in an airconditioned area. The good thing here is that you get access to a bathroom that is shared exclusively by the other tourists class passengers.
If you have a bit of money to spare, we recommend booking either the Business Class for 6 (PHP2,700) or Cabin for 4 (PHP3,200-3,500) for a bit more privacy.
If you wish to have a more hotel-like accommodation onboard the vessel, you can stay at their Stateroom for 2 (PHP5,800-PHP7,200) or Suiteroom for 2 (PHP6,000-PHP7,600) which come complete with a private bathroom and toiletries.
Flights from Manila to Dumaguete
Popular budget airline Cebu Pacific has daily direct flights from Manila to Dumaguete. You can book flight tickets for as low as PHP3,200 per pax or as much as PHP4,600. This airline is a favourite among the budget travellers because they offer an option to fly only with the standard 7-kilogram hand-carry luggage. You can always pre-book luggage allowance for an extra fee, as well as meals, seat selection, and insurance. This airline is also known for their generous sales promotion that usually coincides with a national holiday. If you have a few months left before your intended travel date, it might pay off to follow this airline's official social networking accounts.
Besides the direct flight, Cebu Pacific can bring you to Dumaguete via connecting flights with a layover in Cebu, Cagayan, or Davao. These connecting flights give you more flexibility as there are more departures during the day and normally do not cost much more than direct flights.
Philippine Airlines, the country's flagship airline, also serve the same itinerary. Tickets costs between PHP2,000 to PHP7,000 per pax and all fare categories include a minimum of 20kg baggage allowance and a free light snack.
General notes
There are amenities and facilities onboard to make your journey a pleasant one such as the entertainment area, salon, spa, diner, videoke room, and more.
Make sure to bring your gadgets fully charged though as there's a serious lack of electrical outlets. 2GO vessels do have a charging station for a small fee but it's a bit inconvenient especially if you just want to stay in your own space on the ship.
Water can be rough during the typhoon season so bring meds if you get easily sea sick.