Siargao to be accessible by ferry from Manila starting October

Passenger ferry operator 2GO Travel will begin offering a direct Manila-Siargao sea route starting October 20, marking the first regular maritime link between the capital and the popular surfing island.

The weekly voyage will be serviced by the MV Saint Francis Xavier, a 1,900-passenger vessel equipped with onboard amenities. It will depart Manila every Monday and is expected to arrive in Siargao the following day, with a travel time of approximately 28 hours.

Fares for the new route will start at %u20B12,000 for super mega value accommodation, according to the company.

2GO Travel business unit head Francis Chua said the new offering aims to expand access to Siargao and offer an alternative travel option to air transportation. “We have a very big ship and a welcome dance will greet the passengers to showcase the hospitality and warmth of the Filipinos,” Chua said in an interview Tuesday.

The MV Saint Francis Xavier includes a range of amenities, such as a salon and spa, dining halls, café, souvenir stalls, nightly live entertainment, karaoke rooms, an arcade, and an onboard clinic.

“It’s like we are on an international cruise ship—world-class and would give comfort to our sea travelers,” Chua said.

The firm is coordinating with the Philippine Ports Authority, the Maritime Industry Authority, and the Philippine Coast Guard to assess the potential for additional sea routes, but the initial focus will be on Manila-Siargao.

Siargao, located off the northeastern tip of Mindanao, has become one of the country’s top tourist destinations in recent years, particularly known for surfing, beach tourism, and ecotourism.