Planning a trip from Manila to Masbate? Whether you’re after pristine beaches, vibrant festivals, or a taste of local culture, Masbate offers a unique blend of natural beauty and heritage. This comprehensive guide covers all travel options, costs, durations, and a sample itinerary to help you plan your journey.
Must Read:
- Masbate Hotels and Resorts
- Masbate Language / Dialect
Option 1: Direct Flight from Manila to Masbate
Airline: CebGo (operated by Cebu Pacific)
Route: Manila (MNL) to Masbate Airport (MBT)
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes
Frequency: Daily flights (recheck please, sometimes, every other day)
Fare Range: ₱3,600 – ₱10,000 (one-way)
Pros:
- Fastest travel option
- Convenient for travelers with limited time
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to other modes
- Limited baggage allowance
Option 2: Bus and Ferry Combination
Operator: Bicol Isarog Transport System
Route: Manila (Cubao) to Masbate City via Pilar Port
Duration: Approximately 15 hours
Fare Range: ₱1,200 – ₱2,200
Pros:
- Cost-effective
- Overnight travel options
Cons:
- Longer travel time
- Potential delays due to weather conditions
Option 3: Ferry from Manila to Masbate
Operator: Montenegro Shipping Lines
Route: Manila Port to Masbate Port
Duration: Approximately 10–12 hours
Fare Range: ₱1,200 – ₱1,500
Pros:
- Scenic sea voyage
- Option to bring vehicles (RoRo)
Cons:
Option 4: Flight to Legazpi + Ferry to Masbate
Step 1: Fly from Manila to Legazpi City
Airlines: Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Fare Range: ₱1,500 – ₱3,000
Step 2: Travel from Legazpi to Pilar Port (Sorsogon) via van or bus
Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
Fare: ₱150 – ₱200
Step 3: Ferry from Pilar Port to Masbate City
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Fare: ₱200 – ₱300
Total Estimated Cost: ₱1,850 – ₱3,500
Pros:
- Flexible travel times
- Opportunity to explore Legazpi City
Cons:
- Multiple transfers
- Longer total travel time
7 Days in Masbate Itinerary (2025 Guide)
Day 1: Manila to Masbate City – Travel Day + Light Exploration
- Option A: Morning flight (CebGo) – 10:00 AM MNL to 11:35 AM MBT
- Option B: Overnight Bus (Bicol Isarog) + Ferry – arrive 9:00 AM
- Check-in: Budget hotel or Airbnb near Masbate City Plaza (₱1,000–₱1,500/night)
- Activities:
- Light walk around Masbate City Baywalk
- Visit Masbate Cathedral
- Sunset at Rendezvous Hotel Viewdeck or Baywalk
- Meals: Local eateries (₱300)
- Total Budget Estimate: ₱2,000–₱4,000 (depends on transport mode)
Day 2: Buntod Sandbar + Mangrove Tour
- Morning: Boat trip to Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary & Sandbar
- Entrance + Environmental Fee: ₱50
- Boat Rental (good for 5): ₱500 roundtrip
- Lunch: Seafood at the sandbar or back in city
- Afternoon: Masbate Heritage Center (optional)
- Evening: Coffee or dinner at local café
- Total Budget Estimate: ₱700–₱1,000
Day 3: Palani White Beach Day Trip (Balud)
- Travel: Van to Balud – ~2 hours (₱150–₱200 one-way)
- Entrance Fee: Free (some resorts charge ₱30–₱50 day tour)
- Activities:
- Swim and relax at the beach
- Optional kayaking or paddle boarding at select resorts
- Lunch: Picnic or eat at Palani resort canteen (~₱250)
- Return: Van back to Masbate City
- Total Budget Estimate: ₱700–₱1,000
Day 4: Ticao Island Adventure
- Option: Join a Ticao Island Tour Package (₱1,500–₱2,000 all-in)
- Includes island hopping to:
- Halea Nature Park (white beach, snorkeling)
- Catandayagan Falls (waterfall directly into the sea)
- Borobangcaso Rock Formation
- Includes island hopping to:
- Lunch: Packed or included in tour
- Return to Masbate City by evening
- Total Budget Estimate: ₱1,500–₱2,000
Day 5: Rest Day + City Food Trip + Market Shopping
- Morning: Sleep in or visit public market for local snacks
- Brunch: Try Masbate longganisa, crab dishes, or fresh seafood
- Afternoon: Buy souvenirs (local handicrafts, seafood goodies, etc.)
- Optional: Visit Pawa Mangrove Eco Park (₱50 entrance + ₱100 boat ride)
- Dinner: Seafood grill or food park
- Total Budget Estimate: ₱500–₱800
Day 6: Rodeo Capital Tour (If in Rodeo Festival Season) or Day Trip to Aroroy
- If April: Rodeo Masbateño Festival – Watch bull riding, parades, etc.
- If not: Visit Aroroy for
- Aroroy Lighthouse
- Optional: Talisay Beach
- Transport: Van (₱150 one-way)
- Lunch: Local eatery (~₱200)
- Total Budget Estimate: ₱700–₱1,200
Day 7: Travel Back to Manila
- Option A: Morning flight (₱3,000–₱5,000)
- Option B: Ferry + Bus combo (₱1,200–₱1,500)
- Souvenir stop: Pasalubong shop near airport or terminal
- Total Budget Estimate: ₱1,200–₱5,000 (depending on mode)
Total Budget Estimate for 7 Days (per person)
| Category | Budget Range (₱) |
|---|---|
| Transport (RT) | 2,500 – 10,000 |
| Accommodation (6N) | 6,000 – 9,000 |
| Food (Daily ₱300–₱500) | 2,100 – 3,500 |
| Tours & Fees | 3,000 – 5,000 |
| Souvenirs, extras | 500 – 1,000 |
| Total | ₱14,100 – ₱28,500 |
Travel Tips:
- Book flights early for best rates.
- Weather-check especially for boat trips (best months: Feb–May).
- Local SIM recommended (Globe and Smart have good coverage).
- Group travel? Sharing boat/van tours will save money.
Embarking on a journey from Manila to Masbate offers a blend of adventure and relaxation. With various travel options to suit different budgets and preferences, planning your trip has never been easier. Whether you’re seeking a quick getaway or an immersive cultural experience, Masbate awaits with open arms.
