How do you travel between El Nido and Coron in Palawan, and is the fast ferry or flight better?

Fast Ferry Overview: Operators, Duration & Fares

Two primary high-speed passenger ferry operators run daily service between El Nido Port and Coron Port (Busuanga): Montenegro Lines and Atienza Interisland Ferries (and formerly Jomalia Shipping).

The ferry journey takes approximately 3.5 to 5 hours across 130 kilometers of open sea. One-way passenger tickets cost roughly 2,200 to 2,800 Philippine Pesos (PHP) (approx. $40 to $50 USD). Ferries feature enclosed air-conditioned tourist cabins with assigned seating and open-air upper decks.

Sea Conditions, Seasonality & Seasickness Prep

The ferry route crosses the Linapacan Strait, an exposed oceanic passage connecting the Sulu Sea and the South China Sea. During the northeast monsoon season (Amihan, November to March) and southwest monsoon (Habagat, July to October), ocean swells can reach 2 to 3 meters, resulting in a vigorous, rocking ride.

If you are prone to motion sickness, take dramamine or dimenhydrinate 30 to 45 minutes before boarding. During severe tropical storms or gale warnings issued by the Philippine Coast Guard (PAGASA), ferry sailings are routinely cancelled on short notice for safety; always maintain a 1-day buffer before connecting international flights.

Direct Flights: AirSWIFT Propeller Transit

For travelers seeking maximum comfort or traveling on tight timelines, AirSWIFT operates direct scheduled flights between El Nido Lio Airport (ENI) and Busuanga / Coron Airport (USU).

The flight takes just 40 minutes aboard modern ATR-42 or ATR-72 turboprop aircraft. One-way fares typically range from $75 to $140 USD. Flying avoids ocean swells completely and treats passengers to spectacular aerial panoramas of turquoise reefs and uninhabited karst atolls.

Keep in mind that standard checked luggage allowances on AirSWIFT are 10 kg or 20 kg depending on fare tier, with strict overweight baggage fees assessed at check-in.

Luggage Allowances, Port Fees & Terminal Check-in

When taking the ferry, arrive at El Nido Ferry Terminal at least 60 to 90 minutes before scheduled departure. You must pay a small local municipal port terminal fee (approx. 20 PHP) at the ticket window before security screening.

Ferry tickets typically include 15 to 20 kg of checked or stowed luggage per passenger, with larger duffels and rolling bags loaded into communal luggage carts on the main deck. Keep passports, electronics, and valuables inside your carry-on daypack.

Arrival Logistics in Coron & Ground Transport

Coron Port is located just 10 minutes south of Coron Town proper. Upon disembarking the ferry, scores of local motorized tricycles await passengers; a standard private tricycle ride into Coron Town costs approximately 100 to 150 PHP total for two passengers with bags.

If arriving by flight at Busuanga Airport (USU), note that the airport is located 30 to 40 minutes inland. Shared passenger vans (250 PHP per person) meet every incoming flight and drop travelers directly at hotels in Coron Town.

Frequently asked questions