We have to remember it is not just humans that get transported, these vessels carry everything from livestock to rice, to essential machinery to beer.
The joy of getting on a ferry and traveling between Islands is huge. I have been on many ferries in the Philippines and some seem to have come out of 1920 films. The safety on board is not as high as some other country standards, but they do a great and necessary job getting people around so many islands. Not everyone can afford to get a plane, and in many cases planes are just not available anyway.
I remember once I had to travel by ferry to a friends remote Island, I was amazed that I had to sit on tonnes of coconuts. We have to remember it is not just humans that get transported, these vessels carry everything from livestock to rice, to essential machinery to beer.
There are always shock news reports about ferries sinking in the Philippines and huge loss of life. No matter what laws are put in place the staff have to take into account commercial pressures all the time.
When it works well it is fun. Take a look at some videos of ferry fun in the Philippines.
There are two main types of ferries here in the Philippines. A roll-on roll-off (or RoRo) ferry is a larger, more commercial liner built to transport vehicles, semis and large numbers of people. You’ll find these the norm for any trips longer than an hour or so. For these, you typically have an option between getting an economy ticket where there are bunks in a large, open bay, or reserving a bunk in a smaller room with only 6-10 bunks. Bancas are the local boats built for more short distance travel and come in many sizes. With a banca, it can easily be delayed during less than ideal weather, and you might get wet if there are any significant waves.
Before heading anywhere new, it’s always a good idea to do a little research about the trip you’ll be taking and get some information. You’ll want to do some research asking locals the best company or ferry to take to get from where you are to where you need to go. The biggest way people get scammed is them not understanding how the system works so get yourself up to speed before showing up. If anyone offers you a ‘private trip’ or a ‘short cut’, don’t trust them.
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