Bantayan Island has always been part of my "To-Go" List. However, with a 3d/2n schedule, we had to make sure that we enjoy Bantayan and also get to visit the Marian Hills in Simala. So when we got to Cebu early in the morning, we immediately went to Bantayan. The ride took close to 3 hours because we chose to ride the Ceres Aircon Bus. If we didn't know any better, we would have been convinced to ride the ordinary bus because the people there insist that the bus bound to Bantayan is already leaving. Don't rush. Walk past them and go at the back part of the terminal. The Ceres bus is colored yellow. You won't miss this because they are everywhere. We chose this kind of bus because these aircon buses won't have the usual X number of stops which saves us time.
We were lucky when we got to the port. We only waited a few minutes before the ferry left.
Here is a list of our expenses for this vacation: (based on 2 people sharing the expenses)
*Some resorts offer free pick up to and from the port
**There are resorts that offer as low as Php650.00 for aircon rooms. However, these are not beach front rooms. Expense on the gas would depend on how long the motor will be used.
Just a tip, for those who would like to have a bountiful seafood lunch, its best to wake up early and go to Bantayan town where the freshly caught fishes are sold. Don't forget the cooked rice and some sauce to go along with thr seafoods. Oh, and some paper plates as well as drinks and cups. Rentals of these in the island can be a bit expensive if you're in a budget.
I also recommend to be as early as possible. When we got to the Virgin island around 8am, we were the first visitors so we had the island all to ourselves. The beauty of this island made us feel that the 3-4 hours bus ride plus 1.5 hour ferry trip and the added 30-45 minutes boat ride from Bantayan to the island was all worth it.
The entrance fee was on a per boat basis. Php500.00 is charged to the first two persons and Php100.00 each to succeeding persons.
There are cottages for rent in the island but they allow the visitors to eat at the grilling area for free. Here are some of their services:
We enjoyed snorkling here though the big sea urchins did give us a scare. Haha.
For island hopping and motor bike rentals, you may contact JP at (0929) 647 0185. He can give the motorcycle for as low as Php200.00 and even help look for a cheap accomodation.
Bantayan Island truly is a paradise waiting to be explored! From the sun-kissed beaches to the swaying palm trees, every moment spent on this enchanting island is pure bliss. Imagine basking in the warm sunshine, feeling the gentle ocean breeze on your skin, and immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty around you. With every beach you discover, you uncover a new piece of the island's breathtaking charm. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience this slice of paradise for yourself – Bantayan Island is calling your name, beckoning you to its shores. #bantayanisland is a must-visit destination that promises unforgettable memories and endless beauty waiting to be discovered.
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