Detailed Tourist Guide: Navigating Your Journey to Guimaras Island from Iloilo City
Traveling to Guimaras Island: A Comprehensive Guide
Exploring Guimaras Island just got easier with various ferry options available for travelers. Two main RORO ferry operators, Montenegro Shipping Lines and FF Cruz Shipping, service the route between Iloilo City and Guimaras Island.
Ferry Services
NaviMar Shipping offers ferry services between Iloilo City and Guimaras Island, prioritizing safety and enjoyable travel experiences. Montenegro Shipping Lines operates a RORO ferry route between Iloilo and Jordan, Guimaras, with a travel time of around 20 minutes. The rates for other vehicles include PHP 75 for bicycles and PHP 300 for motorcycles. FF Cruz Shipping, on the other hand, operates daily trips on the same route with passenger fares at PHP 35, but vehicle fare details were not explicitly found.
Vehicle Fares
For private cars, expect to pay around PHP 750 on Montenegro Shipping Lines' RORO ferry from Iloilo to Guimaras. Larger vehicles, such as 6-wheeler and 10-wheeler trucks, incur higher fees up to around PHP 2,880.
Passenger Fares
The Starlite Ferries' Sprint 1 fast craft vessel is used for the Iloilo to Guimaras route. The boat ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes, and the fare for passengers is usually around PHP 15-30 per person. Starlite Ferries offers various passenger fare rates: PHP 50.00 for regular, PHP 40.00 for students, PHP 36.00 for senior citizens/PWD, and PHP 25.00 for minors (4-11 y.o.).
Ferry Departures
Starlite Ferries operates daily trips from Iloilo to Guimaras and vice versa, with departures from Ilo-ilo Port in Iloilo City. The Starlite Ferries' daily schedule for the Iloilo to Guimaras route includes departures at 4:30 AM, 6:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:30 PM, and 7:30 PM.
Safety Measures
When traveling, it's crucial to follow all safety guidelines and regulations of the ferry companies, boat operators, and local authorities. This includes weight limits for vehicles, safety equipment, and passenger capacity. It's also essential to inquire about parking fees, security, and availability beforehand.
Additional Information
Weather forecasts and sea conditions should be checked before traveling to Guimaras. Additional fees may apply for luggage or vehicles on the ferry. If you prefer to bring your own vehicle to Guimaras, you can take a RORO ferry from Jordan Wharf in Iloilo City to Sibunag or Buenavista Port in Guimaras. NaviMar Ticket Outlets are located at Parola Wharf Terminal and outside the Jordan RORORO Port.
NaviMar Shipping expands its routes as Guimaras Island gains more attention, making it an increasingly popular destination for tourists, particularly during the summer season. Parking options are available at the Jordan Wharf in Iloilo City for those who bring their vehicles. For those bringing a motorcycle to Guimaras, the fare is PHP 90.00 for one driver and PHP 110.00 for one driver with a backride. For those bringing a bike to Guimaras, the fare is PHP 35.00. The fare for vehicles on the RORO ferry typically ranges from PHP 400-800 per vehicle, plus additional fees for the driver and passengers.
In summary, whether you're looking to explore Guimaras Island by car or motorcycle or simply as a passenger, there are numerous ferry options available to suit your needs. Always remember to prioritize safety and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
The diversity in transportation options makes it possible for every traveler, whether driving a private vehicle, bringing a motorcycle, or simply traveling as a passenger, to conveniently reach Guimaras Island. The financial aspect is also well-considered, as ferry companies offer reasonable fares for various vehicles, ensuring affordability in the lifestyle sector, particularly during the travel season when Guimaras Island becomes more popular.