Philippines

How to get from Coron to Palawan

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

FASTEST
1h
💶
From
28€
📍
Distance
299 km
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There are 2 way(s) to get from Coron to Palawan

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Coron
📍Coron Port, also known as Coron Town Proper Port, is the main commercial and passenger pier. It's an open-air facility with basic amenities like ticket counters and waiting areas. Terminal fees are typically paid upon entry, so keep a small amount of cash handy.
🚇From Coron Town Proper, the port is within walking distance for many accommodations. Alternatively, tricycles (the local taxis) are readily available. A ride from most parts of town shouldn't cost more than 50-100 PHP and takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.
Fast ferries to El Nido usually depart once or twice daily, typically in the morning (e.g., around 7:30 AM) and sometimes an afternoon trip. Schedules can vary by operator and season, so check current timings.
💸 Transport from 28€ per person
Fastest: 1h
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

💡
Book in Advance, Especially for Ferries

Ferry tickets, especially for fast crafts, can sell out quickly during peak season. Secure your spot by booking online via platforms like 12go.asia a few days ahead to avoid disappointment or being stuck overnight.

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Check Weather Forecasts Religiously

Typhoon season (roughly June to November) can lead to sudden ferry cancellations. Always check local weather forecasts and advisories before heading to the port. Operators often announce cancellations on their Facebook pages.

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Arrive Early at the Port

Ports in the Philippines can be busy and sometimes chaotic. Aim to arrive at least an hour before your scheduled departure to allow time for ticketing, terminal fees, and finding your gate without stress.

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Pack Light and Smart for Ferries

While most ferries have luggage storage, it can be cramped. Keep essential documents, valuables, and a change of clothes in a small daypack. Expect open-air crossings to be breezy and potentially wet.

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Identify the Correct Pier

Some towns have multiple piers. Confirm with your ticket or local transport providers exactly which pier your ferry departs from to avoid rushing between terminals. Coron's main port is usually straightforward.

🛣️ The journey experience

Navigating the Philippines' 7,000 islands can feel like a puzzle, especially when planning your route from Coron to Palawan. The good news is, this specific leg offers clear choices, letting you pick between a quick flight or a scenic ferry, depending on your budget and how much time you have. Understanding the real duration, including transfers, is key to avoiding wasted travel days.

From Coron to El Nido (Palawan), you have two primary options. The fast ferry is a popular choice, taking around 5 hours and costing approximately €28. Several operators, including Montenegro Shipping Lines and Atienza Shipping Lines, run these services. Alternatively, you can fly from Busuanga (Coron's airport) to El Nido airport, which takes about 1 hour and costs from €35 with airlines like AirSwift. Keep in mind that flight prices fluctuate, especially for AirSwift which directly links these two tourist hubs.

To avoid getting stuck or losing precious island-hopping time, always compare all options. While flying is faster, ferries offer a unique sea experience and are generally more budget-friendly. Always check schedules in advance on platforms like 12go.asia, as timings can shift, and always consider the potential for weather-related cancellations during typhoon season. Booking ahead ensures your spot and peace of mind.

Frequently asked questions — Coron → Palawan

✨ Why visit Palawan?

  • Island hopping in El Nido (Bacuit Bay) to discover secret lagoons, white-sand beaches, and limestone cliffs.
  • Exploring the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Snorkeling and diving in Coron to see Japanese shipwrecks, vibrant coral reefs, and Barracuda Lake.
  • Kayaking through the enchanting mangroves of Sabang or exploring the Big Lagoon in El Nido.
  • Relaxing on the pristine beaches of Nacpan (El Nido) or Long Beach (San Vicente).
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Recommended stay
7 to 10 nights — allows ample time to explore El Nido, Coron, and Puerto Princesa without rushing.

☀️ When to visit Palawan?

TROPICAL MARITIME SAISONS

November to May — dry season with sunny days, calm seas, and ideal conditions for island hopping and water activities.

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In Palawan — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Palawan
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Palawan?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
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El Nido Island Hopping Tour A
Explore the iconic lagoons and beaches of Miniloc Island and Shimizu Island. This classic tour offers stunning limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Book in advance, especially during peak season, tours start around 20€ per person.
🏞️
Puerto Princesa Underground River
Discover one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, a navigable underground river with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Permits are mandatory and limited daily. Secure your slot well in advance, as last-minute bookings are rare. Expect a fee around 10€ for the entrance.
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Coron Wreck Diving & Snorkeling
Explore Japanese WWII shipwrecks, a world-class diving destination. Even snorkelers can appreciate some shallow wrecks and vibrant coral gardens. Choose a reputable dive shop for safety and equipment. Full-day tours usually start from 35€.
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Sunset Kayaking Nacpan Beach
Paddle a kayak along the stunning twin beaches of Nacpan and Calitang as the sun dips below the horizon. The golden hour light creates perfect photo opportunities. Rent a kayak for about 5€ per hour near the beach entrance. Arrive early to find a good spot.
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Mount Tapyas Hike Coron
Ascend Mount Tapyas for panoramic views of Coron Town and its surrounding islands. The 700+ steps are a good workout, rewarded with a breathtaking sunset vista. Best to go in the late afternoon for cooler temperatures and the sunset. No entrance fee.
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Taste Palawan's Seafood & Kinilaw
Indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries, especially the ceviche-like Kinilaw. Look for 'carinderias' or night markets for authentic flavors and lower prices. A hearty seafood meal can cost around 10-15€ per person. Don't be afraid to try street food for local delicacies.
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Firefly Watching Iwahig River
Experience a magical evening observing thousands of fireflies illuminating the mangroves along the Iwahig River. This serene boat trip offers a unique natural spectacle. Tours typically cost around 15-20€ and include transfers. Book through your accommodation or a local tour operator.
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Port Barton Relaxed Beach Life
Escape the crowds of El Nido and Coron for the laid-back charm of Port Barton. Enjoy pristine beaches, tranquil atmosphere, and smaller-scale island hopping. Accommodation and food are generally more affordable here. Try an island hopping tour for about 15€, visiting unspoiled spots.

⏱️ How long to visit Palawan?

7 to 14 days

For an independent francophone traveler, Palawan merits at least 7-10 days to fully appreciate its main highlights like El Nido, Coron, and Puerto Princesa. If you have only 5 days, focus on one area (e.g., El Nido island hopping) to avoid rushing. With 2 weeks, you can explore at a leisurely pace, including more remote spots or longer diving excursions. Prioritize based on your interests: beaches, diving, or underground river.

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