How to get from Surigao to Siargao

Beaches & Tropical · Nature & Outdoors · Philippines · Dapa · General Luna · Siargao · Surigao

Surigao City to Siargao is a classic hop across Surigao Strait. Most travelers take the fast ferry from Surigao Port to Dapa Port (Siargao), then continue by van/trike to General Luna (Cloud 9). Alternatives include the slower RORO (with/without vehicle), a private speedboat charter (weather-permitting), or—if ferries are canceled—flying via Cebu/Manila into Siargao (IAO). Use the step-by-steps and map links below to keep things smooth.

At A Glance (Surigao to Siargao)

Mode Duration Best For
⛴️ Fast Ferry (Surigao Port → Dapa Port) ~1.5–3h on water (+30–60m land to hotel) Most travelers, reliable & budget-friendly
🏷️ Cost: ~PHP 350–550 one-way (seat class/date) » compare ferries | island transfers
🚢 RORO/Slow Ferry (Vehicle-friendly) ~2.5–4.5h on water Traveling with motorbike/car, heavy gear
🏷️ Cost: Passenger ~PHP 300–450; vehicles extra (by size)
🚤 Private Speedboat Charter ~1–1.5h (sea/weather-dependent) Time-pressed groups, off-schedule arrivals
🏷️ Cost: ~PHP 12,000–20,000 per boat (capacity varies) » inquire charters
✈️ Flight via Cebu/Manila → Siargao (IAO) ~3–6h total (with connection) Back-up plan during ferry cancellations
🏷️ Cost: ~PHP 2,500–7,500+ one-way (seasonal) » check flights | alt. fares

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

  • Fastest + simplest from Surigao: Fast Ferry to Dapa then van/trike to General Luna.
  • Bringing a vehicle or lots of gear: RORO/Slow Ferry (reserve early for vehicles).
  • Arriving off-schedule or with a group: Private Speedboat when seas are calm (check weather).
  • When ferries are canceled or you’re elsewhere in the Philippines: Fly via Cebu/Manila to IAO, then transfer to General Luna.

How to Book and Practical Tips

  • Buy early in peak months: Weekends/holidays sell out; browse ferry slots on Klook or ask at Surigao Port ticket windows.
  • Transfers on Siargao: Vans meet most boats for General Luna. You can also arrange hotel pickup via GetYourGuide.
  • Ride-hailing: No Grab on Siargao; in Surigao City, use local taxis/trikes. For fixed private cars, try GetTransfer.
  • Overnight stops: If your boat is early/late, compare stays in Surigao or General Luna.
  • Scooters on Siargao: Explore the island on two wheels—compare rentals on BikesBooking.

⛴️ Option #1 — Fast Ferry Surigao Port → Dapa Port (Most Popular)

Budget Frequent Weather-dependent

  • Overview: Multiple daily fastcrafts connect Surigao City Port (Passenger Terminal) to Dapa Port on Siargao. On arrival, shared vans/trikes go to General Luna (GL) in ~35–50 minutes.
  • How to book (with price): Walk-up tickets or prebook via resellers (~PHP 350–550). Compare options on Klook or ask your hotel to reserve.
  • Pros: Cheapest & straightforward; boats run morning to mid-afternoon. Cons: Cancellations in rough seas; bring a light jacket for AC.

Step-by-step: Fast Ferry

  1. From central Surigao, ride a trike/taxi to Surigao City Port – Passenger Terminal; arrive 45–60 minutes before departure.
  2. Buy/claim your ticket and terminal fee; keep your ID handy. If you prefer, browse options on Klook the day prior.
  3. Board the fastcraft to Dapa Port (Siargao). Travel time is typically 1.5–3 hours depending on boat/sea state.
  4. Exit Dapa terminal; join a van to General Luna (or hire a trike if you’re light on luggage). Pay driver on arrival.

Getting to the main embarking points (Surigao Port & Dapa)

  • Surigao Port: Central and trike-accessible; bring small cash for terminal fees and snacks.
  • Dapa Port: Vans wait outside; agree the fare before loading surfboards.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚢 Option #2 — RORO / Slow Ferry (Good for Vehicles & Heavy Gear)

Vehicle-friendly More luggage room Slower

  • Overview: RORO vessels carry passengers and vehicles between Surigao Port and Dapa. Expect longer crossings and earlier check-in for vehicles.
  • How to book (with price): Passenger fares ~PHP 300–450 (plus terminal fee). Vehicles priced by length/weight; reserve early via local agents or your hotel. For private-vehicle alternatives, compare quotes on GetTransfer.
  • Pros: Bring your car/motorbike and large boards. Cons: Fewer sailings and longer times vs fastcraft.

Step-by-step: RORO / Slow Ferry

  1. Confirm sailing times a day ahead at Surigao Port or via your accommodation; vehicle slots can sell out.
  2. Arrive 90–120 minutes before departure for vehicle inspection, ticketing, and fees (driver + passengers ticketed separately).
  3. Board and secure your vehicle; keep essentials with you during the crossing to Dapa.
  4. Disembark at Dapa and drive/ride 30–50 minutes to General Luna via the circumferential road.

Getting to the main embarking points (Port & Vehicle Lanes)

  • Vehicle staging: Follow port signage to RORO lanes; staff will direct you for embarkation order.
  • Fuel & ATMs: Top up in Surigao; Siargao fuel/ATM options can be limited.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚤 Option #3 — Private Speedboat Charter (Fastest at Sea)

Time-saver Flexible departure Weather-sensitive

  • Overview: Charter a speedboat from Surigao to Siargao for direct, flexible transfers. Availability and safety depend on sea conditions; reputable operators will cancel if unsafe.
  • How to book (with price): ~PHP 12,000–20,000 per boat depending on size/season. Inquire through hotels or browse GetYourGuide.
  • Pros: Door-to-door timing, minimal waiting. Cons: Costly; subject to weather and availability.

Step-by-step: Private Speedboat

  1. Contact an operator (or your hotel) with your desired date/time and passenger count; ask about life vests and limits on surfboards.
  2. Meet at the agreed Surigao embarkation point; settle payment and safety briefing.
  3. Cross directly to a Siargao landing (often near Dapa/GL); a van can take you the final minutes to your hotel.
  4. Have a weather fallback (fast ferry or flight via Cebu/Manila) in case of rough seas.

Getting to the main embarking points (Boat Jetty / Landing)

  • Surigao side: Operators will specify the exact jetty; confirm on the morning of travel.
  • Siargao side: Arrange a van/trike to General Luna in advance for late arrivals.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

✈️ Option #4 — Flight via Cebu/Manila → Siargao (IAO) (Back-Up Plan)

Fast airtime Good during ferry disruptions Connection needed

  • Overview: If seas are rough or you’re elsewhere in the Philippines, fly to Siargao Airport (IAO) via Cebu (CEB) or Manila (MNL), then transfer ~45–60 minutes to General Luna.
  • How to book (with price): ~PHP 2,500–7,500+ one-way depending on date/airline. Compare on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com. Ground transfers to GL can be arranged on GetYourGuide.
  • Pros: Skips sea crossing; many daily flights via CEB/MNL. Cons: Not the most direct option if you’re already in Surigao City.

Step-by-step: Flight via Cebu/Manila

  1. If you’re in Surigao City, ride to Surigao Airport (SUG) or bus/fly via CEB/MNL as schedules allow.
  2. Book a connecting flight to Siargao (IAO) using Booking.com Flights or Trip.com.
  3. Land at IAO; meet a van/taxi or prearranged airport transfer to General Luna.
  4. Check in and time your surf—Cloud 9 is a short ride from most GL accommodations.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airports & GL)

  • Airports: SUG is closest to Surigao City; IAO serves Siargao. Cebu/Manila offer more daily connections.
  • GL access: Vans meet most IAO flights; confirm price before boarding.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Surigao to Siargao)

How long is the ferry crossing?
Fast ferries typically take about 1.5–3 hours depending on boat type and sea conditions.

Which port do I use on Siargao?
Most passenger boats arrive at Dapa Port, ~20–25 km from General Luna.

Can I bring surfboards?
Yes, but expect a small fee and load them in a way that doesn’t block aisles. Confirm with staff before boarding.

What if the sea is rough?
Sailings may be canceled. Consider the next departure, a private charter (if safe), or flying via Cebu/Manila to IAO.

How do I get from Dapa to General Luna?
Shared vans and trikes wait outside the terminal. The ride to GL takes ~35–50 minutes.

Where should I stay on Siargao?
General Luna (Cloud 9) for surf and cafés; Pacifico for quieter beaches. Compare places on Booking.com.

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