El Nido to Coron is one of the most spectacular journeys in the Philippines — a full day crossing through some of the most beautiful islands in the world. But it is also one of the most misunderstood routes, with multiple options at very different prices, comfort levels, and time requirements. Here is everything you need to know.
Quick Answer
El Nido to Coron takes 8 to 10 hours by shared fastcraft (₱2,500 to ₱3,500 per person) or 3 to 4 days by island hopping boat (₱4,500 to ₱8,000 per person for a shared tour). There is no direct flight — you must fly El Nido to Puerto Princesa then Puerto Princesa to Coron. The fastcraft runs daily weather permitting during dry season.
Option 1 — Fastcraft Boat (Most Popular)
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 8 to 10 hours |
| Price | ₱2,500 to ₱3,500 per person |
| Departs | Usually 7:00 to 8:00 AM from El Nido pier |
| Arrives | Late afternoon in Coron town |
| Stops | Linapacan island group — some boats stop for lunch |
| Availability | Daily during dry season, weather dependent |
| Rough seas | Cancellations happen — have a backup plan |
The fastcraft journey passes through the Linapacan island chain — considered some of the most beautiful uninhabited islands in the Philippines. Shades of blue water, white sand beaches, and near-zero development. Most fastcraft operators make a short stop on a Linapacan beach for swimming and lunch.
What the Fastcraft is Actually Like
Fastcraft boats in the Philippines are large outrigger vessels with covered passenger areas and open bow sections. They are not luxury transport — think basic seats, life jackets on the benches, and a food vendor at the back. The open water crossing between Linapacan and Coron can be rough, particularly from June to September. Motion sickness tablets are essential if you are susceptible. Bring a light jacket as the wind chill at speed makes the crossing cold despite the tropical air temperature.
Option 2 — Island Hopping Boat Tour (3 to 4 Days)
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 3 to 4 days with island stops |
| Price (shared) | ₱4,500 to ₱8,000 per person |
| Price (private) | ₱30,000 to ₱60,000 for whole boat |
| Includes | Accommodation on islands, most meals, guide |
| Islands visited | Linapacan, Culion, other uninhabited islands |
| Experience | Extraordinary — among the best in Philippines |
The island hopping route from El Nido to Coron via Linapacan is frequently cited as one of the most spectacular boat journeys in Asia. You sleep on uninhabited islands, snorkel in completely untouched reefs, and see no tourist infrastructure for days at a time. For travelers with 4 extra days and a larger budget this is the definitive way to do the crossing.
Option 3 — Flight (Fastest but Expensive)
There is no direct flight from El Nido to Coron. The flight route requires:
- Van transfer from El Nido to Puerto Princesa (5 to 6 hours, ₱750)
- Flight from Puerto Princesa to Busuanga Airport near Coron (45 minutes, ₱2,000 to ₱5,000 with Cebu Pacific or AirSWIFT)
- Van or tricycle from Busuanga Airport to Coron town (1 hour, ₱200 to ₱400)
Total time including transit: 8 to 10 hours — approximately the same as the fastcraft but at significantly higher cost. The advantage is reliability in all weather and a more comfortable journey overall.
Which Option to Choose
| Choose if… | Best Option |
|---|---|
| You want the most scenic journey | Fastcraft or island hopping |
| You have limited time | Fastcraft (same time as flying, much cheaper) |
| You are prone to seasickness | Flight via Puerto Princesa |
| You have 3 to 4 extra days | Island hopping tour |
| Traveling in wet season | Flight — fastcraft frequently cancelled |
| Budget is a priority | Fastcraft |
If You Are Flying Home from Puerto Princesa
If your itinerary ends in Puerto Princesa rather than Coron, the return van from El Nido is your transport. Book your El Nido to Puerto Princesa van transfer here — ₱750 per person shared, ₱7,500 private van. Take the 5:00 AM departure for any flight before 2:00 PM.
