Sea travel in the Philippines is no longer new. In fact, it is an essential form of transport for travel, trade, and tourism. It has evolved through time to meet different needs. Different types of ferries ply our coastlines and they exist to serve essential services between islands.
Read through this article to learn more about the different types of ferries in the Philippines.
6 Types of Ferries in the Philippines
1. Ferry Boats
Traditional ferry boats are still a regular sight in Philippine waters and are used for passenger and cargo transport. This type of ferry is reliable and comes in various sizes and capacities. They may be in the form of (1) bangka or small outrigger boats intended for short-distance travel, (2) large hulled ferries made of wood or steel that are designed to accommodate passengers and vehicles.
2. Roll-on/Roll-off Ferries
Commonly referred to as Ro-Ro, this type of ferry offers versatility and is designed to accommodate not only passengers but also to facilitate the transport of goods, vehicles, and cargo, Ro-Ros have ramps to allow efficient loading and unloading.
3. FastCrafts
A fast ferry in the Philippines answers the need for speed, safety, and convenience in sea travel. FastCrafts are high-speed ferries that allow rapid transport between islands. These vessels are equipped with powerful engines to allow faster travel time. They are equipped with advanced navigation technology to support sea travel safety. Unlike the traditional ferries in the Philippines, passengers may opt to travel in economy or business class through fastcrafts.
4. Passenger Ferries
This is a type of ferry that is purely for passenger transport and not for cargo or vehicles. They are designed with the passenger in mind and are equipped with amenities essential for comfortable sea travel such as comfortable seating, restrooms, and other amenities. Passenger ferries come in different sizes and configurations.
5. Leisure Ferries
Ferries are also used for leisure travel, particularly for island-hopping. This type of ferry is notably smaller and used as a vessel for the exploration of nearby islands and coastal areas. Island-hopping ferries are usually owned and operated by people who offer day tours or travel packages to popular tourist spots in the area.
Other types of leisure ferries include those that are used as tourist charters or for the private transportation of guests in island resorts.
6. Double-Ended Ferries
Unlike the other types of ferries in the Philippines, this is designed with two propulsion systems found at both ends. They are used to allow the ferry to operate in either direction without the need to maneuver or turn around. This is ideal for places with narrow or congested waterways and is commonly used to cross adjacent islands or ports.
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The Philippines as a country surrounded by waters is home to different types of ferries for sea travel. A ferry that suits specific requirements should be used to allow connectivity in coastal areas, transport passengers, vehicles, and cargo, and boost tourism in a certain destination.
For more than 20 years, SuperCat Fast Ferry Corporation has maintained its status as one of the most reputable providers of fast, safe, and prime sea ferry service. If you need to travel by sea or ship goods and commodities, book with us. Get your ticket from one of our ticketing outlets near you.