The long journey from Manila to Iloilo via Roro (Roll-on/Roll-off) travel can be a challenge if you are not familiar with the route. You might be a passenger that seeks a worry-free travel experience for your vacation or a business owner who needs reliable transport  for goods and vehicles, Roro services caters to both. 

This guide provides all the essential information of what you need to know, from preparation and departure to the journey itself and arrival in Iloilo. Whether you will travel for business or pleasure, this guide aims to make your Manila to Iloilo Roro travel experience as seamless as possible.

Essential Travel Guide from Manila to Iloilo Roro 

1. Prepare Before the Trip

It is crucial to prepare for all aspects of your trip before departure. This will ensure that you won’t have to worry about potential problems like being lost or leaving behind important documents. So here is the list of things to consider before the actual trip:

• Best Times to Travel

If you are a passenger, the ideal period to visit Iloilo is around the months of January to May. This is due to the sunny weather during that season which makes it easy to go sightseeing. This can also apply to business owners as the dry months make it easier to transport your cargo without the added complications of rainy weather. 

• Book Tickets Early 

Make sure to book your tickets months or weeks in advance so that you have no problems with finding the right travel accommodations for you on the Manila to Iloilo Roro route:

1. Economy Class – These are usually cheaper seats that you have to share with others. These seats have no aircon. 
2. Tourist Class – Seats here are still shared but aircon is now available, there is an armrest for chairs and access to the comfort room as well.
3. Business Class – Offers you wider legroom and in some cases your own private cabin. 

Make sure to read the safety guidelines and regulations of the ferry company to help you decide on which passenger class is good for you for the Manila to Iloilo trip.

• What to Pack for Roro Travel

For most of your Roro Manila to Iloilo trip you will be always on the move.

• Pack light (backpacks or a single luggage bag)
• Use plastic sealable bags (sort your things)
• Secure important travel documents (booking tickets, IDs, vehicle registration, travel permits) 
• Bring personal hygiene items (toothbrush and soap)
• Comfortable sleep items (neck pillow and eye mask)

Remember to keep your bags nearby for the duration of the trip!

2. Choose a Travel Route 

Now that you have made preparations for your long trip from Manila to Iloilo Roro, you must now decide on the road transport you will take to go to the Roro vessel. A Roro boat from Manila to Iloilo and vice versa can take anywhere from 20 to 28 hours of total travel time. Your options are dependent on the level of convenience and budget you are comfortable with: 

1. Book a Roro Bus

A Roro bus is a bus that will drive you to the port and go inside the Roro vessel. Which will then make its way to your destination.

PROS: 

• No need to worry about vehicle permits since you are not the one driving. 
• You can just sit and relax or sleep during the journey.
• You aren’t completely exhausted since the trip is almost seamless

CONS:

• You would have to share your space with many other people.
• Bathroom breaks can be infrequent since drivers have to keep on schedule.
• Usually, the bus fare is separate from the payment for the ferry ticket.

    2. Drive Your Own Vehicle 

You can also have the option to bring your own vehicle to the port to enter the Roro vessel. Just be sure to have all the necessary documents such as vehicle registration and transport permit.

PROS:

• You have all the space in your vehicle to yourself.
• You can have your own schedule for when you arrive at each of your transit points before making it to the final destination.

CONS:

• Driving will likely exhaust your energy for the whole trip.
• Possibility of delays due to unplanned pit stops. 

    3. Transport Trucks (for Business)

If you are a business owner then consider the use of transport trucks that haul storage containers for the Roro Manila to Iloilo route. This will make your business operations more efficient as the trucks carrying the cargo don’t have to go through the long load and unload process.

3. Board the Roro Vessel 

After you have chosen a mode of transport, it is now time to board the Roro vessel. Be sure to have all of the necessary documents to process your baggage or cargo for your business. Make sure to follow these well-traversed Manila to Iloilo Roro routes and update yourself on any harsh weather conditions or traffic to prepare for the long journey:

• Roro Manila to Iloilo

There is a direct route from Manila to Iloilo. However, keep in mind that Manila’s port area tends to be overcrowded with people and ships which could lead to further delays for your trip. The route from Batangas to Caticlan is a great alternative:

• Traveling to Batangas is fast and easy.  
• You have a chance to see a more scenic route or plan a side trip to nearby attractions.
• Reduce the number of hours onboard a boat.

This is the route from Batangas to Calapan to Caticlan:

1. Drive to Batangas port
2. Take a ferry from Batangas to Calapan
3. Once in Calapan drive to Roxas, Dangay Port 
4. In Dangay Port take a vessel to Caticlan
5. Upon arrival at Caticlan drive to Iloilo City

• Roro Iloilo to Manila 

Travel  direct from Iloilo to Manila:

1. Drive to Iloilo Pier, Fort San Pedro to book a trip straight 
2. You will arrive at Manila North Harbor Pier

Travel via Bacolod City:

1. Go to Iloilo Port and book a trip to Bacolod City
2. Once you arrive at Bacolod, book a ferry going to Manila

Remember to observe the check-in procedures at the terminal and the boarding process for passengers (and vehicles if you brought any) for the Manila to Iloilo Roro journey. 

4. Onboard the Roro Vessel

You will spend most of your time within the vessel for your Roro Manila to Iloilo experience, so it is best to be aware of the potential problems you may encounter while onboard and how to deal with them:

 

Problem – Seasickness

Solution:

– Take over-the-counter motion sickness medication before departure.

– Choose a cabin or seat in the middle of the vessel where movement is less noticeable.

– Go on deck to get some fresh air to help alleviate symptoms.

 

Problem – Delays and Schedule Changes

Solution:

– Regularly check for updates from the Roro service provider.

– Prepare for possible delays, so include extra time within your schedule.

– Be flexible with your schedule and learn to re-adjust your plans.

 

Problem – Crowded Facilities

Solution:

– Travel during off-peak seasons to avoid too many people on the trip.

– Book tickets in advance to secure preferred seating or accommodation.

– Arrive early to board and settle in before the majority of passengers.

 

Problem – Limited Food Options

Solution:

– Pack your own snacks and meals if dietary restrictions or preferences are a concern.

– Check ahead for available onboard dining options and plan accordingly.

– Bring non-perishable, easy-to-carry food items.

 

Problem – Uncomfortable Seating

Solution:

– Bring a blanket or portable pillow for extra comfort.

– Opt for upgraded seating or cabin options if available.

– Stretch and move around the vessel periodically to avoid stiffness.

 

Problem – Lost or Stolen Belongings

Solution:

– Keep valuables in a secure, easily accessible location, such as a money belt or neck pouch.

– Use luggage locks and keep your belongings within sight.

– Report any incidents to the vessel’s staff immediately.

 

Problem – Inadequate Restroom Facilities

Solution:

– Bring personal hygiene items like wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper.

– Use restrooms during off-peak times to avoid crowds.

– Report any maintenance issues to the staff promptly.

 

Problem – Difficulty Navigating the Vessel

Solution:

– Familiarize yourself with the vessel’s layout upon boarding.

– Follow signage and maps provided onboard.

– Ask crew members for directions if needed.

 

5. Explore  Your Destination 

So you were able to arrive at your destination. After a long journey to get there, you are probably tired and want to get some rest or something to eat. So here are the hotels and restaurants near Iloilo, Batangas, and Manila’s ports:

• Iloilo

1. Circle Inn
2. Go Hotels Iloilo 
3. The New View by Ecotel 
4. People’s Hotel
5. GT Hotel Iloilo 
6. Iloilo Grand Hotel

• Manila

1. Bayview Park Hotel Manila
2. The Heritage Hotel Manila 
3. Manila Prince Hotel
4. City Garden Suites Hotel
5. Kingsford Hotel Manila 
6. Seda Manila Bay

• Batangas

1. Pontefino Hotel
2. The Alpa Hotel 
3. Dreaming Forest Hotel Hibjo 
4. The Wharf Hotel
5. OYO 407 Sm Travelodge
6. Days Hotel by Wyndham Batangas

Rest is an important part of any trip to refresh your body and mind to make the right decisions. Hotel stays ensure that you regain the energy going from one place to another. 

Roro from Manila to Iloilo and Back, Made Easy

Your boat travel via Roro Manila to Iloilo will be smoother with proper preparation and knowledge. Whether you’re on vacation and want hassle-free travel or a business owner looking for reliable transport for goods and vehicles, this guide has covered all essential aspects. From planning and packing to understanding routes and dealing with onboard challenges, you are now equipped to handle the journey confidently.

ALSO READ: 6 TYPES OF FERRIES IN THE PHILIPPINES FOR SEA TRAVEL 

Remember, the key to a successful trip lies in meticulous preparation and flexibility. Embrace the adventure of Roro travel, and take in the scenic beauty and unique experiences along the way. With the tips and advice in this guide, your Manila to Iloilo Roro trip will be a seamless and enjoyable experience that sets the stage for a memorable journey or a productive business venture.

If you are looking for a fast way to get from Manila to Iloilo and back, book a fastcraft with SuperCat today! Contact us if you have any inquiries about our scheduled routes for a stress-free trip.