How safe are the ferries in Philippines ?
Question
Cheryl: Hi guys, I’ll be going to Philippines in a couple of weeks time for vacation. I don’t have a fixed traval route, but I do intend to go as many places as possible. I’ve read that ferries are used as one of the main transportation in Philippines, and that’s my prefered mode of transport. However, I’ve also read of the numerous accidents involving with ferries recently, so my question is how safe are the ferries? Should i just stick to the main companies “Superferry” & “Supercat” ?
Cheryl, London
Answer
Ryan: Let me greet you first with an advanced welcome to these islands! That is true that ferries are still one of the most accessible forms of transport in the Philippines (the country being an archipelago of 7,107 islands!). Superferry, Supercat has the best reputations so far, but that is not really saying much either. Superferry had a major accident last September with about 900 saved and 9 dead. By experience, on the other hand, these two has the best and most comfortable accommodations. Never ride a Sulpicio Lines boat as they are very notorious for being floating coffins with so many lives already lost. We really wonder why they are still in business.
If you can help it, travel by plane, they are faster, convenient and if you book in advance, the fare difference between a ferry and a plane isn’t that big a deal.
Cheers.
Ryan
PkTan is fascinated with this beautiful, complicated country. He loves advising travellers to Philippines and have developed this site to share all his knowledge of Philippines with everyone. Learn more about me [+]
Hi! I have experienced riding the Pasig River Ferry earlier this month. It was a good experience. The cabin is airconditioned and is equipped with an LCD TV. You’ll pass by along the Pasig River and Malacanang Palace. It is like a tour in a way.. :-)
Although the ferry has restrooms, you may still find yourselves struggling in comfort as you sit in it’s plastic chairs. There is quite a number of stops so travel time needs to be stretched a little. I have a picture of the Ferry’s interior at my flickr photostream:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alfiesnothings/
Hi Api!
Yeah we tried the Pasig River Ferry too! Was an interesting way to see Manila from the river. :)
Cheers!
Ryan