2019 • 07 • 02
Island hopping Marinduque’s Tres Reyes Islands is one of the things you can do while in the province; Baltazar Island is part of this tour. It provides you with a nice and beautiful place to go diving in and relax. The island is different from Melchor and Gaspar Islands. This place is a noteworthy destination for those who want a weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.
WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?
How to Get There
Nearest Airport: Marinduque Airport (Gasan), Ninoy Aquino International Airport, also known as Manila International Airport (Manila)
By Air
For the longest time, the main mode of transportation from Manila to Marinduque has been land-to-sea transfer. But there’s a more convenient option now that Cebu Pacific Air officially launched its Manila-Marinduque route early this month, bringing Marinduque closer to Manila and vice versa. From more or less eight hours of traveling, Marinduque is just about an hour from Manila via air. The roundtrip airfare ranges from P3000 to P4000, depending on the season. Cebu Pacific flies the Manila-Marinduque route three times a week — Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
By Land
Via Direct Bus
- Ride a bus from Cubao traveling to the province. Jac Liner has regular direct trips to Marinduque that cost around P1000.
- Once in Balanacan, there are many jeeps traveling to the municipalities of the province, for the island hopping, get on one bound for Gasan.
Via Lucena Grand Terminal
- Get on a bus from either Buendia or Cubao bound for Lucena Grand Terminal; the fare is around P150 to P270 depending on the class of the bus.
- From the terminal, get on a jeep traveling to Dalahican Port, which costs approximately P10.
- You have the option to either ride the RORO or the fast craft to get to Marinduque:
- the RORO ticket costs around P150 to P260
- the fast craft’s fare is approximately P280 to P390 to Balanacan Port per way.
- Once in Balanacan, there are many jeeps traveling to the municipalities of the province, for the island hopping, get on one bound for Gasan.
Note:The terminal fee at Dalahican Port is around P30.
Entrance Fee and Other Charges
- Island Hopping Rates: P1000 – P1500 (Gaspar Island, Baltazar Island, and Melchor Island); P500 – P600 (Gaspar Island only)
- Camping Fee: Visitors don’t usually spend too much time here because the waves could get really strong at certain times.
- Cottage Rental Fee: People don’t normally stay overnight here. They opt to spend the night on Gaspar Island or on the mainland.
Don’t Miss
- Baltazar Island isn’t as big as Gaspar Island, but it still has a good swimming area and beach.
- The island is a famous diving spot as it has a thriving underwater ecosystem worth exploring. However, the province has limited diving options and available equipment. If you have the skill and experience, you can dive to and explore the underwater cave in the area.
- Check out the old lighthouse while you’re there.
Don’t Forget
- Bring enough cash for your island hopping tour to Baltazar Island.
- Keep your gadgets charged by bringing a power bank and extra batteries.
- You can rent gear or bring your own if you want to go snorkeling.
- Keep your things dry by bringing Ziplocs and a dry bag.
- Brings snacks and drinks, but leave no trace behind after enjoying the islands.
If You Have More Time and Budget
- After Gaspar Island and the Tres Reyes tour, drop by Poctoy Beach where you can go for another round of swimming, beach bumming, and eating. There are a handful of beachfront resorts, guesthouses, and restaurants to choose from.
- Marinduque also has some old churches worth visiting in Boac, Gasan and other municipalities.
- Participate in the activities of the Moriones Festival, if you visit during Holy Week.
- You can also spend an extra day and night in Maniwaya which is another island with a beautiful beach.
RELATED ARTICLE: Marinduque: Important Travel Tips
Where to Stay
If you plan to explore the mainland, here are some of the accommodations in the province of Marinduque.
- Beach Club Cagpo. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- Villa Briones. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
For more options, search here: Marinduque Hotels
Reminders
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