Caticlan Jetty Port Ferries

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Caticlan is accessible via the Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (also known as Caticlan Airport), which receives domestic flights from Manila and Cebu with a journey time of approximately 1 hour. Travelers can also reach Caticlan by land from Kalibo International Airport, requiring a 1.5-2 hour van or bus ride. From Iloilo City, a 4-5 hour bus journey takes you directly to the jetty port area. Upon arrival, the ferry terminal is easily accessible, with tricycles and shuttle services readily available for the short transfer from the airport or bus terminal. For those arriving by private vehicle, several secure parking facilities are available near the port for both short and extended stays.

Nestled on the northwestern tip of Panay Island in the Philippines, Caticlan serves as the vital gateway to the world-renowned Boracay Island. This bustling port town combines the charm of a Filipino fishing village with the energy of a key transport hub. Travelers passing through Caticlan are just minutes away from the powdery white beaches and crystal-clear waters that have made Boracay famous worldwide.

The ideal time to visit Caticlan is during the dry season from November to May, with December to February offering the most pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall. March to May brings warmer weather perfect for water activities, though this coincides with peak tourist season. The Ati-Atihan Festival in January transforms the nearby town of Kalibo into a vibrant celebration of indigenous culture and Catholic traditions. Ferry services operate year-round but run more frequently during peak season, with reduced schedules possible during typhoon season (June to October). November and early December offer an excellent balance of good weather, reasonable prices, and fewer crowds before the holiday rush begins.

Boracay Island is the premier destination from Caticlan, just a 15-20 minute ferry ride away, famous for its stunning White Beach and vibrant nightlife. Adventurous travelers can arrange boat trips to Romblon Island (approximately 3 hours by ferry), known for its marble craftsmanship and pristine beaches. The less-visited Carabao Island lies just 30 minutes south of Boracay, offering a tranquil escape with unspoiled shores and clear waters ideal for snorkeling. For a cultural experience, ferries connect to various points on Panay Island, allowing exploration of traditional villages and lush landscapes. Caticlan's strategic position makes it an excellent starting point for island-hopping adventures in the Western Visayas region.

While most travelers pass through Caticlan en route to Boracay, the area offers several worthwhile experiences. Puka Shell Beach, located on the northern end of the mainland, provides a quieter alternative to Boracay's beaches with opportunities for shell collecting and peaceful swimming. Local seafood restaurants near the jetty serve fresh catches prepared in traditional Filipino styles, don't miss the grilled squid and kinilaw (Filipino ceviche). The Motag Living Museum, a short drive from the port, offers interactive demonstrations of traditional farming and crafts. For panoramic views of the strait between the mainland and Boracay, hike up to Mount Luho viewpoint, especially stunning at sunset. The bustling Caticlan Market gives visitors a glimpse into everyday Filipino life and a chance to purchase local fruits and handicrafts.

Caticlan's name derives from a local legend involving a golden cat ("cati" means cat in the local dialect) that was said to guard the area in ancient times. Despite its small size, the Caticlan Jetty Port processes over two million passengers annually, making it one of the busiest small ports in the Philippines. Local fishermen still practice a centuries-old tradition called "salugsog," using bamboo fish traps visible from the ferry during crossings. Before Boracay became internationally famous in the 1970s, Caticlan was primarily known for its puka shells, which were exported worldwide for jewelry making.