Burias Island in Masbate province appeals to travelers who want coastal scenery, quieter island communities, and a different pace from the busiest Philippine beach destinations.
Getting there takes a little planning because ferry travel depends on ports, vessels, weather, and the timetable for the exact date. Starhorse Shipping Lines has published an updated set of departures and passenger and vehicle rates covering San Andres, San Pascual, and Pasacao.
Starhorse Shipping Lines Ferry Departure Schedules
The following eight departure entries reproduce the regular and additional schedules from the supplied announcement. ETD means estimated time of departure, not arrival.
| Service | Origin | Destination | Departure |
| Regular | San Pascual | Pasacao | 5:30 AM |
| Regular | Pasacao | San Pascual | 10:00 AM |
| Regular | San Pascual | San Andres | 2:00 PM |
| Regular | San Andres | San Pascual | 6:00 PM |
| Additional | San Pascual | Pasacao | 5:00 PM |
| Additional | Pasacao | San Pascual | 5:00 AM |
| Additional | San Pascual | San Andres | 9:30 AM |
| Additional | San Andres | San Pascual | 1:00 PM |
Schedules are subject to change without prior notice.
San Pascual to Pasacao and Vice Versa
The regular San Pascual-to-Pasacao departure is 5:30 AM, with an additional 5:00 PM sailing. In the opposite direction, Pasacao-to-San Pascual is listed at 10:00 AM regularly and 5:00 AM as an additional departure. Travelers arriving from mainland Luzon can plan their onward ground transportation around these departure windows, while leaving a generous buffer for check-in and possible changes.
San Pascual to San Andres and Return
For travel between the two Burias Island ports, San Pascual-to-San Andres is listed at 2:00 PM regularly and 9:30 AM additionally. San Andres-to-San Pascual is listed at 6:00 PM regularly and 1:00 PM additionally. These are port-to-port ferry services; do not assume the road route or other island transfers will match the same timetable.
Passenger Fare Rates
| Category | Fare |
| Regular passenger | ₱470.00 |
| Student | ₱400.00 |
| Senior citizen / PWD | ₱335.00 |
| Half fare | ₱235.00 |
Bring valid identification for any discount and ask the ticketing staff to confirm the final payable amount. Do not assume that every passenger qualifies for the reduced rates.
Cargo and Vehicle Rates
| Length | Vehicle Type | Regular Rate |
| 0.5 | Bicycle | ₱450.00 |
| 1.0 | Bicycle with sidecar | ₱900.00 |
| 2.0 | Motorcycle | ₱1,750.00 |
| 2.1–3.0 | Motorcycle with sidecar | ₱2,680.00 |
| 3.1–4.0 | Eon, Wigo, multicab, owner-type jeep | ₱3,570.00 |
| 4.1–5.0 | Car, SUV, L-300 van, 4W ELF (regular) | ₱4,465.00 |
| 5.1–6.0 | Hi-Lux, Foton/Isuzu closed van, F-150, 6W ELF | ₱5,355.00 |
| 6.1–7.0 | Passenger jeep (extended), DTJ | ₱6,250.00 |
| 7.1–8.0 | Prime mover, Forward, ELF 250 | ₱7,140.00 |
| 8.1–9.0 | Minibus, coaster, 6W truck | ₱8,035.00 |
| 9.1–10.0 | Dump truck, 6W Forward | ₱8,925.00 |
| 10.1–11.0 | Bus | ₱9,820.00 |
| 11.1–12.0 | 8W, 10W, 6W (long body) | ₱10,710.00 |
| 12.1–13.0 | 10W (long body) | ₱11,600.00 |
| Not stated | 12W self-loading, 20-foot | ₱12,500.00 |
How to Plan Your Ferry Trip
Confirm your exact port.
San Andres and San Pascual are different locations on Burias Island, while Pasacao is on the Camarines Sur mainland. Check your ticket carefully. A booking for one port should never be assumed valid for another.
Allow time for boarding.
Arrive early enough to find the correct ticketing and vehicle queue. The advisory does not specify an official check-in cutoff; ask the operator for the current requirement, particularly when taking a vehicle.
Prepare identification and ticket details.
Carry a valid government or school ID when seeking a student, senior citizen, or PWD fare. Keep booking confirmations accessible offline and ensure names and travel dates match the issued ticket.
Check the weather and sailing status.
Weather, sea conditions, port operations, and vessel availability can affect ferry departures. Reconfirm your trip before traveling to the terminal, especially during periods of heavy rain or strong winds.
Travel light and protect valuables.
Use a water-resistant bag for documents, phones, and chargers. Keep medicines, drinking water, and a light snack within reach. Follow crew instructions when boarding and while the vessel is underway.
If bringing a vehicle.
Bring registration and other documentation the operator requires, confirm vehicle dimensions and cargo classification, and ask about prohibited cargo or hazardous materials. Loading order and vehicle capacity may differ from passenger availability.
Where to Go: Burias Island Tourist Attractions
San Andres Coastal Scenery
San Andres is one of the gateways to Burias Island. Travelers can spend time enjoying its shoreline, photographing fishing boats and exploring nearby coastal communities. Ask local guides about current access, swimming conditions, and safe boat trips.
Sombrero Island
Sombrero Island is a popular island-hopping destination associated with Burias, known for its distinctive landform and beach scenery. Visiting generally requires local boat arrangements and favorable sea conditions; confirm fees and availability locally.
Tinalisayan Island
Tinalisayan Island is often included in Burias Island-hopping plans for its sandbar and turquoise water. Tide levels and weather can affect the appearance of the sandbar and boat access, so build flexibility into your itinerary.
Animasola Island
Animasola is known for striking rock formations and is a rewarding stop for travelers interested in landscapes and photography. Boat travel can take time; organize a licensed local guide and respect conservation rules.
San Pascual Town and Local Food
San Pascual offers a chance to experience everyday island life, local markets, and seafood dishes. Availability varies by season and catch, so ask about fresh local specialties rather than relying on a fixed menu.
Pasacao: A Mainland Gateway
Pasacao, Camarines Sur, is useful for travelers connecting with other Bicol destinations. Those with extra time can explore nearby coastal areas or arrange onward transport to Naga and other Camarines Sur attractions.
Suggested Two-Day Burias Island Itinerary
Day 1: Choose a confirmed crossing that matches your land travel to Pasacao or the appropriate island port. After arrival, check into your accommodation, enjoy a relaxed town walk, and arrange an island-hopping trip for the following day. Avoid scheduling a remote boat excursion immediately after a ferry connection if delays would cause you to miss it.
Day 2: If conditions are favorable, take a locally organized island-hopping excursion to places such as Sombrero, Tinalisayan, or Animasola, depending on your departure point and the boat operator’s route. Return with enough time to collect luggage and reach your confirmed ferry departure. A third day is more comfortable if you want to see several islands without rushing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the earliest listed ferry departure?
- The additional Pasacao-to-San Pascual trip is listed at 5:00 AM; the regular San Pascual-to-Pasacao sailing is 5:30 AM.
Are there afternoon departures?
- Yes. The posted timetable includes San Pascual-to-San Andres at 2:00 PM, San Andres-to-San Pascual at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM, and San Pascual-to-Pasacao at 5:00 PM.
How much is a regular passenger ticket?
- The regular passenger fare is ₱470. Ask whether any additional charges apply at the terminal.
How much does it cost to bring a motorcycle?
- The regular cargo rate for a motorcycle is ₱1,750, while a motorcycle with a sidecar is listed at ₱2,680. Confirm classification and any additional fees.
Can I Bring a Car or Truck?
- The published cargo table lists multiple vehicle classes, but space and acceptance must be confirmed with the operator.
Final Reminders Before Departure
The Starhorse Shipping Lines update dated October 22, 2026, is a useful starting point for planning a trip between San Andres, San Pascual, and Pasacao. Compare the regular and additional sailings, verify which departure runs on your travel date, and confirm your passenger or vehicle fare before paying.
If your visit includes island hopping, give yourself extra time for weather-related changes. With a realistic schedule and the right documents, exploring Burias Island can be a rewarding part of a longer Bicol or Masbate itinerary.
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