Travel between Iloilo City, Cuyo, Palawan, and Puerto Princesa is now more convenient with Montenegro Lines, a premier shipping company in the Philippines.
Montenegro Lines has released its official sailing schedule for the MV Maria Isabel, covering the Iloilo-Cuyo-Puerto Princesa route from March 21 to March 26, 2026. This route connects Western Visayas and Palawan, providing an important transportation link for passengers, tourists, and cargo shipments.
If you are planning to travel between these destinations, this guide provides the complete Montenegro Lines schedule, departure and arrival times, boarding details, contact information, and helpful travel tips.
About Montenegro Lines
Montenegro Lines is a trusted ferry operator in the Philippines, providing passenger and cargo services across several major island routes. The company operates ships that connect provinces of Luzon, Visayas, and Palawan, helping travelers and businesses move efficiently between islands.
For travelers going to Palawan, Montenegro Lines offers an alternative route via Iloilo and Cuyo, allowing passengers to travel between Western Visayas and Palawan without flying.
The vessel operating this route is the MV Maria Isabel, which regularly serves passengers traveling between these destinations.
Vessel Information
Ship Name: MV Maria Isabel
Operator: Montenegro Lines
Route: Iloilo City – Cuyo – Puerto Princesa City
Schedule Coverage: March 21 to March 26, 2026
The ship accommodates both passengers and cargo, making it an essential mode of transportation for residents, businesses, and tourists.
Montenegro Lines Schedule (March 21–26, 2026)
Below is the detailed sailing schedule for the Iloilo–Cuyo–Puerto Princesa route.
Iloilo City to Cuyo Ferry Schedule
The voyage from Iloilo City to Cuyo is the first leg of the trip.
Departure
Port: Iloilo City
Time: 2:00 PM
Date: March 21, 2026 (Saturday)
Arrival
Port: Cuyo, Palawan
Time: 2:00 AM
Date: March 22, 2026 (Sunday)
This overnight journey connects Iloilo City with Cuyo Island, a historic municipality in Palawan known for its Spanish-era churches and pristine beaches.
Cuyo to Puerto Princesa Ferry Schedule
The second leg of the route travels from Cuyo to Puerto Princesa City, the capital of Palawan.
Departure
Port: Cuyo, Palawan
Time: 2:00 PM
Date: March 22, 2026 (Sunday)
Arrival
Port: Puerto Princesa City
Time: 6:00 AM
Date: March 23, 2026 (Monday)
Puerto Princesa is one of the most sought-after destinations in the Philippines and serves as the gateway to many popular tourist attractions.
Puerto Princesa to Cuyo Ferry Schedule
Passengers traveling back toward Western Visayas can take the return trip from Puerto Princesa to Cuyo.
Departure
Port: Puerto Princesa City
Time: 2:00 PM
Date: March 24, 2026 (Tuesday)
Arrival
Port: Cuyo, Palawan
Time: 6:00 AM
Date: March 25, 2026 (Wednesday)
This route is commonly used by travelers returning from Palawan for transporting cargo between islands.
Cuyo to Iloilo Return Trip
The final leg of the sailing route returns passengers from Cuyo back to Iloilo City.
Departure
Port: Cuyo, Palawan
Time: 9:00 PM
Date: March 25, 2026 (Wednesday)
Arrival
Port: Iloilo City
Time: 9:00 AM
Date: March 26, 2026 (Thursday)
This overnight sailing completes the round-trip route of the MV Maria Isabel.
Boarding Schedule
Passengers are encouraged to arrive early at the port to avoid delays.
Boarding Time
Iloilo/Lapuz Port
- 12:00 NN – March 21, 2026
Puerto Princesa Port
- 12:00 NN—March 24, 2026
Early arrival allows time for ticket verification, security inspection, and boarding procedures.
Montenegro Lines Contact Information
To confirm schedules, ticket availability, or cargo services, contact Montenegro Lines through the following numbers.
Iloilo City
- 0905 495 0825
- 0966 945 4628
Cuyo
- 0907 394 7093
Puerto Princesa City
- 0951 491 6920
Schedules are subject to change without prior notice.
Why Travel from Iloilo to Palawan by Ferry?
While flights are faster, many travelers choose ferry transportation for several reasons.
- Affordable Travel: Ferry tickets are often cheaper than airline fares, especially for travelers bringing cargo or traveling with families.
- Cargo and Vehicle Transport: Montenegro Lines ships can carry cargo and commercial goods, which is essential for businesses between Visayas and Palawan.
- Scenic Island Travel: Traveling by ferry allows passengers to experience beautiful ocean views and island scenery during the voyage.
- Accessibility for Remote Islands: Routes like Cuyo to Iloilo help connect smaller communities to major cities.
Popular Destinations Along the Route
Iloilo City
Iloilo City is known for its rich history, Spanish-era architecture, and delicious cuisine.
Popular attractions
- Molo Church
- Jaro Cathedral
- Iloilo River Esplanade
- La Paz Batchoy food district
The city is also a gateway to the beautiful islands of Guimaras and Northern Iloilo.
Cuyo, Palawan
Cuyo is a lesser-known but fascinating destination in Palawan.
Highlights include:
- Cuyo Fort and Church
- White sand beaches
- Traditional island culture
- Quiet and peaceful environment
Many travelers stop here before continuing their journey to Puerto Princesa.
Puerto Princesa City
Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan and one of the most visited destinations in the Philippines.
Top attractions include:
- Puerto Princesa Underground River (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Honda Bay island hopping
- Sabang Beach
- Palawan Wildlife Rescue Center
The city is also the main transportation hub for travelers going to El Nido, Coron, and other parts of Palawan.
Travel Tips for Ferry Passengers
To ensure a smooth trip, consider these helpful tips before boarding.
- Arrive Early: Arrive at least two to three hours before departure.
- Bring Valid Identification: Passengers must present a valid government-issued ID.
- Pack Essentials: Because this is an overnight trip, bring:
-
- Snacks
- Drinking water
- Light blanket
- Personal hygiene items
- Snacks
- Check Weather Conditions: Ferry schedules may be affected by weather conditions or rough seas.
- Confirm the Latest Schedule: Shipping schedules are subject to change without prior notice, so we strongly recommend confirming your trip before departure.
Important Reminder
Montenegro Lines has announced that the sailing schedule may change without prior notice. Passengers are advised to contact the company directly for the most up-to-date schedule before traveling.
Final Thoughts
The Montenegro Lines MV Maria Isabel route connecting Iloilo, Cuyo, and Puerto Princesa provides an important link between Western Visayas and Palawan. Whether you are traveling for tourism, family visits, or cargo transport, this ferry service offers a reliable option for inter-island travel.
By checking the schedule ahead of time and preparing for your trip, you can enjoy a smooth and comfortable journey across some of the most beautiful seas in the Philippines.
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