FerryConnect

Philippines

Zamboanga → Isabela City (Basilan)

The main crossing from Zamboanga City to Basilan’s capital, Isabela City, served by FastCat’s vehicle catamaran and Aleson’s Ciara Joie fleet from early morning to late afternoon.

⏱ 1h 30m🚢 2 operators📅 Nine departures each way daily (FastCat 3, Aleson 6)🚗 Vehicles accepted
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Zamboanga to Isabela City (Basilan) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Zamboanga to Isabela City (Basilan) takes 1h 30m across the Basilan Strait, operated by FastCat (Archipelago Philippine Ferries) and Aleson Shipping Lines. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: nine departures each way daily (FastCat 3, Aleson 6).

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: fastcat.ph · alesonshipping.com · 2go.com.ph · How we verify

Return crossing: Isabela City (Basilan) to Zamboanga

FastCat (Archipelago Philippine Ferries) and Aleson Shipping Lines also sail Isabela City (Basilan) to Zamboanga, taking 1h 30m. From Isabela, FastCat leaves at 8:30 AM, 1:00 PM and 5:30 PM, and Aleson between 6:45 AM and 4:30 PM.

Zamboanga to Isabela City (Basilan) ferry timetable & sailing pattern

FastCat three sailings each way daily; Aleson six each way daily

Published departure times

  • FastCat from Zamboanga: 6:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 3:00 PM
  • Aleson from Zamboanga: 5:15 AM, 6:45 AM, 9:45 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:45 PM, 3:45 PM

Return: From Isabela, FastCat leaves at 8:30 AM, 1:00 PM and 5:30 PM, and Aleson between 6:45 AM and 4:30 PM.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official FastCat (Archipelago Philippine Ferries) timetable →Check prices & book on 12Go →

Source: FastCat routes & schedules page (September 2026) and Aleson Shipping schedule. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Zamboanga and Isabela City (Basilan)

📐 13 Nautical Miles
Zamboanga⇄Isabela City (Basilan)
⏱ 1h 30m · 📐 13 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚡ Instant E-Ticket

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
FastCat (Archipelago Philippine Ferries)1h 30mFastCat catamaran RoPax
Aleson Shipping LinesNot published by the operatorMV Ciara Joie 1, MV Ciara Joie 7, MV Ciara Joie 8

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

13 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • The Port of Zamboanga is on Rizal Street, minutes from the city centre

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⚓ Port of Zamboanga guide⛴ All ferries from Zamboanga🗺 All ferries in Philippines🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Zamboanga to Isabela City (Basilan)?
The crossing typically takes 1h 30m. By operator: FastCat (Archipelago Philippine Ferries) about 1h 30m; Aleson Shipping Lines about Not published by the operator. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Zamboanga to Isabela City (Basilan) ferry sail?
FastCat three sailings each way daily; Aleson six each way daily. This is the pattern published in the FastCat routes & schedules page (September 2026) and Aleson Shipping schedule (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Zamboanga to Isabela City (Basilan)?
FastCat (Archipelago Philippine Ferries), Aleson Shipping Lines operate this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Zamboanga to Isabela City (Basilan) ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Zamboanga to Isabela City (Basilan) ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Zamboanga to Isabela City (Basilan) ferry?
This route has no dedicated pet facilities. Assistance dogs are normally carried, but confirm with the operator before travelling.
How far is Zamboanga from Isabela City (Basilan) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 13 nautical miles (roughly 24 km).