Philippine Visa Run – Aleson Shipping
Zamboanga to Sandakan
As of this writing, the Philippine Immigration Department allows foreigners to stay in the country for up to 16 months on a tourist visa.
I decided to make the Sandakan, Malaysia trip from Zamboanga in Mindanao. I love being at sea so I drove down to Zamboanga on my bike and bought a round trip ticket with Aleson Shipping.
Flying out of Clark or Manila is cheaper and more convenient but I enjoy the adventure. The Aleson Shipping boat leaves the Philippines on Mondays and Thursdays and returns the following day. The immigration line up begins at 10am and the boat’s crew plans to leave at 2pm.
Locals pay 3,200 pesos one way and foreigners pay 2,600 pesos for the economy berths. There is an extra tax for Filipino residents – hence the higher fees.
Please double check with the shipping companies ahead of time so that you will be advised of changes in the schedule or in the fees.
No schedule on any liner including buses is set in stone.
Boats can be in dry dock, typhoons and low pressure systems cause cancellations, mechanical breakdowns are not particularly rare – so bear with me. If you need to meet a tight schedule please consider flying. Taking the boat is only for those with time on their hands and a bit of adventure in their hearts.
This is not a very difficult trip but some people find it to be.Have a few copies of the passport page with your picture on it and also a copy or two of the page that has your last entry stamp into the Philippines.
Zamboanga terminal
If you have been in the Philippines over 6 months you will need an ECC clearance, which can be obtained at the Immigration office in Zamboanga. Have some 2×2 pictures that can be attached to the forms.
Philippine Government Immigration Link
Sabah Malaysia
The immigration office in Zamboanga is very very efficient – the best in the Philippines in my estimation. I was there at 7:30 am and got the application filled out and approved, was fingerprinted, and eating breakfast at the Jolibees by 8:11 am.
I zipped down to the pier and got my round trip ticket for 5,000 pesos from Aleson Shipping and went back to Atilano’s Pension to take a shower and pack my bags. Mrs. Atilano let me leave my motorcycle at her place and I took a tricycle to the pier.
The H1N1 virus is a concern so we all had to line up for a quick medical inspection including taking everyone’s temperature with an ear temp gauge. The Malaysian medical team checked the temp again in Sandakan to see if it was within bounds of their limits.
Muslim girls in Sandakan.
Getting through the immigration in Malaysia is quick and easy. I was considering staying a few days in Sandakan but decided to head into town for a look around first.
Sandakan
I found Sandakan to be nice enough and the people were rather friendly, but it looked like it might be a boring place to hang so I decided to make the return trip to Zamboanga that night.
There is a monkey farm nearby where they rehabilitate orangutans for release into the rainforest. It seems ironic to me, because they are whacking down the forest as fast as they can to make room for palm tree plantations.
Zamboanga Mindanao port
I paid the 1.5 ringit for the bemo back to the pier and went through the whole immigration procedure again. The trip back back to the Philippines took around 20 hours and was easy and relaxing.
Tips for making the visa run
1) It’s a good idea to take along some food to eat on the boat. The ship does have noodles and coffee and other basics.
2) Economy bunks are fine – there is a gentle breeze of fresh air instead of the airlocked air conditioned cells.
3) Don’t be on western time. You will get there – just don’t expect exact schedules to be met.
4) In Zamboanga – dp recommends staying at Atilanos Pension House.
5) Take the Rural Transit bus liner to Dipolog if you are heading to the Visayas. Then take Montenegro, Super Shuttle, or Cokaliong ferrys to Dumaguete in Negros. (from Dapitan)
6) If heading to Camiguin Island or Surigao – take Rural Transit to Cagayan de Oro. These are all safe happy runs, low risk, and you get to see a bit of the country side. Avoid the area around Cotabato City at this time.
Visa run between Sandakan Sabah Malaysia and Zamboanga Mindanao Philippines with Aleson Shipping
November 28 2011 Manila Bulletin
I have often recommended the Atilano Pension house as a great place to stay for budget travelers .
There was an unfortunate bombing Sunday night that killed several people planning on going to a wedding the following day. This sort of thing is so unnecessary but it just shows that if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time unexpected things sometimes can happen.
Zamboanga
Climbing Mount Apo
General Santos
Growing Orchids
Judy's Resto Bar
Logging with Motorcycles
Mount Mayon
Balabac Island
Biri Island
Calbiga Cave
Capul Island
Mangrove Swamp Palawan
Mikes's Resort
Rick, you made it!!! It’s Tom from Cambridge Lodge, I took the photos of you that morning before heading out of Gen San, I will email them to this site when I can.
Excellent to know you made it safely,
Happy trails
Tom
Hi Tom!
Thanks mate, yeah I just got back to Leyte after 27 days on the road in Mindanao.
Great trip!
cheers
dp
wow i got to try this one!
Hi Marco,
For sure!
dp
do it has a schedule of ship from Zamboanga to Sandakan
Hi rose,
The boat leaves the Philippines on Mondays and Thursdays and returns the following day. The immigration line up begins at 10am and the boat’s crew plans to leave at 2pm.
dp
Hi….
What is ecc clearance and how much?
hi,
Thinking of travelling to Phils overland shortly (from Ireland !!).
I want to go by sea through Zamboanga….how dodgy is this to do in terms of safety.
Currently an Irish priest is being held for a ransom of £2M in Pagadian in Mindinao.
Is a lot of this stuff overblown or what ?
thanks
John
hi,
I thought foreigners were only allowed to stay in phils for two months on a tourist visa…..16 months ??
John
Hello John,
It’s an easy run mate. Sandakan to Zamboanga is a mellow trip. Use Rural Transit bus lines when you want to head north out of Zamboanga.
I feel that run is quite safe too.
I suggest Atilano Pension in Zamboanga for a good cheap place to stay.
Pagadian is a great little town but there is the odd incident now and then, but I would not hesitate to visit. Cotobato City was still a bit rough around the edges last time I was there, and I would suggest not going here at this time.
———————————
Visas in the Philippines
You will be issued a 21 day visa upon arrival in the Philippines. Then you will have to get a visa extension before that time is up.
Cebu and Dumaguete are both easy places to get that. Zamboanga has an excellent Immigration department as well but I suspect you will not linger there that long.
You can keep getting extensions for up to 16 months at which time you will have to exit the country and get a fresh visa. If you choose to stay in the Philippines you can apply for a Residents Visa.
I like to travel and don’t mind taking a break after 16 months and re-entering the country.
Have a great trip! Keep in touch.
dp
hi..
aku mau balik php tapi passport ku ada jaminan pekerja,saya mau skarang kasih batal itu sbab ada urusan penting di kampung.. saya mau masuk balik malaysia selepas satu (1) minggu lepas urusan ku d kampung .. bleh kah tu? tolong jawab aku asap.. makasih..
margie,
saya tidak tau – I don’t know
sorry
dp
Hi DP thanks for this info. A friend an I are planing on going to Borneo in a week or so. We tried to get a flight with Zest but they no longer fly international so decided to follow your trip, not really a hassle as we were intending to visit Zamboanga as he has relations there. Have been there before and enjoyed it.
Our main intention is to visit the orangutans and maybe spend a couple of weeks there, any tips you have on the various national parks would be appreciated.
Wondering when your next trip will be coming up DP…..
Hi Bruce,
Good to hear from you!
I never spent any time in Borneo excepting for a few stopovers. I hear that it has some nice areas and parks, that it tends to be rather expensive, and that palm plantations are taking over the a vast expanse of land there.
Any info or tips will be appreciated! Hello to Lindsay.
I came down to Surigao, City and plan to go to Siargao Island tomorrow or the next – any tips or favorite places to stay?
dp
Hi again DP, sorry its taken me a while to get back, see you have already done the trip surigao I have yet to read your posts.
We leave Saturday for Sandagan and plan to spend a few days. Also hang for a bit in Zambonga which is one of my favourite cities.
Seems you never stay long in one place DP, well will take a look at your latest adventures now.
Hope you get up to the Cebu area some time soon, love to catch up again.
Cheers
Thanks for posting this. Made the trip twice from Dumaguete. Looks like there is a different vessel from 2 years ago. The first time went via fast craft from Dgte to Dipolog, a dreadful non aircon bus to Zam, arrived late at night. Went on Weesam express, do not take this boat. Passports are stamped on Tawi Tawi or Sulu. I forget which island. Stayed a week in Sandakan in different hotels. Repeat do not take Weesam Express zam to sandk.
The second trip was better from Dgte to Zam via ship arrived early around 0400. The hotel let me check in at 0500 and did not charge me an extra night. Bought ticket that day and left the next to Sandakan via Aleson. . Passports stamped in Zam. Did not stay over in Sandakan. Booked flight from zam to cebu on return, Ceres from Cebu to Dgte.
Did not know there was an Immigration office in Zam that does exit stamps thanks for posting this.
Need to decide if going out via Clark or Zam. Not sure how to get Manila to Clark, perhaps it may be better going via air from Cebu to Clark or Dgte to Zmanila to Clark.
Hello DP,
We tried how ever due to the corruption within the immigration officials at the pier were not able to leave Zambonga.
We were told very clearly that a payment of P2000 would be required before we are permitted to return to Philippines. Even after explaining we are entitled to a 21 day entry visa we were flatly refused, pay up or go away. We went away.
After a visit to the very nice immigration office in Zambonga nothing changed, they were at least helpful and decent how ever would not go against their fellow officers.
Sad we blew quite a lot of money trying to see the reforestation projects in Malaysia and had to be content with Zambonga instead.
Next time we shall fly from Manila.
Wow Bruce!
That’s not good news!
Sorry to hear that your plans didn’t work out. I wonder if there are new regulations in place that I have not yet been made aware of yet?
Thanks for the update.
dp
I have departed twice from Zam never had a problem with immigration. The only thing did not like was the Weesam Express because the passports are not stamped at the Zam pier, but Tawi Jolo or Tawi Tawi. With Aleson the passports are stamped in Zam.
The round trip fare Zam to Sandakan is 6,200 pesos per person for the Cabin. There are two bunk beds in the cabin. There is a medical doctor on board. Cabin A1 is the largest.
Passports are stamped at 1000am depart Noon. Monday and Thursday. Return Tuesday and Friday 4pm from Sandakan.
There is shower and toilet near the Cabins.
Wanted to make a comment regarding the alleged 2000 pesos extra fee. No outbound ticket is asked for in Zam or in Sandakan when you take the boat. If you take air travel most buy an extra ticket with the airlines. It is more than 2000 pesos. Just sayin.
Recently made the trip to Sandakan. Cabin A and G are the largest cabins and are aircon. The round trip ticket was 6,000 pesos. There were no fees at immigration. The md is gone.
I was puzzled by the info that i received on travelling from zamboanga to sandakan to zambo,is there any oversea charges from zambo to sandakan.
Hello ramos,
Aside from the tickets, i don’t remember extra charges.
dp
what is the tel number of alisonshipping in zamboanga? so that i can book my ticket, thanks
Hello jhon,
I don’t have the number of Aleson Shipping handy.
Try giving Atilanos a call:
Atilano Pension House
466 Canelar
Mayor Jaldon St. Z.C.
phone 062 990 5088
The woman that runs the Pink Sands Travel agency there will have it.
cheers
dp
thanks, I HAVE ALREADY THE TEL NO.BY PLDT DIRECTORY DIAL 187*
Hi There,
Thanks for the many helpful tips and links. I am currently in Sabah looking at taking the ferry to the Philippines. Just wondering what the temperment of the southern islands is currently like? The Australian government website says do not travel but they tend to be quite alarmist.
I am a single female traveller and I really want to know if I can safely get around in Zamboanga to find accom and food etc? Can I easily get from there to somewhere near Cagayan de Oro?
thanks again :)
Hello aussiegirl88,
The easiest way to get to Cagayan de Oro from Zamboanga would be to take the Rural Transit Bus liner.
http://www.dutchpickle.com/philippines/mindanao/rural-transit-bus-lines.html
It is a long day but rather uneventful.
You might want to have a look at Camiguin Island when you get to northern Mindanao.
http://www.dutchpickle.com/philippines/mindanao/camiguin-ferry.html
Siargao Islamd is pretty cool too.
http://www.dutchpickle.com/philippines/siargao-island
happy trip
dp
Hi dutchpickle,
Excellent and informative website!
Do you know if it’s possible to bring own motorbike with carnet to Philippines? I was considering taking the ferry from Sandakan to Mindanao.
Cheers,
Frank
Hello Frank,
Pretty cool idea. It probably can be done but might be expensive.
Quite a few guys import bikes to the Philippines but I do not know anyone that has brought one over using a carnet.
Let us know if you pull it off!
cheers
dp
My bike is currently in Australia. I’m shipping it from Darwin to Dili in October and would then island hop to Borneo.
I’ll keep you updated.
Cheers,
Frank
Thanks Frank,
I met a Swiss couple in Kupang – West Timor that had driven overland from Europe. They didn’t seem to have too many problems except for in Indonesia. Border between East and West Timor was closed and their visas were running out of time.
They eventually flew their bikes to Australia.
Also met an English woman that drove over from Gibraltar on a Suzuki.
Looking forward to your updates – thanks in advance!
dp
Hi Dp,
I am from ireland, and i want to experience travelling from zambo to sandakan by ferry, it will be my first travel via ferry. I am here in Dgte at this time. How is the process to get in the ferry? And tell me about the immigration process. Thanks.
Edd
Hello Edd,
From Dumaguete take one of the 4 ferries to Dapitan in Mindanao. They leave from the pier on the Dumaguete waterfront, the ticket booths are at the beginning of the pier.
Dapitan is a small town where ferries dock – from there take a trike to Dipolog. Try to share the ride with others and it will cut down the cost – figure on about 40 pesos.
In Dipolog take the Rural Transit bus down to Zamboanga – figure on about an 8 hour bus ride.
In Zamboanga get your ticket from Alison Shipping on the waterfront – around 2600 pesos one way.
The immigration in Zamboanga is very efficient. If you have been in the Philippines more than 6 months you will need to get your EEC clearence (Emigration Clearance Certificate) before departing. For me it was hassle free, but some have told me they have had difficulties.
The Philippine immigration officials stamp your passport on the way out of the country and the Malaysian officials at Sandakan will stamp your passport on the way in.
I found it to be a fairly easy run.
cheers – keep in touch
dp
hi dutchpickle.
thx 4 ur detailed info bout ur visa-run.
i understood, that you jst left the phils. and returned the next day. what i’m a bit confused about is, that 2 my info u need 2 stay outside the philippines 4 some days (but i’m still looking 4 info, how many days that would be), b4 u may be granted a NEW tourist visa. acc. 2 my info, if u return to early, i will NOT be considered as a NEW, but as an renewing of the OLD visa, which (in my case) is absolutely not wanted.
do u have any info about this?
steven
PS: sry 4 my wired english, but i’m not a native english speaker
Hello Steven
I just came back the following day and had no problems but the visa rules seem to change on a regular basis.
Be sure to check the current rules before you go
Official Philippines Immigration website
http://immigration.gov.ph/
cheers
dp
hi dp.
Can u pls. send me the contact info of “Atilanos Pension House” (esp. eMail, if any)?
How much is the accomodation there?
Thanx
Steven
PS: According to the Immigration Office in Cebu, there is no minimum stay abroad. Hope its true………..;)
ohhh i 4got. where in zam is it located? maybe u can mark it on wikimapia.org 2 trace it easier
thx again
steve
as dey say in germany: “gud things always com in a triple-pack”, so here am i again.
sometimes its really a great idea 2 luk carefully, and so i meanwhile found the link wid all da info bout da “Atilanos Pension House”. how evr, if ur able 2 provide me deir eMail-add, dat would b great.
generally i suggest u 2 really add those wikimapia links, guess it would b an additional enrichment 2 ur articles. jst check it out if u like or not.
ohhh and btw.: in da immigration dey also tld me, dat i DONT need “exit clearance” as long i leave da country latest on da day of visa-expiratin (but of course, first dey let me 2 wait 4 about 1,5 hours b4 dey remembered dat fact…………sigh)
Hello Steven
Zamboanga city is at the southern tip of the Zamboanga peninsula – southwestern corner.
dp – will have to look into a map function – good idea
Hello Steven
Always check with Philippine immigration to be sure – the regulations were that an ECC clearence was need for those staying longer than 6 months. This requirement was set in stone.
Official Philippine Immigration link http://immigration.gov.ph/
cheers
dp
Hi, can you please help me? Me and my friends wants to experience going to sandakan malaysia by boat, the price of the airfare now is quite high and we thought it would be cheaper to take a boat to go to Malaysia…can you please help me and give me the number of alison shipping or the atilano lodging inn? it would be a great help if you can provide me with this information…Thanks and Godbless
Hello raphaella,
Flying from Clark will probably be the cheapest way to get to Malaysia. Try to get a promo fare on Cebu Pacific – they have super deals if you search!
dp
I am a filipino from zamboanga, married to a sarawakian.we were planning to go back to zamboanga together w/my family.is there any flight from sabah to zamboaga, or shipping from sabah to zamboanga?do i need to buy a return ticket too if so?
from sabah to zamboanga what are the requirement to inter, though am from there?
Hello Guadalupe,
There are no flights from Sabah to Zamboanga that I am aware of. I think that you can by one way tickets on the Allison shipping boat but you will likely have to check with immigration about details for taking your family with you.
happy trip
dp
Hello Guadalupe –
I do not know all the requirements for your situation but you will want to stop in and inquire at the immigration department. You will have to be cleared to travel through immigration.
dp
Bad news. Looks like the Atilano Pension House you stayed at on your visa run was bombed.
http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Hotel-bomb-kills-3-wounds-27-in-south-Philippines-2296318.php
It is indeed most unfortunate …
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/11/27/11/23-injured-zamboanga-city-explosion
I really liked the people there and would leave my bike there when taking the ferry to Sandakan, Malaysia.
dp
First of all – thanks for the website – lots of useful stuff here. Found it first by recommendation from Ajey and Masha (traveliving.org) who met you (I believe) in Puerto Princesa. And the second time we stumbled upon your website just now – while looking for info on the Zamboanga-Sandakan ferry.
I am traveling with my wife, and I’m a bit concerned for her safety, after reading about Zamboanga bombings. Would you please let us know what the general situation is in Zamboanga? At this point – we are even ready to change our plans and not take that ferry to Malaysia, so any advice you can give on the overall safety would be very-very appreciated. In other words, in your opinion – is it safe for us to go to Zamboanga and try to catch a ferry to Sandakan at this time? Thank you in advance for any advice.
Also, if you can respond as soon as you get this message – we’d greatly appreciate it, since we have a ferry to Zamboanga (from Negros) tomorrow and have to make a decision on whether to go or not. Thanks again! Really hope to hear from you soon.
Hello Roman,
I am not in Zamboanga at this time (I am in San Carlos on Negros island).
My feeling is that there would be no safety issues taking the Aleson ferry between Zamboanga and Sandakan. However if you feel uncomfortable with this plan choose another option.)
There are issues to consider when bouncing around in the country side in southern Mindanao but I do not have the experience to advise others because everyone has their own comfort level to meet. Taking the Rural Transit bus to Zamboanga from Dapitan-Dipolog has always been pretty easy but I have not done that trip in over 5 years as I usually ride my motorbike (6 times to Zambo)
Unfortunate things can happen if someone just happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, but my feeling is that this is a low risk run.
I do advise staying clear of Cotabaot City and the road from there all the way up to Marawi. That would be common sense but this is no where near Zamboanga.
I might make a run down to Zamboanga City in January and will update for others. I usually stay in Ipil for the night but there was a problem there earlier this year too.
However I just do not see any issues taking the ferry run to Sandakan – it is just too easy.
be advised that this info is for taking the Aleson Lines – there are other local boats that run Jolo, Sulu and Tawi Tawi but these would not be a good choice for tourists.
cheers
dp
Hello im Jane,
I wish u can help me…This is my first time to go in ur website i just want to know if it’s ok to go zamboanga to exit only coz im a tourist only here in sabah im a filipina and first time to go zamboanga place ..if i go there with my fiancee..how many days to stay there. and go back again here sabah …well as tourist again..coz we just preparing to married here…..is it the immigration in zamboanga not so strict ?
i wish u can reply me..tnx…
Hello Jane,
I believe that the immigration regulations are the same at all immigration offices in the Philippines. Is your fiancee from Malaysia ?
I suggest doing everything the legal way – it will avoid problems in the future. Often times there are Filipinos that are working in Sabah Malaysia without the proper papers and they are returned to Zamboanga on the same ship as the tourists and others.
Try to check in advance with the immigration office so you will not have any problems. The immigration office in Zamboanga is efficient and organized. If you have everything in order you should not have any problems. I am not Filipino and had to get several visa extensions at the immigration office in Zamboanga. I also got my clearence certificate there before traveling to Sandakan, Sabah. I returned to Zamboanga without any difficulties.
In the past I have also entered the Philippines through General Santos from Bitung, Sulawasi but it is not as common to enter the country that way at this time.
I wish you success – contact the immigration officials to find out more info ok?
dp
Question, If you have been here less then 6 months and have as such what is the procedure to exit? Is there an immigration check point to give you the exit stamp? Is it the same procedure as the Airports where they scan you passport and then you exit?
Thanks
I am not sure if they scan your passport or not. I have done the Zamboanga – Sandakan visa run several times and never had any difficulties. In my case I did get the ECC or Emigration Clearance Certificate at the immigration office in Zamboanga in advance before going down to the immigration window at the pier. Yes – you will get a stamp in your passport at the immigration window at the pier.
Check with the Philippine Immigration department about what the latest requirements are for the ECC if you have been in the Philippines less than 6 months. Regulations change from time to time so it is best to get current info directly from the official government office so you avoid any potential hassles when you are departing.
dp
Hey do you think you can e-mail me the website address of the aleson transportation company I couldn’t find any of their contact details ?? Thanks in advance, and great style of writing. : )
Hello Goran,
I do not think that Aleson Shipping has a website – I have only been to their office at the pier in Zamboanga City.
I found Aleson Shipping to be an efficient and reliable company.
Happy Trip
dp
HI IM ALEX..I THINK U CAN HELP ME,, I WANT TO VISIT MY FRIEND IN MALAYSIA..CAN I ASK YOU ABOUT THE REQUIRMENTS IN IMMIGRATION COZ it is my fist time.. and f u dont mind what are the shedule of their ship going to malaysia…
thank you and god bless
PLSSS. GIVE ME SOME INFO
Hello alex,
you will need to have a passport for sure
Many Filipinos go to Malaysia to work without permits and are often apprehended by Malaysian authorities and sent back to Zamboanga in Mindanao Philippines.
Be sure to check what the requirements are so you do not run into problems
…on the return trip from Sandakan Sabah to Zamboanga Philippines there are always many Filipinos that are being returned to the Philippines after being found to be working in Malaysia without permits – just making you aware of this situation – therefore best to consult the Malaysian officials in advance so that you will avoid any difficulties.
I find the people of Sabah to be very friendly and helpful.
Check with Aleson Shipping for the most current schedule. I find this trip to be a rather easy one – just take along some food and water for the 17 hour trip.
enjoy
dp
How much is the travel time from Zamboanga to Sandakan ?
Hello Robby,
I estimate the trip will take about 17 hours each way.
dp
Any idea how much the 1 way fare from Tawi Tawi to Sandaken on Aleson Shipping would be? Thanks
Hello michael,
I don’t think Aleson makes the Tawi Tawi trip at this time.
There are several shipping companies that make the trip between Zamboanga and Sandakan but I do not know of any which make the trip between Sandakan and Tawi Tawi.
cheers
dp
Hi, I am Chris.. May you help me if what will I do? I already log off from clark gong to kota kinabalu because of I have no affidavit of support from my fiancee.. This time, I just plan to make it tour..Is it easy if i will travel using this way instead..I will only visit 3 days.. I hope you can help me.. I need to go next week.. Thank you very much…
Hello Cris
I am really not familiar with the Philippine and Malaysian immigration regulations – you will have to get the necessary info from the immigration dept there in Zamboanga. The ferry ride to Sandakan is a 15 hour trip and is pretty easy. You will pass through Malaysian immigration before entering Malaysia. I do not know your situation so can not advise.
You will also have to clear the Philippine immigration at the pier before leaving the country.
I think that the same requirements will apply if you leave from Clark Field by plane too
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia or if you leave from Zamboanga by boat to Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia.
If you are near Clark it would be easier and less hassle to fly. If your documentation is not valid for a Clark Airport exit – it will likely not be valid for a Zamboanga boat exit. Immigration requirements are the same in either case.
good luck
dp
tq dp
Hola. I am lennie a Malaysian, residence in tips of borneo.. am jus refer to your post here “The immigration office in Zamboanga is very very efficient – the best in the Philippines in my estimation. I was there at 7:30 am and got the application filled out and approved, was fingerprinted, ” so just to ask u if u have any idea.. do u think the imigration ofice in Zam require a letter of support from fiancee if in the case of tourism trip?.. my fiancee ever blocked to fly once so is that mean he can never have a chance to follow Zam tour trip to sandakan? as u kno to get the afidavit letter from Phil embassy in Malaysia so far frm sabah.. its in west Malaysia.. Kuala Lumpur.. we just thinking of this Tour trip jus need passport.. since u familiar with any doc submitted at imigration Zam, we wish to get info then my fiancee wil follow this tour trip very soon.. jus asking ..if no info at all then no worry..
Hello Lennie,
I wish I could be of more help on this but you will have to get the information you need from the immigration department.
The reason that I was fingerprinted was because I needed an ECC or (emigration clearance certificate). This was required because I had just been in the Philippines for a year and a half at that time and it was just a part of the procedure ( I was a foreigner just staying in the Philippines on a tourist visa – same with Malaysia and Indonesia – in my case )
I just can not say if you will be able to get tourist visas in this case because I am not connected with the immigration dept. Try to contact the immigration dept. There are no differences flying or taking a boat as far as the documents required for entering or leaving the country.
dp
hi friends…
im planing to go in sandakan this month.. im from davao city.. i know already how to travel from davao going to zambuanga. im just curious, how much is the fare from zambuanga to sandakan? and also is there any amount how much the immigration officer will ask you for your show money?i just want an idea regarding with it… i want to spend my vacation in sandakan… thanks,,,
bodoutz
…not sure but the immigration never asked me about money.
dp
…thanks… im just really wondering and disappoited with some of the immigration officer, suppose to be i had my flyt from manila to singapore last month. but then, they didnt allow me… bcoz they want a round trip ticket and a show money. i told them that i just want to tour singapore then kuala lumpur and then sabah going zambuanga… i love travelling specialy by bus.. i had a lot of port of entries US and EUROPE… im a seaferer, ive travelled every year.. and this, its in asia.. hope i can make this time… ijust discover this new route…. thanks again dp….
Hey, some info for anyone who relying on internet searching to try to find out about the ferry situation.
Weesam Ferries no longer run from Sandakan to Zamboanga.
Aleson shipping lines currently run every Friday and Tuesday from Sandekan at around 1900hrs. Journey takes 20-22 hours.
Pricing as follows:
Basic: 280 Ringgit
Air: 300
Cabin: 320
Address for tickets is: Timmarine SDN BHD, Block A, Lot 22B, G floor Hsiang Garden, Jalan Leila. The easier way is to find the cinema on Jalan Leila and the office is opposite.
Telephone is 089212063 or 089224009.
Hope that helps people.
wow – immigration requirements and regulations can be complicated – every country has their own rules – hopefully you will be able to plan a route that works for you
good luck
dp
thanks
dp
Hello Dutch Pickle.
I was wondering if you had any up-to-date information about the ferry from Zamboanga to Sandakan. I’m seeing reports online that the ferry has been cancelled because of the problems in Sabah.
It’s May 6 (2013) today. Do you know if it is true that the ferry is currently running? If so, do you have any idea when it might start up again?
Thanks for any information you can provide.
Cheers.
Doug
Hello,
All the ferry traffic to Sabah, Malaysia from Mindanao was put on hold for a bit to avoid adding to the tension when the the followers of the Sutan of Sulu pushed their claim that Sabah, (presently claimed by Malaysia), was their rightful ancestral homeland. I do not know what the current situation is.
In the past the Sandakan – Zamboanga run was an easy run.
anyone done that trip recently?
May 6 2013
dp
Hi!
I was thinking about going from Zamboanga to Malaysia using a ferry, so exactly as described here. Question: What about bringing a bike.
Lot’s of questions come up into my mind:
1) Travelling in Mindanao from the north to the south of Mindanao to go to Zamboanga. How safe is this ? Lot’s of people hier in the Philippines say that I should not go to Mindanao as a White Foreigner bcz of the Muslim/Abusajaf might be a thread.
2) Is it possible to bring a bike into the ferry
3) How will the Malaysian immigration react when I bring a bike that is registered in the Philippines. Is there any solution to get the Phil bike to Malaysia/Indonesia legaly and with the consent of the local police ?
My main plan would be to travel around in Borneo with my bike. So what do you think ??
hello ;
how many travel per week from zamboanga to sandakan and how much it cost ( round trip) and what is the immigration requirements and what the immigration may ask me just i want to spend my vacation in sandakan… thanks,,,
Hello raed,
I do not know the situation today because the ferry route between Zamboanga, Mindanao, Philippines and Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia was temporarily suspended until the situation regarding the Sultan of Sabah was resolved.
regards
dp
first – be sure to give Alison Shipping a call to verify the ferry is still running because :
… I do not know the current situation today because the ferry route between Zamboanga, Mindanao, Philippines and Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia was temporarily suspended until the situation regarding the Sultan of Sabah was resolved.
regarding question 1
I feel relatively at peace traveling north to south in Mindanao on my bike. I do not recommend traveling to Cotabato City by bike. I also feel that you would not be welcome in Marawi.
regarding queston 2
No – you will not be allowed to bring your bike on the ferry
regarding question 3
The Phillippine customs and the ferry companies would not even allow the bike to leave the Philippines without proper import-export papers. The Malaysian immigration and customs also would not allow you to enter the country without proper import-export paperwork in order
Be advised that there are travelers that circle the globe with motorbikes or motor cars – however – this type of traveling takes a fair bit of preparation with carnets etc
dp
i am che may i help me if what will i do i already log off from manila airport going kuala lumpor i have affidavit of support from my fiancee.this time i just plan to make i tour is it easy if i will travel using this way i hope you can help me i need to go nextweek i wish could be of more help on this but you will have to get the information
Hello Che – likely the ferry is not running passengers between Zamboanga and Sandakan.
Kuala Lumpur is so very far from Sandakan. It would be easier and cheaper to fly direct from Manila or Clark to Kuala Lumpur. Assuming that you have a Filipino passport you should get more information from the embassy or the travel agent booking the ticket for you. It should be a rather simple matter if there are no other issues involved.
cheers – happy trip
dp
Hi, good day.. may i ask about the immigration in the Philippines in Sandakan, Malaysia, ahmm what if that a person was a blacklisted one or having a blacklisted order from the philippines. He is a foreigner one and he wants to enter the philippines again through Malaysia to Zamboanga by boat. It could be possible that he can enter the Zamboanga pier? Or the immigration there in Malaysia can check his passport too? what would be the best way to enter him here in the philippines?
Thank you.
Hello Cel,
I think all ferry boat travel between Sandakan and Zamboanga has been discontinued at this time because of political tension in this area.
also – If a foreigner has been blacklisted for travel in the Philipines he is not allowed to enter the country period. It is best that he does not even attempt to enter the Philippines illegally.
dp
helo good day i just want to ask if is there an immigration offce at the zamboanga city? and what the requirments should have bring there?? it is my 1st time to go in malaysia wd friends for a tour gud for 3 days..thanks…
Hi Ricky how are you are you in the warm zone now? Your
Bike is ok here in Alcantara. I’ve tried to contact you a couple times without success
My Phone number
have a great day. the Sinulog was last Saturday and Sunday in Cebu City take care Friend Ricky!
Hello Gerry – so good to hear from you! nice that you went to the Sinulog !
That Sinulog gets a huge crowd ! Did you stay for a few days?
Hello to the gang :) Roxanne and Cris-! Did they go too? How about Geraldine and Gerry jr?
I was working on a propane and oil barge in Alaska most of the year and am not sure when I will get back there! Thanks so much for looking after my old bike !
Mr. DP,
I don’t know if you’ve back in Phils already, since the last msg I read here. But still I would like to know if do you have any idea to travel from Zamboanga to Sandakan recently? Please let me know if their are changes pertaining to the immigration policy, fare and etc. It’s nice if you could update me … Thanks a lot :-)
Hello Rachel- I have not made the Zamboanga- Sandakan trip recently. The odd thing that disrupted these trips a few years ago was when the Sultan of Sabah (a Filipino) was attempting to retake land in Sabah that was previously his (historically). It was very interesting time as it did seem that legally he had some sort of valid claim to examine or consider. Apparently there were still annual lease (rent) payments made to him under some sort of agreement.
…anyway I do not know what the situation is now…The Philippine govt chose not to support his group regardless
Another interesting development is that China is attempting to claim the entire South China sea at this time and building airstrips on reefs to bolster their claim. They apparently claim ocean land up to the shores of Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines and way up to Japan. It is an aggressive tactic but the Chinese are pretty clever and will likely be able to capture these rich lands and waters with no struggle. It looks like they made the biggest land grab in the shortest time in history (and with almost zero costs). There should be huge financial rewards controlling the minerals, oil reserves, fisheries, navigation on sea and in the air in this huge area.
Mr. DP,
Thank you you for your prompt reply and update, highly appreciated :-)
Greetings! Im on leave from work for 15 days. Anyways, Im planning to have my vacation for 3 days in Sandakan, travelling alone as always;), Im worried to get offloaded as what ive always hear and usual happenings in the airport. I have my passport, 2 way ticket (ALESON), hotel booking in Sandakan, have my company ID and certificate of employment with me that Im still currently working here in the Philippines. what else they’ll need?
also planning to stay in sandakan for 2 days then maybe fly straight to Kuala Lumpur and book a plane ticket going back to the philippines. what do you think sir? I need an advice pls!
Do you have a passport from the Philippines ? Best to check the Malaysian immigration people as I am not familiar with their requirements. I do not see any problem with your case but best to check with the Malaysian Immigration in advance to avoid any problems that might come up.
Happy trip :)
dp
hello.i am from cebu.and i want to experience a travel via boat from zamboanga to sandakan..is there any advices on how to go there?about the fare i need to get a round trip ticket so what can you adviced me.thank you
I am not really sure about the current fare or schedule. It would be best to try to call the ferry there in Zamboanga City for the current route information first.
From Cebu I suggest taking the Ceres Lines bus to Dumaguete, Negros. Once in Dumaguete take one of the ferries to Dapitan Mindanao. From Dapitan take a tricycle to Dipolog. In Dipolog take the bus (possibly Rural Transit) all the way to Zamboanga City.
note: some of the ferries in Dumaguete advertise Dumaguete to Zamboanga but they are referring to Dapitan, Zamboanga del Norte province, Mindanao rather than Zamboanga City, Mindanao which is on the southwestern tip of Mindanao island. It is a full days bus ride from Dipolog to Zamboanga City. I sometimes stop for the night in Ipil and stay at the Ricomar Pension House and go the rest of way the next day.
http://www.dutchpickle.com/philippines/mindanao/ricomar-pension-house.html
In Zamboanga – I often stay at the Atilando Pension House
remember that you will have to pass through passport control so have everything in order.
happy trip
dp
Hi I have plan going to Zamboanga to Sandakan. I’m here in Cebu, I already knew how to get there in Zamboanga to Malaysia. I just want to ask If it would be easy for me to get out. I’ve been offloade recently at the Cebu Mactan Airport coz I’m with my foreigner boyfriend. So now I have a record in their database. Can I still go to malaysia to be a tourist? What would be the requirements? Hope you can help me…coz I don’t want to be offloaded again.
Hi Jane, I am not an immigration official but I think that if you have a Philippine Passport and sufficient funds you will be ok. My friend Australian Gary goes to Sabah, Malatsia all the time with his girlfriend from Palawan . They have also gone on a trip or two to Vietnam. Did the immigration officials give a reason for not allowing you to fly from Cebu? It might even be the airline as they would be responsible for your return trip if the Malaysian immigration did not permit you entry.
best wishes and happy trip
dp
Hi good afternoon! I just want to ask if there is ferry going to sandakan from Zamboanga this week. I am planning to go there this coming thursday,i tried to call aleson but i think the number that was posted is wrong.
Hello Roda,
I am not sure as I have not been in Zamboanga city recently. I have taken that Zamboanga-Sandakan route by ferry a number of times with no hassle but am not sure of the current situation. Perhaps try calling the big hotels in Zamboanga and ask the manager if they have any info they can share with you?
dp
Hi.. im raslim from bohol, i have a friend from malaysia he been married a filipina my mom best friend. Me and my friend malaysian planning to tourist there country.. so immigration cebu was uploaded me this dec.1 i have a return ticket i stay there as 27 days, so we plan manila to kuala lumpur again the uploaded me. So my plan is zamboanga to sandakan then sandakan to kuala lumpur.. i have a tourist visa given my bestfriend and he be my dependent when i arrive kuala lumpur. Its be okay to travel
Hello raslim – Be sure to check with official immigration representatives ahead of time to be sure that your plans are ok. Do you plan to enter Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur from Manila by air? I am unclear about your plan.
The Zamboanga City to Sandakan route will have to be verified also to be sure it is still running at this time. Check also with the immigration office in Zamboanga.
Please call Aleson Shipping in advance to be sure that this trip is even available. Also ask them about immigration requirements for entering Malaysia ok.
dp
In Zamboanga do they stamp your passport in the port before you aboard the ship?
Thanks
You will pass through immigration where they will stamp your passport
dp