Hubbry Logo
Ocean Fast FerriesOcean Fast FerriesMain
Open search
Ocean Fast Ferries
Community hub
Ocean Fast Ferries
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Ocean Fast Ferries
Ocean Fast Ferries
Ocean Fast Ferries
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

OceanJet Fast Ferries, Inc. is a wholly owned Filipino corporation that operates high-speed crafts commonly known as OceanJet, serving destinations in the Visayas, Luzon region in the Philippines.

Key Information

History

[edit]

The company started in the late 1990s as Socor Shipping Line, operating one vessel, the M/V Oceanjet 1.[1] The company was not aggressive to expansion until 2001, when the company acquired their second vessel, M/V Oceanjet 2. In the same year, the company changed their name into Ocean Fast Ferries Corporation. They acquired 3 new ships from 2001 to 2003: the sister ships Oceanjet 3, Oceanjet 5 and Oceanjet 6, all built in Hong Kong.[2]

OceanJet 288

Starting 2011, the company continued their expansion, with the arrival of Ocean Jet 8 into service. She was the first among the ships acquired by the company to be designed by Global Marine Design, based in Australia, who manufactured the marine kits of these ships, which were later assembled here in the Philippines by Golden Dragon Shipyard, located in Mandaue, Cebu.

As of September 2024, the company is serving 13 destinations, and has a fleet of 17 vessels.

Destinations

[edit]

The company serves 13 different destinations, namely:[3]

Routes

[edit]

Oceanjet presently operates in the following routes:

  • Cebu-Ormoc & Vice Versa
  • Cebu-Palompon & Vice Versa
  • Cebu-Tagbilaran & Vice Versa
  • Cebu-Tagbilaran-Dumaguete & Vice Versa
  • Cebu-Tagbilaran-Siquijor-Dumaguete & Vice Versa
  • Cebu-Loon & Vice Versa
  • Cebu-Getafe & Vice Versa
  • Cebu-Maasin-Surigao & Vice Versa
  • Dumaguete-Siquijor & Vice Versa
  • Bacolod-Iloilo & Vice Versa
  • Batangas-Calapan & Vice Versa
  • Dapitan-Siaton & Vice Versa

Fleet

[edit]

The company operates a total of 17 vessels, a mix of monohulls and catamarans, making them the largest operator of high-speed crafts in the Visayas region.[4][5]

Oceanjet 388 at the Port of Tagbilaran
Oceanjet 3
Oceanjet 988 docked at Cebu Pier 1
Oceanjet 888 at the Port of Siquijor
OceanJet vessels
Name IMO Total Seats Built Notes
Oceanjet 1 208 1985 A monohull bought from Japan.
Oceanjet 2 8823197 241 1989 A monohull bought from Japan.
Oceanjet 3 8979398 332 2001 These 3 sister ships were built by Cheoy Lee Shipyards in Hong Kong.
Oceanjet 5 8979403 332 2002
Oceanjet 6 8979415 332 2003
Oceanjet 7 7908990 338 1979 Acquired in 2010, a Westermoen Westamaran (catamaran), and the company's first catamaran.
Ocean Jet 8 8664058 352 2011
  • These vessels were designed by Global Marine Design in Australia, and were assembled in Mandaue City by Golden Dragon Shipyard.
  • Ocean Jet 188 was the first to feature an Axe Bow design, followed by Ocean Jet 288. Later on, existing vessels were retrofitted with the bow design that enabled lower fuel consumption and a gain in sprint speed.[6] New vessels would then sport the Axe Bow design.
  • Both Ocean Jet 788 and 988 can seat up to 357 passengers, but 10 seats were removed to make way for a baggage area.[7] With both vessels being the latest additions to their fleet, they installed foam on all their tourist class seats which are made from synthetic rattan.
Ocean Jet 88 9712929 357 2012
Ocean Jet 888 357 2014
Ocean Jet 168 357 2015
Ocean Jet 188 357 2016
Ocean Jet 288 357
Ocean Jet 388 357
Ocean Jet 588 357
Ocean Jet 688 357
Ocean Jet 788 347
Ocean Jet 988 347 2024
Ocean Jet 1088 347 TBA
Oceanjet 9 290 1997 Formerly the M/V Paras Sea Cat, a catamaran.
Ocean Jet 10 288 1999 Formerly Lite Jet 8, a catamaran of the Lite Ferries/Lite Shipping Corporation.
Ocean Jet 11 172 1989 Formerly Lite Jet 1, a monohull ferry of the Lite Ferries/Lite Shipping Corporation.
Ocean Jet 12 9175341 332 1998 Formerly Lite Jet 9, a catamaran of the Lite Ferries/Lite Shipping Corporation. She was built by Afai Southern Shipyard in Guangzhou, China, and was previously the Aquan One (until 2001), and First Ferry I (until 2014).
Ocean Jet 15 9156711 203 1997 A monohull ferry acquired in 2016 from Japan.

Accidents and incidents

[edit]
  • February 2, 2008: While approaching Tagbilaran Port, OceanJet 3 collided with a barge anchored in the waters off Tagbilaran. As the vessel was navigating the Tagbilaran Channel, it struck the barge, identified as Valerie, while making its way into port at around 8 PM. Of the 140 passengers on board, reports on the number of injured varied, with sources stating 23, 24, 28, or 31 injuries. Many of those injured sustained serious injuries, including broken bones. The fastcraft also suffered significant damage. Photos taken inside OceanJet 3 showed seats torn from their floor mounts, while the vessel itself sustained a one-meter dent to its bow.[8][9]
  • July 28, 2012: OceanJets 5 and 6 were involved in a double grounding incident. OceanJet 5 ran aground in Mactan Channel near Cordova while approaching Cebu City. The ferry had departed from Tagbilaran with 197 passengers and 13 crew members. According to its captain, as they neared the channel, a foreign vessel suddenly appeared, forcing him to maneuver to avoid a collision, consequently causing the ferry to hit a shallow area off Shell Island at around 8 PM. The crew then contacted its sister ship, OceanJet 6, to assist in transferring the passengers, only for it to run aground as well near Shell Island at around 11 PM. Ocean Fast Ferries Corp. then sent tugboats to the scene and enlisted the services of a motorized banca from Clemer Lines to transport the passengers to Pier 1. The 197 passengers were transferred in three batches, with the first arriving at 9:45 PM and the last at 11:02 PM. A tugboat successfully refloated OceanJet 6 at 12:33 AM, followed by OceanJet 5 approximately 10 minutes later. Both vessels were towed to Cebu City. One passenger recounted that the seas were rough midway through the trip but had calmed as they approached Cebu City. They were only taken by surprise when the vessel suddenly shook upon entering the Mactan Channel. It took 15 to 30 minutes for the captain to inform them of what had happened, but the crew did not provide immediate instructions. Some passengers, fearing the vessel had sustained damage, put on life jackets out of panic. When they demanded answers, the crew simply told them to remain calm. Since it was late in the evening, no free food was provided. No injuries were reported from the incident.[10][11]
  • September 28, 2017: A portion of OceanJet 7 was damaged after it rammed into a pier apron of Bredco port in Bacolod City. The vessel was having engine trouble when it arrived from Iloilo City with 155 passengers and 18 crew members. Fourteen people were injured.[12]
  • January 24, 2018: OceanJet 7 was damaged after it rammed into a pier apron of Bredco port in Bacolod City. The vessel was having engine trouble when it arrived from Iloilo City. Forty people were injured.[13]
  • March 11, 2018: While en route to Dumaguete, OceanJet 15 ran aground on a coral reef. The vessel departed Siquijor at 6:00 AM, but about two to three nautical miles from the port, the captain encountered four fishing boats in waters near Brgy. Tongo, Siquijor. In an effort to avoid a collision, he altered the vessel’s course, inadvertently causing it to hit the reef. The Philippine Coast Guard then deployed two rented motorized bancas to rescue the 32 passengers onboard. Bancas were chosen instead of a larger rescue vessel to prevent another grounding incident. OceanJet management refunded the tickets of all the passengers, who were in turn transferred to another fast craft bound for Dumaguete. PCG then required OceanJet to submit their marine protest, for the sake of having a formal statement on the incident.[14][15]
  • January 6, 2020: While en route to Tagbilaran City from Plaridel, OceanJet 7 encountered big waves brought by strong winds. This drove the vessel off course causing it to run aground approximately 1.5 kilometers off the Port of Plaridel, resting on the starboard side of its hull. The Philippine Coast Guard dispatched a rescue vessels to the scene and brought back 271 passengers and 17 crew to Plaridel Port. A tug was dispatched to help refloat the vessel and take it under tow back to port.[16]
  • December 16, 2021: Super Typhoon Odette, internationally known as Typhoon Rai, made landfall in Cebu at approximately 10:00 PM. Four of OceanJet's vessels, namely OceanJet 1, OceanJet 288, OceanJet 388, and OceanJet 588, were moored at Cebu Pier 1 during the typhoon. Images showed the vessels stacked on top of one another like toys, with two vessels' bows already resting on the pier itself. All sustained heavy damage and were partially submerged as a result of the huge waves brought by the typhoon.[17] The vessels were salvaged one by one and were repaired at Golden Dragon Shipyard in Mandaue, Cebu, which is also owned by OceanJet Fast Ferries, Inc.[18]
  • March 20, 2022: In a Facebook post that went viral, it narrates the account of the crew of OceanJet 88 rescuing a fisherman in distress. While en route to Cebu City during stormy weather, the captain of OceanJet 88 noticed a fisherman in the water floating alongside his partially submerged banca. They slowed down, approached the fisherman, then cast a life vest towards him. They then secured a line and towed the banca towards the Camotes Islands.[19] On a separate post by one of OceanJet 88's crew members, it shows a video of the vessel in the vicinity of Tulang Island with the fisherman and his partially submerged banca at the stern of the ship. The fisherman was given and made to keep the life vest, then transferred to another banca that was there to meet them by jumping into the water and then climbing onto the other banca. Once the crew confirmed the fisherman was safe on the other banca, they slowly departed as they resumed their trip to Cebu. A bigger banca can be seen approaching in the distance to provide assistance. Comments say that the fisherman was out in the open when he got caught in a squall.[20]
  • September 9, 2022: OceanJet 168 struck a coral reef off the coast of Panglao en route to Siquijor from Tagbilaran. The vessel stopped for a brief moment, then returned to Tagbilaran. The vessel sustained damage to its starboard-side propeller. Following the incident, a provincial board member, who was onboard during the incident, expressed dismay over OceanJet’s alleged “lack of protocol and accountability” as passengers were never informed on what happened. The Marina suspended the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate of the vessel pending an inspection to be conducted by the agency to determine its seaworthiness. They also suspended the captain indefinitely due to the incident.[21][22]
  • November 21, 2022: The Philippine Coast Guard rescued a 58 year old fisherman after his fishing boat collided with OceanJet 688. The OceanJet vessel had just departed from Tagbilaran City and was still travelling at low speed when it rammed the fisherman's banca. Following the impact, OceanJet 688 immediately stopped to check on the fisherman. The fisherman did not sustain injuries but his banca was damaged. The Ocean Jetcrew alerted the PCG substation in Tagbilaran City. PCG noted that the area was off-limits for fishing as it is a passageway for larger boats. The fisherman and OceanJet reached a settlement and the company offered to pay for the banca.[23]
  • January 20, 2023: While en route to Cebu City from Tagbilaran, the crew of OceanJet 8 rescues a fisherman in distress. The fisherman was found in the water alongside his banca which was mostly submerged. The crew tossed a lifebuoy to the fisherman. OceanJet commended the crew's action by sharing a Facebook post of a netizen who recorded the incident.[24]
  • January 31, 2024: OceanJet 6 collides with water taxi Hop & Go 1, killing its captain and third mate. The collision occurred when OceanJet 6 was sailing outbound from Batangas bound for Calapan while Hop & Go 1 was travelling inbound to Batangas from Puerto Galera. Images showed extensive damage to the water taxi with its front apparently ripped open. It remained afloat and was being towed to Puerto Galera. Images of the scene appeared to be gray, possibly indicating misty or foggy weather. The water taxi was carrying a total of five passengers: four Chinese passengers, with two suffering injuries as a result of the collision, and one Swedish passenger during the incident. None of OceanJet's 115 passengers and 19 crew members were injured.[25][26]
  • February 23, 2024: At 11:50 AM, port police at PMO Bohol reached out to the Philippine Coast Guard after receiving a report of a missing crew member onboard OceanJet 888 which was currently underway to Cebu City from Tagbilaran. Upon reviewing CCTV footage, it has been discovered that the missing crew member slipped and fell overboard and was killed by the propeller while the vessel was performing an undocking maneuver at 11:06 AM. It was mentioned that while the vessel was undocking, the crew member was at the back portion of the vessel arranging luggage prior to the incident. At around 12:20 PM., chopped-up remains were seen floating around the ship’s berth as a result of the crew member getting sucked and minced by the ship’s propeller.[27][28]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Ocean Fast Ferries

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Ocean Fast Ferries, Inc., commonly known as OceanJet, is a wholly Filipino-owned corporation based in that operates high-speed passenger services connecting key island destinations across the , with a of "taking you there fast and easy." Established in the late 1990s as Socor Shipping Line with a single vessel, M/V Oceanjet 1, the company underwent significant expansion after its renaming to Ocean Fast Ferries Corporation in 2001, following the acquisition of M/V Oceanjet 2. By 2003, it had incorporated additional vessels such as Oceanjet 3, 5, and 6, built in , marking its shift toward a dedicated fast operator. The company's services emphasize speed, comfort, and reliability, featuring amenities like business-class seating with reclining airline-style chairs, onboard entertainment via flat-screen TVs, and designated smoking areas on select vessels. As of 2025, OceanJet operates a fleet of 17 modern high-speed crafts, many designed with innovative hulls for enhanced efficiency and locally assembled in , serving numerous primary routes across the and , including Cebu to Bohol (), ( and ), , (), and (), as well as inter-island connections such as Batangas to and , with recent expansions including routes to such as Cebu to Surigao. In 2024, OceanJet launched expansions with new routes to , solidifying its position as the leading fast ferry provider in the , , and beyond. OceanJet's growth reflects the rising demand for efficient inter-island travel in the , prioritizing customer-focused innovations while adhering to maritime safety standards regulated by the Philippine .

Introduction

Company Profile

Ocean Fast Ferries, Inc., commonly known as OceanJet, a wholly owned Filipino established in the late 1990s, operates as a privately held entity focused on maritime transportation. Formerly known as Socor , the company has evolved into a key player in the fast ferry sector. Headquartered in , , with its main office at Pier 4, MacArthur Road, OceanJet specializes in the operation of high-speed passenger ferries, commonly referred to as fast crafts. These vessels provide efficient inter-island connectivity, primarily serving routes across the and regions, catering to both tourists and commuters. As of September 2024, the company maintained a fleet of 17 modern vessels, with expansions including the addition of OceanJet 988 in late 2024, connecting 13 key destinations. Its branding emphasizes reliability and convenience under the slogan "Taking you there fast and easy," highlighting features like comfortable seating and onboard amenities to enhance travel experiences.

Role in Philippine Maritime Transport

Ocean Fast Ferries, Inc., operating under the OceanJet , holds a dominant market position as the largest operator of high-speed passenger crafts in the region of the , serving 13 key destinations with a fleet that expanded to 18 modern vessels by 2025. This leadership is particularly vital in an nation where inter-island passenger relies heavily on ferries due to the limited availability of air and connecting over 7,000 islands. As a key player, OceanJet facilitates efficient short-haul connectivity, with routes typically under four hours, bridging essential gaps in the national network and enabling access to remote areas. The company's operations significantly contribute to the Philippine economy by bolstering through reliable links between major destinations like and , which draw millions of visitors annually to cultural and natural sites. Recent expansions include new routes to and Surigao launched in 2024 and the planned Coron–San Jose–Caticlan route announced in July 2025. By supporting inter-island mobility, OceanJet aids daily commutes and commerce for local communities, enhancing social cohesion in regions where maritime travel is indispensable. Its adherence to regulations set by the () ensures safe and standardized operations across these vital routes. OceanJet has introduced innovations such as hull designs on several vessels, including the OceanJet 188 and 288, which improve by up to 20% at transit speeds while reducing emissions and operational costs. These advancements, developed in collaboration with Global Marine Design, enhance vessel performance in challenging seas without compromising passenger comfort. In typhoon-prone areas, OceanJet contributes to resilient maritime by strictly following and advisories to suspend operations during , thereby prioritizing safety and minimizing disruptions to the .

History

Founding and Early Development

Ocean Fast Ferries, Inc. traces its origins to the late 1990s, when it was established as Socor Shipping Line by Filipino entrepreneurs entering the high-speed ferry sector. The company initially focused on providing efficient maritime transport in the region, acquiring its first vessel, M/V Oceanjet 1, to serve Cebu-based routes and capitalize on growing demand for faster inter-island travel. Early operations commenced with basic high-speed services connecting key Visayan ports, emphasizing reliability over rapid expansion. In , following the addition of a second vessel, M/V Oceanjet 2, the company underwent a significant to Ocean Fast Ferries Corporation, signaling a shift toward more structured growth in the competitive Philippine ferry market. This period marked the company's entry into short-haul tourist routes, such as Cebu to , to cater to both locals and visitors seeking quicker alternatives to traditional ferries. A pivotal expansion occurred between and with the acquisition of three new Hong Kong-built catamarans—Oceanjet 3, Oceanjet 5, and Oceanjet 6—which enhanced fleet capacity and service quality. These vessels, constructed by Cheoy Lee Shipyards, represented the company's first brand-new high-speed crafts and allowed for increased passenger loads on popular routes. By , Ocean Fast Ferries had established a solid foothold, operating multiple vessels across 4-5 destinations in the and areas, navigating initial regulatory requirements from the and the (MARINA) to secure operational approvals.

Expansion and Modernization

Following the initial establishment in the late 1990s, Ocean Fast Ferries, operating as OceanJet, entered a phase of significant expansion starting in 2011, marked by the introduction of locally assembled vessels and fleet buildup. In 2011, the company launched Ocean Jet 8, the first vessel in its fleet designed by Global Marine Design of , with marine kits assembled at Golden Dragon Shipyard in , , enabling cost-effective scaling through domestic production. By 2015, the fleet had grown to 10 vessels, incorporating additional high-speed crafts that supported broader service coverage across the region. Between 2016 and 2023, OceanJet continued acquiring both and vessels to enhance capacity and reliability, including examples such as Oceanjet 10, 11, and 12, which were refitted for improved performance, and Oceanjet 15, a modern addition to the lineup. This period saw continued expansion reflecting a strategic focus on increasing operational scale amid growing demand for inter-island travel in the . In recent years, from 2024 to 2025, OceanJet has accelerated its growth, reaching a fleet of 17 vessels by September 2024, with plans for further acquisitions by the end of 2025. Key developments include the launch of the Cebu-Maasin-Surigao route on September 4, 2024, providing direct high-speed connections to and destinations to boost regional accessibility. Additionally, on July 28, 2025, the company announced a new Coron-San Jose-Caticlan route, set to become operational by late 2025, targeting enhanced tourism links in and . Modernization efforts during this expansion era have emphasized advanced hull designs and digital infrastructure. OceanJet shifted to Axe Bow configurations in several vessels, starting with Oceanjet 188 in 2016, which improve hydrodynamic efficiency for speeds up to 35 knots and enhanced stability in rough seas, reducing fuel consumption and travel times. Complementing this, the company introduced digital booking systems in the early , allowing online reservations and real-time schedule updates via its , streamlining passenger access amid rising demand. Strategically, post-COVID recovery has driven OceanJet's focus on tourism-oriented growth, with expanded routes capitalizing on the resurgence of domestic travel in the following pandemic restrictions. This includes collaborations with local port authorities to optimize turnarounds and infrastructure, ensuring faster boarding and departures to support higher passenger volumes.

Operations

Destinations

Ocean Fast Ferries, operating under the OceanJet brand, serves 12 ports across the , , and as of November 2025. serves as the primary hub, facilitating connections to major islands, while other key locations include in , renowned for its pristine beaches and eco-tourism attractions like the ; , , and in , important for regional trade and access to ; and in , commercial centers for sugar industry exports; in , a historic supporting agricultural commerce and cultural heritage; in , a gateway for southern travel; in , offering scenic coastal access; Surigao in , linking to northeastern and areas; , known for its mystical heritage; and in . Recent expansions by 2025 have enhanced connectivity, including the addition of and Surigao routes launched in September 2024 for better outreach. A planned Coron-San Jose-Caticlan route to support northern and access was announced in July 2025 but remains forthcoming as of November 2025. All served destinations are equipped with modern piers managed by the , ensuring compliance with national maritime safety standards such as those outlined in the PPA's operational guidelines. Operations experience seasonal variations, particularly during the typhoon-prone months from June to November, when weather may affect pier accessibility and service reliability.

Routes and Schedules

Ocean Fast Ferries operates multiple bidirectional routes across the , primarily connecting key ports in the and regions using high-speed ferries traveling at speeds of 25-35 knots, with most journeys lasting 1-4 hours. Among the major routes, the Cebu-Tagbilaran service runs daily with multiple departures, covering approximately 2 hours and offering tourist class fares of ₱800 to ₱1,200 depending on the season and class. The Cebu-Ormoc route features several daily sailings, taking about 1.5 hours, with fares starting at ₱1,100 for tourist class. The Bacolod-Iloilo crossing operates frequently, nearly hourly during peak times, spanning just 1 hour across the Guimaras Strait, with tourist fares at ₱550. Batangas-Calapan provides daily trips of around 1.5 hours, serving commuters between ports. Recent expansions include the Cebu-Maasin route, launched in September 2024, which takes 3 hours with daily departures from at 7:00 AM and fares of ₱1,100 for tourist class and ₱1,600 for . The Maasin-Surigao addition, also from 2024, covers 2.5 hours with fares around ₱1,200. Schedules vary by route and season; for instance, Cebu-Tagbilaran departures include 6:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 5:00 PM from Cebu, with corresponding returns from Tagbilaran. Operations are bidirectional except for select seasonal services and are subject to cancellations due to weather, such as those from Typhoon Uwan in early November 2025, which halted multiple trips across Visayas routes until advisories lifted. Fares are structured in tourist (standard open-air seating) and business (premium air-conditioned) classes, bookable online via oceanjet.net with policies allowing refunds or rebookings up to two hours before departure, subject to fees. All routes utilize high-speed crafts and integrate with Philippine port authorities for real-time updates on departures and conditions.

Fleet

Vessel Types and Designs

Ocean Fast Ferries operates a fleet of high-speed passenger vessels, comprising a mix of and designs that cater to varying sea conditions in the Philippine . Monohulls, with their single-hull structure, provide enhanced stability in calm waters, while catamarans utilize twin hulls for superior stability and reduced rolling in rougher seas. Vessel designs emphasize lightweight aluminum construction to achieve higher speeds and maneuverability, with capacities ranging from approximately 200 to 357 passengers depending on the model. Newer vessels introduced after 2011 incorporate an hull design, featuring a forward-raking stem that minimizes wave resistance and drag, resulting in improvements of up to 11.5% compared to conventional hulls. These designs are developed by Global Marine Design in and assembled locally in Cebu, , by builders such as Golden Dragon Fastcraft Builder, Inc. Earlier vessels, acquired between 1985 and 2003, were constructed in shipyards. All vessels comply with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) standards, ensuring minimum requirements for construction, equipment, and operation to enhance passenger safety. Propulsion systems primarily employ waterjet technology, enabling shallow draft operations suitable for inter-island routes and achieving service speeds of 30-35 knots. Engines are sourced from manufacturers like , with models such as the KTA50-M2 providing reliable power for these high-speed crafts. Passenger accommodations include air-conditioned cabins and lounges offering enhanced comfort with spacious seating. Select vessels feature wheelchair accessibility to support inclusive travel. Following the 2020 implementation of the International Maritime Organization's global sulfur cap, the fleet has adopted low-sulfur fuels to reduce emissions and meet environmental regulations.

Current Fleet Composition

As of November 2025, Ocean Fast Ferries operates a fleet of at least 18 passenger-only fast ferries, with expansion to 19 vessels, comprising a mix of catamarans and monohulls designed for high-speed inter-island travel in the . The fleet includes several older vessels that have undergone maintenance and refits to maintain operational standards. For instance, Oceanjet 1, built in 1985 with a capacity of approximately 200 passengers, remains active. Similarly, Oceanjet 3, built in 1997 accommodating around 260 passengers, continues in service, as does Oceanjet 6 from the same year with similar capacity. Oceanjet 5, a 1997-built vessel for around 260 passengers, is operational following routine maintenance. More recent additions include the monohull series Oceanjet 8 through 12, constructed locally in between 2011 and 2015, each with capacities ranging from 172 to 300 passengers. Oceanjet 15, a 2016-built , carries 288 passengers. The fleet also features vessels such as Oceanjet 88, 288, 388, 688, and 888, acquired or built from the 2000s onward as catamarans or with capacities between 200 and 357 passengers. The latest addition, Ocean Jet 988, a delivered in December 2024, is active on routes like Cebu-Tagbilaran and accommodates up to 347 passengers. All vessels are operational as of November 2025, with no decommissionings reported since 2023. Notably, Ocean Jet 10 completed maintenance and received a in May 2025, ensuring its continued deployment. Vessels are rotated across various routes, with larger catamarans typically assigned to high-demand corridors like Cebu-Tagbilaran for efficient passenger throughput. Looking ahead, the company has expanded to include a new Coron–San Jose, Mindoro–Caticlan route launched in 2025, supported by ongoing fleet growth to 19 vessels.

Safety Record

Safety Protocols and Regulations

Ocean Fast Ferries, operating as OceanJet, adheres to stringent regulatory frameworks established by the (MARINA) and the (PCG), which oversee all domestic vessel operations in the . The company holds necessary licenses and provisional authorities renewed periodically by MARINA, ensuring compliance with the Philippine Ship Safety Rules and Regulations (PSSRR) for ships below 500 gross tons. These rules incorporate the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) conventions, mandating that all vessels are equipped with , including life vests and inflatable rafts, sufficient for 100% of the vessel's certified capacity to facilitate evacuation in emergencies. Operational safety protocols emphasize proactive measures to protect passengers and crew. Prior to each departure, mandatory safety briefings are conducted for all passengers, covering emergency procedures, life jacket usage, and assembly points, aligning with PCG guidelines for pre-departure inspections. Crew members receive certified training in emergency response, including fire suppression, man-overboard recovery, and abandon-ship drills, as required under the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) convention enforced by MARINA. To mitigate weather-related risks, Ocean Fast Ferries continuously monitors forecasts from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and adheres to PCG sea travel advisories; for instance, during Typhoon Uwan in November 2025, the company canceled multiple routes, including Cebu-Bohol and Cebu-Siquijor, in response to gale warnings and rough sea conditions that prompted widespread suspensions. These protocols are particularly critical in high-traffic areas like the Bohol Strait, where crew training focuses on collision avoidance through vigilant navigation and adherence to speed limits. Vessel maintenance is a cornerstone of the company's safety regime, with all fast ferries subjected to annual surveys by and PCG to verify structural integrity and equipment functionality. Periodic dry-docking, typically every 2-5 years depending on vessel age and usage, allows for hull inspections, overhauls, and coatings to prevent corrosion, as stipulated in PSSRR and SOLAS requirements for passenger craft. Following global maritime enhancements post-, Ocean Fast Ferries' fleet incorporates Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) for real-time position tracking and collision risk assessment, alongside Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB) that transmit distress signals via satellite to coordinate rapid rescue operations. Crew standards further bolster safety, with all personnel holding -issued certificates of competency. In response to operational incidents, such as the February 2024 -related crew fatality at Port, the company has intensified port-side safety protocols, including enhanced briefings on machinery hazards during docking. Passenger fares include coverage for baggage and personal effects, with options for declaring higher values, though comprehensive is recommended for broader protection.

Accidents and Incidents

Ocean Fast Ferries, operating under the OceanJet brand, has experienced several accidents and incidents since its inception, primarily involving collisions, groundings, and maintenance-related mishaps in Philippine waters. These events, investigated by the and the , have generally resulted in no fatalities among passengers, though some involved injuries or crew deaths. Investigations often highlighted factors such as poor visibility, engine failures, and navigational errors, leading to vessel repairs, fines, and operational upgrades. On February 2, 2008, OceanJet 3 collided with a stationary barge named Valerie off Port in while approaching in poor visibility conditions during nighttime operations. The impact injured 31 passengers, with injuries ranging from minor cuts to fractures, but no fatalities occurred. The vessel, owned by Ocean Fast Ferries, was repaired following the incident, and the PCG probe attributed the cause to navigational challenges in low visibility without recommending further penalties. In July 2012, two OceanJet vessels, OceanJet 5 and OceanJet 6, experienced a double grounding incident in the Channel near , due to engine failure while en route from . OceanJet 5, carrying 197 passengers and 13 crew, ran aground first, followed shortly by OceanJet 6 with similar occupancy; all aboard were safely evacuated with no injuries reported. The PCG and local rescuers coordinated a swift response, refloating the vessels within hours, and the event prompted temporary route reviews but no long-term suspensions. Between 2017 and 2023, Ocean Fast Ferries recorded multiple groundings and collisions, including the January 24, 2018, incident where OceanJet 7 rammed a at Bredco Port in City due to engine trouble, hospitalizing about 40 people with minor injuries. These events, often linked to mechanical issues or rough seas in inter-island routes, resulted in PCG-led probes that imposed fines and mandated safety enhancements, such as improved engine maintenance protocols. No passenger deaths were reported in these cases, though they underscored ongoing challenges in high-traffic areas like the and seas. A notable collision occurred on January 31, 2024, when OceanJet 6 struck the Hop & Go 1 off Matoco Point in , killing the water taxi's captain and while injuring four Chinese passengers. The 105 passengers and 19 crew on OceanJet 6 were unharmed, and all were safely transferred to Port. immediately grounded both vessels pending investigation, citing possible navigational error in congested waters near . Earlier in 2024, on February 23, a maintenance accident aboard OceanJet 888 at Seaport in resulted in the death of 27-year-old crew member Marcelo Casulocan, who fell into the water and was struck by the propeller. The incident occurred during routine berthing operations with no passengers on board, prompting PCG assistance and support for the victim's family through the . No further operational disruptions followed, as it was deemed an isolated maintenance mishap. In 2025, Ocean Fast Ferries faced no major incidents with fatalities or significant injuries up to November, though a grounding of OceanJet 2 occurred on September 23 off , , involving 36 passengers and 17 crew who were all rescued safely by the PCG without casualties. Operations were also affected by weather, including cancellations due to Typhoon Uwan in early November, which suspended trips across Cebu-Bohol routes but caused no accidents. Videos of vessels navigating rough seas in January circulated online, highlighting challenging conditions but resulting in no reported mishaps. Overall, with more than 10 documented incidents since 2008, has maintained operations under ongoing regulatory oversight.

References

  1. https://oceanjetph.com/about-oceanjet/
  2. https://www.oceanjet.net/
  3. https://www.oceanjet.net/news-and-updates/oceanjet-unveils-new-routes-cebu-to-maasin-maasin-to-surigao
  4. https://www.cummins.com/case-studies/oceanjet-building-proven-design
  5. https://www.oceanjet.net/contact-us
  6. https://www.boholchronicle.com.ph/2024/12/19/ocean-jet-adds-new-fastcraft-for-tagbilaran-cebu-route/
  7. https://www.marinelink.com/news/oceanjet-building-proven436119
  8. https://www.klook.com/en-US/activity/10063-cebu-bohol-oceanjet-ferry-ticket-cebu/
  9. https://www.oceanjet.net/news-and-updates/%F0%9F%9A%A2-coming-soon-coron-%E2%80%93-san-jose-mindoro-%E2%80%93-caticlan-route-with-oceanjet
  10. https://www.scribd.com/document/737947531/Passenger-Ferries-in-the-Philippines
  11. https://marina.gov.ph/2022/09/12/marina-suspends-mv-oceanjet-168-safety-cert/
  12. https://globalmarinedesign.com/vessels/33m-axe-bow-mono-ferry/
  13. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-btR_DBeLw
  14. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/965312/list-cancelled-sea-trips-as-of-friday-nov-7-due-to-typhoon-uwan/story/
  15. https://philjobnet.gov.ph/job-vacancies/company/ocean-fast-ferries-inc-335664
  16. https://philippinetravelnotes.blogspot.com/2015/09/oceanjet-sunset.html
  17. https://psssonline.wordpress.com/2017/07/03/the-ocean-fast-ferries-or-oceanjet-2/
  18. https://bustickets.ph/oceanjet/
  19. https://www.oceanjet.net/news-and-updates/oceanjets-exciting-routes-%E2%80%93-explore-the-philippines-with-us
  20. https://bustickets.ph/oceanjet-cebu-to-surigao/
  21. https://www.coastguard.gov.ph/index.php/memorandums/12-mc?start=30
  22. https://www.oceanjet.net/news-and-updates/oceanjet-daily-schedule-month-of-january-2025
  23. https://pamasahe.com/routes/cebu-tagbilaran-oceanjet-schedule-fares
  24. https://pamasahe.com/operators/oceanjet
  25. https://bustickets.ph/oceanjet-cebu-to-maasin/
  26. https://triphappy.ph/blogs/maasin-to-surigao-ferry/
  27. https://www.facebook.com/oceanjet/posts/attention-jettersplease-be-informed-that-the-following-trip-schedule-are-cancell/1287096126790062/
  28. https://12go.asia/en/operator/oceanjet
  29. https://phuquocexpress.com/en/compare-high-speed-ship-with-two-hull-and-high-speed-ship-with-one-hull
  30. https://psssonline.wordpress.com/2015/03/11/the-oceanjet-3-5-and-6/
  31. https://ijtech.eng.ui.ac.id/article/view/4659
  32. https://www.imo.org/en/about/conventions/pages/international-convention-for-the-safety-of-life-at-sea-%28solas%29%2C-1974.aspx
  33. https://www.cummins.com/case-studies/cebu-fast-ferry
  34. https://www.klook.com/en-US/activity/68603-cebu-getafe-oceanjet-ferry-ticket-boat-trip/
  35. https://www.vesselfinder.com/vessels/details/8979415
  36. https://theboholtimes.com/?p=13287
  37. https://www.facebook.com/100064769255938/posts/may-24-2025this-morning-the-ocean-jet-10-a-proud-vessel-of-ocean-ferries-corp-wa/1144018221100476/
  38. https://marina.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/PSSRR-PASSENGER-PART-B-Below-500gt.pdf
  39. https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/university-of-san-jose-recoletos/pagbasat-pagsulat-tungo-sa-pananaliksik/pa-ocean-fast-ferries-inc-renewal-cpc-march-2020/113372969
  40. https://www.coastguard.gov.ph/index.php/transparency/functions/marsaf
  41. https://www.oceanjet.net/policies
  42. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1219585
  43. https://www.philstar.com/nation/2008/02/04/42579/31-injured-ferry-barge-collision-cebu
  44. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/239261/two-vessels-run-aground-in-cordova
  45. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1218064
  46. https://watchmendailyjournal.com/2018/01/26/captain-involved-bredco-jetty-collision-may-face-suspension-fine/
  47. https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/658988/36-passengers-17-crew-rescued-after-mv-oceanjet-2-runs-aground-off-bohol
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.