Travel News
Diverse Travel expands Philippines portfolio
Dive travel experts Diverse Travel have expanded their popular Philippines portfolio with the addition of three new resorts and a new liveaboard.
Scandi Divers and Atlantis Puerto Galera Resort are now featured in world-renowned dive hotspot Puerto Galera on the island of Mindoro.
Scandi Divers Resort is located on the pristine white sand of Big La Laguna Beach. Surrounded by a tropical paradise with panoramic ocean views, this 40 room resort is a great choice for divers seeking a relaxed atmosphere with easy access to some of the best diving in the Philippines.
Scandi Divers Resort
Atlantis Puerto Galera Resort is part of the popular Atlantis Resorts group, renowned for its excellent amenities and service. The resort’s 40 rooms are attractively situated amongst lovely grounds stocked with plants and flowers, built into the hillside just steps above Sabang Beach.
Puerto Galera has evolved into one of the top diving destinations in Asia. The resort town sits in a natural harbour on the Verde Island Passage, so-called by scientists “the centre of the world’s marine biodiversity.” The waters surrounding Puerto Galera were designated a UNESCO ‘Man and Biosphere Reserve’ in 1973, offering 40+ sites with a tremendous versatility that appeals to divers of all levels. Here, divers can explore shallow coral gardens, exciting drift dives on walls and penetrable wrecks, whilst searching for everything from tiny critters in the bays, to pelagics in the stronger currents in the Passage.
The exceptional range of diving has made Puerto Galera particularly attractive for underwater photographers, and both Scandi Divers and Atlantis Resort boast bespoke camera rooms and superb facilities for photographers.
Moving onto the island of Negros, Diverse Travel is also now featuring Atlantis Dumaguete Resort. This beachfront dive resort incorporates 44 rooms built around a lush tropical garden, and features a pool, spa and waterfront restaurant, in addition to a spacious, well-equipped camera room.
Atlantis Dumaguete Resort Camera Room
Atlantis Dumaguete Resort is perfectly located for divers wishing to discover the superb diving of the Dauin and Dumaguete area, which includes a number of Marine Protected Areas. With its black volcanic sand, Dauin is known as the Frogfish capital of the Philippines, and a unique destination for critter diving. Guests can also take advantage of day trips to nearby Apo Island, Siquijor, and snorkeling with the Whale Sharks in Oslob.
Finally, the addition of the Atlantis Azores liveaboard to Diverse Travel’s programme completes the trilogy of Atlantis Resorts. This 32m dedicated dive motor yacht caters to a maximum of 16 divers in spacious comfort. Seasonal itineraries showcase the best in Philippines diving including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tubbataha Reef, Bohol in the Visayas, Apo Reef and the wrecks of Coron, and Malapascua to Cebu. For divers wishing to embrace even more diversity for a longer stay, Atlantis Azores is ideally combined with a stay on land at the other Atlantis Resorts.
Atlantis Azores Liveaboard
Diverse Travel Product Manager Phillip Connor says:
“The Philippines is a truly amazing destination that offers so much to visitors. The variety of diving experiences, incredible resorts, and legendary hospitality is a potent mix that makes for the perfect dive holiday. Expanding our programme in the Philippines is a natural response to its increasing popularity amongst UK divers. We’re very excited about opening up more opportunities for Diverse Travel guests throughout the world, so watch this space for more developments coming soon!”
Dive holiday packages to the Philippines start from £1,799pp (based on May 2023) and include return flights London to Manila with 32kgs baggage, 7 nights at Scandi Divers in a standard room with a full board meal plan, up to four dives per day incl. tanks and weights, return transfers, local taxes, plus ATOL and full financial protection as standard.
Discover more about Diverse Travel’s Philippines product range at https://www.diversetravel.co.uk/diving-holiday-destinations/philippines-diving-holidays-2/
For more information visit www.diversetravel.co.uk, call 01473 852002, or email info@diversetravel.co.uk.
Header Image: Atlantis Puerto Galera Resort
Exciting news is on the horizon at the beloved dive resorts, Magic Resorts Philippines!
On January 2nd 2005, the journey of Magic Resorts began, when Magic Island opened its doors as one of the first dedicated dive resorts in Moalboal, Cebu. Now, as we look forward to 2025, a significant milestone is on the horizon: Magic Island’s 20th anniversary!
In preparation for this momentous occasion, the resort has recently upgraded their facilities, including renovated bathrooms, ensuring a fresh and modern experience for their guests. The stage is set for a fantastic celebration!
To cherish and celebrate two decades of incredible diving experiences, Magic Resorts will be offering a special 20% anniversary discount to all guests celebrating with them at either Magic Island or its larger sister resort, Magic Oceans in Anda, Bohol, throughout the entire year of 2025!*
NOT CONVINCED YET?
To kick off the anniversary celebration, here are 20 reasons to book your holiday at Magic Island in 2025!
1) 20-year anniversary!
Of course the anniversary is the perfect occasion to stay at Magic Island and the anniversary special offers you to enjoy a stay with 20% discount! Whether you’re a seasoned diver, new to scuba, a past guest, or a new to Magic’s concept, this is an excellent opportunity to experience the magic of Magic Island Dive Resort.
2) Amazing marine life
Moalboal has been a top dive destination in the Philippines for decades, and for a good reason. This laid-back town at the Westcoast of Cebu offers unforgettable experiences for divers and non-divers alike. Located in the Coral Triangle, Moalboal boasts hundreds of coral species and unique critters, but also features unique sights that make it a standout dive destination not just in the Philippines, but globally!
3) Enjoy newly renovated bathrooms first-hand!
In preparation for the 20-year anniversary, Magic Island renovated all bathrooms of the bungalows last August 2024! The new, spacious and modernized bathrooms offer the best comfort during your stay. As a visitor in 2025, you’ll be among the first to enjoy these upgraded amenities with a perfect view.
4) Dive with Whale Sharks the whole year around
Magic Island offers the possibility to dive with Whale Sharks throughout the entire year!
Unlike many other accommodations that only offer snorkeling with the Whale Sharks, Magic Island is accredited to dive with them with their own dive masters, tanks and crew.
5) Easily accessible house reef
Magic Island’s house reef is open 24/7 and easily accessible within only a few steps from the dive center. You are welcome to make an unguided house reef dive any time of day with your buddy. The house reef starts with a sloping area where you can find the resident sea horse and blue ringed octopus among other life, whereafter you’ll reach the amazing wall where you’ll find turtles, nudibranchs and much more!
6) Native-style bungalows with Western features
The modernized bathrooms are a great Western feature in the native looking style bungalows. While the bungalows have their Filipino native style look, with Nipa rooftops, bamboo balconies and panels of Amakan (woven split-bamboo), they have Western amenities such as air conditioning and a minibar.
7) Dive the Sardine Ball the whole year around
One of the reasons why Moalboal became famous for divers in the first place: you can dive the Sardine Run the whole year around! It’s not a seasonal sighting like other places and therefore a very special phenomenon (even for marine biologists). You can dive with over a million sardines while staying at Magic Island every day of the year!
8) Unparalleled service
The excellent staff of Magic Island ensures you have the best time possible. The team members have been part of the Magic journey for many years – some even from day one! The outstanding Philippine hospitality combined with their experience are the perfect ingredients for exceptional service. They’ll remember your name and do whatever they can to make you feel at home from day one.
9) Fully equipped dive center on site
Magic Island Dive Resort has its own fully equipped PADI dive center right on site. The dive center is equipped with 3 compressors (providing nitrox as well), 3 Bangka boats, full sets of rental gear, aluminium tanks with Int. & DIN connection, and an in-house instructor to name a few. Walk down to the dive center in less than a minute after your meal in the restaurant and get ready for diving!
10) Mating Mandarin fish on the house reef every day!
The real signature dive at Magic Island is without a doubt the Mandarin dive. Just a short swim from the dive center leads you to an underwater spectacle that’s nothing short of magical. Every day during sunset, the Mandarin fish emerge from their coral hideaways for their mating ritual. These colourful and beautifully patterned fish are a species of the Dragonet that are rarely seen outside their coral homes except during this special time. A great sighting just in Magic Islands’ backyard and a great challenge for photographers!
11) Beyond regular night dives
In addition to standard night dives, Magic Island elevates the experience with unique offerings like Fluoro dives and bonfire dives, providing a completely different dimension. If conditions permit, you can also embark on black water dives, where you’ll encounter the mysterious and seldom-seen creatures that emerge during night time.
12) Go down with a local expert!
The dive team of Magic Island make your underwater adventures hassle-free and fun.
You don’t have to carry your tanks or set up your gear, they will take care of that for you. The team of trained PADI Dive masters is local and know the area better than anyone. With their experience, incredible eye for detail and sense of humour, you will have the best dive experience!
13) More than 30 dive sites in less than a 25-minute boat ride
On one of the traditionally Bangka boats, Magic Island takes you out diving around the whole peninsula of Moalboal. 30 different dive sites are waiting for you to explore, all within only a 25-minute. Moalboal’s highlight, Pescador Island, is only 10 minutes away!
14) Freshly prepared meals in family-dinner style
The dining area at Magic Island fosters a sense of community with interconnected tables that encourage socializing. Enjoy a diverse selection of freshly prepared local and Western dishes while watching the chefs at work in the open kitchen. Dietary restrictions? Just let them know, and they’ll accommodate your needs with care.
15) Wet adventures above the surface!
Aside from diving, Magic Island offers great daytrips to explore the culture and nature of Cebu Island. One of the absolute highlights is a trip to the Kawasan Waterfalls, where you can choose between a relaxing visit to enjoy the fresh water and stunning views, or an adventurous canyoneering experience with hiking, climbing, jumping, gliding, and swimming.
16) Experience Moalboal in peace
While Moalboal is a popular destination, Magic Island provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Tucked away from busy areas, the resort creates a tranquil oasis where you can relax while still being close to Moalboal’s vibrant life.
17) Suitable for each kind of diver
With just 10 bungalows, Magic Island offers a cozy and intimate setting for all types of travelers — whether you’re in a group, a couple, or traveling solo. The rich marine life and accessible diving conditions make it an ideal destination for divers of all experience levels.
18) Unique signature drinks!
The homely bar at Magic Island offers a range of beverages to enjoy while taking in breathtaking ocean views. Don’t miss the signature drinks made with Ube Cream, a local liqueur that won the World’s Best Cream Liqueur title at the 2022 World Liqueur Awards. Experience the true Filipino fiesta spirit with this exceptional drink.
19) Combine with Magic Oceans
You can extend your wonderful stay at Magic Island elsewhere! Magic Islands newer and bigger sister Magic Oceans in Anda, Bohol opened its doors in 2015, offering you the possibility to get the maximum out of your magical dive trip by combining the two locations. The same ambience, quality of serviced and most importantly: an amazing diving experience!
20) Just because you’ll have a great time!
The reasons to visit Magic Island in 2025 are endless, but the most important one is that you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time. With exceptional service, friendly and experienced staff, an ideal location, and outstanding diving, Magic Island promises an unforgettable experience.
CONTACT MAGIC RESORTS FOR YOUR QUOTE ON AN UNPARALLELED DIVING HOLIDAY!
Email: reservations@magicresorts.online
Website: www.magicresorts.online
Facebook: www.facebook.com/magicisland.diveresort
Instagram: www.instagram.com/magic_island_dive_resort
St. Helena Island Whale Shark Special Weeks 2025
Two price options are available for these great-value tours, with prices listed in GBP (pounds).
Budget:
- 28th February to 10th March 2025
- Two sharing a double room: £1,290
- Single occupancy: £1,480
Deluxe:
- 7th March to 16th March 2025
- Two sharing a double room: £1,985
- Single occupancy: £2,340
Flights from Cape Town to St Helena (round trip) are available through the tour organizers for £780 ($990). Payments are accepted in GBP, USD, EUR, AUD, or ZAR.
For those unable to join these dates, customized trips to St. Helena can be arranged year-round.
Overview of the Tour
These special weeks have been curated by professional underwater photographer Christopher Bartlett, owner of Indigo Safaris. Christopher has visited St. Helena multiple times (2018, 2019, and 2020) and has been actively involved in whale shark conservation since 2009. He has led trips to destinations like the Galapagos and the Maldives, collaborating with Dr. Simon Pierce, founder of the Marine Megafauna Foundation and a leading expert on whale shark conservation. Christopher’s dedication to whale shark research spans over a decade, making these tours an insightful experience. The Marine Megafauna Foundation (MMF) is one of the key conservation organizations sponsored by these trips.
Whale Shark Interaction
St Helena is unique as the only location known to have a seasonal aggregation of adult male and female whale sharks, which takes place between January and March. In March 2019, the first courtship between two whale sharks was documented here, and some of the females observed appear to be pregnant. The whale sharks are often found around sea mounts or ledges. While current regulations prohibit deliberate SCUBA diving with whale sharks, snorkeling and chance encounters during dives are permitted. This tour includes two planned whale shark snorkels, and divers can continue their encounter if a whale shark appears while they are underwater.
Diving
Diving around St. Helena offers a diverse experience. The island’s limestone cliffs feature stunning caverns filled with fish, including many endemic species, creating excellent opportunities for underwater photography. The lava formations attract Chilean devil rays, while pinnacle sites host schools of rainbow runner and jacks. There are also several notable wrecks to explore.
Snorkeling
Divers will have two afternoon whale shark snorkeling trips included in their itinerary. Non-divers can participate in two afternoon snorkels and two additional sessions, which will be scheduled based on conditions and preferences. The warm waters are home to Chilean devil rays, colorful reef fish, and millions of endemic St. Helena butterflyfish, creating a unique underwater experience reminiscent of a vibrant snow globe.
Included in the Tours
For Divers
- Budget Trip: Includes 1 night in Cape Town, 8 nights on St. Helena, a final night in Cape Town, 12 dives over 5 days, 2 whale shark snorkel trips, a full-day 4×4 land tour, 7 days of shared vehicle hire, and transfers.
- Deluxe Trip: Includes 1 night in Cape Town, 7 nights on St. Helena, a final night in Cape Town, 12 dives over 5 days, 2 whale shark snorkel trips, a full-day 4×4 land tour, 7 days of shared vehicle hire, 7 breakfasts on St. Helena, and 4 dinners.
For Non-Divers
- Budget Trip: Includes 1 night in Cape Town, 7 nights on St. Helena, a final night in Cape Town, 4 whale shark snorkel trips, 2 full-day land tours, 8 days of shared vehicle hire, and transfers.
- Deluxe Trip: Includes 1 night in Cape Town, 7 nights on St. Helena, a final night in Cape Town, 4 whale shark snorkel trips, 2 full-day 4×4 land tours, 7 days of shared vehicle hire, 7 breakfasts on St. Helena, and 4 dinners.
Itinerary (Deluxe Version)
The budget version includes an extra day with two additional dives.
- Day 1: Arrive in Cape Town and transfer to accommodation 10 minutes from the airport.
- Day 2: Take a 09:00 flight to St. Helena, arriving at 13:30. Transfer to accommodation; dinner is included in the deluxe version. Enjoy after-dinner drinks at the local Standard Pub for a taste of local culture.
- Day 3: Two dives on sea mounts or ledges, followed by an afternoon visit to Jamestown.
- Day 4: Full-day 4×4 island tour, exploring key historical sites and viewpoints.
- Day 5: Morning reef or wreck dives, with a whale shark snorkel in the afternoon.
- Day 6: Two dives on sea mounts or ledges.
- Day 7: Two more dives on sea mounts or ledges.
- Day 8: Morning reef or wreck dives, followed by a whale shark snorkel in the afternoon.
- Day 9: Free morning, followed by a midday transfer to the airport for a 14:30 flight back to Cape Town. Overnight in Cape Town.
- Day 10: Transfer to the airport for departure.
Accommodation Options
Budget Accommodation: Guests will stay in two or three-bedroom cottages in Half-Tree Hollow, built in 2014, offering stunning views of the coast and ocean. Each cottage includes a small lounge, kitchen, and bathroom. Single occupancy guests share a three-bedroom cottage. A small supermarket is nearby, with fresh fish available in Jamestown, just a five-minute drive away.
Deluxe Accommodation: The 4-star Mantis Hotel is located in the heart of Jamestown. A blend of historic buildings dating back to 1774 and modern architecture, this boutique hotel is a short walk from the seafront, swimming pool, museum, shops, and bars. It offers a large restaurant, bar, guest lounge, and outdoor terraces, providing a luxurious stay on the island.
For more information or to book, contact Indigo Safaris:
Email: safariexperts@indigosafaris.com
UK: +44 771 334 27 29
USA: +1 718 312 8777
France: +33 668 74 97 05
Skype: christopherbartlett
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