News
These 8 Dive Spots in the Philippines are known to be the best in Asia
The Philippines has, once again, been declared as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination by the 28th World Travel Awards. This is now the third consecutive year that the country won this title. It has undeniably some of the best diving spots in Asia, with adventures that await beginners and professional divers who want to experience the thrill of roller-coaster drift dives. Underwater photography enthusiasts will enjoy documenting the diverse marine life that thrives in the clear tropical waters.
The archipelagic state is part of the heart of the Coral Triangle, the world’s center of marine biodiversity. It has the third-largest area of coral reef in the world at 25,060 km2 that is home to 75% of the world’s coral species and an abundant biodiversity that includes 3,000 species of fish. The government, environmental organizations, and local residents are working together to protect this rich marine biodiversity.
“We are very happy that the country’s mesmerizing dive spots remain the best among Asia in the recent 2021 World Travel Awards. On behalf of the Philippines Department of Tourism and our tourism workers and stakeholders, we thank everyone who voted for the Philippines. We will continue to protect and preserve our seas and marine wildlife so that more people can witness our rich and mesmerizing underwater resources,” said Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat.
The Philippines is a vibrant, colorful country and this extends to the marine life that is thriving under its seas. More Fun Awaits in the Philippines as the Philippines Department of Tourism is preparing its popular diving sites and at the same time developing its new dive attractions and circuits that promote sustainable tourism. Health protocols are also being put into place at each destination for the safety of travelers while showcasing the breathtaking beauty of the Philippine seas.
In fact, The Department of Tourism (DOT) has announced the vaccination of more than 95% of tourism workers employed in accredited dive establishments across the Philippines, signalling the readiness of this niche market to the eventual reopening of the country to foreign visitors.
Get ready to dive into these amazing underwater spots waiting for your visit when international travel resumes.
- Tubbataha Reef, Puerto Princesa
The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is said to be one of the country’s oldest ecosystems. It covers 96,828 hectares of underwater adventures. This atoll reef has a very high density of marine biodiversity, with more than 700 fish species, over 360 coral species, 11 shark species, and 13 dolphin and whale species already been recorded, and its North Islet serving as a nesting site both for birds and two species of endangered marine turtles – the green turtles and hawksbill turtles. The site has a spectacular 100-m perpendicular wall, extensive lagoons and two coral islands, with exciting pelagic action involving white tip reef sharks, manta rays, and whale sharks.
- Anilao, Batangas
Anilao, in the Municipality of Mabini, is located just a short drive away from the Philippines’ capital of Manila. This has made it a haven for weekend diving enthusiasts from the city, especially those who are into underwater photography. It is located along the Verde Island Passage between Batangas and Mindoro, which is considered as the center of marine shore fish biodiversity with 319 species swimming in its blue waters that coral taxonomist Douglas Fenner says is home to 74 genera of hard corals. Anilao is a destination for both macro and muck diving enthusiasts, with rare critters like rhinopias, and colorful nudibranchs. It is also a perfect place to perfect blackwater and bonfire diving skills in macrophotography.
- Dauin and Apo Island Dumaguete
The Municipality of Dauin has many dive spots for different levels of enthusiasts. These spots are protected marine sanctuaries that look after the sea’s biodiversity. Dauin is a big draw for those who are into muck diving, owing to the fascinating tiny creatures that dwell camouflaged along the corals, sea grass, and rock formations. Exciting sightings can start close to the shoreline, and these include different kinds of pipefishes, razorfish, frogfishes, sea horses, wasp fishes, snake eels, sea moths, dragonettes, flounders, snappers, stargazers, and crabs and turtles.
A scenic 30-minute boat ride from Dumaguete brings divers to Apo Island, a marine sanctuary organized by its local community. It offers myriad opportunities to explore on the ground with its volcanic rock formations, and undersea where 400 coral species where over 650 species of fish reside. There is a community of sea turtles that don’t mind swimming serenely alongside divers and having these awesome moments captured on camera. For a feeling of exclusivity, book a stop at the Marine Sanctuary found southeast off of Apo Island, where only 100 divers are allowed per day to preserve its ecological balance.
- Apo Reef Natural Park, Occidental Mindoro
Apo Reef is the largest atoll-like coral reef in the Philippines. Covering an area of 34 square kilometers, it is the second largest connecting coral reef in the world after the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. The pristine waters of the 30-meter deep channel are teeming with 385 species of fish have been identified in the area, including angel fishes, parrot fishes, jacks, and trevallies. Divers can also encounter reef sharks, moray, giant squid and giant clams. It has a mangrove forest which serves as source of food, spawning ground, and sanctuary of several marine and bird species.
Among that activities available for travelers are scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, lagoon rafting, and watching the birds, dolphins and turtles that abound in the area.
- Puerto Galera, Mindoro and Verde Island
The name Puerto Galera is Spanish for Port of the Galleons for the trading vessels that would anchor off its shores of this place. Today, it is popular for its numerous diving spots as part of the Verde Island Passage of the Coral Triangle of Asia. Its clear waters allow for high visibility that is perfect for diving among the hard and soft varieties of corals that house about 60 percent of the world’s shore fish. Puerto Galera is part of the Dive and Drive tourism circuit that has been developed by the Department of Tourism that includes important dive sites like Ticao Island in Masbate and Anilao in Batangas.
If the Coral Triangle is considered as the underwater Amazon Forest, Verde Island is at the center of its heart. The Verde Island Wall –two rocks jutting out southeast of the island is considered as the best dive sites in the Philippines, with excellent visibility and lot so nooks and crannies to explore. Colorful corals are home and playground to white tips and other sharks, mantas, tuna and jacks with pelagics like parrotfish, unicorn fish, and Napoleons adding even more color to the visual impact of clouds of anthias. For a spinning good time, head out to the Washing Machine, so-called for its wild current that is popular with divers who are looking to enjoy a unique thrill.
- Cebu (Malapascua, Moalboal)
Located at the Northern part of Cebu, Malapascua Island is a must-visit for divers to enjoy the rare and thrilling experience of swimming with thresher sharks. The pristine waters of this tropical island paradise offers more unforgettable adventures. After a 5 a.m. thresher shark dive, enthusiasts can also go on shipwreck explorations, deep and tek dives, dusk mandarin fish spotting, and night dives to observe rare nocturnal creatures. Another dive attraction is the underwater tunnel that runs through the length of nearby Gato Island, a home to white tip sharks. Here, divers can explore undercuts and small caves to discover the secret lives of marine animals such as cuttlefish, banded sea snakes, crabs, anthas, and lionfish. The beach life is just as grand, where you can walk anywhere in flip-flops to enjoy the charming, relaxed life on the island.
Moalboal in the local dialect means bubbling waters, owing to its freshwater springs. Its dive sites offer an array of exciting experiences, with Copton Point already offering two – the Copton Deep that has an aircraft wreck to explore and Copton Shallow that has table corals and shallow corals through which dart a wide variety of fish. Likened to the effects of stained-glass windows at church, Pescador Cathedral is a magnificent cave that captures shafts of light at midday to bathe the surroundings with a heavenly glow.
- Bohol (Anda, Balicasag, and Cabilao)
Beautiful Bohol, with its breathtaking natural wonders such as the Chocolate Hills and Man-Made Mahogany Forest, along with historic sites such as its centuries-old churches is also a haven for divers. The warm sands of Bohol’s AIona Beach is the jump-off point for dive safaris to Anda, Balicasag, and Cabilao.
Anda is a relatively new dive destination and it is being developed with sustainable tourism in mind. Conservation efforts are supported by the friendly community, with guides who expertly help divers find the best spots. Coral-covered shallow flat reefs are home to a host of creatures such as hawkfish, fire urchins, and Coleman shrimp. Schoolers such as snappers, groupers, puffers and turtles like to converge in these clear waters. Cabilao has the small island charm. It has only five barangays or communities, but 20 dive sites. Underwater life ranges from small soft corals to large gorgonian sea fans. The Lighthouse 1 and 2 are popular dive photography sites. Balicasag is a protected area because it is a sea turtle meeting, breeding, and feeding area. There is a site that is literally named Diver’s Heaven, because here, each dive is a good dive.
- Coron Wreck Diving, Palawan
Coron has been described as one of the best spots in the World for wreck diving. There are 24 Japanese ships that were sunk in the area by an American air raid during World War II and the 12 wrecks that have been discovered are now home to corals and other forms of aquatic life. The shipwrecks are very well preserved and are all located in quite shallow water starting at 6 to 10 meters which is perfect for recreational diving. For enthusiasts, there are also dive courses which may be booked through Dugong Dive Center.
Safe and Protected
The Philippines is proactive in protecting its marine resources, not only through government mandates but also through community engagement. The locals of the areas understand the importance of caring for the environment as their source of livelihood and as their legacy to the next generations. The Philippine Department of Tourism works closely with the local government units of the popular dive sites and new circuits in order to ensure that the marine biodiversity is allowed to thrive through responsible and sustainable tourism efforts.
Aside from showcasing these underwater attractions to the world, the DOT is preparing for the return of dive enthusiasts with standardized health and hygiene protocols for a safe journey throughout the country. In addition, this fascinating destination has received the Safe Travels stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) which selects destinations that meet international health and safety standards to travel without worries.
To know the latest updates and travel advisories about the Philippine, visit www.itsmorefuninthephilippines.co.uk or download the Travel Philippines app at the Google Play and Apple Store.
Header Image: Robert Yin
Blogs
Scubaverse Christmas Gift Guide 2024: Day 3
Welcome to Day 3 of Scubaverse.com’s week-long Christmas Gift Guide!
Struggling to find the perfect gift for that special scuba diver in your life? Read on for Team Scubaverse’s pick of this season’s must-have Christmas gifts.
Every day this week, we are publishing a special Christmas Gift Guide full of different gift ideas that are all ideal for divers, so you’re sure to find something that’s perfect. Take a look at today’s selection below…
Beuchat Voyager XL Travel Bag
info@suuntodm.co.uk / www.beuchat-diving.com/gb / Beuchat Facebook
The Beuchat Voyager XL travel bag is ideal for diving expeditions or other trips, with practical trolleys and two spacious compartments.
Large XL travel bag designed to meet all your travel needs, whether it’s a diving expedition, a scuba-hunting trip or any other adventure. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.
Here are the characteristics of the VOYAGER XL-BEUCHAT bag:
Big storage capacity
- Volume: 130 L
- Dimensions: 75x47x39 cm
- Weight: 3,6 KG
- Thanks to its large capacity, you can transport your equipment and personal items efficiently and comfortably when you’re on the go
- Beuchat Shell Case: semi-rigid, thermoformed EVA protective shell that combines lightness with extra protection for the contents of the bag during transport, handling and rolling.
- Padlock eyelets
- Molle system for attaching external accessories
- Inside mesh side pocket
- Two separate large interior compartments
- Backpack straps
- Telescopic pole
- Made in Ripstop, 600 denier and 1000 denier nylon/PVC: lightweight, highly resistant fabric
- Zipper protection for central compartment: shifted inwards to prevent rubbing on the ground
- Replaceable trolley wheel
info@suuntodm.co.uk / www.beuchat-diving.com/gb / Beuchat Facebook
AP Diving BCDs
sales@apdiving.com / www.apdiving.com / AP Diving Facebook / AP Diving Instagram / AP Diving TV
Here’s some more inspiration & top-end gift ideas for the diver in your life…
Treat them (or yourself!) to a brand spanking new BCD from the AP range? Maybe a new Commando, Tekwing or Explorer? Or one from our lightweight Travel range – the Travelwing or Escape?
AP BCDs have been the gold standard for UK and northern European divers for over 40 years. They are designed by divers for divers, built to last and built for adventure and honed to perfection over the years by listening to what divers actually want.
From now until Xmas you can grab a 10% discount on any AP BCD. (see below for details)
Check out the AP BCD pages online for the full story:
https://www.apdiving.com/shop/en/bcd-open-circuit/bcds.html
GRAB A SEASONAL DISCOUNT on any AP BCD, AP Ratchet Reel or AP Surface Marker Buoy!
Enter the Voucher Code AP-XMAS-24 at the checkout online to get 10% off.
Offer ends 19th Dec. Last postage dates vary with the carrier and destination. If in doubt, please check with the AP office 01326 561040 for up-to-date delivery information.
sales@apdiving.com / www.apdiving.com / AP Diving Facebook / AP Diving Instagram / AP Diving TV
SlipIns Swimsuits
Team@slipins.com / www.slipins.com / SlipIns Facebook / SlipIns Instagram / SlipIns Pinterest
The SlipIns Swimsuit is the perfect surf suit. Even in the heaviest surf or wipeout, the suit stays put. It is fabulous for all water shorts like snorkelling, paddling, kayaking, swimming or just lounging.
This tight-fitting, tailored lycra swimsuit offers 4-way stretch for maximum comfort. stretchy, breathable, fast-drying fabric with the worlds best sun protection is the most comfortable suit you will ever put on.
SlipIns are:
*Ultimate 50+ UPF sun protection
*Blocks 98% of UVA and UVB rays
*Quick dry, breathable lycra fabric
*Flattering fit
Save 10% on your order if you mention you saw this ad in Scubaverse in your order note!
SAVE YOUR SKIN…WEAR OUR SKINS
Team@slipins.com / www.slipins.com / SlipIns Facebook / SlipIns Instagram / SlipIns Pinterest
Icelandic Wool Gloves, Socks & Blankets
by KUBI
sales@KUBIstore.com / www.KUBIstore.com / Varma on KUBIstore / KUBI on Facebook / KUBI on Instagram
KUBI have worked closely with a quality manufacturer in Iceland to bring you a range of products made from very hardy & warm wool produced in the country.
We offer a range of Socks & Blankets, as well as our very popular Thermal Gloves from Iceland.
Socks are available in Icelandic Wool & Angora Wool in a mixture of colours & sizes to suit your requirements for winter.
We also stock the luxurious Icelandic brushed wool blankets, ideal for wrapping yourself up and snuggling in on a chilly evening.
Not forgetting as well, our outstanding Icelandic Wool KUBI Gloves, the most popular in our range
Ideal gifts for everyone this Christmas with – The Warmth of Iceland!
sales@KUBIstore.com / www.KUBIstore.com / Varma on KUBIstore / KUBI on Facebook / KUBI on Instagram
Blogs
Scubaverse Christmas Gift Guide 2024: Day 2
Welcome to Day 2 of Scubaverse.com’s week-long Christmas Gift Guide!
Struggling to find the perfect gift for that special scuba diver in your life? Read on for Team Scubaverse’s pick of this season’s must-have Christmas gifts.
Every day this week, we are publishing a special Christmas Gift Guide full of different gift ideas that are all ideal for divers, so you’re sure to find something that’s perfect. Take a look at today’s selection below…
The Sharkskin T2 Chillproof Suit
by Liquid Sports
info@liquidsports.co.uk / www.sharkskin.com / Sharkskin Facebook / Liquid Sports Facebook
The Sharkskin T2 Chillproof one-piece full suit offers complete protection from the cold, sun, and marine stingers. It is designed to replace a wetsuit in warmer waters or to be worn under an existing wetsuit for extra warmth in colder waters. The 4-way stretch material is comfortable and less buoyant than neoprene, reducing the amount of weight needed, making scuba diving or snorkeling more comfortable.
The chest zip design provides greater flexibility in the torso and reduces water flow. The large cargo pocket on the thigh can be used to store accessories in an easily accessible and secure design.
The Sharkskin T2 Chillproof range is an enhanced version of the standard Chillproof range. This range incorporates Titanium Far Infrared (FIR) nano-technology into the fabric, which retains your body’s heat, improves circulation, and enhances metabolic function. The T2 Chillproof range is 100% windchill proof and has the same thickness as the standard Chillproof range, but provides the warmth equivalent to a 4-5mm wetsuit. This makes it a great substitute for a wetsuit in warmer waters or an extra layer of insulation in colder waters. The Titanium nano-particles reflect and retain the Far Infrared heat energy emitted from our bodies, effectively keeping us warmer and increasing blood flow for better metabolic function and recovery.
AP Diving Ratchet Reels
Treat yourself or your dive buddy to one of our best-selling AP Ratchet Dive Reels this Xmas. Unique benefits include:
- The line is totally encased, preventing snagging or tangling – common problems with open reels.
- Both reels are lightweight and sit comfortably in the palm of the hand or pocket.
- High-visibility, positively buoyant, Dyneema line – stronger than steel.
- Simple switch to change between ratchet and free-running modes.
- The cases are glass reinforced polymer – rugged and extremely light.
- Ideal as both an SMB deployment reel and a navigation reel.
The APD90 90m reel – £127.20
https://www.apdiving.com/…/90m-ratchet-pocket-reel.html
The APD45 45m reel – £60.62
https://www.apdiving.com/…/45m-racheted-pocket-reel.html
*GRAB A SEASONAL DISCOUNT on AP Ratchet Reels, Surface Marker Buoys and BCDs!*
Enter the Voucher Code AP-XMAS-24 at the checkout online to get 10% off.
Offer ends 19th Dec. Last postage dates vary with the carrier and destination. If in doubt, please check with the AP office 01326 561040 for up-to-date delivery information.
sales@apdiving.com / www.apdiving.com / AP Diving Facebook / AP Diving Instagram / AP Diving TV
The Diver & the Cook
A book published by Dived Up Publications
info@divedup.com / www.DivedUp.com / Dived Up Facebook / Dived Up Instagram / Dived Up tiktok
A ship lost. No survivors. A grim recovery mission begins, pushing a team of commercial divers well beyond their comfort zone. Braving treacherous conditions, Nico van Heerden single-handedly combs the cramped, debris-strewn, zero-visibility Jascon 4 shipwreck searching for any sign of the lost crew.
Then, in a scene akin to a horror movie, while exploring a small, isolated compartment, Nico feels a tap on his shoulder. Could someone have survived underwater for over sixty hours?
The Diver & the Cook is the incredible true story of a seemingly impossible underwater rescue. Told first-hand, with authentic images and detailed reconstructions, veteran filmmaker Lasse Spang Olsen brings this gripping tale to life.
An unprecedented operation, this story provides a unique perspective on the dangers and challenges faced by divers, showing the importance of teamwork and communication in high-risk situations. An incredible survival story against all odds, with an equally surprising aftermath.
Available now from online retailers and direct from DivedUp.com
info@divedup.com / www.DivedUp.com / Dived Up Facebook / Dived Up Instagram / Dived Up tiktok
Suunto Ocean Dive Computer
info@suuntodm.co.uk / www.suunto.com / Suunto Diving Facebook / Suunto Diving UK Facebook / Suunto Diving Instagram
Made in Finland with 100% renewable energy, the Suunto Ocean is tailored for an active lifestyle, from exploring the depths below surface to conquering the heights above. Featuring multiple dive modes, wireless tank pressure support and extensive set of alarms for scuba and freediving; more than 95 default sport modes, GPS, barometer, offline maps and advanced training features for sports; and finally on-wrist heart rate with activity tracking for daily use, this device ensures you stay in tune wherever you’re exploring.
Featuring a large, vibrant color display, the Suunto Ocean ensures exceptional readability and usability in all conditions.
Dive enthusiasts will appreciate its dive modes for scuba and even technical diving, including nitrox and the Suunto Bühlmann 16 GF algorithm. Additionally, freedivers and snorkelers will find dedicated dive modes to suit their needs. Pairing seamlessly with the Suunto Tank POD before diving allows users to monitor tank pressure, gas consumption, and remaining gas time directly from their wrist. To enhance safety during dives, the Suunto Ocean offers an extensive selection of customizable audio and vibration alarms.
info@suuntodm.co.uk / www.suunto.com / Suunto Diving Facebook / Suunto Diving UK Facebook / Suunto Diving Instagram
Scuba Travel Gift Vouchers
Looking for the perfect gift that will make a splash this holiday season? Consider giving the gift of adventure with our Scuba Travel Gift Vouchers! Whether your loved ones are seasoned divers or curious beginners, these vouchers open the door to unforgettable underwater experiences.
Our gift vouchers can be used for a variety of scuba trips, from liveaboards to resorts worldwide , ensuring there’s something for everyone.
This Christmas, give the gift of exploration and adventure.
Purchase a Scuba Travel Gift Voucher today and let your loved ones embark on their next great underwater journey!
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