| I. DIVE DESTINATIONS |
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ANILAO
To offer one of the best diving sites in the Philippines, Anilao has made a point of protecting their reefs. With active participation from the many resorts dotting the shore-line, this area hosts some of the most intricate and complex marine eco-systems.
Most diving consists of coral slopes, steeps, drop-offs and shallow coral gardens inter-twined with sandy patches. Fish and coral life is quite abundant. If you are a macro-photographer you will be amazed at the varieties of such species as Nudibranches. For your comfort and enjoyment Scuba World has Outrigger resort to provide for all your diving needs.
CATHEDRAL
This marine sanctuary is approximately 69ft/23m off Bagalangit Point and its geography consists of two large mounds that look like a roofless underwater amphitheater with a cross (put there by Former President Fidel Ramos planted the cross in 1983) in between. This is one of the most popular sites with a plethora of lionfish, moorish idols, trumpet fish and other varieties.
SOMBRERO ISLAND
If you need a drift dive, Sombrero Island is the dive for you. Acquiring its name from the appearance of a white sand beach at low tide this shallow wall (100ft/30m) is for coral lovers.
MAINIT POINT (Hot Water Point)
A favorite dive site with most of the Divemasters, the shallows boast heaps of Nudibranches and hard coral where the depths host ribbon eels, mantis shrimp and a ripping current. This dive has everything to offer – even the occasional shark. During your surface interval you can buy eggs from the local village and boil them in the natural hot springs.
MAPATING ( Shark Cave )
This is a challenging dive for experienced divers. The submerged rock is surrounded by a fairly shallow area, which ends in a series of drop-offs descending to about 60ft/20m and more. There is a great variety of marine life including sharks and pelagic fish due to a strong current.
TWIN ROCKS
Divers are usually dropped off by the remains of a capsized barge on a gradual slop. After seeing the giant clams and getting used to the school of following batfish you make you way toward the twin rocks. It is not uncommon to find frog fish, mushroom coral pipefish or a blue spotted sting ray in attendance as well!
LIGPO ISLAND
The Island sits on the west side of Ligpo Point and is visible across the bay from Outrigger. It is possible to circumnavigate the entire landmass in just one dive. Small reef fish and occasional pelagic fish emerge from nearby depths. Corals of different types and huge gorgonians abound the area.
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APO REEF
This reef is accessible off of one of the Explorer Fleet Liveaboards. With 5-day trips out to the reef throughout the year divers have some of the clearest waters of the Philippines available to them. This reef has seen lots of change, from pristine conditions to extensive damage from reef bombing; Apo Reef is now slowly recovering its brilliance.
This 155, 827- hectare atoll-like reef is located 20 miles (32km) west of Occidental Mindoro and is divided by a narrow channel into 2 lagoon systems (north and south). This channel runs from east to west and its depth varies from 5.9 ft (1.8m) to 90 ft. (27m). A brilliant white sand bottom, numerous coral formations and patches of branching coral are evidence throughout the area.
Some 385 species of fish are in residence in the general area, including sharks, stingrays, eagle rays, mantas, tuna and schools of jacks and snappers, as well as swarms of vividly hued reef fish. Lots and lots of turtles! Coral species number around 400-500 and three ships have also been known to have found their final resting place amongst the marine inhabitants of this reef.
The northern edge of the lagoon has magnificent drop-offs, with gorgonians and sea fans dominating an underwater landscape literally awash with impressive coral formations.
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APO ISLAND
This pristine island is located about 5 km off the southeast coast of Negros Island just south of Dumaguete City. Apo Island is one of the undiscovered wonders of the Philippines partly due to the ongoing and extensive environmental protection programs. These programs ensure that dive sites such as “Clown Fish Apartments” keep their inhabitants. You can reach Apo Island by boat from Silliman Beach, on the North side of Dumaguete.
CHAPEL POINT
This drift dive starts on one of the mooring buoys dotting the sea. You can see good coral heads, soft corals, sea stars, several sources of Nudibranches, gorgonian sea fans, whip corals and basket sponges. Fish life such as tuna, barracuda, black and white snappers, unicorn fish, and trumpet fish can also be seen in this site.
ROCK POINT
This site is normally gets some heavy weather, but it has a good fish life. The dive begins with a gentle slope made up of rocks and coral heads, and green corals. Variety of fish can also be seen such as Picasso Triggerfish, Black and White Snappers, Moray Eels, Local Sharks and large Bumphead Wrasse.
MARINE SANCTUARY
Marine Sanctuary has a mixture of walls, slopes and sandy patches with black corals.
The western side of the sanctuary was seeded by giant clams, nudibranches, sea star, feather stars and clownfish.
MAMSA POINT
Mamsa Point is named for its schools of jacks. There are some nice gorgonians on the wall and other pelagic species. Fish life includes Groupers, Scorpion fish, Lionfish and Reef Sharks.
COCONUT POINT
Coconut Point has a usual strong current which attracts fish such as Barracuda, Sweetlips, Jacks, Tuna, Unicorn fish, White tip Reef Sharks. The slope has a variety of soft corals.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
Apo Island is primarily a diving destination. However, if you are interested in drying out for a day there are some other interesting activities that you can do in the island. From trekking to the lighthouse, visiting the lover's beach or going to Malatapay Market during a Wednesday for some cultural exposure you are bound to find activities to keep you interested.
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BOHOL
BOHOL is the tenth largest Island and is famous for its crystal springs, white-sand beaches, ancestral homes and ancient churches. Along its coastline are several Islets such as Panglao, Cabilao, Jao, Balicasag, Mahanay, and Lapinin which all offer excellent marine life. The above water species are just as interesting as Bohol is also the home to the smallest monkey in the world, “tarsier”.
There are a number of spots that offer excellent diving. Balicasag, long known for its exotic seashells, (the natives net-fish the deeper waters for rare specimens), and its cascading coral walls is considered one of the best dive spots in the country. The waters off Pamilacan Island teem with schools of tuna, snappers, groupers, mackerel and surgeonfish. Dolphins and pilot whales can also be viewed from the distance.
CABILAO ISLAND
Cabilao Island is a small island of Lo-on, Bohol. Diving in the area is centered in front of the light house. It is a straight wall dive with the bottom at 160-200ft/60-66m. In-front of the light house is a double ledge at 90-100ft/30-33m, where strong current is not uncommon. Schools of barracuda, moorish idols and jacks are a common sites. Approaching the second ledge from the south, where the current usually goes, it meets the outwards currents as you approach the ledge near the point. Divers usually see big pelagic, beautiful soft corals of all different colours and flashlight fish in the crevices. But reserve all your energy for the eel gardens and the shoal of Hammerhead sharks usually seen when the current is very strong.
PANGLAO ISLAND
The north and western section of the reef are noteworthy, with a reef platform that is relatively narrow and shallow (15-20ft/5-6m) that has an edge terminating into perpendicular submarine cliffs, plunging down to depths 100-170 ft/33-56m. The reef is thickly covered with hard and soft corals, branching table, sacrophyton and lobophyton varieties. Near the cliff are schools of tuna, mackerel and surgeonfish. At 90-100 ft/30-33m depths are big snappers, groupers, and the occasional black-tip shark. Farther seawards are schools of dolphins and pilot whales.
BALICASAG ISLAND
A sandy shell coral line beach surrounds the island, which in turn, is fringed by a narrow reef shelf. The shelf terminates into a perpendicular underwater down to depths beyond 250ft/83m on the north and northwest face of the reef, the top of the submarine cliffs are covered with the hard coral while lower levels are covered with sponges and gorgonians. A thriving fish community is found around the cliff area. Here, jacks, mackerel and barracudas are seen in abundance. On the south and southwest portions of the shelf are wider. The submarine cliffs are indented with caves and overhangs where large groupers, napoleon wrasses and snappers hide.
PAMILACAN ISLAND
Located in the eastern side from Panglao Island, the Island has strong currents which is great for drift diving. The Island has a gradual slope of white sands and isolated corals but is known for its big Napoleon wrasse and large pelagic fishes.
CERVERA SHOAL
This site is 15 minutes ride by banka from Pamilacan Island, this area has an abundance of corals and is famous for its sea snakes and different colors of frog fish
DULJO POINT
This is the furthest most tip of Panglao Island. The dive site is a long 80ft/26m wall stretch from Napaling to the tip most of Duljo, facing Tagbilaran City. Diving is very good especially during the south monsoon winds because of its strategic location.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
An early Spanish settlement, the province of Bohol is home to a number of 17th and 18th century churches. There are charming tree-lined plazas and old ancestral houses. Visit the Bohol museum in Tagbilaran, the Punta Cruz Watch Tower in Maribojoc, the Baclayon church, and the marker in Barrio Bool commemorating the first peace treaty between Filipinos and the colonizing Spaniards in 1565.
Bohol has four (4) major rivers, Inabanga and Ipil in the north and Loboc and Abatan down south. From Busay Falls, cruise down Loboc River in a pumpboat, then travel through the seaside towns of Loboc, Loay and Bilar; On board partake in a hearty lunch of fresh lapu-lapu, shrimp, and squid while listening to a guitar serenade.
Bohol's numerous hills, valleys and plateaus are ideal for hiking and cycling. In Bilar, a three-kilometer man-made forest is sanctuary to the province's endangered species including the world's smallest monkey. The trip would not be over without visiting the world's famous Chocolate Hills. Consisting of 1,268 grassy hills with elevations ranging from120-360ft/40 -120m. It is truly a wonder of nature. The hills are considered a Philippine National Geological Monument. During the summer, the dome-shaped, grass-covered limestone hills dry up and turn brown, transforming the area into rows and rows of chocolate mounds. Additional attraction will be the Hinagdanan Cave, a symphony of stalactites and stalagmites jutting out of the earth. A swimsuit would be appropriate for a dip in the cool spring waters of this cave that filters in shafts of sunlight.
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BORACAY
Boracay has attained recognition for having some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Protected from the strong easterly typhoons, Boracay can be found at the northwestern tip of Panay. It is made up of three local communities: Yapak, Balabag and Manoc-manoc. Fine sand and crystal clear water stretches in seven kilometers of shoreline. However, if you need some alone time, there are also less crowded areas where one can enjoy solitude.
MANIGUIN
Locally called Maningning or commonly known as Hammerhead Island. It is 48 kilometres Southwest of the main Island of Boracay.
YAPAK
This is a wall starting at 100ft/90m which is covered with big barrel sponges, starfish, soft corals, gorgonians, reef fish as well as pelagic, which is an ideal site for experienced and advanced divers.
FRIDAY’S ROCK
It is a big boulder of rock rising from sand at 54ft/18m. Beside this huge rock, this site is where the dive operators conduct fish feeding
CARABAO ISLAND (Village Reef)
It is a rich coral garden on a gentle slope, which is followed by a drop-off descending to 72ft/24m.
CARABAO ISLAND (Cathedral Cave)
It is a big cave with a large entrance, which is safe for less experienced divers. At the back of the cave, there are cracks and fissures.
BLACK ROCK
It offers good diving. Condition is often calm but it can be really get rough at times. Visibility can reach to 75ft/25m.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Windsurfing, parasailing, sailing, beach visits – White Beach, Diniwind, Balinghai, Manoc-manoc, and Cagban beaches are all very beautiful and should be visited. For more curious, there are bat caves to explore at Yapak Beach.
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CEBU
Located just outside of Cebu, one of the most progressive Islands in the nation, it is home to a good number of resorts. Scuba World has a major dive shop in Cebu City and works with Plantation Bay, a five star resort on Mactan Island. Some sites regularly dived from Cebu, such as Capitancillo Island, Talong Island and Cabilao Island offer dramatic drop-offs and good fish populations. Being south of the ‘Typhoon Belt’, diving is possible all year round. Scuba World shops are located in Mactan, Hadsan and Plantation Bay.
MACTAN ISLAND
This little island is nearest dive site in Cebu. Minutes away from an international airport, you could be in the water in less than 30 minutes. Mactan is a long stretch of dive sites from Punta Engaño to Cordova. There are two feeding areas ranging from an 80ft/27m wall in Tambuli and 15ft/5m in Costabella. Aside from a long stretch of wall diving, Mactan has a huge underwater cave a short walk away from Plantation Bay Hotel, Marigondon. The current is very strong and the top most part of the cave mouth starts at 100ft/33m up to 150ft/50m.
OLANGO ISLAND
Is sometimes mistaken for Santa Rosa, has one of the deepest wall dives around. Baring dive site is along the North-Western side of the Island and the wall starts at 60ft/20m and ends down to about 220ft/73m before disappearing on a gradual slope. This area is known for strong currents and big pelagic fish. There are two large resident sharks (hammerhead & thresher) that have been spotted on and off for the last 10 years.
NALUSU-AN ISLAND
Is another adjacent small Island that shares the same wall as Baring but is located at the most Southern tip of the Olango reef. A fish sanctuary was established years ago and this is a very popular place for divers and non-divers. The wall starts at 20ft/7m and drops as deep as 160ft/53m. The current is mild with great visibility.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Day tours from Cebu City take visitors through the heart of the city to visit the Magellan’s Cross, which the explorer planted on Mactan Island in 1521. Nearby is the Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino, where the visitors find the country’s oldest image of the Child Jesus. Fort San Pedro, designed by the colonizing Spaniards as a fortress against pirates, now houses well-manicured gardens and is open to the public. Visit the Casa Gorordo Museum for a glimpse at life during the Spanish Colonial era, the Taoist Temple with its ornate décor, and the University of San Carlos, the oldest University in the Visayas. The vacation will be incomplete without a view of the areas numerous tropical islets. Sun-kissed white sand beaches. Swim in the beaches of Argao, Oslob and Carmen. Explore the caves and lagoons of Calanggaman and Gato Islands. The possibilities are endless.
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CORON
In 1944 US Admiral Bull Halsey had the task of checking the Japanese firepower in preparation for the US landing on Leyte. To find safe passage for an aircraft carrier, he sent reconnaissance aircraft to photograph the Linapacan Strait and the Calamian group of Islands. Upon studying the aerial photos, navigators noticed that several islands had moved overtime (- a camouflaged Japanese fleet had been found).
At 0900 hours on September 24, 1944, Task Force 45 carrier-based bombers attacked and sank 24 vessels around Busuanga and Coron Islands. The ensuing action left a legacy that endures to this day: a ghost fleet of Japanese hulks littering the sea bed of Coron Bay.
The World War II wrecks around Busuanga Island, particularly Coron Bay, have been one of the Philippines' best kept diving secrets. Here is a condensed version of Truk Lagoon in the Caroline Islands, Micronesia. It is a legendary and, unfortunately, expensive destination among divers for its large concentration of World War II Japanese wrecks. Admittedly, the Coron sites are not easy to get to and accommodation is limited, but the area is rewarding to visit and prices are reasonable. The visibility is not brilliant, but the wrecks are not that deep and the current not that strong, though it is always best to choose neap tides and if possible, slack water.
With a region of outstanding beauty and wildlife, Coron Bay is a tropical dream come true. Limestone cliffs and tiny isolated beach coves are spectacular. Walls of coral explode with color and life while, above, monkeys, parakeets and other animals frolic and flit in the dense foliage. Tropical magic is in the air, the sea and the islands of Coron, a tangible presence that hints of adventure and mystery....
TAI MARU (CONCEPTION WRECK)
Tai Maru is located South of Conception village on Busuanga Island, on the outer edge of the Lusteveco Company Pearl Farm. Normally calm but fierce currents are common in the area. Novices should check the tide tables first and penetrate the wreck only with an experienced divemaster. Use the shotline for descent and a safety stop on ascent. Average Depth - 52ft/16m. Maximum Depth - 85ft/26m.
An auxiliary oil tanker of the Imperial Japanese Navy Combined Fleet in the World War II, she is 550ft/168m long and is 10,045 gross tons, sits almost level, with a slight list to port, pointing 330 degrees, with a bow broken off in 75ft/26m of water. The main deck is at 52ft/16m. It is well covered with good corals, particularly large lettuce corals, sponges and shoals of fish including fusiliers, snappers and batfish, plus the ubiquitous lion and scorpion fish.
AKITSUSHIMA
The Akitsushima is located between Lajo Island and Manglet Island, south of Conception village on Busuanga Island. Average Depth - 92ft/28m. Maximum Depth - 125ft/38m.
One of the few true warships among the Coron wrecks (the others were mostly auxiliary vessels), the Akitsushima, was a flying boat tender. The wreck is 487ft/148m long, 4650 gross tons, and lies on its port side pointing 290 degrees in 125ft/38m of water with the starboard side hull at 65ft/20m. The arms of the stern crane used to load and unload the flying boat lies broken to port in 112ft/34m. The main deck is split between this crane and the funnel. There is no sign of the flying boat. This is an advanced dive due to the depth. The ship can be penetrated with care, but is also good for fish life. Large groupers lurk in the hull and shoals of barracuda, tuna and snapper are found along it.
OLYMPIA MARU
Located Between the Northern end of Lusong Island and Tangat Island. Average Depth - 62ft/19m. Maximum Depth - 80ft/25m. This Japanese Freighter is 450ft/137m long, and 5,617 gross tons, lies on its starboard side pointing 50 degrees in 80ft/25m of water. The portside hull is at a shallower portion, 40ft/12m.
The portside hull has many large lettuce corals, hydroids, black corals, brown finger sponges with Alabaster Sea Cucumbers wrapped around them, white sponges and sea anemones with clown fish. The fish life includes shoals of small fusiliers, batfish, large groupers, golden rabbitfish, damselfish and pairs of whitecheek monocle bream.
KOGYO MARU
Located East of the Southeast corner of Lusong Island, south of the Olympia Maru. Average Depth - 92ft/28m. Maximum Depth - 110ft/34m.
A Japanese freighter, 520ft/158m and 6,352 gross tons-lies on its starboard side pointing 230 degrees in 110 ft/34m of water. The portside hull is at 22 meters (72 feet). In the large cargo room you can still see loaded construction materials, mixer and even bulldozer. On the deck anti-aircraft weapons can still be seen. On the port side, there are many corals and abundant fish life. Many groupers live around the wreck.
GUNBOAT AT LUSONG ISLAND
This is located at the southern end of Lusong Island, the stern breaks the surface at low tide. Average Depth - 6 meters (20 feet). Maximum Depth - 10 meters (33 feet).
A shallow wreck, lying from the surface to 10 meters (33 feet), this is equally good for snorkeling and wreck photography, and is often used for relaxation between main dives. The wreck has been salvaged, and the entire top is gone. It is nicely covered with sponges and soft corals, and has many copperband butterflyfish, six-banded angelfish, and pufferfish of all sizes, batfish and various sea cucumbers.
IRAKO
Located Southeast of Lusong Island, south of the Kogyo Maru.
Average Depth - 35 meters (115 feet). Maximum Depth - 42 meters (138 feet).
The Irako is a Japanese refrigerated provision ship, 147 meters (482 feet) long, 9,570 gross tons. The wreck is almost upright, listing about 10 degrees to port in 42 meters (138 feet) of water pointing 260 degrees. The main deck is at 34 meters (112 feet). Penetration represents an advanced dive due to the depth, but the superstructure is interesting, with soft corals and sponges. Large groupers hover inside the wreck, while lionfish, scorpionfish, shoals of barracuda, batfish and snappers are outside.
MAMYA MARU
Located West of the northwest side of Tangat Island.
Average Depth - 25 meters (80 feet). Maximum Depth - 34 meters (112 feet).
This 160 meters (525 feet) Japanese freighter lies on its starboard side in 34 meters (112 feet) of water. The portside hull is at 24 meters (78 feet). The large holds are easy to penetrate and contain construction materials. The port side has good stony and soft corals and a variety of fish life, sponges and anemones with clownish. Large grouper, lionfish and surgeonfish abound in the wreck with shoals of barracuda, snappers, batfish, sweepers and fusiliers around it.
TANGAT WRECK (A191)
Located West of the southwest end of Tangat Island.
Average Depth - 24 meters (80 feet). Maximum Depth - 30 meters (100 feet).
A Japanese freighter 122 meters (400 ft) long, 5,000 gross tons, it sits almost upright with perhaps a 15 degree list to port, pointing 170 degrees in 30 meters (100 feet) of water; the main deck is at 18-24 meters (60-80 feet). The site provides a good introduction to wreck diving for novices, with easy penetration of the cargo holds and a good variety of fish lives. There are several large puffer fish, lots of large lionfish and scorpion fish, a lone bump head parrotfish, shoals of batfish, snappers and sweepers, six-banded angelfish and innumerable sponges. In good visibility, this is an excellent wreck for photographers.
EAST TANGAT WRECK
Located close to southwest side of Tangat Island.
Average Depth - 10 meters (33 feet). Maximum Depth - 22 meters (72 feet).
Believed to be a tugboat or an anti-submarine craft, 40 meters (130 feet) long, 500 gross tons, it lies to its starboard down a sandy slope, with the stern at 22 meters (72 feet) and the top of the bow at 3 meters (10 feet), pointing 320 degrees. The water is mostly shallow enough for snorkellers.
There are no corals on the wreck, but there is some large lettuce coral beside it. There are small angelfish, buterflyfish - particularly copperband butterflyfish - and white sponges.
KYOKUZAN MARU
Located Close to Club Paradise Resort which is located on Dimakya Island.
Average Depth - 30 meters (100 feet). Maximum Depth - 43 meters (131 feet).
A Japanese freighter, 152 meters (500 feet) long, 6,492 gross tons, sits almost upright with a 15 degrees list to starboard, pointing 160 degrees in 43 meters (131 feet) of water. The main deck slopes from 22 meters (72 feet) to 28 meters (92 feet). The wreck is almost intact and can easily be penetrated, with cars and trucks in the hold.
NANSHIN MARU
LocatedThe East Side of Malajon Island, called Black Island because of its black rocks. The wreck is just off the beach in front of a stranded vessel on the shore. Average Depth - 20 meters (56 feet). Maximum Depth - 32 meters (104 feet).
This is a 45-meter (150 feet) coastal vessel. It sits upright but down the sandy slope from the shore, with the bow bottoming at 32 meters (104 feet) and the stern bottoming at 20 meters (65 feet). There are many large scorpionfish and lionfish on the superstructure, small shoals of batfish, large shoals of sweepers, snappers, fusiliers and groupers, trumpetfish, six-banded angelfish and emperor angelfish. The hull has lots of sponges and hydroids.
MORAZAN MARU
A Japanese freighter sitting upright with a length of approximately 140 meters near Coron Bay, a very good dive spot with a variety of marine lives. Large shoals of banana fish, giant bat fish and giant pufferfish, especially around the mast, bow and stern. Easy penetration at the cargo rooms. Maximum depth is around 28-30 meters, deck-level is around 18-24 meters.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Apart from the area’s many islands, beautiful sandy coves and Striking limestone rock formations. Coron Islands has lakes, forests and hot springs. Mainit Hot Spring is one of the best in the Philippines; you can soak in two hot pools, then cross 5 meters (16 feet) of beach to cool off in the sea. Lake Abuyok, 110 meters (360 feet) deep, this is worth a visit.
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DONSOL
Donsol is located in the province of Sorsogon in the southwestern part of the Luzon in the Philippines. Swimming with a whaleshark at Donsol is the epitome of wildlife encounters- an experience of a lifetime- a nature enthusiast or ecotour fanatic cannot afford to miss! This experience is offered nowhere else, but in the waters off Sorsogon, particularly in the coastal areas of Donsol where one can interact with a butanding or even several- some 50 to 60 of them- at any one time. Such phenomenon cannot be found in other parts of the country.
These gentle giants of the sea-considered the largest fish in the world, measuring from 15 ft to as long as 60 ft. in length-have been observed to congregate in the waters off Donsol starting sometime during the months of October and November, and in the peak months of February to May. They feature silvery polka dots all over their huge bodies and are harmless, gentle, friendly and playful, allowing humans to interact with them, as they swim alongside seacraft.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
Bulusan Nature Trek - The Bulusan Mountain Lake Resort and Mt.Bulusan National Park and Volcano are at the core of this activity area, featuring a pristine forest, beautiful mountain lakes in themiddle of the a clean, cool and green environment.
Sorsogon Pacific Adventure - Tourists can enjoy the province's coastal havens and their favorite aquasports.This includes the magnificent white sand beaches of Gubat, Barcelona, Bulusan, sta. Magdalena,Bacon and PrietoDiaz and their incomparably colorful coral forest, capped by the marine adventure of them all.
Kasanggayahan Historico- This is a glimpse of Sorsogon's culture and history through its well preserved colonial old houses, century-old churches, forts, monuments and murallas, and participation in local festivals.
Sorsogon Agi- A tour of Sorsogon's agricultural resources, such as its coconut, rice and abaca plantation, with particular focus on its indigenous pili tree plantation.
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DUMAGUETE
Dumaguete
The Island is located between Panay and Cebu. It is an excellent year-round scuba destination just outside the typhoon belt. It is where the country's top marine institute, Siliman University is found. The Island is accessible by land, sea and air transportation. The diving off the islands of Apo, Siquijor, Sumilon and several points are accessible from the main islands of Negros and Cebu. The area is deep and has brisk currents, which contribute to a rich and varid marine environment. The area is blessed with thick coral growth and multicolored marine life which offers great diving possibilities.
SUMILON ISLAND
Used to be the fish sanctuary of Silliman University Marine Biology Department. It is located about 180 meters from the coast of Santander. Diving in the area is very good especially the western side facing Dumaguete. Corals and marine life like the parrot bump head is very common. Crystal waters account for excellent visibility. Its marine life gives unlimited memorable dives for pleasure and scientific observations. Sea Snakes, Turtles, Rays, Barracudas, Groupers, even Whale Sharks lurk within the area.
SANTANDER
The last Southern-most town of Cebu province, this dive site in the coastal area is fronting the underwater cemetery to the Japanese divers. Ideal for video-graphy and still photography because the max depth is only 60ft/20m with very good visibility, marine life is very colorful and sometimes big tuna can be seen. For experienced divers who like very strong currents, diving in Tañon Strait (between Cebu and Negros) is challenging. Tañon Straits is famous for dogtooth Tuna, Whales and Dolphin watching.
SIQUIJOR ISLAND
It is a province with 5 major towns. It is about two hours to the east of Apo Island. It is a sandy slope with coral heads and Blue Ribbon Eels as its main attraction.
APO ISLAND
Located in front of Dauin, it is presently a fish sanctuary declared by DENR. Silliman University of Dumaguete preserves the area that shoals of jacks and giant parrotfish frequent. The Island features walls and coral mounds. The gradual terrain from 60 to 120ft/20m to 40m is full of colorful corals and small fish. There are certain areas where the down current is very strong so be aware. Pelagic life including Jacks, Blacktip/Whitetip sharks are often seen.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Travellers can participate in numerous day trips to attractions outside the city. Twin Lakes, which are crater lakes surrounded by a forest canopy is several hours hike from the town of Sibulan. In Valencia town the Casaroro Falls, hidden amidst thick forest trees can only be reached by hiking through steep narrow trails. The town of Tanjay is also known as the “Christmas Village,” because Yuletide decor festoons the town 365 days a year. Bais has become known for its Whale and Dolphin-watching expeditions.
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MALAPASCUA
Malapascua, the name means "Unfortunate Christmas". It is located only 8 km off the north coast of Cebu. It has a blindingly white bounty beach, which is one of the best in the Philippines. Its a paradise where time stands still, leaving you breathless as soon you step into this "pacific island dream" the exceptional long white beach is stretching out around the south-east coast of the island facing Cebu, Leyte and Biliran with its volcanic landscape. The other side of the Island has a more panoramic rocky coastline and is an attractive alternative for the ever-popular white beach. Malapascua also called Logon is located about 8 km northeast of Cebu mainland and 25 km west of Leyte.
MALAPASCUA ISLAND
“North Point” is used as our house reef, although it takes a short boat ride. The rock formation and small canyons on the northern part of Malapascua are covered with beautiful hard and soft corals. At this site a wide variety of reef fish, different kinds of rays, nudibranchs, cuttlefish and some huge crabs can be found. This place is also known for its beautiful night dive possibilities (max depth 69ft/23m).
GATO ISLAND
The name of the Island was derived from the Spanish term “Gato” meaning cat. This is because the Island is shaped like a sitting cat. The Island is a protected marine sanctuary. It has become famous as a breeding place for the "black & white banded" sea snakes. The Island has spectacular caves & rock formations, and steep walls and rocks are covered by beautifully coloured gorgonian sea fans. On the different dive spots around the Island you can find lots of nudibranchs as well as sea horses, shells, shrimps, sea snakes, scorpion fish, frogfish, big cuttlefish, stingrays, whitetip sharks, reef sharks, bamboo sharks, schools of squids, tuna and snappers. It is an underwater haven for macro photographers. Besides 3 underwater caves there is a tunnel system, which runs under the northern part of the Island starting at 15ft/5m with a large exit at 42ft/14m. It contains all kinds of interesting sea life like lobsters, crabs and even sleeping whitetips.
MONAD SHOAL
This dive spot is big sunken Island rising up from the ocean floor. The flat reef top is around 45ft/15m and the steep drop off is going down to approximately 600ft/200m. It has spectacular overhangs and walls, disappearing into the endless deep blue ocean. Big schools of tuna, jacks and barracudas can be seen here. But one of the special events in this area is the close encounter with the breathtaking thresher sharks that circle in front of you acting like cats with their long tails waving around. Other highlights are the Manta Rays you can see from May until January. Another comparable shoal South of Monad although much smaller is Kimot.
CALANGGAMAN ISLAND
On your way to this island the boat is often escorted by shoals of dolphins. It is a little paradise Island with only few inhabitants, which makes a perfect stop between two dives. It is also a perfect place for non-divers who can just stroll around, explore or sunbathe. Apart from this Island there are two nearby shoals with similar profiles: Ormoc and Nunez Shoal. All sites have shallow reef tops at 30ft/10m leading to drop-off, descending to more than 600ft/200m, caves and overhangs with nice sponges, corals and gorgonians all varieties of reef fish, eagle rays, sharks and occasional turtle. Visibility can reach 100ft/30m.
DONA MARILYN WRECK
This is a big Manila/Cebu ferry that went down 1984 in a typhoon and is known as the most beautiful wreck in the Visayas. It is a 300ft/100m long ferry, lying on its portside and it can be entered safe in some areas. The wreck is partly overgrown with hard and beautiful colored soft corals. Scorpionfish, Lionfish and other tropical fish call this home with black spotted stingrays to be found.
DON MACARIO WRECK
This 90ft/30m long cargo vessel was sunk by a typhoon and is now resting upside down with corals growing on and around it. It is a good wreck for novices. Point of interest angel and butterfly fish, nudibranchs, scorpionfish, sea snakes etc. (max depth 57ft/19m)
CHOCOLATE ISLAND
A little rocky island between Malapascua and the north point of Cebu mainland. Along its gently sloping sides you can find coral heads and beautiful soft corals. There are many small reef fish and occasionally eagle rays (max depth 54ft/18m).
TAPILON JAPANESE WRECK
This is a heavily torpedoed World War II Cargo vessel broken into 3 major pieces and is resting in a depth between 60ft/20m to 90ft/30m with lots of wreck debris scattered all around. It is possible to see tiles on the wreck wall, steel cable, ladders and more, also lot of moray eels, scorpion fish, flatworms and occasional huge frogfish.
PIONEER JAPANESE WRECK
This is a surprisingly intact Japanese World War II vessel about 180ft/60m long is standing up right with the bow bottoming at 162ft/54m and the stern bottoming at around 120ft/40m. The wreck is overgrown with beautiful corals and even the propeller and anchors are still there. The wreck has an excellent fish life including massive scorpion fish, eagle rays, large groupers and shoals of barracuda, tuna and snappers. This is a very spooky but excellent wreck dive and strictly limited to experienced and qualified divers only.
MARAPIPI
A real frontiers dive destination to the reefs around this beautiful volcanic island. This dive trip is offered as a little overnight safari, Very good corals and all kinds of reef fish. On the coral rubble sloping, blacktip, reef sharks are common. An occasional manta and eagle rays are present. Dolphins are also around this island.
CAPITANCILLO ISLET
This is a six-hectare, low, flat coralline islet, which is located between Cebu and Leyte. The Islet offers excellent opportunities especially at the deeper portions for it exhibits a dense population of pelagic such as jacks and tuna. A rare black coral formation is also present.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Day tours from Cebu City take visitors through the heart of the city to visit the Magellan’s Cross, which the explorer planted on Mactan Island in 1521. Nearby is the Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino, where the visitors find the country’s oldest image of the Child Jesus. Fort San Pedro, designed by the colonizing Spaniards as a fortress against pirates, now houses well-manicured gardens and is open to the public. Visit the Casa Gorordo Museum for a glimpse at life during the Spanish Colonial era, the Taoist Temple with its ornate décor, and the University of San Carlos, the oldest University in the Visayas. The vacation will be incomplete without a view of the areas numerous tropical islets. Sun-kissed white sand beaches. Swim in the beaches of Argao, Oslob and Carmen. Explore the caves and lagoons of Calanggaman and Gato Islands. The possibilities are endless.
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MOALBOAL
Moalboal is located in the southwestern part of Cebu which is relatively sheltered. Moalboal name means bubbling brook, and is known for good snorkeling, white sand beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
COPTION POINT (75ft/25m)
Location: West Point of the northern end of the Coption Peninsula.
Attraction: Napoleon Wrasse, Banded Sea Snakes, Spot Tail Sand Perch, Fire Gobies and colorful corals. Coption Point is a steep sandy slope that is rich in healthy soft, leathery and stony colorful corals.
SAAVEDRA WHITE BEACH (75ft/25m)
Location: Off the beach, just south of the Coption Point
Attraction: nudibranches, feather duster Worms and colorful corals, Saavedra is much like the Coption Point but with more slope and less wall.
BAS DIOT (45ft/15m)
Location: Drop-Off by the Moalboal Reef Club
Attraction: Plentiful of butterfly fish and Bubble Coral
Bas Diot is a drop off with a reef-top that exhibits typhoon damage with variety of scorpion fish, sea cucumbers, sea urchins, goat fish, small shoals of catfish, colorful soft corals, gorgonian sea fans, crinoids, smaller angelfish, butterfly fish and Bubble Coral.
TONGO POINT (75ft/25m)
Location: The southern point of Coption Peninsula
Attraction: Invertebrates and coral life
Tongo Point is shallow, with lots of small holes and crevices. To reach the Underwater Island or Lambug, you have to drop down to 80 ft. This site is not very good of fish but has plenty of invertebrates and coral life, with large gorgonian sea fans.
PESCADOR ISLAND (150ft/50m)
Location:southwest of Tongo Point in the Tanon Strait
Attraction: Pescador Cathedral
This is the best diving area of Cebu, Pescador Island is an open top funnel that bottoms out. It also has a wall that overhangs, and cracks and crevices with gorgonian sea fans, black coral, large barrel and tube sponges. The fish life includes just about everything: sweetlips, jacks, barracuda, Napoleon Wrasse, Moorish idols, parrotfish, Whitetip and Grey Reef Shark, lionfish, Zebra Lionfish, scorpion fish, stonefish, moray eels, sea snakes, hammerhead sharks, Manta Rays and Spanish Dancer nudibranches.
BADIAN ISLAND (75ft/25m)
Location: North Badian Point
Attraction: Whalesharks, Gorgonian sea fans
At this drop-off, expect to see some big gorgonians sea fans, colorful soft coral, sponges, nudibranches, angelfish and butterfly fish.
SUNKEN ISLAND (75ft/25m)
Location: Southwest of Badian Point
Attraction: Large shoals, Big barrel sponges, large soft corals and huge gorgonian sea fans. It is an open water dive where you have to get down to 25m quickly, it not a novices. The main reason for the dive is the chance of seeing large shoals of fish, big barrel sponges, large soft corals and huge gorgonian sea fans.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
The beach is close to Moalboal and can be reached via an hours walk. You can also go snorkeling, sunbathing or just hang out. If this is not adventurous enough.
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PUERTO GALERA
Situated 150km (95 miles) from Manila on a beautiful harbor, with many fine beaches, sheltered coves and a backdrop of lush green hills, Puerto Galera is a safe port where ships can shelter from typhoons.
Puerto Galera offers picturesque beauty and good beaches plus an abundant nightlife for those who want it. It is fast becoming an international diving destination. There is a great variety in both underwater terrain and marine life. From shallow coral gardens, excellent for snorkellers and underwater photographers, to excellent deep dives, most of the dive sites are a short Banka ride from the beaches.
CANYONS
A fast and furious drift dive over three ravines at around 81ft/27m. The current is generally strong and the screams at high tide! There are a lot of sweetlips, jacks and beautiful soft corals including large gorgonian fans.
CORAL GARDENS
The coral gardens average depth is 30ft/10m with the bottom at 90ft/30m. Situated off Long Beach, this site features prolific hard & soft coral, reef fish, cowries and Nudibranches. Slight current is present most of the time, an ideal site for photographers.
SABANG POINT
This is a small wall dropping down to 66ft/22m with stony corals, soft corals fish and invertebrates. The special feature at this site is the presence of two mushroom-shaped domes, which are considered convenient landmarks.
ESCARCEO POINT
Probably the most popular dive site in Puerto Galera for it features the famous “Shark Cave”. Taking the tunnel at 30ft/10m and following the ridge to the canyons at 81ft/27m you can reach the cave. This is actually a two-cave system. Divers can expect to find an average of 2 or 3 sharks.
MONKEY WRECK
A local island transport sunk by Asia Divers in early 1993, lies in 120ft/40m of water and is a little dangerous, as it rolls around in the swell. It is already collecting its own resident fish, including a small shoal of batfish.
WASHING MACHINE
A high voltage dive consisting of small canyons with currents going in all directions, this site is for advanced divers and can be rough at times.
THE BOULDERS
An excellent site for night dive! It features big rocks, crevices and caves. A wide variety of Nudibranches offers the macro photographer an excellent subject matter.
DUNGON
An easy, multilevel dive with lots of good soft corals, colorful crinoids, most reef fish and the occasional tuna. All the dives described east of here get into rough surface water and strong currents.
HOLE IN THE WALL
Allowing the current, you drop into fields of table corals as good as anywhere in the world. You descend in several stepped drop-offs, each about 9ft/3m and eventually reach the hole of the wall at 36ft/12m . The hole is covered with multicolored sponges and crinoids leading to the Canyons.
THE FISH BOWL
This is an advanced dive within a bowl-shaped depression where you sit on the edge and look down. The main reason for this dive is to see bigger fish and shoals. Whitetip Reef Sharks and Grey Reef Sharks are common, as are large tuna.
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TUBBATAHA
The Sulu Sea is located in the Southeast Asian region known as the Coral Triangle, makes it one of the world's 49 largest marine ecosystems. It actually covers the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia. Studies and research shows that it contains more than 30% of the world’s coral reefs. Data that was gathered from different research shows that the Sulu-Sulawesi Seas have over 450 species of corals. According to the marine biologists who visited and studied the area, it is the center for genetic richness and the diversity of sea grass with 16 known species. Also, found are the some 400 species of marine algae, 6 species of marine turtles and 222 species of marine mammals, most of which are already endangered.
Jesse Beazely
Jesse Beazely looks as if a truck dumped a load of sand on the reef. At high tide, the exposed coral rubble top practically disappears; this is a spectacular wall dive with lots of cracks, overhangs and crevices. The wall is lined with large fan corals, sponges and a colorful array of various soft corals in every hue imaginable. Snappers and surgeonfish abound. You will also find a lot of groupers, soldier fish, unicorn fish and Moorish idols in this wonderful reef. White tip reef sharks may be found at rest under the large table corals, which festoon the reef top. Manta rays occasionally glide past the wall scalloped hammerheads patrol deeper water.
Tubbataha North and South
It is the largest coral reef atoll in the Philippines. Its name, derived from two Samal words, means a long reef exposed at low tide. In 1987, the provincial board of Palawan passed resolution 244 requesting the declaration of Tubbataha Reef as a marine sanctuary. In response, then President Corazon C. Aquino proclaimed it a national marine park on August 11, 1988. The national park covers some 33,200 hectares and lies in the middle of the Sulu Sea, it is located about 150 kilometers by boat from Puerto Princessa. The reefs themselves cover an area of around 10,000 hectares.
Tubbataha was declared a World Heritage Site by the World Conservation Union in 1994. The Tubbataha National Marine Park is actually composed of two (2) coral atolls, separated by a channel eight kilometers wide. The larger north reef, about 16km long and 4.5 km wide, is popularly known as Bird Island due to the numerous "Boobies" that nest on the Islet and South reef, about 5km long and 3km wide is known as the Lighthouse. Tubbataha may actually be the largest and one of the top best dive destinations in the Philippine Islands. Everything about this park is large, from leopard sharks, shovel-nosed sharks, manta, eagle rays, tuna groupers and large school of fish. The terrain has much to offer, from gentle slopes to steep walls. Coral cover is vast and large, giant sea fans, sponges and an impressively wide variety and number of hard and soft coral carpets this large reef.
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