Exploring the Philippines from a dive liveaboard is the trip of a lifetime, however, the country has so many amazing spots, and such a variety of diving that the choice can be overwhelming. So here are Bluewater Travel's favorite Philippines liveaboard spots to help you book your next dive vacation.
One of the best dive spots in the Philippines, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is an isolated reef system boasting unparalleled marine biodiversity in the heart of the coral triangle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts pristine reefs teeming with life, and prolific pelagic action. Eleven species of shark frequent the waters around Tubbataha, including whale sharks, and the densest population of whitetip reef sharks anywhere in the world.
Tubbataha is visited by liveaboards between March and June, and boats depart from Puerto Princesa, a 1-hour flight from Manila.
2. Visayas & Malapascua
Liveaboard trips covering the Visayan Sea normally take several of the islands, covering the best sites in combination with Malapascua (famed for its thresher sharks). Other highlights include Cabilao, Balicasag, the awesome sardine run at Moalboal, Dauin's world-class macro scene, and the stunning App Island. These itineraries cover a huge variety of dive types, offering something for everyone.
Visayas & Malapascua are visited from July to February, and boats depart from either Cebu, Dumaguete, or Puerto Galera. These two resorts are a great starting point for those looking to combine a liveaboard with some time ashore.
3. Apo Reef & Coron Bay
Less frequently visited than other dive areas, the sites around Apo Reef are, nonetheless, exciting and diverse. With a rich marine life comparable to that of Tubbataha, steep walls and brisk currents bring a diversity of life that's a pleasure to explore. Nearby Coron Bay boasts some of the best wreck diving in the Philippines, with eleven WWII wrecks ripe for exploration.
Apo Reef & Coron Bay are visited from December through to February, and boats tend to depart from Puerto Galera.
Check out Bluewater Dive Travel for great rates on Philippines liveaboards.
Read about Tim's experience traveling from to Puerto Galera from Manila using public transport.
Fancy your hand at macro photography? Anilao is on of the best places in the world to shoot critters!
Take a look at the sony a7siii underwater housing at the Bluewater Photo Store.
For advice on uw photography check out the Underwater Photography Guide.