Diving & Snorkelling

Some of the richest and most diverse coral reefs can be found in the Philippines. Being one of the most productive marine ecosystems in the world, it is no wonder the country's waters abound with species of fish, shells, various marine invertebrates and other forms of marine life found in the Indo-Pacific region.

Malapascua is said to be the only place in the world to see the elusive Thresher Shark, which is definately a highlight for any diver. Hovering on top of the reef in the very early morning hours will almost guarantee you sightings of these fascinating and magnificent creatures of the deep.

However, Malapascua is also the perfect spot to encounter other types of sharks such as Nurse, Cat, Hammerhead, Black and White tip, as well as a myriad of macro critters, barracuda, ghostpipe fish, Manta Rays, stingrays and countless nudibranchs.

Some of the most popular dive sites include:

Dona Marilyn, a Manila-Cebu ferry that sank during a Typhoon in 1984. This 100m wreck lies in depths of 16-35m and is overgrown with hard and soft coral, with scorpion and lionfish claiming it their home.

Gato Island is a protected marine sanctuary and has become a breeding place for black & white banded sea snakes. The steep walls and rocks are covered in gorgonian fans and in a number spots around the island you will find nudibranchs, seahorses, shrimps, scorpionfish, cuttlefish, squid, tuna, snappers, stingrays, frogfish, etc. 

Besides 3 underwater caves, there is a tunnel system running through the northern tip of the island, suitable only for experienced divers. A torch is required!

Monad Shoal is a big sunken island rising up from the ocean floor. The top of the reef is at about 15m, dropping off to more than 200m. Here you will find overhangs and walls disappearing into the abyss. Schools of tuna, jacks and barracudas and well as sharks are common in this area. This is also the site to observe the breathtaking Thresher Shark and, depending on season, Manta Rays.

Photo of Thresher Shark by John van Lent

Photo of Frogfish & Manta by Harry Berends