‘Tis the Sea-son, mga Sugboanons!
For us, summer might be over already, but with World Ocean Day just around the corner, and as the enchanting tale of the Little Mermaid captures hearts and imaginations in cinemas all around the globe, it is the perfect time to embark on an underwater adventure.
If you want to delve into a realm of marine creatures and coral reefs, then there is no need to search beyond our captivating island of Cebu.
Cebu is internationally recognized for its abundant marine biodiversity and boasts an abundance of dive sites that will undoubtedly leave you amazed.
Let us take the plunge and uncover seven of the best diving spots in Cebu, shall we?
1. Monad Shoal
Famous for its thresher shark encounters, Malapascua Island is a must-visit destination for divers. The Monad Shoal, located nearby, offers an excellent opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close. Divers are only allowed to participate in natural animal encounters and must not feed, bait, or capture in any of the Thresher Shark dives.
RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION
DIVING FEE
- Diving fee depends on where you will avail the diving package.
HOW TO GET THERE?
- Exact location: Monad Shoal, Malapascua Island, Daanbantayan, Cebu
- BY BUS AND FERRY: From the Cebu North Bus Terminal, ride a bus going to Maya/Bagay. It will drop you off at Maya Port. Bus fare is around ₱150 per head, travel time is at least 3 hours.
From the port, ride a ferry boat going to Malapascua Island. Boat fare is ₱100 per head, travel time is around 45 minutes. Boats ply every 30 minutes from 6:30 AM to 4:30 PM only.
2. Oslob
In the southern part of Cebu lies the town of Oslob, known for its remarkable whale shark interactions. Snorkelling or diving alongside these gentle giants is an unforgettable experience. The underwater world of Oslob blooms with vibrant coral formations with a teeming diverse marine life. Every dive in Oslob reveals a new underwater wonder. As they say, to say you have made the most of Cebu, you should have ticked off diving in Oslob in your bucket list.
RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION
DIVING FEE
- For Filipino tourists, snorkeling with the whale and with a life jacket is ₱1,000. For foreign tourists, ₱2,000.
HOW TO GET THERE?
- Exact location: Brgy. Tan-awan, Oslob, Cebu
- BY BUS: From the South Bus Terminal (near Emall), ride a Ceres bus going to “Bato-Oslob”. All buses bound for Oslob operate 24/7. Bus fare is around ₱155 per head (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at the main whale shark activity site.
3. Pescador Island
It’s hard to talk about diving and not mention Moalboal. Located on the western coast of Cebu, Moalboal is a haven for diving enthusiasts. Pescador Island, just a short boat ride away, boasts stunning wall dives, vibrant coral gardens, and encounters with fascinating marine creatures like turtles and the famous sardine balls. The name “Pescador” is derived from the Spanish word which means “fishermen” who thrive in the profusion of fish inhabiting the neighboring coral reef.
RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION
DIVING FEE
- Neptune Diving Resort offers a complete diving package for ₱3,300, inclusive of equipment and a guide.
HOW TO GET THERE?
- Exact location: Pescador Island, Moalboal, Cebu
- BY BUS AND FERRY: To get to Moalboal from Cebu City, start off at the South Bus Terminal to ride a bus heading to “Bato via Barili”. Inform the driver ahead to drop you off at Gaisano Grand Mall or the Moalboal Municipal Hall. Bus fare is ₱120 per head (one-way), travel time is around 3 hours.
From either Gaisano Grand Mall Moalboal or the Municipal Hall, ride a tricycle and tell the driver to take you to Pinagsama Beach (since this is near Pescador Island). Once in Moalboal, local dive shops can arrange boat transfers to Pescador Island.
4. Tongo Point
Another gem in Moalboal, Tongo Point is a stunning dive site brimming with colorful corals, sea fans, and an abundance of fish species. The site is also frequented by turtles and occasional sightings of reef sharks. Tongo Point is just a short boat ride away from Moalboal. Simply arrange a boat transfer with a local dive shop.
RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION
DIVING FEE
- Multiple diving resorts offer guided dives with equipment. Quo Vadis Dive Resort prices a shore dive for around ₱1,600.
HOW TO GET THERE?
- Exact location: Tongo Point, Brgy. Basdiot, Moalboal, Cebu
- BY BUS AND FERRY: From the Gaisano Grand Mall or Moalboal Municipal Hall, take a tricycle or motorbike (habal-habal) and ask the driver to drop you off at Tongo Point in Brgy. Basdiot. Fares vary depending on your agreement with the driver.
From there, you can ride a ferry to various diving spots in Tongo Point. Where and how much will depend on your diving package.
5. Olango Islands
Within Olango’s magnificent group of islands lies a vibrant tapestry of marine life, showcasing an astounding array of diverse species. The captivating group of islands provide a sanctuary for an extensive variety of marine creatures but also boasts awe-inspiring coral reefs bursting with an abundance of life and an explosion of vivid colors. However, this particular diving site is recommended for experienced divers. The presence of strong currents and surges will pose challenges to beginner divers.
RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION
DIVING FEE
- Mokie Dive Center offers a guided dive with equipment for ₱1700. Add ₱250 for night dives. This is also inclusive of boat tours around neighboring islands
HOW TO GET THERE?
- Exact location: Olango Island Group, Cordova, Cebu
- BY COMMUTE: From Mactan Cebu International Airport, hop on a taxi that will take you to Movenpick Hotel. Beside the hotel is Hilton Port or Movenpick Port. From there, ride a boat headed to Santa Rosa port (travel time is 15-20 minutes and fare is around ₱15 pesos).
6. Mactan Island
If you are looking for a convenient diving spot near Cebu City, then the ones along Mactan Island are the perfect choice. This sanctuary showcases a diverse range of marine life, including clownfish, parrotfish, and even sea snakes.
DIVING FEE
- Mokie Dive Center offers a guided dive with equipment for ₱1700. Add ₱250 for night dives. This is also inclusive of boat tours around neighboring islands
HOW TO GET THERE?
- Exact location: Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan Island, Cebu
- BY COMMUTE: You can reach Mactan Island from Cebu City via ferry, jeep, and PUV. Depending on where you choose to dive in the island, you can take a motorcycle to get you to your meet-up point quicker.
7. Capitancillo Islet
In this islet located off the coast of Bogo City, vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish species teem its surrounding waters. A sight to behold, Capitancillo Island is popular for frequent sightings of yellowfin tuna and mackerels, and the occasional reef sharks! On its tiny patch of land, it gets even better with its lighthouse.
RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION
DIVING FEE
- Diving fee depends on where you will avail the diving package. You can contact Devocean Divers for their fees on this number: 0917-322-5161.
HOW TO GET THERE?
- Exact location: Capitancillo Islet, Bogo City, Cebu
- BY BUS AND FERRY: Capitancillo Islet is located at the northeastern coast of Cebu province just about 116 kilometers from Cebu City.
You may just ride a bus going to Bogo City from the North Bus Terminal. and be sure to drop-off at Bogo Proper. Bus fare is ₱160 per head (one-way). Upon reaching the place, you have to ride a pedicab going to Brgy. Siocon Bantay Dagat outpost for less than 30mins. Tricycle fare is ₱25 per head. Then, from this drop-off point, your journey to Capitancillo starts by boat.
Cebu is renowned for its abundant marine biodiversity and captivating dive locations.
It presents a remarkable opportunity to immerse oneself in the enchanting magic and splendor of the ocean.
Therefore, let us seize this moment, inspired by the growing popularity of the Little Mermaid, and embark on an extraordinary underwater expedition just around our island!
Delve into the depths of these diving destinations and allow the marvels of the ocean to etch an indelible impression on your spirit.
Wishing you happy diving and a joyous celebration of World Ocean Day!
