Liveaboards visit the remote Tubbahata reef from Feb to Jun, allowing divers access to world-class dive sites and the most amazing biodiversity of marine life in the Philippines.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 1993), Tubbataha Reef National Park lies in in the centre of the Sulu Sea in the southern region of the Philippines.
Plunging walls adorned in huge barrel sponges and gorgonians provide a backdrop for an amazing variety of marine life ranging from colourful reef fish, spiny lobsters, immature manta rays, and turtles in shallow waters to shoals of moorish idols, jacks and snappers in the deep. Barracuda, tuna and reef sharks patrol the reefs while manta and eagle rays, groupers and sometimes hammerheads cruise in the blue. Famous dive sites include Seafan Alley, Delsan Wreck and Washing Machine, a thrilling drift dive with sharks.
Liveaboard trips vary in length from 6 to 10 nights. The itinerary below is based on a six night trip on board the Atlantis Infiniti Liveaboard.
Typical Itinerary
-
Day 1:
Depart for the Philippines
-
Day 2:
Arrive Manila and overnight
-
Day 3:
Continue your journey to Palawan and set sail for Tubbataha
-
Days 4-7
:
Dive the reefs and walls of Tubbataha
The Tubbataha reef system consists chiefly of two atolls (North and South) and the Jessie Beazley reefs. The reefs are home to around 600 species of fish, over 300 species of corals, nesting turtles and numerous species of shark, whale and dolphin. Above the water, the island's provide refuge for large colonies of birds.
-
Day 8:
Final day in Tubbataha before returning to Palawan
Usually on the final full day, two dives are offered in the morning before the return sailing commences.
-
Days 9-10
:
Disembark and begin your journey back to the UK
Alternatively, you may choose to extend your Philippines stay to dive another area of this diverse and fascinating country.
Please note: The above itinerary is a sample only and your actual liveaboard itinerary may vary. Marine park fees and fuel surcharges may apply. Prices based on a berth in a twin share cabin.
