Puerto Galera is an excellent Philippine scuba diving destination, I will say it again and again. The goal of an Anilao diver is to conquer the underwater of Puerto Galera. If Tubattaha is the mecca then Puerto Galera is the jump-off.

Puerto Galera has a lot of history. And I am not only talking about Philippine history but scuba diving history. From Coral pre-historic formations to scuba diving legends. Below are 15 of 32 dive sites. Click on the photo for their Dive Profile. It highlights what made them legendary and why the legends stayed to live here both on land and underwater.

Explore the exhilarating dive sites that will leave you wanting more than just one dive. As I often say, Puerto Galera’s reefs and marine life are like any other, but in overdrive. It’s not just about the strong currents—although they might play a part. The marine life here is exceptionally vibrant, with impressively large fish that make the experience truly extraordinary.

2 Day Dive Package Includes:

2 Days 1 Night in Small Lalaguna Resort in Puerto Galera

2 Full Day Meals

4 Scuba Dives and 1 Night Dive with Complete Scuba Equipment

Most reliable Scuba dive leaders

A 2-day trip can leave you wanting more but if it is all the time you have here is a sample look of what a 2-day trip can look like:

DAY 1 

• 5 AM Pick up in Hotel Lobby

• 7 AM Arrival at Batangas Pier
• 8 AM Roro Ferry to Puerto Galera.
• 11 AM Arrival at Puerto Galera Balatero Port
• 11:20 AM Arrival at Sabang Port
• 1130 AM Speed Boat transfer to Resort
• Noon Arrival at Resort/Check in/Lunch
• 2 PM Orientation and Equipment Prep
• 2:30 PM Puerto Galera Dive 1
• 4:30 PM Puerto Galera Dive 2
• 6 PM Relax/Snack/ Banana Bread must try
• 6:30 PM Puerto Galera Night Dive
• 8 PM Dinner

DAY 2     

• 7 AM Breakfast
• 8 AM Puerto Galera Dive 3
• 10 AM Puerto Galera Dive 4
• 11 AM Check Out Speed Boat to Sabang
• Noon Lunch at Balatero Port
• 2 PM Roro to Batangas Port
• 3 PM Arrival Batangas Port
• 6 PM ETA Back to Manila

Puerto Galera Dive sites

Oddie’s Dingding

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Reef / Drift Dive
Max Depth: 24 meters (80 feet)
Visibility: 15–30 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced (due to occasional strong currents)
Marine Life: Large pelagics, reef fish, soft corals, nudibranchs, turtles, sharks, barracudas, and groupers

Overview

Oddie’s Dingding is a popular dive site in Puerto Galera known for its rich coral formations, vibrant marine life, and thrilling drift dives. The site offers a variety of underwater topographies, including colorful coral gardens, deep drop-offs, and sandy patches. The strong currents that occasionally flow through this area bring an abundance of nutrients, making it a magnet for large pelagic fish and a hotspot for diverse marine life.

This dive site is especially favored by more experienced divers because of the fast-moving currents that can make the dive both challenging and exciting. The site’s diverse marine life ranges from macro critters to large schools of fish, making it a must-visit for underwater photographers and adventure-seekers alike.

Entry

This is a boat dive, with entries typically made via a backroll. Once in the water, divers usually descend quickly to avoid surface currents. The descent takes you down to around 10 meters, where the reef starts to unfold.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 10 meters (33 feet)
• Max Depth: 24 meters (80 feet)
• Bottom Time: 40–50 minutes, depending on air consumption and dive conditions

Upon descending, divers will be greeted by a reef teeming with vibrant coral formations and schools of fish. The dive begins along a gentle slope where soft and hard corals abound, accompanied by a myriad of reef fish like angelfish, butterflyfish, and snappers.

As you drift along with the current, you’ll encounter larger marine species. Barracudas, groupers, and trevallies are commonly spotted patrolling the area, and turtles often swim lazily by. The currents, while manageable, can pick up and provide a thrilling ride as you navigate the reef. Divers may also be treated to sightings of whitetip reef sharks or even a passing manta ray, especially during seasonal migrations.

Highlights

• Strong Drift Currents: The occasional strong currents make this a thrilling drift dive, ideal for more experienced divers.
• Big Fish Action: The currents attract larger pelagics such as barracudas, jacks, and groupers.
• Colorful Reefs: Oddie’s Dingding offers healthy coral formations, home to a wide variety of reef fish, nudibranchs, and small critters.
• Shark and Turtle Encounters: Keep an eye out for reef sharks cruising by and turtles feeding on the corals.

Dive Safety

Given the site’s sometimes strong and unpredictable currents, it is recommended for intermediate to advanced divers with good buoyancy control and drift diving experience. A surface marker buoy (SMB) is highly advised, as currents can carry divers a significant distance from the entry point.

A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is recommended before ascending to the surface. Always stay close to your guide, especially during strong currents, to avoid getting separated from the group.

Best Time to Dive

Oddie’s Dingding is diveable year-round, but the best conditions are typically between November and May when the water is clearer and currents are more predictable.

For thrill-seekers and lovers of big marine life, Oddie’s Dingding offers an exciting underwater adventure with plenty of action and opportunities to explore one of Puerto Galera’s most dynamic reef ecosystems.

Manila Channel

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Drift Dive / Channel
Max Depth: 22 meters (72 feet)
Visibility: 10–20 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Intermediate (due to strong currents)
Marine Life: Reef fish, soft corals, moray eels, nudibranchs, turtles, and occasional pelagics

Overview

Manila Channel is a popular drift dive in Puerto Galera, known for its swift currents and diverse marine life. The channel between Medio Island and the mainland creates a natural funnel, which allows strong currents to flow through, providing a thrilling drift experience. The dive is ideal for intermediate divers who are comfortable with moderate to strong currents, as these currents bring in an abundance of nutrients that feed the vibrant corals and attract a variety of marine species.

The underwater landscape is a mix of sandy bottoms, coral outcrops, and rocky areas, offering a good balance of reef diving and opportunities to spot larger marine life in the open water.

Entry

This dive is done by boat, with a backroll entry directly into the channel. Divers are advised to descend quickly to avoid the surface currents and start the drift along the coral slope at around 8–10 meters.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 8 meters (26 feet)
• Max Depth: 22 meters (72 feet)
• Bottom Time: 40–50 minutes, depending on air consumption and current conditions

The dive begins with a descent into the channel, where the current will gently push you along the reef. The dive follows a gradual slope that reaches a maximum depth of 22 meters. Along the way, divers will encounter healthy coral formations, sponges, and large sea fans. Moray eels, lionfish, and scorpionfish are commonly found hiding in the nooks and crannies, while schools of snappers, surgeonfish, and fusiliers swim overhead.

One of the highlights of Manila Channel is its abundant macro life. Keep an eye out for colorful nudibranchs, flatworms, and shrimp hiding among the coral branches. The current typically intensifies as you progress through the channel, making the drift exciting and fast-paced.

Toward the deeper parts of the dive, the current may slow down, giving you a chance to explore larger rock formations where turtles are often seen resting. Occasionally, you might spot a passing ray or pelagic species like jacks or trevallies cruising by.

Highlights

• Thrilling Drift: The moderate to strong current provides an exhilarating drift dive experience.
• Healthy Corals: Soft corals, sponges, and sea fans line the channel, creating a colorful underwater landscape.
• Macro Life: Nudibranchs, flatworms, and shrimp are plentiful, making this dive a great spot for macro photographers.
• Turtle Encounters: Turtles are frequently seen along the reef, either swimming or resting near the rocky outcrops.
• Occasional Pelagics: The channel’s open nature means you may spot larger pelagic fish cruising through the current.

Dive Safety

Manila Channel is suited for intermediate divers due to the strong currents. Good buoyancy control is essential, as the current can be strong and unpredictable at times. Divers should follow the current and avoid swimming against it to conserve air. A surface marker buoy (SMB) is recommended, as divers can be carried away from the exit point by the current.

As with any drift dive, it’s important to stay close to your dive guide and maintain good communication with your buddy. A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is recommended before ascending.

Best Time to Dive

The best time to dive Manila Channel is from November to May when visibility is clearer, and the currents are generally more predictable. However, the site can be dived year-round, and the strong currents always bring plenty of marine action.

Manila Channel offers a thrilling drift dive with a fantastic mix of macro life and larger marine species, making it one of Puerto Galera’s most exciting dive sites.

The Hill

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Slope / Reef Dive
Max Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
Visibility: 15–25 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Intermediate (due to depth and currents)
Marine Life: Reef fish, moray eels, lionfish, scorpionfish, turtles, nudibranchs, and occasional pelagics

Overview

The Hill is a gently sloping reef dive site located off Puerto Galera, offering a stunning array of marine life and coral formations. The site gets its name from the gradual slope that leads divers from the shallower coral gardens to deeper areas filled with vibrant marine life. With depths reaching up to 30 meters, The Hill is suited for intermediate divers who are comfortable with deeper dives and moderate currents.

The dive features beautiful hard and soft corals, large sponges, and a variety of fish species, making it an excellent spot for both wide-angle photography and macro enthusiasts. The slope provides a gradual descent, allowing divers to explore different layers of the reef while drifting with the current.

Entry

The Hill is typically accessed by boat, with a backroll entry into the water. Divers descend to around 8 meters, where the sloping reef begins. The dive can be done either as a drift dive, depending on the current, or as a stationary exploration of the slope.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 8 meters (26 feet)
• Max Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
• Bottom Time: 40–50 minutes, depending on air consumption and dive plan

The dive starts with a descent to a coral garden at around 8–10 meters. Here, divers can explore the colorful coral formations that are home to schools of reef fish such as damselfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish. Moray eels and scorpionfish can often be spotted hiding among the rocks and crevices.

As you descend along the slope, the marine life becomes even more diverse. At deeper levels, large sponges and sea fans line the slope, providing shelter for macro critters such as nudibranchs and shrimps. Divers may also encounter larger species like groupers, trevallies, and even barracudas swimming in the deeper parts of the reef.

The gradual slope makes it easy to adjust your depth throughout the dive, and the relatively mild currents allow for a relaxed exploration of the reef. Toward the end of the dive, divers can return to the shallower part of the slope to finish with a relaxed exploration of the coral garden.

Highlights

• Beautiful Coral Gardens: The shallower parts of The Hill are covered in vibrant corals and sponges, teeming with reef fish.
• Macro Life: The slope is home to a variety of nudibranchs, shrimps, and small critters, making it a great site for macro photography.
• Large Fish: In the deeper areas, divers can encounter groupers, trevallies, and the occasional barracuda or turtle.
• Diverse Topography: The Hill’s gentle slope allows for easy exploration of different reef zones, from shallow coral gardens to deeper rocky formations.

Dive Safety

The Hill is suited for intermediate divers due to its depth and occasional currents. It is important to monitor your depth and air consumption carefully, especially when diving near the 30-meter mark. A dive computer is recommended to ensure no-decompression limits are adhered to.

A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is highly recommended before ascending, and an SMB should be used in case of surface currents or boat traffic in the area.

Best Time to Dive

The best time to dive The Hill is between November and May when conditions are calm, and visibility is at its best. However, it is diveable year-round, with marine life always abundant and the slope offering plenty to see at various depths.

The Hill is a fantastic dive site for those looking to explore a variety of marine life, from macro critters to larger pelagic species, all set against the backdrop of a beautiful sloping reef.

Secret Bay

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Muck / Macro Dive
Max Depth: 18 meters (59 feet)
Visibility: 10–20 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Marine Life: Nudibranchs, octopuses, frogfish, seahorses, scorpionfish, shrimp, and other macro critters

Overview

Secret Bay in Puerto Galera is a hidden gem for muck diving enthusiasts and macro photographers. This dive site is a haven for those interested in the weird and wonderful world of small critters. Its sandy bottom is littered with patches of seagrass, coral rubble, and small rock formations that serve as homes for a plethora of unique marine species.

The shallow depth and relatively calm conditions make Secret Bay suitable for divers of all levels, though it is particularly rewarding for those with a keen eye for detail. This site offers an underwater treasure hunt where every inch of sand could reveal a new and fascinating creature.

Entry

Secret Bay is typically a shore or boat dive, depending on the dive operator. Divers enter the water and descend slowly to the sandy bottom, starting at around 5 meters (16 feet).

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 5 meters (16 feet)
• Max Depth: 18 meters (59 feet)
• Bottom Time: 50–60 minutes, depending on air consumption and macro exploration

The dive begins with a slow descent onto the sandy seabed, where divers are immediately greeted by the macro environment. Secret Bay is known for its rich muck diving scene, so the focus is on finding and observing the smaller, often camouflaged marine life.

As you explore the bay, you’ll encounter seahorses clinging to seagrass, frogfish blending into their surroundings, and a variety of nudibranchs displaying vibrant colors. The dive site is also known for octopus sightings, including the elusive mimic octopus and blue-ringed octopus. Cuttlefish, pipefish, and juvenile scorpionfish can also be found hiding among the debris.

Photographers will enjoy the opportunity to get up close to their subjects, as most of the marine life in Secret Bay is stationary or slow-moving. The shallow depth allows for extended bottom time, so divers can take their time searching for critters without the pressure of depth limits.

Highlights

• Macro Paradise: Secret Bay is teeming with nudibranchs, seahorses, frogfish, and other fascinating small critters, making it perfect for macro photography.
• Octopus Encounters: The site is home to various species of octopus, including the mimic and blue-ringed octopus.
• Frogfish and Scorpionfish: These masters of camouflage can be found lurking among the coral rubble and seagrass.
• Calm, Shallow Dive: The shallow depth and calm waters make this dive relaxed and accessible, offering long bottom times for critter hunting.

Dive Safety

Secret Bay is generally a safe and easy dive, with shallow depths and minimal currents. It is suitable for both beginners and intermediate divers. However, careful finning is necessary to avoid stirring up sediment, as visibility can drop quickly in the sandy environment.

A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is recommended, but with the dive’s shallow profile, it’s more of a precaution. Dive computers are helpful for monitoring bottom time, especially for those planning extended dives to photograph critters.

Best Time to Dive

The best time to dive Secret Bay is between November and May when visibility is better, and conditions are more predictable. The site is accessible year-round, though visibility can decrease during the rainy season.

For muck diving enthusiasts and those fascinated by the world of macro life, Secret Bay offers a unique and rewarding underwater experience.

Batangas Channel

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Drift Dive / Channel
Max Depth: 24 meters (79 feet)
Visibility: 10–20 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Intermediate (due to strong currents)
Marine Life: Reef fish, sea turtles, moray eels, barracudas, jacks, nudibranchs, and occasional pelagics

Overview

Batangas Channel, located in the northern part of Puerto Galera, is a thrilling drift dive known for its strong currents and diverse marine life. The channel’s position allows nutrient-rich water to flow through, attracting a wide range of reef species and pelagics, making it an exciting dive for those looking to experience dynamic underwater conditions.

The topography includes a sloping reef with coral outcrops and sandy patches, offering divers a chance to explore both vibrant coral life and larger open-water species that patrol the deeper sections of the channel.

Entry

Batangas Channel is typically a boat dive, with a backroll entry directly into the current. Divers are advised to descend quickly to avoid being carried away by surface currents and to begin the drift at around 10 meters (33 feet).

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 10 meters (33 feet)
• Max Depth: 24 meters (79 feet)
• Bottom Time: 40–50 minutes, depending on air consumption and current strength

The dive begins with a quick descent into the channel. The current usually picks up right away, creating a fast-paced drift dive that carries divers along the sloping reef. The topography features coral heads, rocky outcrops, and sandy areas, where schools of fish such as snappers, fusiliers, and jacks are frequently seen.

Divers will glide past soft corals, sponges, and sea fans while observing an array of reef fish, moray eels, and even the occasional turtle. Larger pelagic species like barracudas and jacks are often spotted in the deeper sections of the channel, while eagle rays or sharks might make an appearance for lucky divers.

As the dive progresses, the current tends to intensify, providing an exhilarating drift experience. The deeper parts of the dive (around 20–24 meters) feature more open areas where divers can spot larger marine life, while the shallower portions are rich in coral and macro life.

Highlights

• Fast-Paced Drift: The strong current in Batangas Channel creates an exciting drift dive with little effort required from divers.
• Pelagic Action: Schools of jacks, barracudas, and the occasional ray or shark are often sighted in the channel.
• Coral Life: The reef is covered in soft corals, sea fans, and sponges, providing shelter for a wide variety of reef fish.
• Turtle Encounters: Sea turtles are commonly seen gliding along with the current or resting on coral outcrops.
• Nudibranchs and Macro: Despite the strong currents, there is still an opportunity to spot nudibranchs and other macro life hiding among the coral heads.

Dive Safety

Batangas Channel is best suited for intermediate divers due to its strong currents. Divers should have good buoyancy control and be comfortable with drift diving. It’s important to relax and let the current carry you, rather than trying to swim against it.

A surface marker buoy (SMB) is essential, as the current can push divers away from the boat pick-up area. Always maintain close communication with your dive guide and buddy to avoid getting separated in the fast current.

A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is recommended, especially since the current may make it difficult to stay stationary.

Best Time to Dive

The best time to dive Batangas Channel is from November to May when conditions are generally calmer and visibility is better. However, the channel can be dived year-round, with each season offering slightly different marine life sightings.

Batangas Channel offers an adrenaline-pumping drift dive with opportunities to see a fantastic mix of reef life and pelagic species, making it a must-dive for those visiting Puerto Galera.

Dry Dock

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Wreck Dive
Max Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
Visibility: 10–25 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced (due to depth and current)
Marine Life: Groupers, barracudas, trevallies, lionfish, scorpionfish, moray eels, nudibranchs, and a variety of reef fish

Overview

Dry Dock is one of Puerto Galera’s most famous dive sites, offering an exciting wreck dive on a sunken dry dock. The wreck sits upright on the sandy bottom at around 30 meters and has been colonized by a variety of marine life, making it a fantastic site for both wreck enthusiasts and photographers.

The structure provides a home for a wide array of fish, and its encrusting corals attract both macro and pelagic species. The dive is best suited for intermediate to advanced divers due to its depth and occasional currents, though the wreck is relatively easy to navigate, making it an accessible wreck diving experience.

Entry

The dive site is accessed by boat, typically with a backroll entry. After descending through the water column, divers arrive at the wreck, which sits on the seafloor at around 28–30 meters.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 10 meters (33 feet)
• Max Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
• Bottom Time: 30–40 minutes, depending on air consumption and dive plan

Divers begin by descending down a mooring line or free descending near the wreck. The dry dock, originally used for ship repairs, now lies in a relatively open, sandy area, making it a prominent underwater feature.

As you approach the structure, you will immediately notice the schools of fish that have made the wreck their home. Barracudas and jacks can often be seen patrolling the area, while groupers, lionfish, and moray eels hide within the structure itself. The surface of the wreck is encrusted with colorful soft corals, sponges, and tunicates, providing excellent opportunities for macro photography.

The wreck’s open spaces allow for easy exploration inside and around the structure. Divers can swim through sections of the dry dock, observing the marine life that inhabits its interior. The beams and nooks are often home to scorpionfish, shrimps, and nudibranchs.

The deeper parts of the wreck reach about 30 meters, so bottom time is limited by nitrogen absorption and air consumption. Divers should monitor their depth and time carefully, especially if planning to explore the deeper portions of the wreck.

Highlights

• Wreck Exploration: The dry dock’s structure is large and offers multiple areas for exploration, including swim-throughs and interior sections.
• Marine Life: The wreck is home to a wide variety of marine life, including schools of trevallies, barracudas, groupers, and smaller reef fish.
• Macro Opportunities: The encrusting corals and sponges attract nudibranchs, shrimps, and other macro species, making it a great site for photographers.
• Depth and Currents: At 30 meters, the wreck sits at a relatively deep level, making this an exhilarating dive for those seeking more depth and a challenge in the form of currents.

Dive Safety

The Dry Dock dive is considered intermediate to advanced due to its depth and the potential for strong currents. It is essential to monitor your air and depth carefully, as the dive reaches close to the recreational limit of 30 meters.

A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is mandatory, and divers should ascend slowly, especially when surfacing after spending time at depth. A dive computer is highly recommended for this site.

Due to the current, using a surface marker buoy (SMB) is crucial for safe ascent and to signal the dive boat.

Best Time to Dive

The best time to dive Dry Dock is between November and May, when conditions are calmest, and visibility is at its peak. The site is accessible year-round, though conditions can vary with stronger currents during certain times of the year.

Dry Dock offers a unique diving experience in Puerto Galera, combining the excitement of wreck diving with an abundance of marine life, making it a must-visit for divers seeking adventure and underwater exploration.

La Laguna Point

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Reef / Drift Dive
Max Depth: 25 meters (82 feet)
Visibility: 15–30 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Marine Life: Reef fish, moray eels, frogfish, nudibranchs, sea turtles, jacks, trevallies, and occasional rays

Overview

La Laguna Point, located just off the coast of Small La Laguna Beach, is a popular dive site in Puerto Galera known for its vibrant coral reef and mild to moderate drift. The site features sloping coral gardens, sandy patches, and rocky outcrops that are teeming with marine life. Its diverse underwater environment makes it suitable for both beginner and intermediate divers, providing a relaxed yet rewarding experience.

The area is a favorite for underwater photographers and marine life enthusiasts due to the variety of creatures inhabiting the reef, including turtles, frogfish, moray eels, and nudibranchs.

Entry

La Laguna Point is typically a boat dive, with a simple backroll or giant stride entry. The dive starts with a descent to around 5–10 meters, where the coral garden begins.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 5 meters (16 feet)
• Max Depth: 25 meters (82 feet)
• Bottom Time: 40–60 minutes, depending on air consumption and current strength

The dive begins with a gentle descent onto a sloping reef at around 5–10 meters. The current can vary from mild to moderate, making this a drift dive, where divers can relax and let the current carry them along the reef.

The coral garden here is rich with hard and soft corals, sponges, and sea fans. Divers will encounter a variety of small reef fish such as damselfish, butterflyfish, and wrasses. As you drift deeper along the slope, you might come across larger marine life like jacks, trevallies, and barracudas patrolling the area.

At around 18–20 meters, moray eels can be found hiding in crevices, and frogfish are sometimes seen camouflaged against the rocky reef. For macro enthusiasts, nudibranchs are scattered throughout the site, providing excellent opportunities for photography.

In the deeper areas, divers might spot sea turtles gracefully swimming by, or an occasional stingray resting on the sandy patches. The dive continues along the sloping reef, with divers gradually ascending back to the shallower areas where coral bommies and colorful reef fish can be enjoyed as the dive nears its conclusion.

Highlights

• Coral Gardens: The dive site is known for its colorful coral gardens, featuring a mix of hard and soft corals, sea fans, and sponges.
• Marine Life: Expect to see a variety of reef fish, moray eels, frogfish, and nudibranchs. Larger species such as jacks, trevallies, and barracudas are also common sightings.
• Drift Dive: The gentle to moderate current creates a relaxing drift dive experience, perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely exploration of the reef.
• Turtle Encounters: Sea turtles are often seen gliding along the reef or resting on the sandy bottom.
• Macro Life: La Laguna Point is a great site for macro enthusiasts, with numerous nudibranchs and other small critters hiding among the corals.

Dive Safety

La Laguna Point is a relatively easy dive, but divers should be aware of the currents, which can vary throughout the dive. Beginners should stay close to the dive guide to ensure they follow the best path along the reef.

A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is recommended, and divers should monitor their depth and air supply, particularly if diving closer to the maximum depth of 25 meters.

Best Time to Dive

The best time to dive La Laguna Point is between November and May when conditions are calm, and visibility is at its best. However, the site is diveable year-round, with each season bringing slightly different marine life and visibility conditions.

La Laguna Point offers a beautiful and relaxing dive experience with a mix of reef life, colorful corals, and the occasional encounter with larger marine species, making it a favorite among divers visiting Puerto Galera.

Small La Laguna Point

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Reef Dive / Drift Dive
Max Depth: 20 meters (65 feet)
Visibility: 15–30 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Marine Life: Reef fish, moray eels, frogfish, octopus, nudibranchs, sea turtles, jacks, trevallies, scorpionfish, and occasional rays

Overview

Small La Laguna Point is a popular dive site located just off Small La Laguna Beach in Puerto Galera. It features a gently sloping reef, coral bommies, and rocky formations. The site is known for its rich biodiversity, with an abundance of colorful coral, macro critters, and occasional larger marine life. Its shallow depth and manageable current make it ideal for both beginners and intermediate divers, while offering plenty of interesting sights for underwater photographers.

The site’s vibrant coral life and frequent encounters with reef species make it a favorite among divers seeking a relaxed yet engaging underwater experience.

Entry

The dive is usually accessed by boat, but shore entries from Small La Laguna Beach are also possible. A gentle descent is made to around 5–10 meters, where the coral slope begins.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 5 meters (16 feet)
• Max Depth: 20 meters (65 feet)
• Bottom Time: 40–60 minutes, depending on air consumption and conditions

Divers begin the dive by descending onto a colorful reef at around 5–10 meters. The site features a sloping reef that gently descends to a maximum depth of 20 meters. The coral here is lush and healthy, with soft corals, sponges, and large sea fans providing habitat for a variety of reef fish and critters.

The dive typically involves drifting along the reef, allowing the current to guide you while you take in the colorful coral formations and marine life. Common sightings include parrotfish, wrasses, damselfish, and butterflyfish darting around the corals. Moray eels can be found hiding in crevices, while scorpionfish and stonefish are often camouflaged against the rocky reef.

As you drift deeper, the sandy patches and coral bommies are home to a variety of macro life, including nudibranchs, shrimps, and occasionally frogfish. Sea turtles are also a common sight in this area, often swimming along the reef or resting on the sand.

In the deeper sections (15–20 meters), larger species such as jacks, trevallies, and rays can occasionally be spotted cruising through the blue.

Highlights

• Colorful Coral Garden: The reef is teeming with healthy soft corals, sponges, and sea fans, creating a vibrant underwater landscape.
• Reef Life: Divers will encounter an abundance of reef fish, moray eels, and macro critters like nudibranchs, frogfish, and scorpionfish.
• Turtle Encounters: Sea turtles are commonly seen resting on the reef or swimming gracefully in the area.
• Macro Opportunities: Small La Laguna Point is ideal for photographers, offering plenty of macro life to capture, including nudibranchs, shrimps, and frogfish.
• Mild Drift: The gentle current creates a relaxing drift dive, allowing divers to explore the reef without too much effort.

Dive Safety

Small La Laguna Point is a relatively shallow and easy dive, making it suitable for beginners and those who prefer a more relaxed dive. Divers should be aware of mild currents, which can occasionally pick up, especially during tidal changes.

A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is recommended at the end of the dive. As always, divers should monitor their air supply and depth, especially when exploring the deeper portions of the site.

Best Time to Dive

The best time to dive Small La Laguna Point is from November to May when the water is calm and visibility is at its best. The site is diveable year-round, with varying conditions that may affect visibility and current strength.

Small La Laguna Point offers a serene and scenic dive experience, ideal for divers looking to enjoy a variety of marine life, vibrant corals, and the occasional turtle, all while experiencing a gentle drift along Puerto Galera’s beautiful reef system.

Alma Jane Wreck

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Wreck Dive
Max Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
Visibility: 15–25 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Marine Life: Batfish, trevallies, barracudas, groupers, scorpionfish, moray eels, lionfish, nudibranchs, and occasional rays

Overview

The Alma Jane Wreck is one of Puerto Galera’s premier dive sites and a must-visit for wreck diving enthusiasts. Originally a 60-meter cargo freighter, the Alma Jane was intentionally sunk in 2003 to create an artificial reef. Now sitting upright on the sandy bottom at a depth of 30 meters, it has become home to a thriving community of marine life and is covered with a beautiful array of soft corals.

The wreck is relatively intact, providing divers with the opportunity to explore both the exterior and interior sections of the ship. Its depth and the possibility of strong currents make it more suitable for intermediate to advanced divers.

Entry

The dive site is accessed by boat with a typical backroll entry. After entering the water, divers descend along a mooring line that leads directly to the wreck.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 5 meters (16 feet)
• Max Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
• Bottom Time: 30–40 minutes, depending on air consumption and dive plan

Divers begin by descending down the mooring line to the top of the wreck, which lies at around 18 meters. The wreck is easily recognizable, sitting upright and intact on the seabed. As you approach, you’ll notice schools of batfish, snappers, and trevallies circling the structure.

The wreck itself offers plenty to explore, with the exterior encrusted in soft corals and sponges. Divers can swim along the deck and around the hull, observing the marine life that inhabits the wreck. Groupers, lionfish, and scorpionfish are commonly seen resting among the wreckage, while moray eels can be spotted peeking out from crevices.

For those comfortable with overhead environments, certain sections of the wreck are accessible for penetration, such as the cargo holds and engine room. These areas are filled with smaller reef fish and macro life, including nudibranchs and shrimps.

As you reach the deeper parts of the wreck, at around 30 meters, the bottom time becomes more limited due to nitrogen absorption, so divers should carefully monitor their air and no-decompression limits. Once the exploration of the wreck is complete, divers can ascend slowly, conducting a safety stop at 5 meters before surfacing.

Highlights

• Wreck Exploration: The Alma Jane Wreck is well-preserved and offers both external and internal exploration, with accessible cargo holds and other interior areas for penetration.
• Marine Life: The wreck is teeming with marine life, including batfish, trevallies, groupers, and lionfish. The soft corals and sponges that have grown on the wreck provide a colorful backdrop for underwater photography.
• Depth: The wreck sits at 30 meters, offering a deep dive experience that challenges divers’ skills in managing depth and bottom time.
• Macro Life: Nudibranchs, shrimps, and other small critters can be found in the nooks and crannies of the wreck, making it a great site for macro enthusiasts.

Dive Safety

Due to its depth and the possibility of currents, the Alma Jane Wreck is recommended for intermediate to advanced divers. Penetration of the wreck should only be attempted by divers with proper wreck diving training and experience in overhead environments.

A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is mandatory, and divers should carefully monitor their depth and no-decompression limits throughout the dive.

Best Time to Dive

The Alma Jane Wreck can be dived year-round, but the best conditions are typically from November to May, when the waters are calmer and visibility is at its peak.

Diving the Alma Jane Wreck offers an exciting adventure for wreck lovers, combining the allure of underwater exploration with abundant marine life. It is one of Puerto Galera’s top dive sites and a must-do for those seeking an immersive and thrilling dive experience.

Kilima Steps

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Reef Dive / Drift Dive
Max Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
Visibility: 15–30 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Marine Life: Barracudas, jacks, snappers, turtles, moray eels, nudibranchs, lionfish, scorpionfish, and occasional reef sharks

Overview

Kilima Steps is a vibrant reef dive site located along the coastline of Puerto Galera, known for its terraced or “stepped” underwater formations. The dive features a series of coral-covered steps that gradually slope down to a maximum depth of 30 meters. The steps create a unique underwater landscape, making it a popular site for both macro lovers and those interested in larger pelagic species.

Due to the currents, Kilima Steps often turns into a drift dive, offering divers the chance to glide effortlessly along the reef while observing the wide array of marine life. The site is especially popular for its colorful coral gardens, large schools of fish, and encounters with barracudas and jacks.

Entry

The dive is typically done as a boat dive, with a giant stride or backroll entry. Divers descend to the first “step” at around 10 meters to begin the dive.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 10 meters (33 feet)
• Max Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
• Bottom Time: 30–45 minutes, depending on air consumption and current

The dive begins with a descent onto the top step, located at around 10 meters, where divers will be greeted by an impressive array of soft and hard corals, sponges, and sea fans. The “steps” are natural terraces that gradually drop off deeper, with each level offering different marine species and environments to explore.

As you drift along the steps, you can expect to see schools of snappers, trevallies, and fusiliers swimming along the reef. Barracudas and jacks are often seen cruising in the blue, while moray eels hide in the crevices between the coral formations. The sandy patches between the steps are ideal places to spot stingrays or even a resting turtle.

Macro enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy, as nudibranchs, scorpionfish, and frogfish are common in this area, particularly in the shallower sections of the dive.

At the deeper levels (20–30 meters), the coral formations become more sparse, but this is where you’re more likely to spot larger marine life, such as reef sharks and rays. The dive continues as a gentle drift, and the current will carry you back toward the shallow steps, where you can finish the dive while ascending gradually.

Highlights

• Unique Underwater Landscape: The stepped formations make Kilima Steps a visually striking dive site, with distinct terraced levels to explore.
• Marine Life: The site is home to a variety of marine life, including schools of trevallies, jacks, snappers, and the occasional barracuda or reef shark.
• Drift Dive: Kilima Steps often experiences mild to moderate currents, allowing for a relaxed drift dive experience.
• Macro Life: The site offers excellent opportunities for macro photography, with nudibranchs, scorpionfish, and frogfish commonly spotted.

Dive Safety

Kilima Steps is suitable for intermediate to advanced divers due to the depth and the presence of currents, which can sometimes be strong. Divers should stay close to the reef to avoid being carried off by the current and should monitor their depth and air consumption closely.

A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is mandatory, and divers should ensure that they have sufficient air for a slow ascent, particularly after exploring the deeper sections of the dive.

Best Time to Dive

Kilima Steps is diveable year-round, with the best conditions typically found between November and May, when the currents are more predictable, and visibility is at its best.

Kilima Steps is an exciting dive site in Puerto Galera that offers a fantastic combination of drift diving, colorful coral gardens, and opportunities to encounter both large and small marine life. Its unique underwater topography and rich biodiversity make it a favorite among divers.

The Canyons

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Drift Dive
Max Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
Visibility: 15–30 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Advanced (due to strong currents)
Marine Life: Barracudas, jacks, trevallies, snappers, sweetlips, groupers, reef sharks, sea snakes, and occasional manta rays

Overview

The Canyons is one of the most thrilling and well-known dive sites in Puerto Galera, renowned for its strong currents, dramatic underwater topography, and the chance to encounter large schools of fish and pelagic species. The site features a series of deep canyons or channels, formed by the reef and the current, that provide shelter for marine life.

This dive is a high-energy drift dive, where divers are swept along by the current through the canyons, passing over coral-covered walls, sandy patches, and rocky formations. Due to the strength of the current and the depth of the dive, The Canyons is best suited for advanced divers with drift diving experience.

Entry

The dive begins with a boat entry, typically a backroll, followed by a rapid descent into the blue to avoid surface currents. Divers descend quickly to around 15–20 meters to reach the beginning of the canyons.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 15 meters (49 feet)
• Max Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
• Bottom Time: 25–35 minutes, depending on air consumption and currents

Once underwater, divers are immediately caught in a strong current that propels them forward into the first canyon. The canyons are lined with soft and hard corals, providing shelter for large schools of fish. You’ll drift through a series of channels at varying depths, starting at around 20 meters and descending as deep as 30 meters.

As you move through the canyons, you’ll be surrounded by schools of snapper, trevally, sweetlips, and jacks. Barracudas often circle overhead, while groupers and large parrotfish are seen sheltering among the rocks. The canyons provide a sense of structure and protection for these species, making for a dramatic and action-packed dive.

At the deeper sections of the dive, divers often encounter pelagic species such as barracudas and trevallies hunting in the current, as well as the occasional white-tip reef shark. Manta rays and eagle rays have also been spotted in this area during certain times of the year.

The dive typically ends at the final canyon, where there is a fixed line for divers to grab hold of to avoid being swept away by the current. From there, you begin your ascent, with a mandatory safety stop at 5 meters.

Highlights

• Strong Currents: The Canyons is known for its fast-paced drift dive experience, where divers can “fly” through the underwater canyons, carried by powerful currents.
• Pelagic Encounters: Barracudas, trevallies, and jacks are common in the area, with the possibility of spotting reef sharks and rays.
• Underwater Topography: The canyons themselves are impressive, with dramatic walls and coral-covered rock formations creating an exciting dive environment.
• Schooling Fish: Large schools of snappers, sweetlips, and trevallies are frequently seen taking shelter in the canyons.

Dive Safety

The Canyons is a challenging dive due to the strong currents and depth, making it suitable only for advanced divers. Proper buoyancy control and experience with drift diving are essential. Divers should descend quickly and stay close to the reef to avoid being carried off by the current.

A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is mandatory, and divers should monitor their air consumption and depth carefully throughout the dive.

Best Time to Dive

The Canyons can be dived year-round, but the best conditions are from November to May, when the water is calmer and visibility is at its best. However, the site is known for its strong currents, which are part of its attraction, so divers should always be prepared for challenging conditions.

Diving The Canyons offers an exhilarating experience for those who enjoy drift diving and the chance to encounter large schools of fish and pelagic species in an exciting underwater landscape. It’s one of Puerto Galera’s top dive sites for thrill-seekers and experienced divers.

Hole in the Wall

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Reef Dive with Swim-through
Max Depth: 18 meters (59 feet)
Visibility: 15–30 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Intermediate
Marine Life: Parrotfish, triggerfish, sweetlips, lionfish, pufferfish, scorpionfish, moray eels, nudibranchs, and schools of anthias

Overview

Hole in the Wall is one of Puerto Galera’s iconic dive sites, offering a fun and adventurous dive experience. The site is famous for its namesake—a small swim-through “hole” in a large rock formation located at around 12 meters. Divers can pass through this tunnel-like feature, making it a great photo opportunity. The site also features beautiful coral gardens, vibrant marine life, and mild currents that make it suitable for intermediate divers.

The swim-through adds an element of excitement, and the surrounding reef is teeming with a variety of fish species and colorful coral formations. While the site is relatively shallow, the presence of rocky overhangs and the unique swim-through feature make it a must-visit for divers exploring Puerto Galera.

Entry

The dive begins with a boat entry, typically a backroll or giant stride, followed by a slow descent to the reef. The hole is located at about 12 meters, making it easy to reach early in the dive.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 5 meters (16 feet)
• Max Depth: 18 meters (59 feet)
• Bottom Time: 40–50 minutes, depending on air consumption

Upon descent, divers are immediately greeted by a colorful reef, featuring a mix of soft and hard corals. The hole, the highlight of the dive, is located at around 12 meters. It is a circular tunnel carved through a rocky outcrop, about 1.5 meters wide. Most divers can pass through with ease, although it’s important to control buoyancy and avoid touching the reef to preserve the marine life growing on the rocks.

After passing through the hole, divers can continue along the reef, which gradually slopes down to a maximum depth of 18 meters. Along the way, expect to see parrotfish, triggerfish, and schools of anthias dancing among the corals. Lionfish and scorpionfish are also common in this area, hiding among the crevices of the reef.

As you move deeper along the slope, you may encounter moray eels hiding in the holes of the reef or the occasional turtle swimming by. The shallow sections near the top of the reef are rich in macro life, with nudibranchs and shrimps often spotted by sharp-eyed divers.

The dive ends with a slow ascent back up the reef slope, offering plenty of time to admire the marine life while conducting a safety stop at 5 meters.

Highlights

• Hole in the Wall: The main feature of this dive site, the swim-through tunnel, is a unique and exciting experience for divers. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and adds a fun challenge to the dive.
• Marine Life: The reef is home to a variety of fish species, including triggerfish, parrotfish, sweetlips, and lionfish. Macro life is abundant, with nudibranchs and shrimps often found in the crevices of the reef.
• Coral Gardens: The site features healthy coral gardens, with a mix of soft and hard corals that attract schools of reef fish.
• Mild Currents: While there can be some current, it is generally mild and manageable, making it an enjoyable dive for intermediate divers.

Dive Safety

Hole in the Wall is considered an intermediate dive due to the swim-through and the need for good buoyancy control. Divers should avoid touching the reef when passing through the hole and be aware of their surroundings to avoid damaging the coral or harming marine life.

A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is recommended, and divers should monitor their air consumption and depth throughout the dive.

Best Time to Dive

Hole in the Wall can be dived year-round, with the best conditions from November to May, when the seas are calm and visibility is at its best.

Diving Hole in the Wall offers a unique and memorable experience, with the chance to explore a fun swim-through and encounter vibrant marine life in a colorful coral garden. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and beauty, making it one of Puerto Galera’s most popular dive sites.

Sinandigan Wall

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Wall Dive
Max Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
Visibility: 15–30 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Marine Life: Pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, lionfish, scorpionfish, moray eels, sea turtles, frogfish, anthias, and reef sharks.

Overview

Sinandigan Wall is a stunning dive site located just off the coast of Puerto Galera, offering a dramatic drop-off and a vibrant display of marine life. The wall itself is teeming with a wide variety of corals and sponges, making it a favorite among photographers and macro enthusiasts. It starts at around 5 meters and plunges to over 30 meters, providing opportunities for divers to explore different depths based on their skill levels.

The wall dive offers beautiful visibility and a great variety of life, from tiny critters such as pygmy seahorses to larger pelagics, including occasional reef sharks and turtles. The gentle current usually allows for a relaxed dive, though divers should be aware of potential downcurrents as they get deeper.

Entry

This dive typically begins with a backroll entry from a boat at the top of the wall. Divers descend slowly to the reef, which starts at around 5 meters before gradually sloping down to the wall.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 5–8 meters (16–26 feet)
• Max Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
• Bottom Time: 40–50 minutes, depending on depth and air consumption

Once in the water, divers make their way to the edge of the wall, which offers stunning views of the vertical coral and sponge formations. The dive begins around 5–8 meters, where the coral garden is dense with a variety of soft and hard corals. As you swim along the wall, the reef drops off dramatically into the blue.

Divers can explore the wall at various depths, depending on air consumption and experience level. At shallower depths, around 8–15 meters, you’ll find colorful schools of anthias, parrotfish, and damselfish, as well as lionfish and scorpionfish lurking in crevices.

As you descend deeper, you might spot more unique macro species such as pygmy seahorses clinging to sea fans, as well as moray eels, frogfish, and nudibranchs hiding among the cracks in the reef. The deeper sections of the wall, at around 25–30 meters, are home to larger pelagics, including reef sharks, turtles, and the occasional eagle ray passing by in the blue.

Highlights

• Wall Dive: The steep drop-off and vibrant coral-covered wall make this site visually striking and full of life at every depth.
• Marine Life: The wall is home to a wide range of macro life, including pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, and frogfish. Larger species like turtles and reef sharks can also be seen cruising the deeper sections.
• Coral Gardens: At shallower depths, divers can enjoy healthy coral gardens that teem with colorful fish and invertebrates.
• Macro Photography: The abundance of small critters, including nudibranchs and pygmy seahorses, makes this a prime spot for underwater photographers.

Dive Safety

While Sinandigan Wall offers a generally calm dive, divers should be cautious of downcurrents along the wall, especially at deeper depths. Good buoyancy control is essential to avoid descending too quickly or being carried down by the current.

A safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes is recommended at the end of the dive, and divers should monitor their depth and air consumption carefully, particularly if exploring the deeper sections of the wall.

Best Time to Dive

Sinandigan Wall can be dived year-round, with the best conditions from November to May, when seas are calmer and visibility is higher. The site offers consistent marine life and clear waters, making it a popular dive throughout the year.

Sinandigan Wall offers an excellent dive for those looking to explore dramatic underwater landscapes, enjoy vibrant coral formations, and encounter a mix of macro and larger marine life. It’s a fantastic choice for divers who enjoy both scenic wall dives and opportunities for underwater photography.

Sabang Wrecks

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Wreck Dive
Max Depth: 18 meters (59 feet)
Visibility: 10–20 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Marine Life: Lionfish, scorpionfish, batfish, groupers, moray eels, nudibranchs, schools of snapper, trevally, and occasional sea turtles.

Overview

Sabang Wrecks is one of the most popular dive sites in Puerto Galera, featuring three small wrecks that attract an abundance of marine life. The wrecks are situated close to the Sabang shore and rest on a sandy bottom, making it a great site for both beginners and experienced divers. The shallow depth allows for long bottom times, and the easy access makes it a convenient dive from nearby resorts.

The wrecks themselves are small boats, including a wooden fishing boat and two steel vessels, that have become artificial reefs. Over time, they’ve been colonized by corals and sponges, providing a haven for a variety of fish species and critters.

Entry

This is typically a boat dive, with divers entering the water and descending directly onto the wrecks, which are situated near each other in relatively shallow water (around 12–18 meters). Some divers also access the site from shore depending on conditions and the dive plan.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 10 meters (33 feet)
• Max Depth: 18 meters (59 feet)
• Bottom Time: 50–60 minutes, depending on air consumption

After descending, divers are immediately greeted by the first wreck, a small wooden fishing boat lying on its side. The boat is encrusted with corals and serves as a home for scorpionfish, lionfish, and moray eels. Moving further along the sandy bottom, the second and third wrecks come into view. The steel-hulled wrecks are slightly larger, and divers can explore the exterior, where schools of batfish and snapper often gather.

The wrecks are surrounded by a sandy patch, which is a hotspot for macro life. Nudibranchs, shrimps, and crabs can often be found hiding in the sand or among the wreckage. Look closely, and you might spot a frogfish camouflaged against the rusty hull or a well-hidden stonefish.

Currents are typically mild at this site, allowing for a relaxed exploration of the wrecks. The shallow depth makes it easy to extend bottom time and fully explore the wrecks and surrounding area. For those with good air consumption, it’s possible to finish the dive by slowly ascending along the reef, which is rich with soft corals and small reef fish.

Highlights

• Wreck Exploration: The three small wrecks provide an interesting and accessible site for exploring, each covered in coral growth and attracting a range of marine life.
• Marine Life: Schools of batfish, trevally, and snapper are commonly seen swimming around the wrecks. Moray eels, lionfish, and scorpionfish are frequent residents, hiding in the crevices of the wreckage.
• Macro Life: The sandy bottom around the wrecks is a haven for macro photographers, offering nudibranchs, shrimps, and small critters in abundance.
• Easy Dive: The shallow depth and mild currents make Sabang Wrecks ideal for beginner divers, while the abundant marine life and wreck structures offer enough excitement for more experienced divers.

Dive Safety

Sabang Wrecks is a shallow dive site, making it suitable for beginners. However, it’s important to maintain good buoyancy control, especially around the wrecks, to avoid disturbing the silt or damaging the fragile coral growth.

A 3-minute safety stop at 5 meters is recommended, especially if divers plan to explore the full bottom time of the site.

Best Time to Dive

Sabang Wrecks can be dived year-round, but the best conditions are typically from November to May, when visibility is higher and currents are calm. The site is easily accessible, making it a popular dive regardless of the season.

Sabang Wrecks offers a unique and easy wreck diving experience in Puerto Galera, with plenty of marine life and opportunities for macro photography. Its shallow depth and abundant marine life make it a must-visit for divers looking for a relaxed yet interesting wreck dive.

The Boulders

Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Dive Type: Drift Dive, Rock Formations
Max Depth: 25 meters (82 feet)
Visibility: 10–20 meters, depending on conditions
Water Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Marine Life: Moray eels, octopus, sweetlips, angelfish, lionfish, nudibranchs, scorpionfish, and trevally, with occasional sightings of sharks and turtles.

Overview

The Boulders is a unique dive site in Puerto Galera known for its large volcanic rock formations scattered across the sea floor. This site offers divers an exciting underwater landscape filled with dramatic boulders, crevices, and small caves. It is a drift dive, so currents can be strong, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced divers who are comfortable with changing water conditions.

These huge boulders create a maze-like environment where marine life thrives, and divers can encounter everything from macro critters to larger pelagics. The site’s depth ranges from 12 to 25 meters, offering plenty of opportunities to explore different sections of the dive.

Entry

This dive is typically conducted from a boat. Divers will enter the water and descend into the area where the volcanic boulders are located. The currents can range from mild to strong, so divers need to be prepared for drift conditions.

Dive Plan

• Start Depth: 12 meters (40 feet)
• Max Depth: 25 meters (82 feet)
• Bottom Time: 40–50 minutes, depending on air consumption

The dive begins with a descent to around 12 meters, where the first of the massive boulders come into view. Divers can slowly drift with the current as they navigate through the labyrinth of rocks. The boulders are covered in soft and hard corals, sponges, and sea fans, creating an ideal environment for both macro and larger marine species.

As divers drift through the area, they can explore the crevices between the rocks, where moray eels, lionfish, and scorpionfish often hide. The sandy patches between the boulders are a great place to spot octopuses, nudibranchs, and the occasional stingray.

At deeper depths (20–25 meters), larger pelagics such as trevally and sweetlips may be encountered, along with the occasional sighting of reef sharks or turtles. The current helps carry divers along, providing a relaxed and scenic drift dive while allowing for exploration of the rock formations.

Highlights

• Volcanic Rock Formations: The huge boulders are the main attraction, creating an impressive underwater landscape full of crevices, small caves, and overhangs to explore.
• Marine Life: The site is home to a wide range of species, from macro life like nudibranchs and octopuses to larger fish such as trevally and sweetlips. Moray eels, lionfish, and scorpionfish are commonly found in the nooks and crannies of the boulders.
• Drift Dive: The gentle to moderate current allows for an effortless drift dive, making it easy to cover a large area while enjoying the unique rock formations and diverse marine life.
• Photography: The contrast between the massive boulders and the vibrant corals and sponges provides excellent opportunities for underwater photography, both for wide-angle and macro shots.

Dive Safety

Since this is a drift dive, it is important to maintain good buoyancy control and be aware of the current. Divers should stay close to the boulders when the current strengthens, as this offers shelter and allows for a slower, more controlled dive.

A 3-minute safety stop at 5 meters is recommended, especially after diving at the deeper sections of the site. Always stay close to your dive group and listen to your dive guide’s instructions, as the currents can change quickly.

Best Time to Dive

The Boulders can be dived year-round, with the best conditions typically from November to May, when the visibility is higher and currents are more predictable. This site is ideal for those who enjoy drift dives combined with stunning underwater topography and a variety of marine life.

The Boulders offers an exciting and unique dive experience in Puerto Galera, combining the thrill of drift diving with the exploration of volcanic rock formations. It’s perfect for divers looking for a combination of dramatic landscapes and diverse marine encounters.