Duration
10 days
Cabins left
21 / 21
Capacity
22 divers
Operator
Philippines Explorer
Included
Mandatory surcharges
Optional extras
Certification
AOWD or equivalent
Min. dives
30 logged
Check-in
14:00–
Experience one of the Philippines' most remote and rewarding diving expeditions aboard Philippines Explorer I. Departing from Campomanes Bay, this 10-night voyage crosses the Sulu Sea to explore the remote Cagayan Islands and the reefs of Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. Along the way, the itinerary combines pristine coral reefs, open-ocean pelagic encounters, isolated islands, and some of the most spectacular underwater landscapes in the country. At the heart of the journey lies Tubbataha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site accessible to divers for only a short season each year. Over several days, we explore both the North and South Atolls and Jessie Beazley Reef, visiting a variety of reefs, walls, channels, and pinnacles that have made the park one of the most respected marine protected areas in the world. Beyond Tubbataha itself, this expedition also offers the opportunity to discover lesser-known corners of the Sulu Sea. From remote island communities to reefs rarely visited by dive boats, the voyage captures the sense of exploration that has long defined diving in this region. Designed for divers who enjoy both exceptional diving and the experience of travelling through remote waters, this itinerary offers a unique perspective on one of the Philippines' most remarkable marine environments.
Welcome aboard Philippines Explorer I. Please arrive at the vessel by 2:00pm (14:00). After a welcome drink, cabin orientation, and safety briefing, we begin our journey westward into the Sulu Sea. Ahead lies an expedition through some of the Philippines' most remote waters. Meet your fellow travellers, settle into your cabin, and enjoy the first evening aboard as we set course for the Cagayan Islands.
Far from the country's main tourism routes, the Cagayan Islands provide an ideal introduction to the expedition. Today's diving may include the MV Forever Lucky wreck and nearby reefs, where healthy coral growth and abundant fish life create a fascinating first glimpse of the region. After two or three dives, we continue westward towards Tubbataha, leaving land behind as the open waters of the Sulu Sea stretch out ahead.
Welcome to Tubbataha. Rising from deep oceanic waters, this UNESCO World Heritage Site protects one of the most intact reef ecosystems in Southeast Asia. Our first dives take place around the North Atoll's Ranger Station area, providing an excellent introduction to the marine park. Steep reef walls, healthy coral formations, reef sharks, turtles, and large schools of fish are all part of the experience here. Between dives, there may also be an opportunity to visit the ranger station itself and learn more about the conservation efforts that help protect this remarkable marine park.
Today's diving takes place at Jessie Beazley Reef, an isolated seamount northwest of the North Atoll. Surrounded by deep water and exposed to strong currents, the reef attracts a wide variety of larger marine life. Schools of jacks, barracuda, tuna, and several shark pecies are frequent visitors, ensuring that no two dives are ever quite the same. With a full day dedicated to the site, there is plenty of opportunity to experience one of Tubbataha's most rewarding dive areas.
A return to the North Atoll brings us to the reefs surrounding the Malayan Wreck area. While the remains of the vessel still rest on the reef, the main attraction is the thriving marine ecosystem that has developed around it. Sloping coral reefs, abundant fish life, and excellent visibility make this one of the most enjoyable areas of the atoll. It is another reminder that Tubbataha's greatest treasures are the reefs themselves.
The expedition continues at Tubbataha's South Atoll. The Delsan Wreck area is well known for its concentration of marine life, with schools of jacks and barracuda frequently gathering around the reef corner. Dogtooth tuna, reef sharks, and other pelagic visitors are often seen moving through the surrounding blue water. Later, the Southwest Wall reveals a very different landscape, where coral-covered drop-offs descend into the depths of the Sulu Sea.
Black Rock is one of the South Atoll's best-known dive sites. When currents are favourable, nutrients flowing across the reef attract large numbers of fish and create excellent opportunities for pelagic encounters. Schools of reef fish gather in the blue while larger predators patrol the current lines. It is a site that perfectly illustrates the dynamic nature of Tubbataha's ecosystem.
For our final day in Tubbataha, we return to the North Atoll and dive the Shark Airport area. The site takes its name from the whitetip reef sharks frequently seen resting on the sandy seabed. Combined with turtles, rays, schooling fish, and healthy coral ormations, it provides a fitting conclusion to our exploration of the marine park. After several days immersed in this remarkable ecosystem, it becomes easy to appreciate why Tubbataha remains one of the most sought-after diving destinations in the region.
Leaving Tubbataha behind, the journey turns eastward through the remote islands of the Sulu Sea. Diving around Cavili and Arena Islands offers a very different experience from the atolls. Healthy reefs, clear water, and a strong sense of isolation define these rarely visited destinations. Beyond the diving, these islands offer something increasingly rare: the feeling of visiting places that remain largely untouched by modern tourism.
The final full day of the expedition is spent exploring the waters around Calusa Island and Cagayancillo. This region offers a glimpse into a quieter side of the Philippines, where traditional island communities and remote reefs remain closely connected to the rhythms of the sea. Diving, island visits, and local encounters combine to create a fitting final chapter to the voyage.
This morning we arrive back in Campomanes Bay, bringing the voyage to an end. Over the course of eleven days, this expedition explores a remarkable cross-section of the Sulu Sea from the remote Cagayan Islands to the reefs of Tubbataha and back again. Combining world-class diving, remote island exploration, and the experience of travelling through one of the Philippines' least-visited marine regions, it offers a journey unlike any other in the country. For divers seeking pristine reefs, pelagic encounters, and a true sense of exploration, few destinations can match what awaits beyond the horizon. We look forward to welcoming you aboard and sharing this adventure with you.
Price per person
$6,250
All taxes included
Select cabin
No payment charged until confirmed.
