Not many destinations, perhaps none, are beter places to scuba dive than the Philippines. And with good reason. A country that consists of 7,107 islands in an archipelago spanning four different tropical seas naturally offers an amazing plethora of diving opportunities, and has dives suitable for all standards of diver, from the complete novice who has never seen a wetsuit in their life, to the old sub-aqua veteran. The Philippines has over two million visitors annually, and it's not in the least bit surprising that a significant number of tourists visit especially to dive.
Importantly, all Philippine dive activity is organised by the Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI). For beginners, the full PADI Open Water Diver program can be completed in roughly four days, and will probably cost around US$300. Learners should always check the certification of the dive centre that they intend to take their course with. The same advice goes for the experienced as well: It's vital to ensure that the guide they are going to use, should they be attempting a difficult dive in dangerous waters, is appropriately qualified. Also, most companies such as Go Travel provide travel insurance for divers that requires PADI certification.
It is difficult to communicate just how many different dives there are in the Philippines, but it's much easier to pick the cream of the attractions. Palawan is frequently labelled the final frontier of diving, where divers can see the wrecks of Japanese World War II vessels, while sharing the waters with such magnificent creatures as dolphins and manta rays. Tubbataha Reef, situated in the Sulu Sea towards the south-east of the Philippine archipelago, offers what is largely recognised as some of the best diving in the world. It is hard to reach, but more than worth the trip. Puerto Galera is popular for it’s beaches as well as its diving opportunities, a prime location for visitors who prefer to raise the roof and party once they emerge from the tropical blue waters.
The Philippines can be reached from most countries. There are also frequent and affordable internal flights between the islands, best booked locally.
