Composed of 7,641 islands and nestled between the Philippine, Celebes, and South China Seas, the Philippines offers an astounding array of biodiversity and beautiful beaches best seen by boat through the archipelagos.
Photo: liveabaord.com
Southeast Asia is famous for its gorgeous coral reefs, incredible wildlife, and breathtaking seas, and the Philippines provides access to the best of it. The archipelagic country has three primary regions of islands: Luzon, which is also home to the capital, Manila; Visayas, which arguably sports the most paradisiacal coasts; and Mindanao, which has diverse cultures and mountainous terrain. Typhoons affect the tropical climate during the rainy season, so the best time to visit is from December to May. Protected natural parks are home to unique species and unparalleled dive sites, making boat travel the optimum way to explore. We’ve listed the five best Liveaboards for your ultimate Philippines scuba diving adventure.
Philippine Siren
This luxurious sailboat was designed by divers for divers, making the Philippine Siren an excellent choice for scuba enthusiasts excited about lavish accommodations and expert accompaniment. There’s a trip available no matter the time of year, and itineraries include Cebu, Darin, Tubbataha, Apo Reefs, Malapascua, Donsol, Coron Wrecks, and Anilao. Relax in a lounger on the spacious upper deck, or book a massage to mend your scuba muscles after diving. A professional-level camera and video station make this an excellent choice for underwater photographers. Once aboard, a personal locker to store belongings on the diving deck is at your disposal. From $286 per day.
Book at Zubludiving.com
Philippines Aggressor
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It’s hard to leave once you arrive in paradise, or rather, in the Philippines. The Philippines Aggressor has itineraries that include 8 or 11 days for travelers who really don’t want to return. Explore the best of the Visayas, including visiting the UNESCO Tubbataha Atoll. The boat is new from 2021 and, therefore, has max precautions for comfort and safety. Twelve cabins over two decks provide options for various budgets, and all have a private en-suite bathroom. Watch the panoramic views from the dining room while salivating over American, local, and barbecue meals. From $386 per day.
Book at Liveaboard.com
Navis 1
The Navis 1 is a Catamaran that takes guests for 4, 5, 7, or 8-day trips through the gorgeous region of Palawan. This type of boat allows lots of space to hang after scuba diving with sea turtles, sharks, and mantas. You’ll also see shipwrecks from World War II and assorted ecosystems making up spectacular coral reefs. Available nitrox and a camera room enhance an already unforgettable dive experience. There can be up to 18 guests at a time, and you can book a double or twin cabin. The roof deck and outdoor dining space are perfect for absorbing tropical views. From $256 per day.
Book at Zubludiving.com
Infiniti
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Comfort is the name of the game on the Infiniti, whether you’re winding down in one of the eleven newly renovated cabins that include private bathrooms and large picture windows, or are swaying back and forth to the rhythm of the sea in a hammock on deck. Barbecues, yoga sessions, and stargazing opportunities are also available on the huge deck, and the scuba area has state-of-the-art diving equipment. Watch whale sharks during a voyage to the Visayas and Bohol, or encounter Thresher sharks during the Malapascua itinerary. The seven or ten-day excursions depart from and arrive back at Cebu. From $249 per day.
Book at liveaboard.com
Stella Maris Explorer
The Stella Maris Explorer makes a round trip from Puerto Princesa, located in Palawan, and is the perfect choice for exploring the Sulu Sea and Apo Reef. During the four dives a day, you’ll encounter sharks, mantas, dolphins, and other creatures who call this rich underwater world home. The dive-to-guide ratio stays personalized at 5:1, making it an attentive experience. Ten retro-chic cabins include memory foam mattresses and come as a deluxe or premium economy with twin, double, and queen-size bed options. Decks at various levels provide places to watch the sunset with a cocktail or socialize with the twenty other guests. From $319 per day.
Book at Liveaboard.com