Tubbataha Reef – This is a major highlight of diving in Palawan and not be missed. Tubbataha Reef offers dramatic underwater terrain and awe inspiring marine biodiversity including 600 fish species, 360 coral species and 11 shark species. Look out for resident reef sharks, turtles and manta rays.
Mares Rock – Located at the mouth of Puerto Princesa Bay, this sloping reef site drops down to 34 metres / 112 feet and is a must for underwater photographers and macro aficionados. Critter highlights here include octopus, crustaceans, nudibranch and interesting bottom dwellers. If you prefer ‘big fish’, tuna, turtles, barracuda and jack fish are also spotted here.
Cuttlefish Shawl – This relatively shallow site has a max depth 20 metres / 66 feet and is home to sea turtles, angelfish, barracuda, and of course cuttlefish – which are often seen here in numbers. Other marine life highlights include passing reef sharks, schools of fusiliers and occasional dugongs which are spotted in the bay.
Morazan Maru – Located in Coron, in Palawan’s north, this passenger cargo vessel was built in 1907 and later commandeered for WWI by the British. She was later captured by the Japanese who utilised her in WWII. At just under 100 metres / 330 feet, the cargo holds are empty but the steel boilers in the engine room are still intact. The large cargo holds and engine room make this a suitable wreck for newly certified or experienced PADI Wreck Divers.
Dilumacad Tunnel – Located in El Nido, in Palawan’s north, this 35 metre / 115 foot long tunnel was discovered in the early 1990’s. Starting at 12 metres / 40 feet, with a memorial plate at the entrance, the tunnel has a sandy bottom and several ceiling holes. The tunnel gradually narrows towards the exit. It’s a stunning dive for experienced divers.
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