Blogs
Close Encounters with Cuttlefish at Wakatobi
Encounters with cuttlefish at Wakatobi are an everyday occurrence, offering divers the chance to witness these other-worldly creatures up close. With their eight arms, three hearts, and blue blood coursing through their gelatinous bodies, cuttlefish may seem like something from another planet. However, they thrive in abundant numbers along the vibrant reefs of Wakatobi, making the area one of the best places in the world to observe and photograph these fascinating marine animals.
Cuttlefish are a dream subject for photographers, not only because they are often cooperative but also because they can be quite entertaining. These creatures are known for their remarkable ability to change color and patterns in the blink of an eye, transforming their appearance from one shot to the next. Sometimes, they blend seamlessly into coral reefs or seagrass beds, making them nearly invisible unless they choose to reveal themselves. Known as “the chameleons of the sea,” cuttlefish possess a unique skill: they can rapidly shift their skin color and texture, using chromatophores—specialized pigment cells—along with iridophores, which create iridescent flashes, to communicate, hypnotize prey, or simply blend into their surroundings.
These mesmerizing displays are particularly striking during courtship. Male cuttlefish vie for dominance without direct physical contact, intimidating rivals until one backs down. The larger male will eventually grab the female with his tentacles and insert sperm sacs into an opening near her mouth. The male then stays close to the female until she lays her eggs.
Cuttlefish encounters at Wakatobi can happen on almost any dive. From the shallow grass beds to deeper reef areas, these creatures roam the vibrant waters, often moving in small groups. Broadclub cuttlefish (Sepia latimanus) are the most commonly seen species in Wakatobi, reaching lengths of over a foot. If you’re lucky enough to be diving at night, particularly on a cruise aboard the Pelagian, you might spot the flamboyant cuttlefish (Metasepia pfefferi). This smaller species doesn’t swim like others; instead, it crawls along the seafloor, flashing vibrant colors as it moves.
While cuttlefish are not currently considered endangered, human impacts do pose a risk to these intelligent creatures. In some regions, they are harvested for food or their cuttlebone, which is used in the pet trade as a calcium supplement for birds. Thankfully, in protected areas like Wakatobi’s marine preserve, cuttlefish continue to thrive.
When diving at Wakatobi, keep an eye out for these sleek, iridescent hunters. Whether camouflaged or displaying their incredible color-changing abilities, cuttlefish offer a captivating glimpse into the wonders of the underwater world.
Ready for some amazing marine life encounters? Complete a quick trip inquiry at wakatobi.com, or contact their office at office@wakatobi.com.
Visit Wakatobi on Facebook and Instagram.
Great Wakatobi videos on Wakatobi’s YouTube channel.
Blogs
Scubaverse Christmas Gift Guide 2024: Day 1
Welcome to Day 1 of Scubaverse.com’s week-long Christmas Gift Guide!
Struggling to find the perfect gift for that special scuba diver in your life? Read on for Team Scubaverse’s pick of this season’s must-have Christmas gifts.
Every day this week, we are publishing a special Christmas Gift Guide full of different gift ideas that are all ideal for divers, so you’re sure to find something that’s perfect. Take a look at today’s selection below…
Bigblue Dive Lights
by Liquid Sports
info@liquidsports.co.uk / Bigblue Facebook / Liquid Sports Facebook
Bigblue lights are high performance lights from 250 to 64,000 lumens. From back up to main lights and an extensive range of video lights, Bigblue brightens up your dive.
With advanced designs and unprecedented affordability, Bigblue offers the most affordable and technologically advanced LED lights on the market. We incorporate the latest technologies, producing the most efficient portable illumination. In addition to brilliant design features, we offer the most ideal lights for underwater illumination, night diving and underwater videoing.
Whether you are looking for a simple recreational dive light or a full-blown technical underwater illumination system, Bigblue has a light for you! Bigblue is a recognised brand that divers all over the world prefer.
info@liquidsports.co.uk / Bigblue Facebook / Liquid Sports Facebook
AP Diving Gift Vouchers
sales@apdiving.com / www.apdiving.com / AP Diving Facebook / AP Diving Instagram / AP Diving TV
It’s November, the nights are drawing in and it’s time to start thinking about what present to get the dive buddy in your life…
Who doesn’t love a voucher?
Why not get your diver a unique personal GIFT VOUCHER from AP Diving? Printed on quality textured card (145mm x 75mm), each voucher can be personalised with your own message. Just let us know what you want to say in about 10-20 words.
Keep your someone-special supplied with their diving essentials (cells, sofnolime, etc…) or a shiny new piece of kit of their choice by creating a line of credit to any value you like, £25, £50, £100… Call the AP elves on 01326 561040 or email sales@apdiving.com today.
sales@apdiving.com / www.apdiving.com / AP Diving Facebook / AP Diving Instagram / AP Diving TV
SlipIns
Team@slipins.com / www.slipins.com / SlipIns Facebook / SlipIns Instagram / SlipIns Pinterest
DiveSkins are perfect for scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, paddling, surfing, and all water sports. It shows up beautifully in pictures under water.
This tight-fitting, tailored lycra suit offers maximum comfort. stretchy, breathable, fast-drying fabric with the world’s best sun and stinger protection.
SlipIns are:
*Ultimate 50+ UPF sun protection
*Abrasion protection.
*Quick dry, breathable, soft fabric
*The ultimate stinging critter protection
Save 10% on your order if you mention you saw this ad in Scubaverse in your order note!
SAVE YOUR SKIN…WEAR OUR SKINS
Team@slipins.com / www.slipins.com / SlipIns Facebook / SlipIns Instagram / SlipIns Pinterest
Aqualung i770R Dive Computer
info@oysterdiving.com / www.oysterdiving.com / Oyster Diving Facebook / Oyster Diving Instagram
Experience the future of diving technology with the Aqualung i770R Dive Computer. This state-of-the-art device combines an ultra-bright TFT colour screen and wireless Bluetooth connectivity, all within a durable and compact design. Navigate through your dive information effortlessly using the intuitive 3-button interface.
The Aqualung i770R comes with a rechargeable lithium battery, and full-tilt compass, and offers multiple gas capabilities across its 4 operating modes. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can wirelessly manage your dive data and settings on your mobile device, and then share your dive memories, stats, photos, and dive sites via the free DiverLog+ app.
- Dive into the future of scuba technology with the Aqualung i770R Dive Computer.
- Long lasting rechargeable lithium battery.
- High-visibility Thin Film Transistor (TFT) colour screen.
- Easy-to-use interface.
- Colour screen, ultra-bright, high-contrast, full-colour TFT display.
- Battery savings when a high-intensity screen is unnecessary.
- Easy-to-use interface with intuitive menu structure.
- Intuitive 3-button navigation interface allows for easy settings preview and updates.
A 3-axis full-tilt compass allows for easy-to-read compass graphics.
FREE Transmitter with the i770R Black Dive Computer!*
*while stocks last
info@oysterdiving.com / www.oysterdiving.com / Oyster Diving Facebook / Oyster Diving Instagram
Fog-X: Anti-Fog Film for Dive Masks
info@fogxsolutions.com / www.fogxsolutions.com / Fog-X Instagram / Fog-X Facebook
Fog-X is a new anti-fog film that is inserted once into the dive mask and will provide fog free diving forever! The hydrophilic, anti-scratch film protects your mask and prevents fog from forming. Six mask designs and a swim goggle design are available.
Fog-X is the perfect gift for the diver you know! If they hate fog as much as we do, Fog-X is what they have been looking for.
Use code “SCUBAVERSE” for 20% off your order!
Free USA shipping if over $20 order.
info@fogxsolutions.com / www.fogxsolutions.com / Fog-X Instagram / Fog-X Facebook
Blogs
20 Years of Magic Moments: Celebrating the 20-Year Anniversary of Magic Resorts
Exciting news is on the horizon at the beloved dive resorts, Magic Resorts Philippines!
On January 2nd 2005, the journey of Magic Resorts began, when Magic Island opened its doors as one of the first dedicated dive resorts in Moalboal, Cebu. Now, as we look forward to 2025, a significant milestone is on the horizon: Magic Island’s 20th anniversary!
In preparation for this momentous occasion, the resort has recently upgraded their facilities, including renovated bathrooms, ensuring a fresh and modern experience for their guests. The stage is set for a fantastic celebration!
To cherish and celebrate two decades of incredible diving experiences, Magic Resorts will be offering a special 20% anniversary discount to all guests celebrating with them at either Magic Island or its larger sister resort, Magic Oceans in Anda, Bohol, throughout the entire year of 2025!*
NOT CONVINCED YET?
To kick off the anniversary celebration, here are 20 reasons to book your holiday at Magic Island in 2025!
1) 20-year anniversary!
Of course the anniversary is the perfect occasion to stay at Magic Island and the anniversary special offers you to enjoy a stay with 20% discount! Whether you’re a seasoned diver, new to scuba, a past guest, or a new to Magic’s concept, this is an excellent opportunity to experience the magic of Magic Island Dive Resort.
2) Amazing marine life
Moalboal has been a top dive destination in the Philippines for decades, and for a good reason. This laid-back town at the Westcoast of Cebu offers unforgettable experiences for divers and non-divers alike. Located in the Coral Triangle, Moalboal boasts hundreds of coral species and unique critters, but also features unique sights that make it a standout dive destination not just in the Philippines, but globally!
3) Enjoy newly renovated bathrooms first-hand!
In preparation for the 20-year anniversary, Magic Island renovated all bathrooms of the bungalows last August 2024! The new, spacious and modernized bathrooms offer the best comfort during your stay. As a visitor in 2025, you’ll be among the first to enjoy these upgraded amenities with a perfect view.
4) Dive with Whale Sharks the whole year around
Magic Island offers the possibility to dive with Whale Sharks throughout the entire year!
Unlike many other accommodations that only offer snorkeling with the Whale Sharks, Magic Island is accredited to dive with them with their own dive masters, tanks and crew.
5) Easily accessible house reef
Magic Island’s house reef is open 24/7 and easily accessible within only a few steps from the dive center. You are welcome to make an unguided house reef dive any time of day with your buddy. The house reef starts with a sloping area where you can find the resident sea horse and blue ringed octopus among other life, whereafter you’ll reach the amazing wall where you’ll find turtles, nudibranchs and much more!
6) Native-style bungalows with Western features
The modernized bathrooms are a great Western feature in the native looking style bungalows. While the bungalows have their Filipino native style look, with Nipa rooftops, bamboo balconies and panels of Amakan (woven split-bamboo), they have Western amenities such as air conditioning and a minibar.
7) Dive the Sardine Ball the whole year around
One of the reasons why Moalboal became famous for divers in the first place: you can dive the Sardine Run the whole year around! It’s not a seasonal sighting like other places and therefore a very special phenomenon (even for marine biologists). You can dive with over a million sardines while staying at Magic Island every day of the year!
8) Unparalleled service
The excellent staff of Magic Island ensures you have the best time possible. The team members have been part of the Magic journey for many years – some even from day one! The outstanding Philippine hospitality combined with their experience are the perfect ingredients for exceptional service. They’ll remember your name and do whatever they can to make you feel at home from day one.
9) Fully equipped dive center on site
Magic Island Dive Resort has its own fully equipped PADI dive center right on site. The dive center is equipped with 3 compressors (providing nitrox as well), 3 Bangka boats, full sets of rental gear, aluminium tanks with Int. & DIN connection, and an in-house instructor to name a few. Walk down to the dive center in less than a minute after your meal in the restaurant and get ready for diving!
10) Mating Mandarin fish on the house reef every day!
The real signature dive at Magic Island is without a doubt the Mandarin dive. Just a short swim from the dive center leads you to an underwater spectacle that’s nothing short of magical. Every day during sunset, the Mandarin fish emerge from their coral hideaways for their mating ritual. These colourful and beautifully patterned fish are a species of the Dragonet that are rarely seen outside their coral homes except during this special time. A great sighting just in Magic Islands’ backyard and a great challenge for photographers!
11) Beyond regular night dives
In addition to standard night dives, Magic Island elevates the experience with unique offerings like Fluoro dives and bonfire dives, providing a completely different dimension. If conditions permit, you can also embark on black water dives, where you’ll encounter the mysterious and seldom-seen creatures that emerge during night time.
12) Go down with a local expert!
The dive team of Magic Island make your underwater adventures hassle-free and fun.
You don’t have to carry your tanks or set up your gear, they will take care of that for you. The team of trained PADI Dive masters is local and know the area better than anyone. With their experience, incredible eye for detail and sense of humour, you will have the best dive experience!
13) More than 30 dive sites in less than a 25-minute boat ride
On one of the traditionally Bangka boats, Magic Island takes you out diving around the whole peninsula of Moalboal. 30 different dive sites are waiting for you to explore, all within only a 25-minute. Moalboal’s highlight, Pescador Island, is only 10 minutes away!
14) Freshly prepared meals in family-dinner style
The dining area at Magic Island fosters a sense of community with interconnected tables that encourage socializing. Enjoy a diverse selection of freshly prepared local and Western dishes while watching the chefs at work in the open kitchen. Dietary restrictions? Just let them know, and they’ll accommodate your needs with care.
15) Wet adventures above the surface!
Aside from diving, Magic Island offers great daytrips to explore the culture and nature of Cebu Island. One of the absolute highlights is a trip to the Kawasan Waterfalls, where you can choose between a relaxing visit to enjoy the fresh water and stunning views, or an adventurous canyoneering experience with hiking, climbing, jumping, gliding, and swimming.
16) Experience Moalboal in peace
While Moalboal is a popular destination, Magic Island provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Tucked away from busy areas, the resort creates a tranquil oasis where you can relax while still being close to Moalboal’s vibrant life.
17) Suitable for each kind of diver
With just 10 bungalows, Magic Island offers a cozy and intimate setting for all types of travelers — whether you’re in a group, a couple, or traveling solo. The rich marine life and accessible diving conditions make it an ideal destination for divers of all experience levels.
18) Unique signature drinks!
The homely bar at Magic Island offers a range of beverages to enjoy while taking in breathtaking ocean views. Don’t miss the signature drinks made with Ube Cream, a local liqueur that won the World’s Best Cream Liqueur title at the 2022 World Liqueur Awards. Experience the true Filipino fiesta spirit with this exceptional drink.
19) Combine with Magic Oceans
You can extend your wonderful stay at Magic Island elsewhere! Magic Islands newer and bigger sister Magic Oceans in Anda, Bohol opened its doors in 2015, offering you the possibility to get the maximum out of your magical dive trip by combining the two locations. The same ambience, quality of serviced and most importantly: an amazing diving experience!
20) Just because you’ll have a great time!
The reasons to visit Magic Island in 2025 are endless, but the most important one is that you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time. With exceptional service, friendly and experienced staff, an ideal location, and outstanding diving, Magic Island promises an unforgettable experience.
CONTACT MAGIC RESORTS FOR YOUR QUOTE ON AN UNPARALLELED DIVING HOLIDAY!
Email: reservations@magicresorts.online
Website: www.magicresorts.online
Facebook: www.facebook.com/magicisland.diveresort
Instagram: www.instagram.com/magic_island_dive_resort
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