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Critter Spotting in the Visayas, Philippines

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It had been 3 years since my last visit to the Philippines and I was itching to get in the water and revisit some of the spectacular critter sites along the coast of Dauin, Negros Island. Having spent 8 months in the region during my time as Cruise Director on the Philippine Siren in 2009/2010, I was keen to return and see for myself how the sites had changed and perhaps spot a few new critters along the way.

Not looking for a bus-man’s holiday, Thomas and I opted for a shore-based vacation at Atmosphere Resorts & Spa rather than joining a liveaboard trip. The resort has an amazing set up and from the first moment we were welcomed by all and felt immediately at home. Our apartment was luxurious and nicely secluded, the dive centre is very well thought out and the guides are top-notch. New additions since my last visit were the Sanctuary Spa and Yoga Hut – which made a welcome addition to the holiday – Anna certainly had healing hands for the post-dive relaxation.

Leaf Fish- Visayas

Upon the advice of our guides Arjay & Lor our first dive was to be at Pyramids; an artificial reef made up of metallic pyramid shaped structures which are encrusted with corals and sponges. This was a new site for me and I was pleasantly surprised how much growth there was considering the short space of time since the site was created. Within minutes Arjay was gesticulating at a tiny devil scorpionfish and the macro critters just kept on coming; tiny painted frogfish, candy crabs, thorny seahorse, sawblade shrimps, ornate ghost pipefish were just a few of the finds during the dive. My favourite spot had to be the crinoid shrimp which was nestled within its home and very well camouflaged.

ghost pipefish

For our second dive we chose a shore entry to explore the Atmosphere House Reef; another critter haven. We were surprised by the number of sea snakes spotted during the dive- thankfully for me they were rather lazy and allowed us to approach. Not a lover of snakes I am however fascinated by sea snakes so it was great to be able to get up close to them. Other finds during the dive were leaf fish and many species of my beloved nudibranchs. Yes I am a self-confessed nudi geek! So once one was pointed out I could think of little else. The house reef, whilst a gentle sloping sand & coral garden also benefits from several sunken structures which have sponge and coral growths providing a perfect haven for numerous molluscs. A Nembrotha Cristata happily posed for photos and I was able to get some shots showing its rearing action.

nembrotha cristata1_lr

Another dive highlight was Masapolod, where once again I was off nudi spotting – with several species being found including some rather amorous Nembrotha Chamberlani. More leaf fish and an elusive crab eyed goby were all pointed out by Lor, along with a hairy squat lobster ticked right into the folds of a barrel sponge.

Frogfish

With some great dives and several frozen margarita cocktails under our belts we bid farewell to the Atmosphere team for our return to cebu. Bringing our Aqua Lung travel gear we were able to save on luggage space which is a real benefit when flying with Cebu Pacific Airlines – the bag fitted neatly into the overhead locker and we didn’t have to pay excess. Fly to Dumaguete with Cebu Pacific Airlines or Philippine Airlines.

There are numerous resorts to choose from along the Dauin Coast all offering superb critter dives and Apo Island trips as well as trips to see whale sharks in Oslob. The Philippine Siren also combines diving in Dauin & Apo Island with dives at Moalboal, Cabilao & Bohol, for those who wish to take the liveaboard option.

We recommend diving with:-

Siren Fleet www.sirenfleet.com / info@sirenfleet.com

Atmosphere Resorts http://atmosphereresorts.com

Amontillado Resort http://www.amontilladoresort.com

Liquid Diving http://www.liquiddumaguete.com

Susie has been enjoying the life of a dive instructor, travelling the world diving and teaching. Susie is somewhat of a liveaboard junkie after working as a cruise director in the Red Sea, the Philippines and Indonesia. She has also led trips to Fiji, Palau, Similans, Myanmar, East Timor, the Maldives and the Galapagos, yet she still finds time to do some shore based diving at her favourite sites in the Philippines too. Find Susie at www.heritagediving.com

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Magical Socorro: a Dream Diving Adventure

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Socorro

By Mark Murphy

Socorro, January 2025 with Oyster Diving

Picture this: giant manta rays gliding effortlessly, playful dolphins pirouetting around you, and a majestic whale shark stealing the spotlight. That’s exactly what awaited me and 14 fellow divers from Oyster Diving on our unforgettable journey to Socorro. It was a dream six years in the making, sparked by a recommendation from a seasoned diver I met in the Galapagos. His words echoed in my head: “If anywhere rivals the magic of the Galapagos, it’s Socorro.” And he was absolutely right.

Socorro

The Socorro Journey Begins

Our adventure started with a flight from London to Cabo San Lucas via Dallas, where we allowed ourselves a couple of days to unwind, adjust to the time zone, and soak up the vibrant energy of this coastal paradise. Cabo San Lucas is a gem, boasting a stunning marina teeming with curious sea lions, buzzing bars, and an array of restaurants. Hidden within the rustic backstreets were Tarantino-esque bars where locals served ice-cold brews, tangy margaritas, and tacos so good they felt otherworldly. For those craving sand and sea, the expansive beaches offered a sun-soaked escape, fringed with lively eateries.

Socorro

One highlight was a whale-watching tour that brought us face-to-face with humpback whales and their calves. For just $70, we experienced the raw beauty of these gentle giants as they surfaced to breathe in the crisp ocean air. It was worth every penny.

All Aboard the Belle Amie

Later, we met our fellow divers and the crew of the Belle Amie at SeeCreatures. After safety briefings, we boarded this exceptional liveaboard operated by Nautilus Liveaboards. The Belle Amie, a steel-hulled beauty designed for stability and comfort, promised luxury at sea. Spacious cabins, boutique-style suites, and a sun deck perfect for mingling made it feel like a floating resort. The crew’s professionalism, warmth, and tireless dedication set the tone for an extraordinary experience. From safety drills to nightly captain’s briefings, they ensured we were in the best hands.

Socorro

Diving into the Magic of Socorro

The Socorro Islands, a cluster of four volcanic outposts 250 miles off Baja’s coast, are a diver’s paradise. After a 24-hour sail, we reached our first stop: San Benedicto Island. Here, we plunged into a world where reality felt like a dream. Giant oceanic manta rays, with wingspans up to 5 meters, danced gracefully around us. They made eye contact—an experience so profound it’s hard to put into words. Dolphins joined the spectacle, spinning and leaping as if performing just for us. They weren’t shy, either, getting close enough to make every camera click count.

Socorro

Sharks were ever-present, from sleek silvertips, silkies to white tips and Galapagos sharks. It was an underwater theatre of wonder.

Next, we arrived at Socorro Island, where the magic reached new heights. Mantas, dolphins, turtles, and schools of curious pufferfish filled every dive. On one memorable descent, we were greeted by a pod of dolphins, only to see a 4-meter tiger shark gliding through the group. Two more tiger sharks lingered in the distance, their curiosity palpable as they observed these strange bubble-blowing creatures.

Our third destination, Roca Partida, wasn’t an island but a towering rock pinnacle that plunged into the depths. The visibility was spectacular, revealing caverns filled with resting white-tip sharks and silvertips patrolling the waters. The pièce de résistance? A 5-meter whale shark that graced us with its presence, lingering long enough for every diver to capture a memory and fill their SD cards.

The Final Farewell

As we sailed the 25-hour journey back, the camaraderie among divers flourished. Photos and videos were shared, and the crew edited them into a heartwarming memento. The trip wasn’t just unforgettable—it was life-changing, rivalling even the Galapagos.

Socorro

Tips for Future Socorro Adventurers

  • Plan for a Layover: Spending a couple of days in Cabo before the trip helped us recover from the long journey and prepare for the diving ahead. It also cushions against potential flight delays.
  • Stay Warm: In January, water temperatures hover around 23-24°C. A 5mm wetsuit suffices for most, but if you feel the cold, opt for a semi-dry suit.
  • Pack Smart: Bring plenty of SD card space for your camera, but don’t forget to savour the underwater world with your own eyes.
  • Stay Protected: High SPF sunscreen and hydration are a must, along with a cozy hoodie for breezy evenings.

Oyster Diving is fully ATOL and TTA bonded, offering bespoke diving holidays worldwide. Whether it’s shark diving in the Red Sea, tiger sharks in the Maldives, or the vibrant reefs of the Philippines, our team is ready to craft your next adventure. Interested in Socorro or another bucket-list destination? Email us at holidays@oysterdiving.com for a no-obligation quote.

Dive into your next adventure with Oyster Diving. Your underwater dreams await!

Contact Oyster Diving Holidays now to book your next Socorro Dive Adventure:

T: 0800 699 0243  E: holidays@oysterdiving.com

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Explore the Wonders of the Coral Triangle with Buceo Anilao Beach and Dive Resort

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coral triangle

Welcome to Buceo Anilao, a haven for divers nestled in the heart of the Coral Triangle. Immerse yourself in the perfect blend of relaxation and the renowned hospitality of the Filipino people.

coral triangle

Our lush gardens and premium amenities provide a sanctuary of tranquillity amidst nature’s beauty. Surround yourself with artistry and serenity, complemented by the vibrant colours of our resort.

coral triangle

Retreat to one of our 23 spacious and inviting rooms, each designed to provide a clean and relaxing environment, ensuring you are well-rested for the exciting diving activities that await.

The buffet breakfast and à la carte menu offer a wide range of appetising dishes, featuring a delightful fusion of local flavours and international cuisine.

coral triangle

At Buceo Anilao, we cater to every taste, making dining an integral part of the experience.

Coral triangle

Get ready to explore the depths with confidence, thanks to our well-maintained equipment and knowledgeable staff. Our camera room is a sanctuary for underwater photographers, providing the perfect space to prepare and care for your gear.

coral triangle

Your safety is paramount. Trust our local dive masters to guide you through each dive, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience. Elevate your expertise with our diverse range of courses designed to enhance your diving skills.

Dive into a haven for macro photography, where every dive unveils a kaleidoscope of marine treasures. Encounter countless underwater species, from vibrant nudibranchs to elusive Rhinopias, amidst stunning coral reefs, muck sites, and other diverse underwater landscapes.

Elevate your diving experience with mesmerising night dives! Encounter rare marine wildlife for an unforgettable adventure.

Relax after your activities with a treatment in our spa, where therapeutic massage sessions and panoramic views provide the perfect way to unwind after your underwater adventures.

As the day winds down, enjoy a relaxed sunset session. Revel in the magic of Buceo Anilao with stunning views and refreshing drinks, concluding another memorable day in our diver’s paradise.

coral triangle

No need to travel far! Buceo Anilao is conveniently located near Manila International Airport, just a short 2.5-hour drive to one of the best macro photography destinations in the world. This is the top choice for underwater photographers who value diversity, convenience, and the ultimate resort experience! 😊

For bookings, email us at contact@buceoanilao.com or visit our website and social media accounts for more information:

Website: www.BuceoAnilao.com

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/buceoanilao

Instagram: www.instagram.com/buceoanilao

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