PHILIPPINES

Uncharted Waters of Tubbataha

One of the Philippines’ most spectacular diving destinations, the Tubbataha Reefs National Park, lies in the heart of the Sulu Sea. The park is a 97,030-hectare marine sanctuary known for its pristine coral reefs, rich marine biodiversity and thrilling drift dives. It is home to over 600 fish species, 360 coral species, sharks, turtles and manta rays. Liveaboard diving is the only way to experience the park’s pristine waters and vibrant marine life. 

A liveaboard is a type of boat or yacht designed for extended stays at sea, allowing divers to live on board while traveling between remote dive sites. In the case of Tubbataha Reefs National Park, liveaboards are the only way to access this UNESCO-listed marine sanctuary, as there are no nearby islands or accommodations. 

How to get there: 

Fly to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS), with direct flights from Manila, Cebu and other major Philippine cities. Board a liveaboard – most liveaboards depart from Puerto Princesa in the evening, taking 10 to 12 hours to reach Tubbataha. The journey is overnight and diving begins the next morning.

A minimum of 5 to 7 days is recommended to fully experience Tubbataha’s incredible dive sites. Most liveaboard itineraries last 6 to 7 days, allowing divers to explore multiple sites across the North and South Atolls and Jessie Beazley Reef.

Tubbataha is only open for diving from mid-March to mid-June, when the seas are calm, visibility reaches up to 40 meters (130 feet), and marine life is at its peak. Outside this season, rough seas make the park inaccessible.

Since liveaboards depart from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, it’s easy to combine Tubbataha with El Nido, Coron, Anilao or Dauin.