This protected area of the Philippines is in the middle of the Sulu Sea. It is also called as Tubbataha Reef Natural Park. Tubbataha Reef covers an area of 97,030 hectares which includes a marine and a bird sanctuary. It is over 20 meters deep and has a steep wall with swim trough’s, overhangs and crevices. These ‘walls’ serve as a place of habitat for colonies of fish.
This isolated natural park can be reached only by liveaboard. It is known for being the most biodiverse scuba diving destination in the Philippines. The high density of marine life makes Tubbataha Reef the most preferred place for diving. The ecosystem of the place helps support around 350 species of coral life and over 500 species of fish. The northern islet also serves as a nesting place for birds and marine turtles.
The pristine coral reefs, lagoons and the 2 coral islands make for a great diving experience in the summer months. Let yourself drift with the current along the wall to catch sight of some exotic sea life.
• It is the most biodiverse scuba diving destination in the Philippines
• The place is teeming with sea life like sea turtles, various types of sharks, manta rays and many more
• Tubbataha Reef also acts as a hunting ground for the underwater life
Distance from the city of Puerto Princesa to Tubbataha Reef is 165 km
The only way to travel is through boats. It takes about 10 hours
• Conservation fees must be paid in advance before applying for entry permit to the park
• The payment has to be made in Philippine currency
• Children aged 12 and below are exempt from conservation fees
• Divemasters are not allowed to carry cameras while diving
• Since the diving season lasts only for 3 to 4 months, the trips get filled up fast. Be sure to plan and book early
• There are different diving sites in the reef each featuring different types of corals and other marine life. Choose a site as per your interests
• Your diving level should be of intermediate or advanced. This is not a place for beginners or amateurs
• The visibility level would vary from 32 to 114 feet depending on the tides
Waiting Time
No
Entrance Fee
Visitors: $ 100 per person
Divemaster: $ 4
Visitors coming back within the same year get 50% discount
Time you can spend
5 to 6 days
Weather
Be the first one to start a thread.
