Palawan. Dive into a tropical underwater dreamscape
Imagine gliding over vibrant coral gardens, drifting past mysterious WWII shipwrecks, and meeting gentle giants like the dugong—all in one unforgettable destination. Palawan, an island paradise in the Philippines, is a diver’s dream with diverse marine life and pristine underwater scenery. From shallow reefs perfect for beginners to deeper, more challenging sites for advanced divers, Palawan offers a world of underwater adventure waiting to be explored.
Diverse marine life and dive sites
The marine biodiversity of Palawan is nothing short of spectacular. Busuanga, north of Coron, is home to one of the region’s most elusive creatures—the dugong. These gentle, seagrass-loving giants are related to the Florida manatee and add a unique charm to these waters.
Known as the wreck-diving capital of the Philippines, Coron Bay is a haven for wreck divers, with WWII Japanese ships resting in its sheltered waters. The visibility may not be perfect, but the thrill of exploring these submerged historical relics more than makes up for it. For reef life seekers, Dimakya’s house reef is teeming with reef fish, starfish, sponges, turtles, and even giant clams, offering plenty for divers and snorkellers alike.
Moving on to El Nido, this area captivates with coral-covered walls, tunnels, and a high chance of seeing pelagic life, including manta rays and the occasional whale shark. With over 30 dive sites, ranging from shallow six-metre dives to depths beyond 30 metres, El Nido has something to suit all divers.
The coral-fringed reefs around Port Barton’s offshore islands are perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike. Just a short boat ride away, these dive sites offer stunning coral and excellent snorkelling opportunities for those who prefer to stay close to the surface.
In Puerto Princesa, Palawan’s eco-tourism capital, you’ll find a mix of thriving marine life and lush scenery on land. Nearby Taytay Bay offers a picturesque dive site with abundant corals, sponges, and the occasional shark, ideal for those with moderate experience, though beginners can dive safely here under supervision.
And then there’s Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. As one of the world’s most extraordinary coral reefs and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tubbataha attracts experienced divers worldwide for its dramatic underwater scenery and unparalleled biodiversity, including sharks, mantas, and sea turtles.
Diving safety and environmental awareness
As we venture into these pristine waters, it’s important for divers to consider not only the thrill of exploration, but also the importance of safety and respect for the environment. As a remote location, Palawan offers the added peace of mind of a nearby hyperbaric chamber in Puerto Princesa, ensuring quick access to medical assistance should it be needed.
When choosing a diving destination, the sustainability of diving practices should also come into play. Preserving Palawan’s rich biodiversity is a privilege and responsibility, ensuring future generations can experience its wonders too.
Bring your underwater adventures to life
For those eager to capture the magic of Palawan beneath the waves, NovoScuba’s Multimedia Diver course is an excellent starting point. This programme provides you with essential skills in underwater photography and videography, helping you to create stunning images of vibrant reefs and unique marine life.
The heart of Palawan
Aside from the stunning underwater scenery, one of Palawan’s greatest treasures is its people. Known for their genuine warmth and welcoming spirit, the locals here make every visit feel truly special. From friendly boat guides sharing stories of their island home to dive staff eager to help you discover hidden wonders, Palawans bring a sense of warmth and authenticity to every interaction. This genuine hospitality makes the journey to Palawan as memorable as the diving itself. It adds a personal touch that will stay with you long after you’ve left the island.
Why Palawan?
Palawan offers the perfect blend of adventure, biodiversity, and breathtaking marine scenery for divers of all levels. More than just a dive, Palawan is an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature’s marine paradise—whether exploring shipwrecks in Coron, mingling with reef life in El Nido, or experiencing the world-famous reefs of Tubbataha.
May your journey through Palawan be filled with unforgettable dives, vibrant marine life, and warm island memories. Safe travels, and happy scuba adventures!
