• Information
• Liveaboards
• Resorts
• Safaris
• Video
• Availability

• 
  
• 
  
• 
  
• 
  
• 
  
• 
  

The Philippines are a massive archipelago that snakes down the Pacific Ocean from the Tropic of Cancer almost to the Equator. This vast geography means that the islands enjoy a true tropical climate and warm water all year round. Always sunny, Scuba Travel is excited travel to trips to Cebu island and the neighbouring Visayas. Between them, these areas encompass some of the hottest diving. This is a dream destination and full of adventure. Virtually unknown to UK divers, Cebu is a secret paradise with miles of isolated coastline with an emphasis on customer service and unparalleled diving. Or why not try a liveaboard and journey around the thousands of undiscovered islands and reef tops. There is a vast array of activities to hand for diver and non divers so each day the Philippines brings something new to explore, marvel at and enjoy.

The water warm year round makes diving in the Philippines ideal at any time of the year. Filled with dramatic drop offs, deep water pinnacles and overflowing with reef life, the diving here is truly memorable. The Philippines boasts famous locations such as Pescador, Malapascua, Leyte and Bohol . The surrounding waters are rich in nutrients and currents, which are the breeding grounds for some of the world’s most unique creatures. Pygmy seahorses, mandarin fish, frog fish, ghost pipefish – these are just some of the macro marvels that the diving in the Philippines can offer. Giant swirls of sardines twist and turn at Pescador and Malapsqua is one of the few places you can find thresher sharks. There are even war wrecks in Coron, the sister ships of Truk Lagoon's famous fleet. And with passing whalesharks and hammerheads in the Visayas, why look anywhere else.

Philippines Travel Information

Location: Although composed of 7,107 islands (7,108 at low tide), with a total coastline longer than that of the USA, most of the population of the Philippines lives on just 11 islands. The country offers warm tropical waters, coral gardens with beautiful marine life and dramatic drop-offs on the seabed.

Languages: Filipino, based on Tagalog, is the national language, English is widely spoken.

Religion: 81 % Roman Catholics, 9 % Protestants, 7 % Muslims, 2 % Animists and lastly 1 % Filipinos belong to Christian sects and Buddhism.

Time: GMT + 6 (GMT + 7 from the last Friday in April to last Thursday in September)

Weather & Water Temperature: The Philippines are a tropical country, hot and humid (77 % humidity). A monsoon climate characterizes the whole country, except for the area South from Mindanao, which is more equatorial. The average temperature is 25°C. Water temperature ranges from 25-28°C.


Electricity: Electricity is 220 V and 110 V. Bring an adapter for US plugs and a flashlight since power cuts are frequent. We also highly recommend that you take a surge adaptor with you if using expensive and valuable appliances. If you have a specific electrical requirement please contact one of the Scuba Team who can discuss this with you and advise you accordingly.

Currency: Philippino currency is the Peso. US $’s and credit cards are widely accepted as well as travellers cheques.

Tipping: Tips are welcome for any help given. In hotels and restaurants, a tip of 10% is often included in the bill. Sometimes, it is up to the customer to decide the tip's amount. If you are unsure what to give please do hesitate to speak with the local dive guide or contact us.

Visas: UK passport holders wishing to stay longer than 21 days need a visa, otherwise a visa is not required. Non UK passport holders can contact the Philippine Embassy on +44 (0)207 451 1800.

Food & Drink: The biggest form of health problems with divers and tourists alike is being dehydrated. Please drink plenty of water before and after a dive as well as throughout the day. We also advise that you don’t drink the local water and only drink bottle water and wash all fruit beforehand.

Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Advice: For up to date advice on foreign travel please visit http://www.fco.gov.uk.

Health & Vaccinations: Requirements vary from country to country, your own GP is the best person to speak to regarding relevant requirements. Make your GP aware that you will be scuba diving, as some medication is not recommended for Scuba divers.

Clothing: Shorts, t-shirts and swimwear are the norm. We recommend warmer clothing for the evening when there may be a breeze. More importantly take lots of sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses as the weather is nearly always sunny. Although a small towel is provided in cabins we recommend you pack a beach towel for after diving.

Passports: Passports much be valid for at least 6 months on your return to the UK.