Far East Diving Holidays

Why choose the Far East for a diving holiday?

Far East diving holidays are all about variety. You can relax into a peaceful resort, explore several islands in one trip, or join a liveaboard to reach remote reefs and national parks.

This region is especially strong for divers who want marine-life variety: tiny critters hidden in the sand, lavish coral reefs, turtles, schooling fish, wrecks and larger pelagics depending on where and when you travel.

Choose your Far East diving destination

Popular Far East diving areas

Indonesia

Indonesia is the furthest flung of these Far East options, but once you arrive it is hard to leave. It is home to an enormous and diverse marine ecosystem, with remote resorts, spectacular liveaboards, macro life, reef diving and big-fish potential.

Philippines

The Philippines gives divers huge flexibility. Focus on one region or combine locations for a bigger adventure, from big fish in Tubbataha and Malapascua to reefs in the Visayas, Moalboal and Apo Island, macro in Anilao and wrecks in Coron.

Tubbataha

A seasonal Philippines liveaboard destination known for remote reef diving and big marine-life encounters. Best for divers wanting a special expedition-style trip.

Anilao

One of the region’s classic macro hotspots, ideal for photographers and divers who enjoy slow, detailed critter hunting.

Coron

A superb choice for wreck diving, with historic wrecks and a very different style of diving from the reef-focused areas elsewhere in the Philippines.

What can you see diving in the Far East?

The marine life is endlessly varied, from the smallest species hiding among lush corals to larger pelagics cruising the blue. These destinations suit divers who want variety, photography, adventure and strong topside experiences.

• Macro critters, muck diving and photography subjects
• Colourful reefs and coral gardens
• Big-fish routes and seasonal liveaboard trips
• Wreck diving in selected areas
• Island hopping and tailor-made combinations

Best time to dive the Far East

The best time to travel depends on the exact country and region. Indonesia and the Philippines both have strong seasonal patterns, and some liveaboard routes only run at particular times of year.

If you are hoping for a specific area, route or marine-life encounter, speak to us before booking so we can match the right season to your plans.

Far East diving holiday FAQs

Is the Far East good for underwater photography?

Yes. It is one of the best regions for photographers, especially if you enjoy macro life, reefs, colour and variety.

Should I choose Indonesia or the Philippines?

Choose Indonesia for remote adventure, world-class liveaboards and huge marine diversity. Choose the Philippines for flexible island combinations, macro, reefs, wrecks and easier multi-centre itineraries.

Are Far East diving holidays suitable for non-divers?

Many resorts work well for non-divers, especially where there are beaches, spas, snorkelling and island activities. Liveaboards are usually more dive-focused.

Can Scuba Travel build a tailor-made itinerary?

Yes. The Far East is ideal for tailor-made trips, especially if you want to combine resorts, liveaboards, stopovers or several islands.