A Diver's Paradise Philippines

Cebu, the "Queen City of the South", is the oldest and second largest metropolis in the country. It is famous for its fine, sandy beaches, ancient forts, exciting nightlife and friendly, hospitable people. The province also boasts of fantastic divesites just a few minutes away from the Mactan International Airport. It offers luxurious accommodations, plus excellent diving facilities and services.

MACTAN ISLAND The diving mecca of the south, Mactan has more than a dozen beach resorts with complete diving facilities. Divesites along the edge of the island are very convenient for beginners and advanced divers alike. There is a slight current and a perpendicular drop-off which goes down 30 to 50 meters.

OLANGO ISLAND GROUP The western edge of this reef facing Hilutangan Channel opposite Mactan Island presents beautiful coral gardens and a dense fish population. The eastern side has better coral corners and more game fish. Because of strong currents, this divesite is recommended for experienced divers only.

MOALBOAL
Pescador Island The fringing reef is only 3 to 10 meters wide and drops off in sheer cliffs with depths of 3 to 33 meters.

Sa-avedra/Bas Diot These sites are particularly rich in corals and have bigger varieties of fish than most Moalboal sites. There are interesting caves under the drop-off at approximately 24 to 30 meters. Large snakes can likewise be observed in the Bas Diot area.

Badian Island (Zaragosa Island)/Badian Point Fishing activities in this area southwest of Cebu and south of Moalboal Island are limited, so the fish are surprisingly tame. Large sea snakes are likely to be seen on any dive, particularly off Badian Island. A good local guide is recommended for the inexperienced diver.

CAPITANCILLO ISLET This six-hectare low, flat coraline islet is situated approximately two to three hours by motorized outrigger boat northeast of Sogod Beach. The islet is at the center of a coral reef that extends three kilometers north to south.

BANTAYAN ISLAND The island is fringed with shoals and reefs which run southwest for 11 to 12 kilometers. Corals in deeper points are in good condition.

GATO ISLET The island's shape, that of a sitting cat, gives it its name. It has peculiar caves, lagoons and crevices that harbor breeder sea snakes and their young. Breeding season is from March to September.