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Diving The Philippines: Puerto GaleraThis article was written by Andy Pope, PADI Course Director and the General Manager at Atlantis Dive Resort, Puerto Galera, Philippines. He can be contacted on info@atlantishotel.com. Other views on Puerto Galera are at the bottom of the page. For help with transport from Manila to Puerto Galera try Walter Akester - E-mail: paxcat@ultimate.info.com.ph.
Local outrigger "bangka" boats are the most common form of transport to the sloping reefs where the marine life improves yearly. Regulars to the area usually make a habit of visiting The Canyons or Hole in the Wall which have always been great dives but with added protection over recent years are now undoubtedly world class. "The Canyons", which usually finishes on a large coral encrusted Galleon anchor, is home to large schools of Yellow Tail Snappers, Sweetlips, Rabbit Fish, Bat Fish and Emperors as well as the usual abundance of smaller reef fish. With sightings of Manta Rays, Hammerhead and Thresher Sharks in the area, why go anywhere else? Puerto Galera is a great "all year round" dive destination, the water temperature varies from between 22 oC in February, to 29 oC in May and June and it's unusual for the visibility to drop below 15 m. Big tidal exchanges make for some exciting drift dives. Kilima Drift is a favorite for those who prefer roller-coaster dives, but if you prefer a leisurely hour at 12 m, Coral Gardens and West Escarceo have unbeatable Table Corals, Fans, Basket Sponges and smaller aquatic life. If you want to venture further afield there are some great day trips to either Verde Island and the famous Drop Off or the volcanic Hot Springs at Chicken Feather Island where you can sit at a depth of 20 m watching hot bubbles rise from the ocean floor. Puerto is also a convenient starting place for five-day liveaboard trips to Apo Reef and the Wrecks of Coron. Something for everyone.A feature of recent developments has been Dive Centre collaboration. Several wooden boats have been sunk which have all made interesting sites and three years ago dive operators in the area got together to create "The Puerto Galera Dive Association". Since its conception the association has worked to improve safety, dive shop communication, community involvement and general diving around Puerto Galera. The association meets monthly and is currently working on, amongst other things, conservation in the area and mooring improvements. Last year the Association leased with The University of the Philippines and assisted in a successful Giant Clam seeding project. Puerto Galera also offers numerous isolated coves and beaches just waiting for your visit, there are not many places left in the world where you can have a whole beach to yourself. Kayaking, hiking, swimming and snorkeling add to the list of non-diving activities. Some of the best views are from Ponderosa, a nine-hole golf course 1400 feet up a near-by mountain. Of the regular attractions, the biggest Hash Run (no drugs involved!) in the Philippines meets every Sunday afternoon outside Captain Greggs. The runs wind their way through the beautiful Puerto scenery to the ever-popular "On On" (post run/walk party), although most people just enjoy a leisurely stroll to the awaiting beer. The area is a popular, safe location for single travellers as well as a growing family destination. Direct private transfers from Manila, hot water, mini bars, internet facilities, swimming pools and great variety of restaurants, including Thai, Indian and Italian as well as local cuisine all combine to make the area one of the most popular weekend retreats for Manila residents. The area is malaria free with only the usual vaccination requirements. If you're looking for a mix of local "laid back" charm, fun and great diving, look no further. Enjoy bountiful marine life on every dive, maybe not Manta's and Hammerheads, but have you ever seen a Pigmy Seahorse or a Robust Ghost Pipefish? And, if you reading this thinking about furthering your dive training - undoubtedly some of the best Dive Instruction in Asia. Legend has it that once sailors arrived on the island; they never wanted to leave without a promise to come back. Other Views on Puerto GaleraPlease see the Philippines Diving page for other views on the diving there. For dive centres see the Dive Operators page. Books to Take
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