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Venture into the heart of the Sulu Sea and discover one of the last truly wild frontiers of the underwater world. This extraordinary 12-night diving expedition explores the remote Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and Cagayancillo Archipelago, home to some of the most pristine coral reefs and spectacular marine life on the planet.
At the centre of the journey lies Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and widely regarded as one of the world’s finest diving destinations. Open to visitors for only a short season each year, these protected reefs support an astonishing abundance of marine life and some of the healthiest coral ecosystems in the Indo-Pacific.
Divers will explore the North Atoll, South Atoll and Jessie Beazley Reef, where dramatic walls plunge into the deep blue, vibrant coral gardens teem with life, and strong currents attract an impressive array of pelagic species. Encounters with reef sharks, hammerheads, manta rays, eagle rays, turtles, barracuda, tuna and huge schools of tropical fish are all possible.
Beyond Tubbataha, the remote islands and reefs of the Cagayancillo Archipelago offer a glimpse into a rarely visited region of the Philippines, combining exceptional diving with a true sense of exploration and adventure.
For those seeking world-class diving, untouched reefs and unforgettable wildlife encounters, this expedition showcases the very best of the Philippines’ marine wilderness.
At Scuba Dive Adventures we offer a unique and personalised travel service that sets us apart in the diving industry. Our bespoke adventures are carefully crafted to cater to your individual preferences and desires taking you on exhilarating journeys to the all corners of the world. Our passion for creating unforgettable experiences is evident in every trip we plan. Our commitment to excellence ensures that your adventure is truly unique and unforgettable.
At Scuba Dive Adventures we have created a unique brand and culture that permeates every aspect of our business. We are committed to delivering an exceptional experience for our clients from our unparalleled customer service and top quality liveaboards, to our carefully selected global destinations. Our focus on safety, agility and adventure allows us to push boundaries and set high standards in the diving industry. Join us for an unforgettable journey that exceeds your expectations at every turn.
At Scuba Dive Adventures we are committed to sustainable travel, wildlife conservation and supporting local communities. We believe that responsible exploration of the oceans is crucial and strive to promote and preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the underwater world. Our passion for the ocean is reflected in our core values, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment and the communities we visit. Join us in our mission to protect our oceans for generations to come.
12-Night Tubbataha & Cagayancillo Expedition
Explore the Ultimate Tubbataha Diving Expedition in the Philippines
Embark on one of the most exclusive and remote liveaboard diving expeditions in the Philippines aboard Philippines Explorer I. This extraordinary 12-night voyage crosses the vast Sulu Sea to explore the legendary Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, the remote Cagayancillo Archipelago, and some of the most pristine coral reefs and pelagic-rich waters in Southeast Asia.
Designed for experienced divers and ocean explorers, this expedition combines world-class diving, remote island exploration, thriving marine ecosystems, and the rare opportunity to visit regions of the Philippines few travellers ever experience.
At the heart of the journey lies Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most celebrated marine protected areas. Accessible for only a short season each year, Tubbataha offers spectacular walls, pinnacles, channels, and seamounts teeming with life. Over seven full days, we explore the North Atoll, South Atoll, and Jessie Beazley Reef, maximising opportunities for encounters with reef sharks, hammerheads, manta rays, eagle rays, turtles, barracuda, tuna, giant trevally, and vast schools of reef fish.
Beyond Tubbataha, we venture deep into the remote Cagayancillo Archipelago, a scattered chain of isolated islands surrounded by untouched reefs, white-sand beaches, and traditional fishing communities. Here, divers enjoy rarely visited dive sites, crystal-clear waters, healthy coral ecosystems, and a genuine sense of discovery far removed from mainstream tourism.
The Itinerary
Day 1 – Campomanes Bay | Embarkation
Welcome aboard Philippines Explorer I.
Embarkation begins at 2:00pm in Campomanes Bay. Following a welcome drink, vessel orientation, and safety briefing, we depart into the Sulu Sea and begin our westward crossing toward the remote islands of the Cagayancillo Archipelago.
Meet your fellow guests, settle into your cabin, and enjoy your first evening aboard as the adventure begins.
Day 2 – Cagayancillo Archipelago
Our expedition starts amongst the remote islands of the Cagayancillo Archipelago, one of the least visited regions of the Philippines.
Today’s diving may include the famous MV Forever Lucky Wreck together with nearby coral reefs renowned for their healthy marine ecosystems, schooling fish, and excellent visibility. After two or three dives, we continue westward across the open ocean towards Tubbataha.
Days 3–9 – Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
For the next seven days, we immerse ourselves in one of the finest diving destinations on the planet.
Rising dramatically from deep oceanic waters, Tubbataha’s reefs support an astonishing diversity of marine life and remain among the healthiest coral reef systems in the world.
During our stay, we explore a wide variety of iconic sites across the North and South Atolls and Jessie Beazley Reef, including:
North Atoll, Ranger Station, Shark Airport, Malayan Wreck, Amos Rock, Washing Machine
South Atoll, Delsan Wreck, Black Rock, Southwest Wall, Triggerfish City, Jessie Beazley Reef, Isolated seamount diving,
Every day brings different conditions and unique marine encounters. Reef sharks patrol the walls, turtles glide effortlessly through the currents, giant schools of fish gather around reef corners, and larger pelagic species frequently appear from the blue.
Between dives there may also be opportunities to visit the Tubbataha Ranger Station and learn more about the conservation efforts that protect this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With seven full days available, our itinerary remains flexible, allowing our expedition team to maximise diving opportunities based on weather, currents, and wildlife activity.
Day 10 – Cavili & Arena Islands
Leaving Tubbataha behind, we begin our return journey through the eastern Sulu Sea.
The reefs surrounding Cavili and Arena Islands offer a completely different diving experience, with colourful coral gardens, fish-rich slopes, and exceptional visibility. These seldom-visited islands provide a wonderful contrast to the dramatic walls and channels of Tubbataha.
Above water, remote beaches and untouched island landscapes reinforce the expedition atmosphere that defines this voyage.
Day 11 – Calusa Island & Southern Cagayancillo
Today we explore the southern reaches of the Cagayancillo Archipelago.
Healthy coral reefs, shallow lagoons, reef drop-offs, and productive fishing grounds support abundant marine life throughout the region. Diving conditions vary from gentle coral slopes to current-swept reef edges where larger pelagic species are often encountered.
The islands themselves offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional island life in one of the Philippines’ most isolated archipelagos.
Day 12 – Tanusa, Boombong & Northern Cagayancillo
Our final full day takes us to some of the most remote islands of the expedition.
Weather permitting, we explore the reefs and islands surrounding Tanusa and Boombong, locations rarely visited by dive boats and largely untouched by tourism.
Expect excellent visibility, thriving coral reefs, abundant reef fish, and a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable journey through the Sulu Sea.
During the afternoon, Philippines Explorer I begins the final crossing back towards Negros.
Day 13 – Campomanes Bay | Disembarkation
Following breakfast, we arrive back in Campomanes Bay.
Over the course of thirteen days and twelve nights, we have explored some of the most remote and spectacular marine environments in the Philippines. From the world-famous reefs of Tubbataha to the untouched islands of the Cagayancillo Archipelago, this expedition combines exceptional diving, breathtaking scenery, and genuine exploration.
For divers seeking pristine reefs, pelagic encounters, shark diving, remote islands, and one of the finest liveaboard adventures in Southeast Asia, few journeys compare to this remarkable voyage aboard Philippines Explorer I.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard.
Philippines Explorer I has a remarkable history of exploration. Originally built to withstand the demanding conditions of the North Sea, she began her working life as an offshore support vessel servicing oil platforms in some of the world’s most challenging waters. She later served with the New Zealand Navy before embarking on a new chapter as a marine research and diving vessel operating throughout Micronesia.
Today, following an extensive transformation and acquisition in Australia, Philippines Explorer I has been reborn as one of the most advanced expedition vessels operating in the Philippines.
Having successfully explored the waters of Southeast Asia aboard Philippines Explorer II, we knew our next vessel needed to offer something truly exceptional. Philippines Explorer I is far more than simply a larger yacht—it represents the future of luxury diving, snorkelling, wildlife, and cultural expeditions throughout the Philippine archipelago.
Designed for travellers who wish to venture further without compromising on comfort, the vessel combines rugged expedition capability with the standards of a premium boutique cruise. State-of-the-art diesel-electric propulsion, advanced soundproofing technology, and sophisticated gyro stabilisers deliver an experience that is exceptionally smooth, quiet, and environmentally conscious.
Guests can enjoy expansive indoor and outdoor living spaces, generous viewing decks, comfortable lounges, and plenty of secluded areas to relax and unwind between adventures. Whether crossing open ocean passages or anchored in a remote tropical bay, Philippines Explorer I offers outstanding stability, comfort, and safety throughout every voyage.
Sustainability has been a key focus throughout the vessel’s redevelopment. Operating on battery power during overnight hours significantly reduces noise and emissions, while extensive soundproofing ensures guests enjoy the peaceful night’s sleep expected aboard a luxury expedition vessel.
Our carefully curated itineraries showcase the very best of the Philippines, from encounters with humpback whales in the far north and world-class diving on remote coral reefs, to island exploration, authentic cultural experiences, local cuisine, bustling markets, and fascinating insights into the rich history and traditions of the Filipino people.
For those seeking adventure beyond the ordinary, Philippines Explorer I offers a truly unique way to discover one of the world’s most beautiful and diverse island nations.
Experience the adventure of a lifetime with Scuba Dive Adventures — where world-class diving, luxury liveaboards, and unforgettable marine encounters come together to create the ultimate scuba holiday.
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy in a standard cabin.
Your exclusive scuba adventure includes:
Bespoke 12 nights Itinerary, full-board accommodation onboard the vessel
Internal transfers
Daily guided divingSingle 12L cylinder and lead weights
Complimentary tea, coffee, and drinking water
Please note that international flights, optional activities, and tips/gratuities are not included.
Marine Park and Port Fees are payable onboard and are subject to change in line with local government regulations. Single supplements are available at an additional cost. Fuel surcharges may apply depending on operational conditions.
Please be advised that diving schedules, activity timings, and itineraries may change due to weather, sea conditions, and local environmental factors. The order of activities may also vary to ensure the best possible experience and safety for all guests.
For further information or to book this extraordinary scuba diving adventure, please contact the Scuba Dive Adventures team:
sales@scubadiveadventures.co.uk
Diving along the walls of Tubbataha brings opportunities to see 11 species of shark, including threshers, tigers, and hammerheads; there’s also a chance of catching whale sharks. It is also known for having the highest known population of white tip reef sharks.
The shallower reefs house reef fish, schools of jack fish, snappers, and barracuda as well as the threatened Napoleon wrasse. It is also here where divers can see manta rays slowly gliding by – or maybe even one of the 13 species of dolphins and whales found in the area.
Adding to the exclusive status of the area is the very short diving season. Because Tubbataha is so far out at sea, ocean conditions need to be near perfect in order for dive boats to make the journey safely and comfortably. Tubbataha can really only be dived 3 months of the year – between mid-March to mid-June. During this season, divers can look forward to calm seas, clear skies, and between 30 and 45 meters of visibility.
Even during this time of the year the currents in the area can range from mild to strong and Tabbataha is recommended for experienced divers, some even say divers should have a minimum of 100 to 150 dives under their weight belt before they think of taking on Tabbataha.
So few world-class dive spots are left free of crowds of divers, fewer still that feature such incredible diversity of life. This isolated dive destination has some of the best diving Southeast Asia has to offer and does so in a hard-to-reach area that few divers can brag of conquering.
Liveaboard diving is widely regarded as the ultimate way to experience an unforgettable diving vacation. For many seasoned divers, this type of adventure is essential for exploring remote destinations, such as Costa Rica’s Cocos Islands or The Galapagos Islands. Liveaboard charters offer the unique opportunity to explore vast areas and dive different parts of a country, such as the Maldives or Raja Ampat.
A liveaboard is a purpose-built scuba diving vessel or an existing boat that has been adapted to cater to divers. These trips typically last longer than one night, with the average duration being 7 nights. Liveaboard boats can host between 12 and 30 divers, although smaller and larger vessels are also available. Most liveaboard packages include diving, food, and drinks.
Galapagos, silky, oceanic whitetip and hammerhead sharks are common in Socorro, as well as dolphins, whale sharks (best in November) and schools of pelagic fish like jacks and barracuda. The shark dives in Socorro Island are simply world-class, placing them high on our list of best locations for shark diving
Another “signature experience” at Socorro Island: swimming with a group of bottlenose dolphins that often visit divers and typically make several close passes.
Divers often see large gamefish like tuna, wahoo, and marlin, something few other destinations can offer.
When the water cools during winter months, from December to April, divers are often treated to humpback whale sightings.
