Flight Information

Visayas Safari Philippines start on the scheduled date at Cebu Airport in the Philippines. You will be met be at Cebu Airport arrivals hall by your Team Abyss Guide to coincide with your arrival flight sometime on the scheduled start date of your safari and transferred to your accommodation.

The main hubs for arriving to Cebu are via Hong Kong, Singapore and also Manilla. Arrival times may be at any time on the start day of the trip as the first night is a group meeting at the resort in Cebu with a departure early the following morning with the guide.

Gosea.com can assist with the best airfares for clients from Australia email flights@gosea.com if you need us to assist. All other clients must arrange their own flights. People travelling on Abyssworld voyages qualify for "Land and Sea" airfares which have flexible conditions. To gain a quotation you may also email Abyssworlds flight partner GMT. Send and email to info@flygmt.com stating that you are going on an Abyssworld Voyage, would like a "Land and Sea" fare and provide details of dates and location. GMT will normally come back to you with a few hours 24 hours a day.

Please arrange your flights to depart from Cebu on the last day of the scheduled departure.

Overview

A nomadic 5 stage dive safari to discover the Visayas region of the Philippines
With an 18 meter Bangka (Philippino outrigger boat) as our mode of transport and dive base, 5 complementary and different stages, a selection of charming beachside hotels for evening stopovers, an archipelago where beauty and calm go hand in hand. Welcome to the Visayas!

Description

For more than 15 years, the team of Abyss guides and Philippino mariners have provided divers with all their local knowledge for an enchanting discovery of Cebu, Apo, Siquijor and Panglao. The diving in the Visayas is very easy yet rich in life and colour. The drop offs and coral gardens will surprise both the experienced and beginner diver. Punctuated by land visits providing privileged contact with the locals, this safari is equally destined to accompanying non divers, groups and families.

These unique dive safaris entail a guided tour of the Visayas via Abyss World's 'Bangka' boats which are used for transportation and the actual dive sessions. Accommodation is at Abyssworld chosen resorts close to the dive sites. You really get the best of both world's with the adventure of diving and travelling from the 'Bangka' boats,, and in the evenings relaxing in the comfortable surroundings of the resort.

Standard Inclusions

• 12 night Visayas Dive Safari (as per itineraries on trip info page).
• Minimum required diving level: PADI Open Water or Level 1, non divers and families are also welcome apon request.
• Greetings at the airport
• Accommodation in twin share including all meals (full board)
• 22 dives minimum (including 2 to 3 night dives - torches not included)
• Tanks, fills, weights and weight belts
• Boats and crew
• Team Abyss guide
• All transportation
• 2 land excursions
• NOT INCLUDED:
• Cancellation and assistance insurance (recommended)
• Individual dive gear
• Lunch on arrival and departure day in Cebu
• Airport tax from Cebu (about USD 10)
• Dive fees for marine sanctuaries (about USD 60 / EUR 40 / PHP 2500)
• Excess luggage costs
• Drinks, tips and other personal expenses
• Dive Medicals and Medical Statements (A medical form will be sent to you upon booking, please complete and return to info@gosea.com)
• It is recommended that you travel on your chosen voyage with a dive medical that is dated within the last 12 months. This will ensure your ability to participate on all the dives. If you choose not to travel with a dive medical, a dive medical statement will need to be submitted on site. If you answer "yes" to any of the questions on the medical statement sent to you, a dive medical will be required anyway. In many of the destinations it will not be possible to complete this medical before the voyage departure. A copy of the medical statement will be included with your reservation documents. Please be sure to check that you can answer "no" to all the questions if your are travelling without a valid dive medical.

Trip Info

Trip itineraries

12 night itinerary

Stage 1: Cebu City, 1 night.
Greetings at the airport and transport to the Montebello Villa Hotel, dinner by the pool, free evening.

Stage 2: Moalboal, 3 nights.
Departure for Moalboal by minibus (3 hour trip). You will discover the interior of Cebu Island, the small villages and countryside. Retreat at Sumisid Lodge, a small family hotel. During this stage you will discover the waterfalls of Kawasan (lunch and swim) in addition to a beautiful orchid farm. From the Bangka discover the dives of White Beach and Pescador Island.

Stage 3: Apo Island, 2 nights.
Crossing from Moalboal by boat (3.5 to 4 hour trip), broken up by a picnic and diving. Stay at the Apo Beach Resort, hidden by a small creek and blessed by an idyllic beach. Visit the island by foot from the lighthouse to the fishing village. Diving in the Marine Sanctuary of the island.

Stage 4: Siquijor Island, 2 nights.
Crossing from Apo Island to Siquijor by boat (1.5 to 2 hour trip). A charming stage retreating at the Coco Grove Beach Resort, situated on a superb beach. You will discover a beautiful island with magical character rich in culture.

Stage 5: Panglao Island, 3 nights.
Crossing from Siquijor to Panglao (2 to 2.5 hour trip). The retreat at the splendid Oasis Resort sees us stay beside the pool in lush tropical gardens. During this stage we will help you discover the dives of Balicasag and Cabilao and, if you wish, Bohol Island and the famous Chocolate Hills (not included in you package - 12 USD to be paid on site).

Stage 6: Cebu City, 1 night.
Crossing from Panglao to Mactan Island (Cebu) by boat (4 hour trip). On our last night at the Montebello Villa Hotel, we will invite you to an exquisite dinner and the next morning you will have a free day with the option to visit the markets and historical centre of Cebu. Final transfer to the international airport depending on your connecting flights.

Boats and accommodation

Boats

The Bangka
The bangka is a traditionally built Philippino outrigger boat and is the best way for divers to discover Duka Bay, Anda and Camiguin. A hull constructed from wood with a large deck and spacious cabin, the Bangka comfortably accommodates 14 to 18 diver?s maximum. The boat is balanced by 2 bamboo outriggers which guarantee the sea keeping stability (those who get sea sick will appreciate this) and is actually quite fast (average speed 12 knots).

The deck space and the cabin provide great comfort during the crossings and the area dedicated to diving offers plenty of space for dive gear with easy entries into the water.

The Bangka Boats

Jumica
25 meters long with a max capacity of 14 people with a 350 HP motor, 4 crew members + 2 to 3 dive guides depending on the size of the groups.

Sagana
28 meters long with a max capacity of 18 people with a 380 HP motor, 4 crew members + 3 to 4 dive guides depending on the size of the groups.

Katawa
18 meters long with a max capacity of 16 people with a 350 HP motor, 4 crew members + 2 to 3 dive guides depending on the size of the groups.

Hotels
The choice of our hotels is based on our perception of a dive trip: charm and conviviality are more important that luxury. Most of our accommodation choices offer all the necessary comforts, however we give preference to the scenery, quality of service and optimal location relating to the dive sites visited on our excursions.

The hotels selected for the Magellan safari offer good comfort, although sometimes rustic, yet always in an authentic style.

Cebu - Montebello Villa Hotel
Situated in the historical centre of Cebu, in the middle of a 5 hectare park, the Montebello is without a doubt the best way of taking in the atmosphere of Cebu while still assuring a quite night sleep. You will spend 2 nights here during your safari. Comfortable air conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, restaurants, bars, pools and impeccable service. Easy access to the town centre for the local markets and numerous boutiques for shopping.

Moalboal - Sumisid Lodge
On the Panagsama beach, facing Negros Island, the Sumisid is a small family hotel that has been appreciated by divers for a long time. With only 11 rooms, air-conditioned or with fans, private or shared bathroom. The relaxed atmosphere, simple and cosy comforts, architecture in wood and bamboo, this hotel creates a true ambience of the archipelago. The meals are varied and excellent and the welcome always warm. Close by the village will provide you with some typical encounters.

Apo Island - Apo Island Beach Resort
With cliffs, white sandy beaches and a marine sanctuary, Apo Island is a small paradise where 1000 people live in perfect harmony with nature. Full of charm, the Apo Island Beach Resort is located on a splendid creek with a nice lagoon. 8 rustic rooms and bungalows facing the sea with private bathroom (no pressured running water). Tank water is at your disposal). Electricity runs only from 6pm to 1am. Bar, restaurant and diving center are at your disposal. This retreat is a step back in time, away from modern comforts in extraordinary and preserved environment

Siquijor Island - Coco Grove Beach Resort
To the South East of the Siquijor Island and 5 minutes of San Juan village, the Coco Grove is situated on a magnificent white sandy beach lined with coconut trees. Offering 29 spacious and air-conditioned bungalows, features include a terrace, private bathroom, mini-bar, pool, bar and restaurant. An idyllic location to discover an authentic island.

Panglao Island - Oasis Resort
Situated on Alona Beach, in the heart of a shady garden of 5000 square meters, the Oasis Resort features 16 rooms divided into 8 cottages entirely built from natural materials: wood, bamboo and lipa leaves. Each room is equipped with air-conditioning and a private bathroom. Pool, bar, large restaurant. The Oasis Resort is an excellent choice at Panglao for discovering the dives and excursions in the region of Bohol.

Culture and other info

Discovered in 1521 by the Portuguese navigator Ferdinand de Magellan, the Philippines, a magical archipelago of 7107 islands, is home to an authentic gentle and hospitable people. Here is some information which will better help you understand the history and culture of this country.

One people, several atmospheres:

The Philippinos are renowned for their welcome and their kindness. You will be pleasantly surprised by the ease of contact and the smile that is reserved for you. Throughout the history of the Philippino people no one cultural identity has appeared. This is largely due to the numerous languages spoken in the country, which is today estimated at 80, and also the great number of dialects spoken. Also, each region you visit has its own identity and atmosphere. The official languages are Tagalog and English.

Please note: in the South of the country, in particular the region to the South East of the island of Mindanao, a political crisis has developed due to the opposition of the Muslim separatists against the authority in Manilla since 1970. The resulting conflicts, sometimes violent and always isolated, are often featured in the media and have tarnished the image of the entire archipelago. Since our arrival in 1991 we have never been confronted with any security problems, or aggression.

One table, several flavours:

The meals that you will be served on site are very varied: inspired by European and Asiatic recipes, the Philippino cuisine is generally refined and plentiful. Breakfasts are often of American style, consisting of eggs, sausages, bacon, bread, jam, mangoes and bananas, coffee and tea, and cereals... Lunches and dinners generally comprise an abundance of salads, meat casseroles, grilled or battered fish, seafood (mussels, oysters, prawns...), rice, pasta and a variety of vegetables. For dessert, there is never a shortage of exotic fruit. Bottled mineral water is recommended even though the Philippinos drink plenty of filtered or distilled water. Ice is perfectly safe for the occidental stomach. Very few people fall sick due to the food. Contrary to certain countries where it is better to avoid salads, certain fruits and drinks, everything here is permitted. A true paradise for food lovers!

Living their life:

Cock fights

A true national sport, cock fighting is found all over the Philippines. Whether you agree with it or not, consider once to take in the amazing atmosphere. One single cock fight can provide the winning owner with as much as 6 months salary! We can therefore understand why the villages in the countryside are overpopulated with cocks, bred with care and attention, fed each day with vitamin enriched tablets and special feed...this may explain their permanent vigour!

The tricycle

These strange motorbikes, with 100 to150 cc motors, are equipped with a sort of side-car and represent the principal mode of transport for both short and medium distances. You will see these bikes often and will certainly be tempted to take one for an excursion. The side-car seats 2 to 4 people in addition to the rider who is the chauffeur. These tricycles are generally decorated with symbols and phrases of a religious type, with motives, bright colours and often as many yellow lights as can be carried!


Meet the team

Your local team

Eric MOURET: Le Baroudeur
After his studies in advertising communication in Paris, Eric MOURET, French, left for Asia in 1995 for a trip planned for one year. 15 years later Eric is still a "Citizen of the World". During his travels around the globe he unpacked his bags for a period of time in India, Brazil and Bali. It was in Mexico, in 2000, that he discovered scuba diving and became an Instructor in 2003. He then worked in Thailand, the Maldives and the Philippines, where he joined Team Abyss in 2009. When not diving Eric loves both wind surfing and music. Instructor and professional guide with 2000+ dives.

Vincent BROCAS: The Toulousan
Having been a lover of the ocean and travel for a long time, Vincent, French, discovered diving in 1998 in his home town of Toulouse in France. After finishing his qualifications he worked in the Mediterranean before going further afield to Spain, Egypt and then Polynesia. He joined Team Abyss in January 2008 and has since put his passion and knowledge at the service of Abyss clients. He now guides at different destinations around the globe for Team Abyss. Outside of diving he is passionate about nature and photography. Professional Instructor and Guide with over 1000 dives.


Eric LAUREL: Mister Philippines
Originally from the Island of Mindanao, Eric Laurel supervises a large number of our safaris in the Philippines. He is the reason of their success due to his great knowledge in the field and his comfort and ease under water. Nowadays he lives in Switzerland to take care of his family and occasionally joins our expeditions as a guide. Professional dive guide, + 4000 dives

Bruce Lee: The Timid One
Originally from the Island of Cebu, Bruce is one of the longest serving members of the team. He began his career with us as one of our mariners and has trained over the years to become a fantastic guide. With his expert eye and his deep knowledge of the safaris in the Philippines, he is a pleasure to dive with and an exceptional guide. Professionally qualified guide with over 4000 dives.

Laurent AELLEN: The Philippino
Having been involved in diving in Switzerland for more than 15 years, Laurent, Swiss, has for a long time juggled his world as a train driver, dive instructor and agent for dive trips. An occasional guide with Team Abyss since 1999, in 2007 he took the step and moved to the Philippines full time. Laurent is in charge of our operations there and fundamentally oversees all our mariners and guides. Outside of diving, he loves cinema, music, great food and the mountains. Director in the Philippines, Professional Instructor and Guide with over 5000 dives.

Activity Info

Diving the Visayas

Some pristine diving spots

White Beach
Moalboal
Only a few meters from the beach we find a vertical wall abundant in life. Tempted to simply stop and watch the reef, we find nudibranches, blennies or glass catfishes. The corals are extraordinary and colourful. This is an excellent way to start your safari.

Pescador Island
Moalboal
To the South of Maolboal, this small islet is surrounded by an impressive drop off covered in multi-coloured corals and sponges. It is not uncommon to see beautiful specimens of angel fish, turtles, nudibranches, clown fish and exuberant fauna. With some luck a school of barracudas or a group of manta rays will join us from the deep blue.

Marine Sanctuary
Apo Island
The marine sanctuary of Apo Island is an amazing zone for both marine biologists and pleasure divers. Generally with very clear waters, the reefs in the sanctuary shelter a large number of marine species that we can discover on the 11 major sites. Depths of between 5 and 35 meters, hard and soft coral, multi-coloured sponges, jack fish, surgeon fish, damsels, tunas, barracudas and reef sharks. Giant clams, turtles and occasional mantas are often encountered on these sublime dives.

Chapel Point
Apo Island
With a depth of just 15 meters, this site offers a magnificent collection of corals, gorgonians and sponges in perfect health. In the heart of this fauna we find nudibranches, starfish, trumpet fish, ghost pipefish, leaf fish and pygmy seahorses amongst others.

Balicasag Island
Panglao
Balicasag is located about 1 hour by boat from Panglao. Once again, a vertical wall offers impressive coral formations and schools of fishes: jacks, Spanish mackerel, glassfish... We can see turtles exploring the caves and arches along the wall while butterfly fish and parrot fish patrol the reef.

Cabilao Island
Rising from depths of over 200 meters the diving at Cabilao Island provides us with some sensational drop offs. Regular marine up welling provide for abundant fauna such as tuna, barracuda, jack fish and the occasional hammerhead. Finishing our dives in the shallows, the reef tops invite us to discover an extraordinary small fauna such as the ghost pipefish, frog fish, dragon fish...

Technical information
Minimum diving level required: PADI Open Water, Level 1 or equivalent - Non divers and kids welcome on request.
Minimum number of logged dives required: None
Documents required: Certification card, log book and valid dive medical within last 12 months. Cancellation and repatriation insurance is highly recommended. (i.e. www.diversalertnetwork.com or similar)
Number of dives included: 22 dives minimum
Diving boat(s): 1 bankga for 14 to 16 people
Type of tanks: 12 litre aluminum - single exit international and DIN style tank valves
Mandatory equipment: Dive computer, safety sausage
Recommended diving equipment: 5mm wetsuit, torch
Nitrox diving: No
Rebreather diving: No
Closest recompression chamber: Subic Bay, Cebu, Manilla

Other activities

Snorkelling
Swimming
Waterfall visits
Tour of Chocolate Hills of Bohol
Orchid garden visit
Village visits

Testimonials