Camiguin | Mantigue island certified divers | 2 boat fun dives

Certified divers on Mantigue Island can look forward to two boat fun dives within its protected marine sanctuary. The vibrant underwater environment offers healthy coral gardens, sandy slopes, and reef edges, perfect for relaxed exploration. Divers frequently encounter diverse marine life such as clownfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, moray eels, and schools of pelagic fish. Mantigue Island is especially renowned for its population of over 20 green sea turtles, with occasional sightings of impressively large individuals.

Yes, Mantigue Island is generally considered safe for both swimming and diving. It is part of a protected marine sanctuary, which helps maintain its pristine conditions. The underwater environment features mild currents, excellent visibility (often 15 to 30 meters), and well-preserved coral gardens, creating a safe and rewarding experience for divers of all levels. Swimmers can also enjoy the clear, calm waters close to the shore.

The boat ride to Mantigue Island typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes from the main jump-off points on Camiguin Island, such as the shores of Mahinog. This duration can vary slightly depending on the specific departure point, sea conditions, and the type of boat used for the transfer. It's a relatively short and scenic journey across clear waters.

The typical cost for a boat ride to Mantigue Island usually covers the round trip and can vary based on the boat capacity and the number of passengers. These boat rentals are often arranged locally from Camiguin's coastal towns and are separate from the diving package itself. It's advisable to inquire about the current rates directly at the jump-off points or through local tour operators upon arrival, as prices are not fixed.

Mantigue Island and White Island offer distinct experiences. White Island is a picturesque sandbar known for its scenic views and shallow swimming, ideal for sunbathing and photoshoots. Mantigue Island, conversely, is primarily celebrated as a protected marine sanctuary, offering superior diving and snorkeling opportunities. It boasts vibrant coral gardens, diverse reef fish, and a notable population of green sea turtles, making it the preferred choice for marine life enthusiasts and certified divers seeking rich underwater encounters.

The best time of year to visit Mantigue Island for diving is generally during the dry season, which typically runs from November to May. During these months, the weather is usually more stable, and the seas are calmer, leading to excellent underwater visibility often ranging from 15 to 30 meters. This period provides optimal conditions for enjoying the healthy coral gardens and diverse marine life within the sanctuary.

Certified divers at Mantigue Island can anticipate a rich variety of marine life. The sanctuary is home to numerous reef fish like colorful clownfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish. A highlight for many is the chance to see green sea turtles; there are over 20 residing there, with possibilities of encountering impressively large individuals. Other common encounters may include moray eels, reef squid, nudibranchs, and schools of pelagic fish along the reef edges due to its protected status.

For certified divers, the underwater conditions around Mantigue Island are highly favorable. The area is a protected marine sanctuary featuring healthy coral gardens with both hard and soft corals, alongside sandy slopes and reef edges, ideal for relaxed dives. Divers can expect excellent visibility, typically ranging from 15 to 30 meters. Currents are generally mild, although they can vary with conditions, contributing to a safe and visually rewarding diving experience for all skill levels.