| Water activity type | Diving |
| Special water activity | Trial dive (beginner) |
| Activity level | Beginner |
Not recommended for: A person with heart trouble, a current cold or congestion or who has epilepsy, asthma, a serious medical problem, or who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Health Requirements: Travelers must be in excellent health to join the tour. If health requirements are not met upon arrival, service may be refused by the local agency.
This is a Shared Tour
Bantayan Island is renowned for its remarkably clear, calm waters and thriving coral reefs, which create a safe and inviting environment for beginners. The gentle underwater currents and shallow dive sites allow first-time divers to comfortably learn and explore. Its rich biodiversity also ensures an engaging and visually stunning introduction to the underwater world.
During a Discover Scuba Diving experience around Bantayan Island, you can expect to encounter a vibrant array of marine life. Common sightings include various species of colorful reef fish, sea turtles, seahorses, and diverse soft and hard corals. The healthy ecosystems offer a captivating glimpse into the Philippines' underwater biodiversity.
The optimal season for a Discover Scuba Diving experience on Bantayan Island is typically during the dry months, from November to May. During this period, the weather is generally stable, the sea is calm, and underwater visibility is at its best. These conditions provide an excellent and comfortable experience for divers, especially beginners.
No, prior scuba diving experience or formal certification is not required for the Discover Scuba Diving program on Bantayan Island. It's specifically designed for beginners and includes comprehensive introductory training, essential safety briefings, and hands-on guidance from certified instructors. You do not need strong swimming skills to participate.
From Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB), you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the Cebu North Bus Terminal. From there, board a bus bound for Hagnaya Port, which typically takes 3-4 hours. Upon arrival at Hagnaya Port, ferries regularly depart for Santa Fe Port on Bantayan Island, with the ferry journey lasting approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
The ferry journey from Hagnaya Port on mainland Cebu to Santa Fe Port on Bantayan Island typically takes between 1 to 1.5 hours. Multiple ferry operators offer frequent departures throughout the day, ensuring convenient and regular transfers to the island. It's advisable to check the latest schedules and possibly book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times.
A Discover Scuba Diving package on Bantayan Island usually includes comprehensive introductory training sessions, thorough safety briefings, and expert guidance from certified diving instructors. All necessary diving equipment, such as masks, fins, buoyancy control devices (BCDs), regulators, and tanks, is provided. The package is designed to offer a complete and safe first-time diving experience.
Yes, private vehicles can generally be transported on the ferries from Hagnaya Port to Bantayan Island. It is strongly recommended to reserve a slot for your vehicle in advance, particularly during holidays or peak travel seasons, as space is often limited. Required documents typically include the vehicle's registration papers and the driver's license, along with specific fees for vehicle transport.