Tubbataha Reefs: A Diver’s Paradise

Located in the Sulu Sea, the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is one of the best diving destinations in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 97,030-hectare marine protected area is home to pristine coral reefs, diverse marine life, and some of the clearest waters in the Philippines.

A Marine Wonderland

Tubbataha consists of two atolls: the North Atoll and South Atoll, separated by a deep channel. These reefs are home to over 600 species of fish, 360 species of corals, 13 species of sharks, and numerous dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. The area is a sanctuary for endangered species, including the green sea turtle and hawksbill turtle.

Divers can experience thrilling wall dives, strong currents, and large pelagic encounters, making it a paradise for underwater exploration. Among the most famous dive sites are:

Jessie Beazley Reef – A vibrant coral reef teeming with marine life.
Shark Airport – Known for its abundance of reef sharks.
Black Rock – A great site for spotting manta rays and large fish species.

How to Visit
Tubbataha Reef is only accessible via liveaboard dive boats, as it is located about 150 km southeast of Puerto Princesa, Palawan. The best time to visit is between March and June, when the waters are calm and visibility is at its best.

A Protected Treasure
Strict conservation efforts keep Tubbataha one of the most untouched marine ecosystems in the world. For diving enthusiasts and nature lovers, this underwater paradise offers an unforgettable experience and a glimpse of the ocean at its most pristine.

How to Get to Tubbataha Reef from Manila

Since Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is located in the middle of the Sulu Sea, it is only accessible via liveaboard dive boats from Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Here’s how to get there:

Step 1:
Fly from Manila to Puerto Princesa
Take a direct flight from Manila (NAIA) to Puerto Princesa International Airport.
Airlines: Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia.
Flight duration: 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Step 2:
Board a Liveaboard Dive Boat
Liveaboard boats are the only way to reach Tubbataha.
The journey from Puerto Princesa to Tubbataha takes about 10 hours by boat.
Most liveaboard trips depart in the evening and arrive at Tubbataha the next morning.
The dive season is from mid-March to mid-June, when the waters are calm.

Step 3:
Enjoy Diving in Tubbataha
Liveaboard trips usually last 5 to 7 days and include multiple dives at the North and South Atolls, Jessie Beazley Reef, and other dive sites.

Important Tips:
Book in advance, as liveaboard trips fill up quickly.
Only experienced divers are recommended, as Tubbataha has strong currents.
Follow conservation rules, as the area is a protected marine park.
Visiting Tubbataha is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering some of the best diving in the world!