TUBBATAHA
Whale sharks
20/5/ to 26/5/2023
THE ITINERARY
Join us on an Offshore Expedition to the remote Tubbataha Reef, in the heart of the Sulu Sea of the Philippines. 150km away from any civilisation the two massive atolls are famous for big fish action, dolphins, pelagic and reef sharks and the healthiest corals of the Philippines. But the big draw are the whalesharks
THE DIVING
Explore Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park with Solitude Liveaboards for a scuba diving trip unlike any other. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and now an ASEAN Heritage Park, Tubbataha is a 130,028‐hectare protected marine area situated in the middle of the Sulu Sea in the Palawan region of the Philippines. Embark on the majestic Solitude One and head out 150 kilometres away from the Port of Puerto Princessa, where nothing but clear blue waters and some of the best diving in Asia awaits you.
Protected for over 20 years this is the last big refuge for sharks in the Philippines. It is also a whaleshark nursery - it probably is the best place in the world to have guaranteed scuba time with whalesharks. On our last two trips we had countless whaleshark interactions.
The reef life is impressive. Majestic fans and huge coral beds as well as thousands of fish. Reef sharks, sting rays, bumphead parrotfish and other large fish are seen here all the time. Manta rays can also be seen here although a bit less guarenteed. It is probably the best place in the Philippines to dive with whalesharks and manta rays - in clear blue water. In 2016 we encountered 8 different whalesharks and countless manta rays, in 2019 we counted at least 14 different whalesharks - some of which swam around us and played with our bubbles. This is definitely the best place in the world to get scuba dive with these majestic creatures.
from our 2016 expedition
From our 2019 expedition
Our boat
Solitude one
- 52M Steel mono-hull
- Full board food and drinks
- Luxurious bedding in superior staterooms with TV/DVD
- Nitrox and rental equipment available
- Complimentary WiFi - mostly not available
- Jacuzzi
- Camera area
- Rebreather support
- Complimentary use of Nautilus Lifeline GPS devices.
THE BOAT
With a maximum of 22 guests, Solitude I is a high sea vessel purposefully designed for demanding scuba divers. Tubbataha is far offshore and we want to be able to rely on a strong ocean going vessel, in case the weather changes.
The company’s definition of luxury begins with its design, creating purposeful and functional spaces for rest and play,
with even the vessel’s dive deck and boat deck space can also be modified easily with just basic tools to reconfigure for
major exploration expeditions while still providing the exploration team members the luxury of modern home
comforts.
Diving is supported by two large tenders, nitrox filling station and even tech support for rebreathers. Photographers will find their needs catered to with large rinse tanks and towels for camera as well as power hoses for cleaning the kit.
Large rooms feature every detail needed, from big private bathrooms to hair dryers and flat-screen TVs.
Your INSIDER
SIMON LORENZ
Simon is a scuba instructor and award-winning photographer, tech divers and freediver who speaks 6 languages and has dived on 6 continents. The founder of Insider Divers aims to create group trip experiences with that extra special something. He aims to find unusual experiences, unusual sites and meet and greets with local experts.
A scuba instructor and reknown photo coach he offers additional training during the trips to those interested. On all Insider Divers trips he will host talks, video screenings and workshops to enhance your understanding of the animals that we encounter.
EXTRAS
Tour guide and photographer Simon Lorenz will be on board lending a helping hand to anyone wanting to improve their diving. Nitrox is a useful tool to extend bottom time, Simon certify you on site.
Aside from free presentations on sharks and manta rays, free wide angle photography courses will be held on demand.
RATES&CONDITIONS
This 6N/7D safari starts from Puerto Princesa. There are various room types to chose from, please contact us for more information.
The trip is not suitable for beginners, a minimum of 40 dives and Advanced Open Water certification are required as well as dive and travel insurance. Please contact us to discuss your limitations openly.
how to book
Please send us an email with your name, your dive experience and any questions you may have. Or click the BOOK TRIP button below.