Dive Site: Apo Reef

About Apo Reef

Apo Reef, situated between Mindoro and Coron, stands as the Philippines' most expansive contiguous coral reef system and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vast underwater wilderness features two isolated atolls, Apo Island (identifiable by its lighthouse) and Apo Menor, separated by a deep channel. The dive sites typically begin near Apo Island, presenting options suitable for all experience levels. The reef is characterized by breathtaking coral-studded walls that plummet to significant depths, creating a dramatic backdrop for an incredible diversity of marine life. Over 385 fish species and 400 coral types thrive here, making it a vibrant ecosystem. Divers frequently encounter schools of reef fish, pelagics, and various shark species. From October to May, conditions are generally optimal with excellent visibility and calm seas, though the area is diveable year-round. While currents can range from mild to strong, they often bring nutrient-rich waters that attract larger marine animals, making drift diving a common and rewarding experience. This remote location offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure, primarily accessible via liveaboard, catering to intermediate and advanced divers seeking thrilling encounters and pristine underwater landscapes.

Dive site facts: Apo Reef

Depth

4–152 m (Apo 29), 6–40 m (Aladin), 6–18 m (Apo 5)

Typical dive

12–25 m, 50–60 min

Current

Mild to strong

Visibility

15–40 m

Water temperature

27–30°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Advanced Open Water recommended

Dive type

Wall, drift, reef

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Mindoro, Palawan

Coordinates

12.517, 120.454

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Apo Reef can vary significantly, ranging from mild drifts to strong washing machine-like conditions, particularly at sites like Coconut Point. Dive operators will assess daily conditions, often recommending drift dives where currents sweep divers along the reef. Divers should be prepared for varying current strengths and ensure proficiency in drift diving techniques, including efficient air consumption and streamlined body positioning. Communication regarding entry, descent timing, and exit procedures is crucial for safety, as the boat will track and pick up divers at the surface. Visibility remains excellent, typically between 15 to 40 meters, even with stronger currents, but divers should always heed the guide's instructions and maintain situational awareness to fully enjoy the experience while staying safe.

Marine life & sighting chances

Manta ray

All year · occasional

Hammerhead shark

All year · occasional

Thresher shark

All year · occasional

Whitetip reef shark

All year · common

Blacktip reef shark

All year · common

Grey reef shark

All year · common

Green turtle

All year · common

Hawksbill turtle

All year · common

Reef fish

All year · common

Nudibranch

All year · common

Dolphin

All year · occasional

Grouper

All year · common

Tuna

All year · occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

A typical dive at Apo Reef often starts near Apo Island, with descent alongside a mooring line to the drop-off where currents converge. At sites like Southeast Point, you will initially observe schooling surgeonfish, jacks, groupers, and tuna gathering in the rich currents, particularly in the morning. After this initial observation, the dive typically transitions into a relaxed drift along the wall, which begins at around 16 meters. During the drift, you can spot turtles, sweetlips, and various reef sharks. Some sites, like Coconut Point, are known for stronger, washing machine-like currents, so entry and descent must be carefully coordinated with the dive guide. Safety stops are generally performed as part of the drift, with the dive boat tracking and picking up divers at the surface.

Underwater photography

Apo Reef is excellent for both wide-angle and macro photography due to its diverse ecosystems. For dramatic wall dives and encounters with schooling fish, sharks, and manta rays, a wide-angle lens with external strobes is highly recommended to capture the expansive coral formations and pelagic action in the often-clear waters. During the dry season (March to June), conditions are ideal for these shots. For macro enthusiasts, particularly at sites with gentler currents, look for nudibranchs and other small reef critters that thrive in the vibrant coral gardens. Buoyancy control is paramount, especially during drift dives and near fragile corals, to avoid disturbing the ecosystem and ensure sharp images. Consider a powerful focus light for exploring crevices and bringing out the colors of smaller subjects.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Tubbataha Reef

  A UNESCO World Heritage Site accessible only by liveaboard during a specific season.

• Coron Bay — Skeleton Wreck

  Known for its Japanese WWII wrecks, offering unique wreck diving experiences.

• Verde Island Passage

  Recognized for its high marine biodiversity and various dive sites.

• Anilao — Secret Bay

  Famous for macro photography and muck diving opportunities.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Apo Reef is primarily via liveaboard trips, typically departing from ports in Palawan, such as Puerto Princesa, or Mindoro. These liveaboard itineraries often combine Apo Reef with other remote sites like Tubbataha Reef during its limited season. Trip lengths vary but generally range from 3 to 7 nights, allowing for multiple dives across various sites within the park. Marine park fees are applicable and are usually included in liveaboard packages. International travelers typically fly into Manila (MNL) or Cebu (CEB) and then take a domestic flight to a departure city like Puerto Princesa (PPS). Booking well in advance is advisable, especially for peak season trips, as this destination is remote and popular.

Safety & environment

Diving at Apo Reef, due to its remote location and potentially strong currents, requires careful safety considerations. Divers should ensure they have comprehensive dive insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation, as the nearest recompression chamber is several hours away by boat and plane, likely in Manila or Cebu. Always dive within your certification limits and follow your dive guide's instructions, especially regarding drift dive procedures and current conditions. Maintain excellent buoyancy control to protect the pristine coral reefs. Be aware of boat traffic when surfacing and deploy a safety sausage or SMB. Due to the high chance of pelagic encounters, always keep a safe distance and never attempt to touch or feed marine life.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Apo Reef FAQ

Liveaboards diving Apo Reef

These liveaboards may visit Apo Reef on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Infiniti

Philippines

25 guests39 m

$280/day

Seadoors

Philippines

16 guests25 m

$335/day

Resolute

Philippines

16 guests34.6 m

$314/day

Dolphin

Philippines

18 guests31 m

$326/day

Navis 1

Philippines

22 guests23 m

$250/day

Philippine Siren

Philippines

16 guests

$309/day

Palau Sport

Philippines

24 guests38.35 m

$215/day

Philippines Aggressor

Philippines

26 guests42.7 m

$381/day

Stella Maris Explorer

Philippines

20 guests33 m

$398/day

Solitude One

Philippines

24 guests52 m

$460/day

Atlantis Adventurer

Philippines

16 guests32.5 m

$421/day

Philippines Aggressor II

Philippines

26 guests42.7 m

$247/day