Dive Site: Jigdup Shoal

About Jigdup Shoal

Jigdup Shoal is an offshore dive site located in the Bohol Sea, accessible from Camiguin Island, known for its pristine and uncrowded conditions. This site is part of the volcanic underwater landscape of Camiguin, which contributes to dramatic formations and nutrient-rich waters supporting diverse marine ecosystems. The topography includes vibrant hard and soft coral gardens, as well as a distinct 'Wall' dive, both teeming with fish life. Depths typically range from shallow coral areas to deeper sections reaching around 30 meters or more, offering varied experiences for different skill levels. While specific seasonality for marine life is not detailed, the site is recognized for healthy corals and abundant fish. Divers can expect encounters with a variety of reef fish, nudibranchs, feather stars, giant clams, and occasional turtles. The rich waters are consistently active with marine creatures. Diving at Jigdup Shoal is often described as serene, with calm surface conditions contributing to an enjoyable experience. Due to its offshore location, it is not a routine destination, often requiring favorable weather. The absence of crowds provides a unique opportunity for an immersive underwater exploration.

Dive site facts: Jigdup Shoal

Depth

5-32 m

Current

Variable, potentially strong

Water temperature

25-30°C (78-86°F)

Entry

Day boat

Level

Intermediate to Advanced recommended due to currents

Dive type

Coral garden, wall, reef, big animals possible

Region / port

Camiguin, Southern Philippines

Coordinates

11.1698° N, 122.0242° E

Conditions & Currents

Jigdup Shoal is situated in the open seas, making it susceptible to changes in currents and waves. Divers should anticipate that conditions can vary, though calm waters are often experienced on favorable days. While not explicitly stated as a drift dive site, the offshore location implies the potential for currents, requiring divers to pay close attention to dive briefings regarding entry procedures, descent timing, and exit plans. Divers should be prepared for potential strong currents and understand how to stay streamlined and conserve air. Local dive guides are crucial for navigating the site's conditions and ensuring safe diving.

Marine life & sighting chances

Scorpionfish

occasional

Nudibranchs

common

Feather Stars

common

Giant Clams

common

Anemone Fish

common

Juvenile Fish

common

Green Sea Turtle

occasional

Hawksbill Turtle

occasional

White-tip Reef Shark

rare

Manta Ray

rare

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Divers typically access Jigdup Shoal by day boat from Camiguin, making an entry when conditions are favorable. The site often features two distinct dives: 'Black Forest' and 'The Wall'. For 'Black Forest', descents are typically limited to around 25-32 meters, with a dive duration of approximately 45-56 minutes, exploring rich hard and soft coral gardens. 'The Wall' dive, nearby, is shallower and focuses on critter spotting, including nudibranchs, feather stars, and giant clams, along a richly decorated wall. Divers gradually ascend towards shallower areas for safety stops, allowing for extended bottom times while observing marine life. Buoyancy control is paramount to avoid damaging fragile corals, especially during the safety stop period.

Underwater photography

Jigdup Shoal offers diverse photographic opportunities. For wide-angle shots, 'Black Forest' with its extensive coral gardens and volcanic formations is ideal. A fisheye lens can capture the scale of the healthy reefs. For macro enthusiasts, 'The Wall' is a treasure trove of subjects like nudibranchs, feather stars, and juvenile fish, where a macro lens is essential. External strobes are recommended to bring out the vibrant colors of corals and critters, especially at deeper sections. Due to potentially variable currents, maintaining good buoyancy is critical to avoid blur and protect the reef. Always respect marine life; do not touch or disturb subjects for a better shot.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Monad Shoal

  Famous for thresher shark encounters, requiring early morning dives.

• Lonos Marine Sanctuary

  Protected area known for diverse marine life.

• Pescador Island

  Renowned for sardine runs and healthy reefs.

• Donsol — Whale Shark Interaction

  Known for seasonal whale shark encounters, primarily snorkeling.

Getting there & logistics

Jigdup Shoal is accessed via day boats departing from Camiguin Island. The primary gateway to Camiguin is via flights to Mambajao Airport (CMG) from Cebu, or by ferry from Balingoan on the Mindanao mainland. Dive trips to the shoal are dependent on weather and sea conditions, as it is an offshore site. It is advisable to book with local dive operators in Mambajao or Tupsan. There are no specific park fees mentioned for Jigdup Shoal, but standard dive fees apply. Trips typically last a full day, including surface intervals between two dives. Liveaboard access to Camiguin is less common than day trips, but the region can be combined with other Visayas destinations on extended itineraries.

Safety & environment

The nearest recompression chamber is likely in Cebu or Davao, requiring significant evacuation time by boat or air in case of a serious dive emergency. Dive insurance, specifically covering recompression and medical evacuation, is strongly recommended for all divers visiting Jigdup Shoal. Site-specific hazards include potentially strong and unpredictable currents, especially given its open-sea location; divers must be proficient in drift diving techniques and maintain excellent buoyancy control. Always follow your dive guide's instructions closely, maintain buddy contact, and be mindful of your dive profile and no-decompression limits. It's crucial to stay well-hydrated due to the tropical climate.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Jigdup Shoal FAQ

Liveaboards diving Jigdup Shoal

These liveaboards may visit Jigdup Shoal 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

$363/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