Resolute

The Philippines, an archipelago blessed with unparalleled biodiversity, beckons divers to a realm of extraordinary underwater wonders. From the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tubbataha Reef, teeming with sharks and vibrant coral gardens, to the thresher shark encounters of Malapascua and the whale shark havens of Cebu, this region offers a kaleidoscope of marine experiences. The Resolute, a seasoned liveaboard, is perfectly positioned to navigate these rich waters, offering divers privileged access to some of the planet's most spectacular dive sites, where warm currents nurture an astonishing array of species. Diving from the Resolute is a meticulously organized experience designed for both comfort and efficiency. With a spacious dive deck located at the stern, divers benefit from ample room for kitting up and individual gear storage. The vessel utilizes tenders for seamless transfers to dive sites, ensuring quick and easy access to the action. Nitrox is available, catering to divers seeking extended bottom times, and DIN adaptors are provided for convenience. The experienced dive guides lead small groups, maximizing safety and personal attention, and night dives are a regular highlight, revealing the nocturnal secrets of the reef. Life aboard the Resolute balances adventurous diving with comfortable relaxation. The vessel accommodates just 16 guests in 8 air-conditioned cabins, each featuring an en-suite bathroom for privacy and convenience. Beyond the cabins, guests can unwind in the indoor salon, equipped with an entertainment system, or find a quiet corner in the onboard library. The ship's bow offers a delightful space with loungers, perfect for soaking up the tropical sun between dives, while outside showers are available for a refreshing rinse after a dip in the ocean. Culinary delights are a cornerstone of the Resolute experience, with meals served in the inviting open-air dining room. Guests are treated to a generous five-course buffet for dinner, typically featuring a diverse spread of two meat dishes, one seafood option, soup, and fresh vegetables. Snacks are provided throughout the day to keep energy levels high, and a variety of beverages including beer, soft drinks, and tea/coffee are available. The attentive crew is adept at catering to special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian options, provided advance notice is given, ensuring every guest enjoys a satisfying and delicious dining experience. Originally built in 1974 and renovated in 1998, the Resolute is a well-established liveaboard measuring 34.60 meters in length and 7 meters in beam. She comfortably hosts a maximum of 16 guests across 8 cabins, with an equal number of bathrooms. The vessel is powered by twin 27-foot tenders with 75HP Yamaha engines and a 21-foot tender with a 55HP Yamaha, ensuring reliable transport to dive sites. With a water capacity of 14 tons, the Resolute is well-equipped for extended journeys, offering a stable and dependable platform for exploring the remote wonders of the Philippines. Transfers to the vessel typically involve arriving at Puerto Princesa, the embarkation port for Tubbataha itineraries. While the base trip price does not include airport or hotel transfers, these can be arranged as optional extras. The best season for diving Tubbataha is generally from March to June, when conditions are optimal for encountering the diverse pelagic life that makes this region famous. For those seeking whale sharks and thresher sharks, the Visayas region is best explored from July to October, followed by Apo Reef for hammerhead and reef shark sightings.