Stella Maris Explorer

The Philippines, an archipelago renowned for its breathtaking biodiversity, offers some of the world's most spectacular dive sites. From the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park to the vibrant Apo Reef and the historic wrecks of Coron, these waters teem with life. Expect crystal-clear visibility, dramatic wall dives adorned with corals, and encounters with pelagic giants like sharks, manta rays, and even whale sharks. The Stella Maris Explorer is your dedicated gateway to these underwater marvels, providing year-round access to the best dive locations in the Sulu Sea. Diving from the Stella Maris Explorer is a meticulously organized and exhilarating experience. The vessel utilizes two custom-designed 8-meter hard-bottom dive tenders, ensuring swift and comfortable transfers to dive sites. With a generous schedule of up to four dives per day, divers have ample opportunity to explore the nutrient-rich waters. Groups are kept intimate with an excellent diver-to-guide ratio of 5:1, guaranteeing personalized attention and enhanced safety. For certified divers, Nitrox is freely available, allowing for extended bottom times and reduced surface intervals, maximizing your underwater exploration. Life aboard the Stella Maris Explorer is designed for relaxation and camaraderie. Guests are accommodated in ten spacious, fully air-conditioned cabins, each featuring comfortable memory foam mattresses and pillows, ample storage, and private en-suite bathrooms with hot and cold running water. Beyond the cabins, the vessel boasts inviting social areas, including a welcoming salon equipped with a large TV for entertainment. The expansive top deck is a highlight, offering both sun-drenched and shaded areas with chairs and loungers – perfect for soaking up the tropical rays, unwinding between dives, or enjoying a stunning Philippine sunset with a refreshing drink. A jacuzzi provides an added touch of luxury for post-dive relaxation. Culinary delights are a central part of the Stella Maris Explorer experience. Meals are served buffet-style in the dedicated dining area, featuring expertly prepared dishes that blend Western and local flavors. The menu emphasizes fresh ingredients, including an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and a variety of proteins to fuel your diving adventures. Snacks are available throughout the day, and a selection of beer and wine is offered. The attentive crew is dedicated to providing exceptional hospitality, ensuring all guests' needs are met, including accommodating specific dietary requirements such as vegetarian or vegan options upon request. Built in 1980 and thoughtfully renovated in 2018, the Stella Maris Explorer is a seasoned liveaboard measuring 33 meters in length with a 6.5-meter beam. This robust vessel is powered by a single engine, allowing for a comfortable cruising speed of 10 knots and a top speed of 15 knots. She is designed to host a maximum of 20 guests across 10 cabins, ensuring a personalized and uncrowded experience. With substantial water and fuel capacities of 30 tons each, the Stella Maris Explorer is well-equipped for extended journeys to remote dive sites. Embarkation for trips typically occurs from Puerto Princesa, providing convenient access to the region's premier dive destinations. The best season for diving in Tubbataha, a primary itinerary, generally runs from March to June, offering optimal weather and marine conditions. The Stella Maris Explorer is an ideal choice for divers seeking a comfortable and well-organized liveaboard experience, particularly those passionate about exploring the rich biodiversity of the Philippines.