Dive Log: 11/01/2024
Dive Site Name: Friday's rock
Dive Depth: 17.2
Dive Duration: 55
About The Dive: Today's dive at Friday's rock was amazing. So much life on the pinnacle!!!
We saw a peacock mantis shrimp, a beautiful scorpion fish, school of fusillier, striped catfish, marble grouper, trumpet fish mating and so much more. When scuba diving in boracay, don't miss that dive it's always amazing!!!
Dive Log: 10/31/2024
Dive Site Name: Laguna
Dive Depth: 15.7
Dive Duration: 50
About The Dive: Boracay island in the Philippines is a great place for macro dive. We went scuba diving today to Laguna and spotted lots of macro, pipefish, nudibranch… And also red banded shrimp hiding in the reef. We also had a beautiful encounter with a sea Snake.
It was a very beautiful and very relaxing dive
Dive Log: 10/30/2024
Dive Site Name: Tambisaan
Dive Depth: 10.5
Dive Duration: 40
About The Dive: Discover scuba diving is a great program for beginners. Boracay island in the Philippines is a great place for it because it offers several dive site that are easy to access and explore.
Today we chose Tambisaan for the discover scuba diving. It's a very beautiful dive site in Boracay and a pretty coral reef to explore at a shallow depth. Today we had many clown fish, pufferfish and a beautiful turtle.
Dive Log: 10/28/2024
Dive Site Name: Laguna
Dive Depth: 7.5
Dive Duration: 50
About The Dive: I took Serge, for a discover scuba diving experience to Laguna this afternoon. The site is beautiful and just a short boat trip from Boracay island shore.
Just a few minutes after we started the dive we had a beautiful encounter with a large school of batfish. Those fish are amazing and always very curious toward divers. Just nearby was a large pufferfish.
The dive went on for 50 minutes and we had great time enjoying the corals and the marine life there.
Boracay, with its crystal-clear waters and thriving marine ecosystem, is one of the Philippines’ top destinations for scuba diving. Among its diverse marine life, sea turtles hold a special allure. Known locally as “pawikan,” these ancient creatures have roamed the oceans for over 100 million years and bring a sense of wonder to every dive. This guide provides everything you need to know about diving with turtles in Boracay—where to find them, what to expect, and why diving with New Wave Divers Boracay offers an unmatched experience.
Boracay is home to a few different species of sea turtles, but the most commonly seen ones include the green sea turtle and the hawksbill turtle. Here’s what to know about each:
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas): Recognizable by their rounder shells and olive-colored bodies, green sea turtles can grow up to 5 feet in length. These gentle creatures primarily graze on seagrasses and algae, which contributes to their iconic green-tinted fat layer.
Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata): Named for their unique beak-like mouths, hawksbill turtles have a patterned shell with amber and brown tones. Smaller than the green turtle, they feed mostly on sponges and are critical to coral reef health as they help control sponge populations.
Both species are classified as endangered, making it even more special to encounter them in their natural habitat.
Certain dive sites around Boracay are particularly known for turtle sightings. Here are some of the top spots where you’re likely to encounter these fascinating creatures:
Crocodile Island: One of Boracay’s top dive sites, Crocodile Island offers an abundance of marine life, including regular visits from green and hawksbill turtles. The shallow reefs and clear waters make this a prime spot for observing turtles in their natural environment.
Laurel Island: Known for its coral gardens and sandy patches, Laurel Island is another hotspot for turtle sightings. The area is teeming with seagrasses, a favorite food for green turtles, making it more likely to encounter these peaceful grazers here.
Tribird Wreck: This iconic wreck dive site attracts not only divers seeking adventure but also marine life such as turtles. The wreck’s structure creates an artificial reef, providing shelter and feeding grounds that turtles are known to visit. Diving with New Wave Divers Boracay at this site provides an exciting chance to spot a turtle while exploring a wreck.
In Boracay, sea turtles can be spotted year-round, but certain seasons improve visibility and marine activity:
Peak Season (March to May): During this time, the waters are calm, visibility is excellent, and marine life is especially active. With the clear visibility, encountering turtles becomes a more memorable experience.
Monsoon Season (June to October): While turtle sightings are still very likely, monsoon conditions can reduce visibility and make diving slightly more challenging. However, during this quieter season, fewer divers mean a more intimate encounter with Boracay’s underwater inhabitants.
Diving with New Wave Divers Boracay ensures that you’ll get the best guidance on seasonal conditions and tips for increasing your chances of a turtle encounter.
Diving with sea turtles is an unforgettable experience, but it’s crucial to approach these encounters responsibly to avoid disturbing the animals and their habitat. Here are some essential tips:
Respect Their Space: Turtles are calm creatures, but they can be sensitive to stress. Maintain a respectful distance of at least 10 feet and avoid sudden movements that may startle them.
Avoid Touching or Feeding: While it may be tempting to reach out, touching or feeding turtles can disrupt their natural behavior and may even harm them. Turtles are wild animals and should be observed, not interfered with.
Minimize Flash Photography: If you’re photographing turtles, turn off the flash, as it can startle them and impact their vision. New Wave Divers Boracay provides divers with guidelines to ensure photography is turtle-friendly.
Watch Your Buoyancy: Good buoyancy control prevents accidental contact with turtles or coral. Practicing buoyancy skills with New Wave Divers Boracay’s instructors before your dive can make a big difference in protecting marine life.
Following these tips will help protect turtles and keep your diving experience both safe and rewarding.
Diving with turtles is unlike any other experience. These creatures exude a calmness that’s contagious, allowing divers to feel a deeper connection with the marine world. Here’s what you can expect on a typical turtle dive in Boracay:
Up-Close Encounters: Sea turtles in Boracay are relatively accustomed to divers, so you’re likely to get a close view. Watching a turtle glide gracefully through the water or nibble on seagrass is a sight that leaves a lasting impression.
Turtle Behavior: Turtles exhibit unique behaviors, from grazing on seagrass to surfacing for air. Green turtles, in particular, spend time munching on the seagrass meadows near reefs, while hawksbills may focus on sponges attached to coral formations.
Other Marine Life: Boracay’s dive sites are teeming with diverse marine life, so while you’re on the lookout for turtles, expect to see vibrant coral, schools of fish, and possibly even a reef shark or two. Diving with New Wave Divers Boracay guarantees an immersive experience with knowledgeable guides pointing out these hidden gems.
Sea turtles face numerous threats, including pollution, plastic ingestion, and poaching. New Wave Divers Boracay is dedicated to sustainable and conservation-friendly diving practices to help protect these majestic animals. Here are some of the ways they contribute:
Educational Programs: New Wave Divers Boracay offers courses and talks on marine conservation, including turtle conservation. These programs educate divers on the importance of protecting turtles and other marine life.
Ocean Clean-Ups: Regular ocean clean-ups are organized by the shop, where divers collect plastics, fishing lines, and other debris that could harm sea turtles and other marine life. Participating in these clean-ups is a great way for divers to give back to the ocean.
Supporting Marine Sanctuaries: The dive shop advocates for marine protected areas in Boracay, recognizing the importance of these zones for turtle nesting and feeding. By diving with New Wave Divers Boracay, you’re supporting an operator that prioritizes marine conservation.
If you’re planning a turtle dive, some preparation can enhance your experience. Here are a few steps to get the most out of your dive:
Take a Refresher Course: If you’re a little rusty, a refresher dive is highly recommended. New Wave Divers Boracay offers refresher courses that sharpen your skills and improve your comfort underwater.
Pack a Camera or GoPro: Turtles are mesmerizing to watch, and capturing the experience on film is a great way to relive it. Ask New Wave Divers Boracay about the best camera options and settings for underwater photography.
Learn About Turtle Behavior: Understanding basic turtle behaviors helps divers predict their movements. This knowledge enhances your interaction, making it easier to observe turtles without disrupting them.
Get the Right Gear: Make sure you have gear suited for turtle diving. New Wave Divers Boracay provides high-quality gear rentals, ensuring you’re comfortable and prepared for an optimal diving experience.
With so many dive shops in Boracay, it’s important to choose one that prioritizes both the diving experience and environmental conservation. Here’s why New Wave Divers Boracay stands out as the best option:
Experienced Guides: The team at New Wave Divers Boracay includes skilled instructors with deep knowledge of Boracay’s dive sites and marine life. They’ll take you to the best spots for turtle sightings and offer tips for responsible interactions.
Eco-Conscious Practices: As an advocate for conservation, New Wave Divers Boracay follows strict guidelines to protect marine life. By diving with them, you’re supporting an operator that values environmental stewardship.
Customized Turtle Dive Experiences: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, New Wave Divers Boracay tailors the dive to suit your comfort and skill level, ensuring everyone has a safe, enjoyable experience.
Diving with turtles in Boracay is a highlight for any scuba enthusiast. Whether you’re an experienced diver or just starting, these gentle creatures provide a magical underwater experience that connects you to the ocean like nothing else. Choosing New Wave Divers Boracay not only enhances your chance of turtle encounters but also allows you to dive responsibly and support marine conservation efforts. So, grab your gear, head to Boracay, and prepare for an unforgettable dive with some of the ocean’s oldest residents!
Wish to know more about the diving in Boracay? Our team will be delighted to answer your questions and let us know why we should be your first choice when planning your dive vacation to the Philippines. We hope to hear from you soon!
Dive Log: 10/29/2024
Dive Site Name: Laguna
Dive Depth: 9.8
Dive Duration: 50
About The Dive: Today was a beautiful day to have a fun dive in Laguna. Boracay island in the Philippines has a lot of beautiful scuba diving sites and Laguna is one of them.
It is a perfect site for a discover scuba diving experience as it has a wide shallow reef to explore. And also very beautiful for experienced diver to explore the deepest part.
As we started the dive, we were greeted by a Nemo trying to keep us away from it's anemone.
During the dive we had encounter with a big pufferfish, damsel fish, trumpet fish and many more.
The coral reef in Boracay is beautiful and it's home of multiple variety of fish.
This dive was no exception and the 59 ln we spent underwater felt like 15 mn.
Dive Log: 10/16/2024
Dive Site Name: Diniwid
Dive Depth: 16 meters
Dive Duration: 43 mins
About The Dive: Great morning dive today. We had great visibility and light current.
Beautiful colorful corals on the top of the wall and down the slope.
As we drifted along the edge we spoted a Green Turtle just chilling and really wasn't bothered that we were there
When you think of Boracay, the first things that probably come to mind are its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand beaches, and incredible diving opportunities. But there’s another iconic symbol that stands out against the island’s stunning landscape — Willy’s Rock. Perched on the edge of the shoreline along White Beach, Willy’s Rock is more than just a rock formation; it’s a beloved landmark and a cultural treasure that every visitor to Boracay should experience.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the history and significance of Willy’s Rock, why it’s such a special place to visit, and how it can enhance your Boracay diving vacation.
Willy’s Rock is a unique volcanic rock formation that rises from the sea just a few meters offshore along Station 1 of White Beach. It’s a small but picturesque structure, characterized by jagged, weather-worn rocks that have been shaped by the elements over time. On top of Willy’s Rock is a small shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary, giving it a spiritual significance for locals and visitors alike.
The rock formation itself is easy to access from the shore, especially during low tide when you can walk right up to it. During high tide, it becomes a small island that you can still visit with a short swim or wade through the water.
While Willy’s Rock may be best known as a photo opportunity, it also holds a deeper cultural and religious significance for many of the island’s residents. The shrine of the Virgin Mary atop Willy’s Rock is a place of reflection and prayer, where locals and visitors often stop to offer a moment of peace and gratitude.
Visiting the shrine is a reminder of the island’s blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, offering a more profound experience than just snapping a selfie. Whether you’re religious or not, it’s easy to appreciate the serenity that surrounds this iconic spot.
You might be wondering, what does Willy’s Rock have to do with diving? While it isn’t a dive site itself, Willy’s Rock offers the perfect starting point or break from your dive adventures around Boracay. Located along Station 1, it’s an easy stop to explore either before or after a dive, offering a stunning place to relax, enjoy the scenery, and soak in the island’s natural charm.
As you explore Boracay’s underwater treasures, don’t forget to capture some memories above the surface as well. Willy’s Rock offers one of the most Instagram-worthy spots on the island. The contrast between the rock’s rugged appearance and the surrounding turquoise waters makes for breathtaking photos, especially during sunset when the sky turns shades of pink and orange.
Many divers use Willy’s Rock as a place to take a break between dives, especially if you’re exploring the dive sites off the northern parts of the island. It’s a great way to stay connected to the island’s beauty, even when you’re out of the water.
Although Willy’s Rock is a small formation, there’s still plenty to do while visiting this iconic spot:
Climb to the Shrine: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb the steps that lead to the shrine of the Virgin Mary at the top of the rock. The climb is short and manageable, and from the top, you’ll be rewarded with a lovely view of the beach and the surrounding waters.
Relax in the Shallows: During low tide, Willy’s Rock becomes surrounded by shallow water, creating a peaceful wading pool where you can cool off and enjoy the view of the ocean.
Sunset Viewing: Willy’s Rock is one of the best places to catch Boracay’s famous sunsets. As the sun dips below the horizon, the entire beach becomes bathed in golden light, creating the perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening.
Snorkeling: If you’re in the mood for some light snorkeling, the waters around Willy’s Rock are crystal clear, offering the chance to see small schools of fish darting around the rock formation.
Whether you’re staying in Boracay for the diving or the beach, Willy’s Rock should definitely be on your list of places to visit. It’s easily accessible, offers stunning views, and provides a peaceful spot to reflect or relax during your adventures on the island.
If you’re planning your Boracay dive vacation with us, be sure to add Willy’s Rock to your itinerary. Not only is it a beautiful landmark, but it’s also a great place to take a break from the excitement of exploring the island’s dive sites.
Getting to Willy’s Rock is easy. It’s located along Station 1 of White Beach, one of the most popular areas in Boracay. If you’re staying near White Beach, it’s just a short walk or tricycle ride away. Most visitors prefer to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the tide is lower and the lighting is perfect for photos.
While it’s possible to visit Willy’s Rock at any time of the day, the experience is different depending on the tide. At low tide, you can walk right up to the rock, but during high tide, you may need to swim or wade through deeper water to get there. Both times offer unique experiences, so it’s worth visiting more than once if you can.
Willy’s Rock may be a small formation, but it holds a big place in the hearts of both locals and visitors to Boracay. Whether you’re a diver looking for the perfect spot to unwind between dives or a traveler soaking in the island’s rich culture, Willy’s Rock is a must-see destination that offers both natural beauty and cultural significance.
So, the next time you visit Boracay, don’t forget to dive into its rich underwater world and take the time to appreciate the wonders above the surface, starting with the iconic Willy’s Rock. It’s the perfect spot to make lasting memories and connect with the island’s unique charm.
If you’re planning a dive vacation to Boracay, make sure to check out our diving packages and explore the incredible underwater world we have to offer. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, we’ve got dive experiences tailored just for you. Dive into adventure, and don’t forget to stop by Willy’s Rock along the way!
Wish to know more about the diving in Boracay? Our team will be delighted to answer your questions and let us know why we should be your first choice when planning your dive vacation to the Philippines. We hope to hear from you soon!
Boracay isn’t just a dream destination for scuba diving enthusiasts; it’s also a food lover’s paradise. After a day of exploring the vibrant marine life, enjoying breathtaking dive sites, and soaking in the sun, Boracay’s culinary scene offers the perfect way to refuel. From fresh seafood to Filipino specialties, international favorites, and tropical treats, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
It’s no surprise that seafood reigns supreme in Boracay. Being an island destination, Boracay’s proximity to the ocean means that the seafood is always fresh and plentiful. Whether you’re a fan of lobster, shrimp, crab, or grilled fish, the variety of seafood options available on the island will amaze you.
D’Talipapa Market: For the ultimate seafood experience, head to D’Talipapa, Boracay’s famous wet market. Here, you can handpick the seafood you want, from tiger prawns to blue crabs, and then take it to a nearby restaurant to have it prepared to your liking. Whether you want it grilled, steamed, or cooked in the famous Filipino-style chili garlic sauce, you’ll have a meal that’s not only fresh but also personalized.
No trip to Boracay is complete without indulging in traditional Filipino dishes. Dive into the rich flavors of local cuisine, from hearty stews to savory street food. Filipino dishes are known for their bold combinations of sweet, salty, and sour flavors, giving every bite an explosion of taste.
Lechon: This crispy, roasted pork dish is a must-try. It’s often served at celebrations and is considered one of the country’s most beloved dishes. The crunchy skin combined with tender, flavorful meat makes it a crowd favorite.
Adobo: Another popular dish is adobo, which features meat marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves. Whether you choose chicken or pork adobo, it’s a comforting dish that pairs well with rice.
Sinigang: If you’re in the mood for something light yet tangy, try sinigang, a sour soup made with tamarind, tomatoes, and vegetables. It often includes shrimp, pork, or fish and offers a perfect balance to the island’s tropical heat.
For those who want to sample a variety of flavors on the go, Boracay’s street food scene is not to be missed. You’ll find food stalls scattered across the island offering everything from grilled meat skewers to unique Filipino snacks.
Isaw: One popular street food option is isaw, which is skewered and grilled chicken or pork intestines. It might sound adventurous, but locals and tourists alike love its smoky flavor, especially when dipped in a tangy vinegar sauce.
Banana Cue: For a sweet treat, try banana cue. This snack is made by deep-frying bananas and then coating them in caramelized sugar. The crispy outside and soft inside make it a delightful snack.
Balut: For the more adventurous eaters, there’s balut, a boiled fertilized duck egg that’s considered a delicacy in the Philippines. Though it’s not for everyone, it’s certainly a unique food experience that will make for a memorable story.
One of the best things about Boracay is its wide array of international dining options. Whether you’re craving pizza, sushi, burgers, or pasta, you won’t have to look far to find a restaurant offering your favorite comfort food.
Italian Pizzas and Pastas: Craving some carbs after a day of diving? Boracay boasts some excellent Italian restaurants serving up authentic pizzas and pastas. Spots like Aria in D’Mall are known for their delicious wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas, making them great places to indulge in familiar favorites.
Asian Fusion: Boracay also has plenty of Asian fusion restaurants offering Japanese sushi, Thai curries, and Vietnamese pho. Whether you want to keep it light with a sushi roll or enjoy something spicier, like Thai Tom Yum soup, you’ll find a blend of flavors to satisfy any craving.
Western Comfort Food: If you’re looking for something simple, there are plenty of restaurants serving up Western classics like burgers, steak, and fries. These are perfect when you need a break from seafood or just want a hearty meal to cap off the day.
Boracay’s tropical climate means that fresh fruits are in abundance, and you’ll find them in everything from salads to smoothies. Mangoes, pineapples, papayas, and bananas are just a few of the fruits you’ll enjoy during your stay.
Mangoes: Philippine mangoes are often regarded as some of the best in the world. Their sweet, juicy flavor is perfect for cooling down after a long dive. You’ll find mangoes served in various ways, from fruit salads to refreshing mango shakes.
Fruit Smoothies: For a quick energy boost, grab a fruit smoothie. Stalls all over Boracay offer these delicious drinks, blending fresh fruits with ice for a refreshing, healthy treat. Perfect for hydrating after a day in the sun.
After a long day of diving, end your evening with something sweet. Boracay has plenty of dessert options, many of which feature local flavors and ingredients.
Halo-Halo: This iconic Filipino dessert is a mix of shaved ice, sweet beans, jellies, fruits, and a scoop of ice cream, topped with evaporated milk. It’s the perfect way to cool down after a day of diving while indulging in a variety of textures and flavors.
Ube: Ube, or purple yam, is a common ingredient in Filipino desserts. Try an ube-flavored ice cream or a slice of ube cake for a unique and colorful treat.
What could be better than enjoying a meal with the sound of the waves crashing and the sun setting on the horizon? Boracay is home to many beachfront restaurants that provide the perfect setting for a relaxed meal after a long day of diving.
Many of these spots offer a mix of Filipino and international cuisine, so you can sample local flavors while taking in the beauty of the island. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a laid-back beach bar, Boracay’s beachfront restaurants offer unforgettable dining experiences.
Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood, indulging in Filipino classics, or grabbing a quick street food snack, the food in Boracay will elevate your dive vacation to new heights. Each meal is an opportunity to experience the island’s culture and flavors, making your stay in Boracay truly memorable. So, after you’ve explored the wonders beneath the waves, treat yourself to a culinary journey that’s as exciting as your dive adventures.
Bon appétit!
Wish to know more about the diving in Boracay? Our team will be delighted to answer your questions and let us know why we should be your first choice when planning your dive vacation to the Philippines. We hope to hear from you soon!
Dive Log: 10/22/2024
Dive Site Name: Laguna
Dive Depth: 11.5
Dive Duration: 48
About The Dive: One great thing when scuba diving in Boracay is that you can dive even when it's windy because there is always one side of the island protected from the wind.
So today we dive on bulabog side at Laguna. We saw 2 turtles playing together, murray eel and plenty of life on. This beautiful reef.