Dive Log: 08/24/2024
Dive Site Name: Angol point
Dive Depth: 9.8
Dive Duration: 31 mn
About The Dive: I took Aliaksey to Angol point today. He was doing the PADI Discover Scuba Diving program. Angol point is a very nice site for first timers and beginners because it offers a long shallow area. The reef here is beautiful and some boulders coral are really big and probably very old!!
Marine life here include puffer fish, sea snakes, clown fish…
Dive Log: 08/24/2024
Dive Site Name: Camia 2
Dive Depth: 25.7
Dive Duration: 38mn
About The Dive: I had a beautiful dive today on Camila 2 with Edward. Life on Camia is always amazing. Exploring the deck, the bow and the wheel house is amazing. There is lionfish, scorpionfish, trumpet fish, parrotfish, queen angelfish(photo). And around the wreck there is school of fusiliers, groupers, midnight emperor, jack's…
The dive not to miss when in Boracay.
Dive Log: 08/24/2024
Dive Site Name: Diniwid
Dive Depth: 24 meters
Dive Duration: 50 minutes
About The Dive: We gave our customer 15ltr tank, as per request of customer and we had a great dive and the best part was seeing a baby turtle.
Dive Log: 08/23/2024
Dive Site Name: Crocodile
Dive Depth: 19.4
Dive Duration: 41mn
About The Dive: Beautiful dive this morning on Crocodile. The name of the dive site refers to the island it's next to. The island has the shape of a crocodile. Unfortunately there is no crocodile there😉.
We start the dive on the plateau at a depth of 5/6 meters. Then we reach the wall that goes down to 23/24 metres. It's very beautiful as the wall offers some small cave where groupers like to hide. We saw a big one this morning. There's is sometimes also turtles. There is at least 2 couples of titan trigger fish living in the area.
The cave are also home for squirrel fish and cardinal fish.
This is often a drift dive here, and we can finish the dive on the top of the reef where soft and hard corals are colourfull and hosts pipe fish.
Today's dive was with Nikky and Brad.
Whale Sharks in Boracay
What You Need to Know About These Gentle Giants
Whale Sharks in Boracay: What You Need to Know About These Gentle Giants
Whale sharks are one of the ocean’s most enigmatic creatures, revered for their massive size and gentle nature. While Boracay is known for its vibrant marine life, whale sharks are an infrequent sight in these waters. However, understanding more about these magnificent creatures and their habits can enhance your appreciation of the marine environment in Boracay and the Philippines as a whole.
Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are the largest fish in the sea, with some individuals reaching lengths of up to 40 feet or more. Despite their enormous size, these gentle giants pose no threat to humans. They are filter feeders, meaning they feed by swimming with their mouths open, filtering out plankton, small fish, and other tiny organisms from the water. This feeding behavior is a sight to behold, as it showcases the grace and tranquility of these otherwise formidable-looking creatures.
Interesting Facts About Whale Sharks:
Lifespan: Whale sharks are believed to live for up to 70 years, although some researchers suggest they could live even longer. However, their slow growth rate and late sexual maturity make them vulnerable to threats.
Migration: Whale sharks are highly migratory, often traveling thousands of miles across oceans. They are found in tropical and warm temperate seas worldwide, with certain areas known to be seasonal hotspots for sightings.
Unique Patterns: Each whale shark has a unique pattern of white spots and stripes on its body, similar to a human fingerprint. These patterns help researchers identify and track individual sharks.
Reproduction: Much about whale shark reproduction remains a mystery, but it is known that they give birth to live young. The young, called pups, are about 2 feet long when born.
Whale sharks are typically found in warm, tropical waters. They are known to migrate vast distances, following the availability of plankton and other food sources. Some of the most famous locations for whale shark encounters include the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, Ningaloo Reef in Australia, and various regions in the Philippines.
While Boracay is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and thriving marine life, whale sharks are not commonly seen in this area. The island’s waters provide an excellent environment for a wide variety of marine species, but the conditions that attract whale sharks—such as large concentrations of plankton—are not consistently present. This makes sightings rare, though not entirely impossible.
For those eager to see whale sharks in the Philippines, several locations are known for more frequent sightings:
Oslob, Cebu: Oslob is perhaps the most well-known place in the Philippines to see whale sharks. Here, local fishermen have created a controversial feeding program that attracts whale sharks year-round. While this guarantees sightings, it has raised ethical concerns regarding the impact on the sharks’ natural behavior and health.
Donsol, Sorsogon: Donsol offers a more natural and sustainable whale shark encounter. Between November and June, these gentle giants congregate in the waters off Donsol to feed on the abundant plankton. The interaction here is regulated to minimize human impact.
Southern Leyte: Less crowded than Oslob and Donsol, Southern Leyte is becoming an increasingly popular spot for whale shark sightings. The area is known for its more serene environment and offers a chance to see these creatures without the tourist crowds.
The rarity of whale shark sightings in Boracay can be attributed to several environmental factors. Whale sharks tend to follow the food, which in their case is primarily plankton. Boracay’s waters, while rich in marine biodiversity, may not consistently have the large concentrations of plankton that attract whale sharks. Additionally, their migratory nature means they are often passing through different regions depending on the time of year.
While it’s unlikely to encounter a whale shark in Boracay, there are certain times of the year when you might get lucky. Keeping an eye on reports of whale shark sightings and visiting during periods when plankton blooms are more likely could slightly increase your chances. However, for those specifically seeking a whale shark encounter, traveling to one of the aforementioned locations in the Philippines is recommended.
Whale sharks are truly one of nature’s wonders, inspiring awe and admiration wherever they are found. While Boracay may not be a hotspot for whale shark sightings, it still offers an incredible diving experience with its rich marine life. For those determined to see whale sharks, destinations like Oslob, Donsol, and Southern Leyte provide more reliable opportunities within the Philippines. Whether you’re exploring Boracay’s vibrant underwater world or venturing to other parts of the Philippines, the experience of diving in these waters is always unforgettable.
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!
When you think of Boracay, it’s easy to picture its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. But for divers, there’s a whole other world to explore beneath the waves—one that’s just as vibrant and exciting. Among the many wonders of Boracay’s underwater realm are the tiny, colorful creatures known as nudibranchs. These sea slugs, often called the jewels of the sea, are a must-see for any diver exploring the area.
Nudibranchs are soft-bodied marine gastropods, and their name literally means “naked gills.” Unlike other mollusks, they don’t have a shell. What they lack in protection, they make up for in stunning colors and intricate patterns, making them one of the most sought-after subjects for underwater photographers. Each species of nudibranch is unique, with a dazzling array of shapes, sizes, and colors that serve both as camouflage and as a warning to predators that they might not be a tasty meal.
Boracay, with its rich coral reefs and diverse marine life, is home to several species of nudibranchs. Here are some of the fascinating nudibranchs you might encounter while diving in Boracay, along with their common names and why they’re called that.
The Scrambled Egg Nudibranch (Phyllidia varicosa)The Scrambled Egg Nudibranch is one of the most eye-catching nudibranchs you can find in Boracay. Its body is a mix of blue-grey with distinctive black lines running along its length, topped with bright yellow tubercles that resemble—you guessed it—scrambled eggs. This quirky name reflects the unique appearance of the yellow-tipped bumps on its back, which look like they could have come straight from the breakfast table. The Scrambled Egg Nudibranch is often found on or near sponges, which form a crucial part of its diet.
The Purple Nudibranch (Hypselodoris apolegma)The Hypselodoris apolegma, commonly known as the Purple Nudibranch or Purple Hypselodoris. This species is well-known for its striking and vibrant coloration, featuring a deep purple or violet body with bright yellow or orange spots. The edges of the mantle are often a lighter shade of lavender or white, adding to its stunning appearance.
The Purple Nudibranch is a favorite among underwater photographers due to its vivid colors and the beautiful contrast it creates against the reef. It is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the waters around Boracay. This nudibranch often feeds on sponges, and its bold coloration serves as a warning to predators that it might be toxic or distasteful. If you’re diving in Boracay, keep an eye out for this magnificent little creature—it’s one of the true gems of the underwater world!
The Blue Dragon Nudibranch is as mythical-looking as its name suggests. With a brilliant blue body accented by black stripes and yellow or orange edges, this nudibranch truly stands out against the coral backdrop. The name “Blue Dragon” comes from its vibrant blue coloration and its slightly dragon-like appearance when it moves through the water. It’s one of the more common species in the region and a favorite among divers for its striking beauty.
The Magnificent Chromodoris lives up to its name with bold and beautiful coloring. This nudibranch is adorned with orange, black, and white stripes that make it one of the most visually striking sea slugs around. Its “magnificent” title is well-deserved, as its bright colors and elegant patterns make it a true showstopper on any dive.
Bullock’s Hypselodoris is a bit more subtle in its beauty, but no less captivating. This nudibranch often comes in shades of pink, lavender, or purple, with white or yellow-tipped rhinophores and gills. While it might not have a flashy common name, its delicate colors and slender shape make it a standout. The common name honors the scientist who first described the species, adding a personal touch to its identity.
The Leopard Nudibranch (Risbecia tryoni)The Leopard Nudibranch is named for its spotted pattern, which resembles the coat of a leopard. This nudibranch has a pale body with brown spots outlined in purple, making it easy to spot (pun intended) against the coral. The Leopard Nudibranch is a beautiful example of how nature imitates some of the most iconic patterns found on land, bringing a touch of the wild into the underwater world.
The Variable Neon Slug is a dazzling nudibranch known for its vibrant, glowing colors. Typically dark green or black with bright orange or red markings, this nudibranch almost seems to have its own internal light source, making it look like it’s glowing underwater. The name “Neon Slug” perfectly captures its otherworldly appearance, which makes it a favorite among divers who love to spot unique and colorful marine life.
The Black-Margined Glossodoris is named for the distinctive black edge that runs along the frilly margin of its body. This cream-colored nudibranch has a delicate, lacy appearance that’s both elegant and striking. The contrast between the pale body and the dark margin creates a beautiful, almost floral effect that’s a delight to discover on a dive.
The Pink Phyllidiella is another nudibranch that’s easy to spot due to its vibrant coloring. It’s typically darker in hue, with pinkish tubercles that dot its body. While it might not have as flashy a common name as some of the others, the Pink Nudibranch’s subtle beauty makes it a delightful find during a dive.
The Lacy Nudibranch (Halgerda batangas)The Lacy Nudibranch is as delicate and intricate as its name suggests. With a translucent body adorned with orange-tipped tubercles and a network of lines that resemble lace, this nudibranch is a work of art. It’s often found on coral reefs, where its intricate patterns blend in with the surrounding environment. The name “Lacy Nudibranch” reflects both its delicate appearance and the intricate beauty of its natural design.
At New Wave Divers in Boracay, we love introducing our guests to the incredible diversity of marine life that calls our waters home. Nudibranchs are just one of the many highlights you can expect to encounter on a dive with us. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, spotting these colorful sea slugs is always a thrill. Their unique patterns and vibrant colors make every dive a new adventure, full of discovery and wonder.
So, next time you’re diving in Boracay, keep an eye out for these fascinating creatures. With their bright colors and intricate designs, nudibranchs are a reminder of the beauty and diversity that thrives beneath the waves. Happy diving!
Dive Log: 08/20/2024
Dive Site Name: Balinghai
Dive Depth: 17.8
Dive Duration: 51 mn
About The Dive: I guided Emmanuele, a certified diver this morning to Balinghai. Balinghai is a wall dive and often a drift dive. The beginning of the dive is a shallow plateau at 10 metres. Then we reach the wall. The wall go down to 25 metres. We stayed above 18 meters to follow open water diver standard.
Lots of beautiful hard and soft corals to see on this dive as well as sponge barrels. The reef is home of a huge variety of fish like clown fish, trumpet fish, reef grouper, hawksbill and green turtle. We actually saw a young hawksbill turtle that we followed for a few minutes.
Overall, it was a very relaxing gentle drift dive.
Dive Log: 08/18/2024
Dive Site Name: Balinghai
Dive Depth: 11.7
Dive Duration: 44 mn
About The Dive: We had a beautiful dive on Balinghai today. I was guiding 13 years old Charlie and his dad Daniel. They had a few dive with us at the same the mum, Wen was doing the advanced open water course.
Balinghai is usually a wall dive but as Charlie is 12 years old we stayed above 12 metres which is the limit for him. The top of the wall make a wide plateau covered with coral. There is lot of marine life like clown fish, puffer fish, trigger fish and we saw 3 turtles. 2 hawksbill and 1 green turtle.
Over it was a very nice and relaxing dive.
When the sun sets on Boracay’s vibrant shores, a whole new underwater world comes to life. Night diving in Boracay offers an extraordinary experience that’s vastly different from daytime dives. The ocean transforms, revealing nocturnal creatures and surreal landscapes illuminated by the soft glow of your dive light. If you’re ready to see Boracay in a completely different light—literally—then night diving is an adventure you shouldn’t miss.
1. The Enchanting Nocturnal Marine Life As dusk settles, many of Boracay’s marine species that are hidden during the day come out to play. Night diving allows you to encounter creatures such as:
2. The Bioluminescence Phenomenon One of the most magical aspects of night diving in Boracay is the chance to witness bioluminescence. As you move through the water, tiny plankton light up with a blue-green glow, creating a trail of sparkling light with every motion. This natural light show is something you’ll remember long after your dive.
3. A Different Perspective on Familiar Dive Sites Dive sites you might have visited during the day take on a completely different character at night. The once-bustling reefs become serene, and the interplay of light and shadow creates an atmosphere of mystery and wonder. Sites like Yapak and Crocodile Island are transformed under the cover of darkness, offering a fresh perspective and new discoveries.
1. Crocodile Island Known for its rich marine biodiversity, Crocodile Island is a favorite spot for night dives. The island’s shallow reefs are perfect for spotting sleeping parrotfish, nudibranchs, and a variety of crustaceans. The calm waters make it ideal for divers of all experience levels.
2. Yapak For the more adventurous, Yapak offers deeper waters and the possibility of encountering larger nocturnal predators like sharks and rays. The dive site’s steep walls are a haven for moray eels and hunting jacks, making for an exhilarating dive experience.
3. Angol Point A great spot for beginners, Angol Point features shallow reefs that are easy to navigate at night. Here, you’ll likely see a mix of nocturnal creatures, including cuttlefish and various species of shrimp. The sandy bottom is also a good place to spot elusive critters like the stargazer fish.
1. Proper Equipment is Key Ensure that you have a reliable primary dive light and a backup light. A strobe or marker light attached to your tank will help your dive buddy keep track of you in the dark. Also, consider using a dive computer with a backlight for easier reading of your gauges.
2. Stay Close to Your Dive Buddy Communication is different at night, so staying close to your dive buddy is crucial. Agree on hand signals before the dive and keep an eye on each other’s lights to maintain close proximity.
3. Take it Slow Night diving is all about observing the small details. Move slowly and take the time to explore every nook and cranny. The slower you go, the more likely you are to spot elusive nocturnal creatures.
4. Keep an Eye on Your Air Supply and Depth It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of night diving, but always keep track of your air supply and depth. Night dives can be disorienting, so make frequent checks to ensure you’re within safe limits.
At New Wave Divers, we specialize in providing unforgettable night diving experiences in Boracay. Our experienced dive guides know the best spots to encounter unique marine life and ensure that your dive is safe, enjoyable, and full of discoveries. Whether you’re an experienced night diver or trying it for the first time, we tailor our dives to meet your needs and skill level.
Night diving in Boracay is more than just a dive—it’s an exploration of a hidden world that few get to see. The combination of unique marine life, bioluminescent displays, and the serenity of the night makes it an adventure like no other. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, night diving in Boracay will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. So grab your dive light and plunge into the unknown with New Wave Divers!
Imagine gliding through the crystal-clear waters of Boracay, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors and bustling marine life. While scuba diving in Boracay among the many fascinating creatures you’ll encounter, parrotfish stand out with their vibrant hues and unique beak-like mouths. These incredible fish are not only a visual delight but also play a crucial role in maintaining the health of coral reefs. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of parrotfish, exploring their characteristics, behaviors, and the vital ecological roles they fulfill in Boracay’s rich marine ecosystem.
Parrotfish are easily recognizable by their vivid colors and distinctive beak-like mouths. These beaks are actually fused teeth that allow them to scrape algae from coral and rocky surfaces. Parrotfish can vary greatly in size, with some species growing up to 1.2 meters in length. Their vibrant scales can display a range of colors, including blue, green, pink, and yellow, making them one of the most visually striking fish in the reef.
One of the most intriguing features of parrotfish is their ability to change sex. Many species are hermaphroditic, meaning they can change from female to male at some point in their lives. This ability ensures the continuation of their species even when the population dynamics change. Additionally, parrotfish are known for their ability to produce a mucus cocoon at night, which acts as a protective barrier against predators and parasites.
Parrotfish play a crucial role in the health and maintenance of coral reefs. By grazing on algae, they prevent the overgrowth that can smother and kill corals. This grazing behavior helps to maintain a balance in the reef ecosystem, allowing corals to thrive and support a diverse range of marine life. Their beak-like mouths are perfectly adapted for scraping algae off hard surfaces, a process that also helps to create sand.
Believe it or not, much of the white sandy beaches we enjoy can be attributed to parrotfish. As they feed on algae and coral, they excrete fine sand, contributing significantly to the sandy environments found in tropical regions like Boracay. A single parrotfish can produce hundreds of kilograms of sand each year, making them essential to the formation and maintenance of these beautiful beaches.
Parrotfish are primarily herbivores, feeding on algae that grow on coral and rocks. This feeding activity occurs throughout the day, with the fish often seen nibbling away at the reef. Their powerful jaws and beak-like teeth enable them to bite off chunks of coral, which are then ground down in their pharyngeal teeth to extract the algae. This unique feeding process not only helps control algae growth but also aids in the creation of new habitats within the reef.
Parrotfish exhibit fascinating social structures and reproductive behaviors. They often form harems, consisting of one dominant male and several females. The dominant male is typically the most brightly colored, a trait known as sexual dichromatism. In the event of the dominant male’s death, the largest female in the harem can transform into a male, ensuring the continuity of the group.
Boracay’s rich marine biodiversity means divers can encounter several species of parrotfish. Some of the most common species include:
New Wave Divers offers access to some of the best dive sites in Boracay where you can encounter parrotfish. Notable spots include Crocodile Island, Friday’s Rock, and Balinghai, each offering a unique underwater landscape and abundant marine life. These sites provide excellent opportunities to observe parrotfish in their natural habitat, grazing on algae and interacting with other reef inhabitants.
While diving with parrotfish, it’s important to follow best practices to ensure their protection and the preservation of the reef ecosystem. Here are some tips for responsible diving:
New Wave Divers is committed to marine conservation and sustainable diving practices. They actively participate in reef clean-ups, coral restoration projects, and educational programs aimed at raising awareness about the importance of protecting Boracay’s marine environment. By choosing to dive with New Wave Divers, you contribute to these conservation efforts and help preserve the vibrant underwater world for future generations.
Parrotfish are not only one of the most colorful and captivating fish you’ll encounter in Boracay’s waters, but they also play a vital role in maintaining the health and beauty of coral reefs. Their unique feeding habits, social structures, and contributions to sand production make them indispensable to the marine ecosystem. By diving with New Wave Divers, you’ll have the opportunity to witness these incredible creatures up close and learn about the importance of marine conservation.
So, gear up and dive into the mesmerizing world of parrotfish with New Wave Divers. Experience the vibrant underwater paradise of Boracay and create unforgettable memories while contributing to the preservation of this precious marine environment.