About The Dive: I went diving with Elay to Puka Reef this afternoon. Puka reef is situated across Puka Beach at the north west end of the island. It's a beautiful shallow dive. The reef is covered with soft corals, sponge barrels and offers a great variety of colours. Today we saw a mantis shrimp, a moray eel and a turtle. The current was medium plus so we just drifted along the reef and enjoyed the show of damsel fish, trumpet fish and many other species that we can find in Boracay.
About The Dive: When diving on Camia today, with Elay. As always, Camia was thriving with life. It's a very beautiful shipwreck, sitting at 27 m deep. The ship, was a fishing boat sunk on purpose in 2000. There is a lot of soft coral growing on it ant nice marine life. What we usually see there are mantis shrimp, box fish, trumpet fish, nudibranchs on the ship, and when you look around into the blues, you have batfish, fusilliers, groupers, midnight snappers. Just amazing!! As we were diving on Nitrox, we had extended bottom time so we spend a lot to explore the deck area!!
Typhoon Carina Update: New Wave Divers Reopens in Boracay
Typhoon Carina Impact on New Wave Divers, Boracay
On July 22, Typhoon Gaemi, known locally as Typhoon Carina, intensified from a severe tropical storm into a typhoon while lingering over the Philippine Sea. The storm exhibited maximum sustained winds of 120 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 150 km/h. Although Carina stayed away from the main Philippine landmass, its outer rainbands brought significant rainfall and wind to various parts of the country.
Effects on Boracay and New Wave Divers
As Typhoon Carina approached, the effects were felt across the Philippines, including Boracay. Heavy rains and strong winds forced local businesses, including New Wave Divers, to close temporarily. The safety of our guests and staff is our top priority, so we suspended operations from July 22 until the typhoon passed.
Reopening and Safety Measures
We are pleased to announce that New Wave Divers has reopened as of July 26. Our team has thoroughly inspected our facilities and equipment to ensure everything is in top condition. We have taken extra measures to guarantee the safety and comfort of our divers, including comprehensive checks of our boats, diving gear, and infrastructure.
Typhoon Carina’s Journey and Impact
Typhoon Carina brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to the Philippines, causing disruptions in various regions. The typhoon enhanced the southwest monsoon, leading to widespread rainfall across Luzon and the Visayas. Areas such as Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro experienced heavy to intense rain, while Metro Manila and other regions saw moderate to heavy rainfall. Flooding and landslides were reported in several areas due to the persistent rains.
Resuming Diving Activities
With the reopening of New Wave Divers, we are excited to welcome back our guests to experience the stunning scuba diving of Boracay. The recent rains have revitalized the marine ecosystem, making it an excellent time for diving. Our experienced instructors are ready to guide you through some of the most beautiful dive sites in the area.
We offer a variety of dive packages suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers. Whether you are interested in exploring vibrant coral reefs, encountering diverse marine life, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the ocean, New Wave Divers has something for everyone.
Looking Ahead
While Typhoon Carina brought challenges, it also reminded us of the importance of preparedness and resilience. At New Wave Divers, we are committed to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of our guests. We have updated our emergency protocols and enhanced our communication systems to provide timely updates and assistance in the event of future weather disturbances.
We encourage all our guests to stay informed about weather conditions and follow the advice of local authorities. Your safety is our priority, and we will continue to monitor any developments closely.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Diving Experience
We invite you to join us at New Wave Divers in Boracay for an unforgettable diving experience. Whether you are a seasoned diver or trying it for the first time, our team is here to provide you with a safe, enjoyable, and memorable adventure. Book your dive today and explore the breathtaking underwater landscapes of Boracay with New Wave Divers.
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!
About The Dive: I went to Laguna today to do dive 1 of the advanced open water course. My student Elay did the navigation dive. During this dive we do skills with the compass like swimming a straight line and it's reciprocal, swimming a square pattern and find you way back to your starting point using natural references. As we were doing this last skill with encounter with big green turtle wha was chilling on the reef. We didn't get too close to not scare her away and this way we could enjoy a few minutes of this beautiful company.
Exploring Clownfish in the Philippines: A Dive into Vibrant Marine Life
The Philippines is a scuba diver’s paradise, renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and stunning coral reefs. Among the many captivating species that divers encounter,
the clownfish stands out with its vibrant colors and unique behaviors. This article delves into the fascinating world of three species of clownfish commonly found while diving in the Philippines: the Percula clownfish (Amphiprion percula), the Common clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris), and the Tomato clownfish (Amphiprion frenatus). We’ll explore their characteristics, habitats, and behaviors, and provide insights into diving with these enchanting fish, with a special focus on Boracay and New Wave Divers.
The Percula Clownfish (Amphiprion percula)
Characteristics
The Percula clownfish, often mistaken for the Common clownfish due to their similar appearance, is distinguished by its bright orange body adorned with three distinctive white bands outlined in black. These fish can grow up to 8 cm in length. Their vivid colors and charming patterns make them a favorite among divers and marine enthusiasts.
Habitat and Behavior
Percula clownfish are typically found in the shallow waters of coral reefs, often in depths of up to 15 meters. They inhabit sea anemones, forming a mutualistic relationship where they gain protection from predators while keeping the anemone clean by removing debris and parasites. The Percula clownfish is known for its territorial behavior, fiercely defending its anemone home.
The Common Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris)
Characteristics
The Common clownfish, also known as the Ocellaris clownfish or False Percula clownfish, closely resembles the Percula clownfish. It sports a bright orange body with three white bands bordered by thinner black lines. However, the black lines around the white bands are less pronounced compared to the Percula clownfish. These fish can reach a length of about 11 cm.
Habitat and Behavior
Like their Percula counterparts, Common clownfish thrive in coral reefs, often associating with anemones. They are highly social fish, living in groups dominated by a breeding pair. The dominant female is the largest, followed by the breeding male, with the remaining members being smaller non-breeding males. In the event of the female’s death, the breeding male will change sex to become the new female, a fascinating example of protandrous hermaphroditism.
The Tomato Clownfish (Amphiprion frenatus)
Characteristics
The Tomato clownfish is easily recognizable by its reddish-orange body, which becomes darker with age. A single white stripe runs vertically just behind the eyes, which is more prominent in juveniles. These fish can grow up to 14 cm in length, making them one of the larger clownfish species.
Habitat and Behavior
Tomato clownfish are found in shallow reef environments, often associating with bubble-tip anemones. They exhibit similar symbiotic relationships with their anemone hosts, gaining protection from predators while providing the anemone with nutrients from their waste. Tomato clownfish are known for their aggressive nature, particularly when defending their territory.
Diving with Clownfish in the Philippines
Boracay: A Diver’s Haven
Boracay, a small island in the central Philippines, is renowned for its pristine white beaches and crystal-clear waters. Beyond its picturesque shores lies an underwater world teeming with marine life, making it a popular destination for divers. The island offers a range of dive sites suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine species.
New Wave Divers: Your Gateway to Underwater Wonders
When diving in Boracay, New Wave Divers is the go-to dive shop. As a 5-star PADI Dive Center, New Wave Divers provides top-notch diving experiences, ensuring safety and enjoyment for all divers. With experienced instructors and a commitment to marine conservation, our dive shop offers guided dives that showcase the best of Boracay’s underwater treasures, including encounters with clownfish.
Popular Dive Sites for Clownfish Encounters
Crocodile Island
Crocodile Island, named for its crocodile-shaped rock formation, is a fantastic dive site for encountering clownfish. The shallow coral gardens teem with various species of clownfish, making it an ideal spot for observing these vibrant fish in their natural habitat. Divers can enjoy the sight of clownfish darting in and out of anemones, showcasing their characteristic behaviors.
Yapak
For more experienced divers, Yapak offers a thrilling dive with strong currents and deeper waters. This site is home to larger marine species, but divers can also spot clownfish nestled among the coral formations. The dramatic underwater landscape adds to the excitement, providing a dynamic environment for observing marine life.
Angol Point
Angol Point is a versatile dive site suitable for divers of all levels. The shallow reefs are rich with marine biodiversity, including numerous clownfish. The calm waters and clear visibility make it a great location for underwater photography, allowing divers to capture stunning images of clownfish and other marine species.
The Symbiotic Relationship: A Closer Look
The symbiotic relationship between clownfish and sea anemones is a fascinating aspect of marine biology. This mutualistic interaction benefits both species in several ways. Clownfish gain protection from predators by living among the anemone’s stinging tentacles, to which they are immune due to a special mucus on their skin. In return, clownfish help keep the anemone clean by removing debris and parasites, and their movements enhance water circulation around the anemone.
This relationship also extends to feeding. Clownfish attract prey to the anemone, which then captures and consumes it. The anemone’s waste provides nutrients for the clownfish, creating a balanced and mutually beneficial system.
Conservation and Sustainability
While clownfish populations are generally stable, they face threats from habitat destruction and the aquarium trade. Coral reef degradation due to climate change, pollution, and destructive fishing practices poses a significant risk to their natural habitats. Conservation efforts in the Philippines focus on protecting coral reefs and promoting sustainable practices to ensure the survival of clownfish and other marine species.
Diving operators play a crucial role in these efforts. By promoting eco-friendly diving practices and raising awareness about marine conservation, they contribute to the protection of the delicate marine ecosystems that clownfish and other species call home.
The clownfish are a captivating component of the Philippines’ rich marine biodiversity. Their intriguing behaviors, striking colors, and unique symbiotic relationships make them a favorite among divers and marine enthusiasts. Boracay, with its stunning dive sites and the expert guidance of New Wave Divers, offers an exceptional opportunity to observe these fascinating fish in their natural habitat.
Diving with clownfish in Boracay is not just about witnessing their beauty; it’s about understanding and appreciating the intricate relationships that sustain marine ecosystems. As divers explore the underwater world, they become ambassadors for marine conservation, helping to protect these vibrant ecosystems for future generations to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a novice eager to experience the wonders of the ocean, encountering clownfish in the Philippines is an unforgettable adventure.
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!
Scuba Diving in Boracay in July: A Tropical Underwater Adventure
Scuba Diving in Boracay in July: A Tropical Underwater Adventure
Boracay, a small island in the central Philippines, is famous for its powdery white sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, and crystal-clear waters. However, beyond its picturesque shores lies an underwater paradise that beckons scuba diving enthusiasts from around the world. July, with its warm waters and excellent visibility, is an ideal month to explore Boracay’s diverse marine life and stunning dive sites. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a novice looking to take your first plunge, scuba diving in Boracay in July offers an unforgettable experience with New Wave Divers.
Ideal Diving Conditions
July marks the middle of the wet season in the Philippines, but don’t let that deter you. The rain showers are typically short and sporadic, often occurring in the late afternoon or evening, leaving plenty of sunshine for daytime diving adventures. The water temperature in July hovers around a comfortable 28-30°C (82-86°F), making it perfect for extended dives without the need for a thick wetsuit. Visibility can range from 10 to 30 meters, allowing divers to fully appreciate the vibrant marine life and intricate coral formations. An added benefit of diving in July is the reduced number of tourists, meaning fewer crowds both underwater and on land, creating a more serene and enjoyable experience.
Top Dive Sites in Boracay
Boracay boasts several world-class dive sites, each offering unique underwater experiences. Here are some of the must-visit sites for divers exploring Boracay in July with New Wave Divers:
1. Yapak
Yapak is arguably Boracay’s most famous dive site, known for its deep walls and strong currents. This site is best suited for advanced divers due to its challenging conditions. The wall starts at around 30 meters and drops down to over 70 meters, providing a dramatic underwater landscape. Divers can expect to see large pelagic species such as barracuda, tuna, and trevally, as well as the occasional reef shark. The walls are adorned with colorful corals and sponges, home to a variety of smaller reef fish.
2. Crocodile Island
Despite its intimidating name, Crocodile Island is a haven for divers of all levels. Located just a short boat ride from the main island, this site features sloping reefs teeming with marine life. The shallow areas are perfect for novice divers and snorkelers, while the deeper sections offer more experienced divers the chance to explore vibrant coral gardens. Expect to see schools of tropical fish, nudibranchs, moray eels, and a variety of crustaceans. The island’s unique rock formations also provide excellent opportunities for underwater photography.
3. Camia Wreck
The Camia Wreck is a sunken cargo ship that has become an artificial reef over the years. Resting at a depth of around 30 meters, the wreck is now home to an array of marine life, including scorpionfish, lionfish, and batfish. Schools of trevally and snapper often surround the wreck, creating a mesmerizing underwater spectacle. The site is suitable for advanced divers due to its depth, but the clear waters and abundant marine life make it a rewarding dive.
4. Balinghai
Balinghai is a beautiful dive site located near Balinghai Beach, known for its stunning coral formations and diverse marine life. The site features a series of coral bommies and rocky outcrops, providing plenty of hiding spots for marine creatures. Divers can spot a variety of reef fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, and parrotfish. The site is suitable for divers of all levels, with depths ranging from 5 to 20 meters.
5. Angol Point
Angol Point is a popular dive site for beginners, offering shallow waters and gentle currents. The site is located near White Beach, making it easily accessible. The sandy bottom is dotted with coral patches, home to a variety of marine species such as seahorses, pipefish, and anemonefish. The calm conditions and rich biodiversity make Angol Point an excellent spot for macro photography and relaxed diving.
Marine Life Encounters
Boracay’s underwater world is a treasure trove of marine biodiversity. Divers in July can expect to encounter a wide range of species, from colorful reef fish to larger pelagic animals. Some of the highlights include:
Turtles: Green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles are frequently spotted around Boracay’s dive sites. These gentle creatures often graze on seagrass beds and can be seen resting on coral reefs.
Reef Sharks: While not as common as in other dive destinations, reef sharks such as blacktip and whitetip sharks can occasionally be seen patrolling the deeper waters.
Macro Life: Boracay is a paradise for macro enthusiasts, with an abundance of nudibranchs, shrimps, and crabs. Keep an eye out for the elusive frogfish and ghost pipefish hiding among the corals.
Schooling Fish: Large schools of jacks, barracuda, and trevally are a common sight, creating a dynamic and captivating underwater scene.
Dive with New Wave Divers
New Wave Divers, a PADI dive center in Boracay, caters to divers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get certified or an experienced diver seeking guided dives, New Wave Divers provides a safe and enjoyable diving experience. Offering PADI certification courses, from Open Water Diver to Divemaster, New Wave Divers ensures you receive top-notch training and personalized attention.
The warm waters and excellent visibility in July provide ideal conditions for learning to dive or advancing your skills. With New Wave Divers, you can explore Boracay’s stunning dive sites while receiving expert guidance and support.
Responsible Diving Practices
As with any diving destination, it’s important to practice responsible diving to protect Boracay’s fragile marine ecosystems. Here are some tips to ensure you have an eco-friendly diving experience:
Avoid Touching Marine Life: Refrain from touching or disturbing marine animals and corals. Even a gentle touch can cause damage to delicate corals and stress marine life.
Maintain Buoyancy Control: Practice good buoyancy control to avoid accidentally kicking or bumping into the reef. This helps preserve the underwater environment and prevents damage.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Choose sunscreens that are free from harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can harm coral reefs.
Dispose of Waste Properly: Ensure you dispose of any trash or waste properly. Marine debris can be harmful to marine life and pollute the ocean.
Beyond Diving: Exploring Boracay in July
While scuba diving is a major draw, Boracay offers plenty of other activities to enjoy in July. The island’s famous White Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. Adventurous travelers can try kiteboarding or windsurfing at Bulabog Beach, where the steady winds create ideal conditions for these sports.
In the evenings, Boracay’s vibrant nightlife comes alive with beachfront bars, restaurants, and live music. Savor fresh seafood and Filipino cuisine at one of the many beachfront eateries, or enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset over the horizon.
Conclusion
Scuba diving in Boracay in July offers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s rich marine biodiversity and stunning underwater landscapes. From the deep walls of Yapak to the colorful reefs of Crocodile Island, Boracay’s dive sites cater to divers of all levels. With warm waters, excellent visibility, and an array of marine life, July is an ideal time to experience the underwater wonders of this tropical paradise.
Beyond the underwater adventures, Boracay’s beautiful beaches, thrilling water sports, and vibrant nightlife ensure a well-rounded vacation experience. So, pack your dive gear, book your trip with New Wave Divers, and get ready to discover the enchanting underwater world of Boracay in July. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a novice explorer, Boracay promises an unforgettable diving adventure that will leave you yearning for more.
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!
Discovering the Majestic Thresher Sharks in the Philippines
Discovering the Majestic Thresher Sharks in the Philippines
The Philippines, with its 7,641 islands, offers a plethora of underwater experiences for divers. Among these experiences, encountering the elusive thresher shark is a highlight for many diving enthusiasts. While Boracay is renowned as a top diving destination in the Philippines, only 40 kilometers away lies Malapascua, the true haven for thresher shark sightings.
The Enigmatic Thresher Shark
Thresher sharks, known for their distinctive elongated tails, are a unique and mesmerizing species. These tails, which can be as long as the shark’s body, are not just for show; they play a crucial role in the shark’s hunting strategy. Thresher sharks use their tails to stun prey, such as fish, by slapping the water with incredible force. This remarkable behavior sets them apart from other shark species and makes them a fascinating subject of study for marine biologists and an exciting sight for divers.
There are three species of thresher sharks: the common thresher, the bigeye thresher, and the pelagic thresher. The pelagic thresher shark is the one most commonly encountered around Malapascua. These sharks are known for their gentle nature, often seen gliding gracefully through the water.
Malapascua: The Thresher Shark Capital
Malapascua, a small island located off the northern coast of Cebu, has gained international fame as the best place to see thresher sharks. The island’s Monad Shoal, an underwater plateau, is a cleaning station for these sharks. Here, cleaner fish remove parasites from the sharks’ skin and gills, providing a vital service to the health of the sharks.
Diving at Monad Shoal is an experience unlike any other. Divers typically start their journey before dawn, descending into the depths as the sun begins to rise. The early morning is the best time to witness these magnificent creatures as they come up from the deep to be cleaned. The sight of a thresher shark, with its long tail and sleek body moving effortlessly through the water, is an unforgettable experience.
Boracay: A Top Diving Destination
While Boracay does not typically offer sightings of thresher sharks, it remains a top diving destination in the Philippines, celebrated for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and clear waters. Boracay’s dive sites, such as Yapak, Crocodile Island, and the Camia wreck, provide divers with a variety of underwater landscapes and marine species to explore.
Yapak, for instance, is known for its deep walls and strong currents, attracting larger pelagic species such as tuna and barracuda. Crocodile Island offers a rich diversity of coral and fish life, perfect for macro photography enthusiasts. The Camia wreck, a sunken cargo ship, has become an artificial reef teeming with marine life, including schools of trevally and snapper.
With Malapascua being located only 40kms from Boracay, Boracay is a great location spend your Philippines diving holiday and add on a thresher shark experience at either the beginning or end of your vacation.
Thresher Sharks: Conservation and Ecotourism
The rise in popularity of Malapascua as a thresher shark destination has had both positive and negative impacts. On the positive side, ecotourism has brought economic benefits to the local community, creating jobs and supporting local businesses. However, the increased human activity also poses a threat to the natural habitat of these sharks.
Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the sustainability of thresher shark populations. Responsible diving practices, such as maintaining a respectful distance from the sharks and avoiding touching or feeding them, are essential. Additionally, supporting eco-friendly dive operators who prioritize marine conservation can make a significant difference.
Several organizations are working to protect thresher sharks and their habitats. Initiatives include research on shark behavior and populations, community education programs, and the establishment of marine protected areas. Divers can contribute to these efforts by participating in citizen science programs, such as logging shark sightings and reporting any illegal fishing activities.
The Unique Appeal of Thresher Sharks
Thresher sharks have captivated the imagination of many, not just for their unique appearance but also for their role in the marine ecosystem. Their presence indicates a healthy marine environment, and their predatory behavior helps maintain the balance of marine life. The elongated tail, used to swat and stun prey, is a marvel of evolution, showcasing the adaptability and specialization of marine species.
For divers, the thrill of seeing a thresher shark up close is a highlight of their underwater adventures. The anticipation of a pre-dawn dive, the descent into the depths, and the moment of encountering a thresher shark are experiences that create lifelong memories. These sharks inspire awe and respect, reminding us of the wonders of the ocean and the importance of protecting it.
Planning Your Dive Trip
For those planning a dive trip to the Philippines with the hope of encountering thresher sharks, Malapascua should be at the top of the list. The island is accessible via a short boat ride from the northern tip of Cebu. There are several dive operators on the island, offering daily trips to Monad Shoal and other nearby dive sites.
Combining a trip to both Malapascua and Boracay allows divers to experience the best of the Philippines’ underwater world. From the awe-inspiring sight of thresher sharks in Malapascua to the rich coral gardens and bustling marine life of Boracay, the Philippines offers a diving adventure like no other.
Thresher sharks are one of the many marine wonders that the Philippines has to offer. While Boracay is a premier diving destination known for its beautiful reefs and diverse marine species, the nearby island of Malapascua stands out as the best place to see thresher sharks. The unique experience of diving with these majestic creatures highlights the importance of marine conservation and responsible ecotourism. Whether you are a seasoned diver or a beginner, the Philippines’ underwater world promises an unforgettable adventure, with the thresher shark encounters in Malapascua being a true highlight.
So, pack your dive gear, book your trip, and get ready to explore the mesmerizing underwater landscapes of the Philippines. Whether you’re diving with the thresher sharks in Malapascua or exploring the vibrant reefs of Boracay, the marine treasures of the Philippines await you.
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!
Characteristics
The Common clownfish, also known as the Ocellaris clownfish or False Percula clownfish, closely resembles the Percula clownfish. It sports a bright orange body with three white bands bordered by thinner black lines. However, the black lines around the white bands are less pronounced compared to the Percula clownfish. These fish can reach a length of about 11 cm.
The Tomato clownfish is easily recognizable by its reddish-orange body, which becomes darker with age. A single white stripe runs vertically just behind the eyes, which is more prominent in juveniles. These fish can grow up to 14 cm in length, making them one of the larger clownfish species.
