Author: Scuba Dive Marketing

02/07/2025 Dive Log – Balinghai

Written by Scuba Dive Marketing on February 7, 2025. Posted in Dive Logs. No Comments on 02/07/2025 Dive Log – Balinghai

Dive Log: 02/07/2025

Dive Site Name: Balinghai

Dive Depth: 23 meters

Dive Duration: 50 mins

About The Dive: This morning we headed out to Balinghai for a drift dive.
We started up in the shallow part of the reef where the reef is very colorful with lots of corals and tropical fish.
We went down the wall and at around 18 meters we found a big group of Barracudas.
We explored the outer reef and we found a second group of smaller Barracudas at 23 meters.
Visibility on the outer reef was great also.
Also spotted a small black frogfish 😀

02/03/2025 Dive Log – Camila II

Written by Scuba Dive Marketing on February 3, 2025. Posted in Dive Logs. No Comments on 02/03/2025 Dive Log – Camila II

Dive Log: 02/03/2025

Dive Site Name: Camila II

Dive Depth: 27 mtrs

Dive Duration: 35 minutes

About The Dive: We were lucky today, got to the site and no other dive shop was there, so we had the wreck all for our self, had 4 fun diver, on the way down the line you could see the wreck because visibility was great, as we made our first round the wrecks body so a lot of different Nudibranchs and flat worms, then we found a pair of gostpipe fish,as we started going on the deck of the wreck we saw a couple of scorpion fish, 2 seasnakes and a big grouper,as we were running low on NDL we started to ascend on the way up we encountered a school of batfish, it was just an amazing dive

01/02/2025 Dive Log – Lobster Rock

Written by Scuba Dive Marketing on February 2, 2025. Posted in Dive Logs. No Comments on 01/02/2025 Dive Log – Lobster Rock

Dive Log: 01/02/2025

Dive Site Name: Lobster Rock

Dive Depth: 15 meters

Dive Duration: 41 minutes

About The Dive: Beautiful dive where we encountered numerous nudibranches, schools of banner fish and a shy blue spotted stingray hiding in the sand !
Another day in paradise with our fabolus divers !

The Masters of Camouflage: Scorpionfish and Stonefish of Boracay

Written by Scuba Dive Marketing on February 1, 2025. Posted in Blog, Marine Life Of Boracay, Scuba Diving Boracay. No Comments on The Masters of Camouflage: Scorpionfish and Stonefish of Boracay

The Masters of Camouflage: Scorpionfish and Stonefish of Boracay

Boracay’s coral reefs are home to some of the most vibrant and colorful marine life in the Philippines, but not all creatures in these waters are easy to spot. Hidden among the corals, rocks, and sandy seabeds are some of the ocean’s most skilled masters of disguise—the Scorpionfish and Stonefish. These two species, both part of the Scorpaenidae family, are famous for their near-invisible camouflage and highly venomous spines.

For divers who love discovering elusive marine creatures, encountering a Scorpionfish or Stonefish in Boracay is both thrilling and rewarding. However, due to their venomous nature, it’s important to understand their behavior, how to spot them, and how to safely observe them in their natural habitat.

What Are Scorpionfish and Stonefish?

Both Scorpionfish and Stonefish belong to the Scorpaenidae family, known for their cryptic coloration, venomous spines, and ambush predation techniques. Despite their similarities, they have key differences that set them apart.

Scorpionfish (Family: Scorpaenidae, Genus: Scorpaena, Pterois, etc.)

Appearance: Rough, textured skin with frilly appendages that resemble coral or algae.
Coloration: Red, orange, brown, or mottled shades that allow them to blend into their surroundings.
Size: Typically 15–35 cm (6–14 inches), though some species grow larger.
Hunting Technique: Ambush predator that remains motionless and waits for prey to swim close before striking in milliseconds.
Venom: Contains venomous spines that can cause painful stings but are usually not fatal to humans.

Stonefish (Genus: Synanceia)

Appearance: Bumpy, rough skin that mimics rocks and coral rubble.
Coloration: Dull brown, gray, or greenish hues that make them nearly indistinguishable from their environment.
Size: Can grow up to 50 cm (20 inches), making them one of the largest venomous fish in the ocean.
Hunting Technique: Extreme patience—Stonefish can remain motionless for hours before lunging at their prey.
Venom: Highly potent venom delivered through sharp dorsal spines. A sting can be extremely painful and, in rare cases, life-threatening without treatment.

Both species are incredible examples of natural adaptation, using their camouflage not just to hunt but also to avoid predators.

Where to Find Scorpionfish and Stonefish in Boracay

Due to their ability to blend into their surroundings, finding Scorpionfish and Stonefish in Boracay requires a keen eye. Experienced dive guides from New Wave Divers Boracay can help spot these elusive creatures on certain dive sites known for their rich biodiversity.

Best Dive Sites to Spot Scorpionfish and Stonefish in Boracay

📍 Camia II Wreck

The shipwreck’s encrusted surfaces provide excellent hiding spots for Scorpionfish, making it one of the best places to find them.
Divers should look carefully along the structure, as Scorpionfish often rest motionless on ledges and within crevices.

📍 Crocodile Island

This site is a macro photographer’s paradise, offering a chance to see both Scorpionfish and Stonefish blending into rocky formations and coral heads.
Nudibranchs, frogfish, and ghost pipefish also inhabit this area, making it an exciting dive for spotting cryptic marine life.

📍 Friday’s Rock

A mix of sandy patches and coral bommies make this site ideal for spotting Stonefish, particularly in areas with broken coral rubble.
Divers should move slowly and look for subtle movements in the sand, as Stonefish are experts at remaining motionless.

📍 Tambisaan Reef

The variety of coral types and small rock outcroppings provide the perfect cover for Scorpionfish, especially in deeper sections of the reef.

📍 Angol Point

This shallow dive site is perfect for beginner divers who want to practice their observation skills. It’s common to find well-camouflaged Scorpionfish nestled between coral formations.

Since these species rely on their camouflage rather than fleeing from divers, patience and careful observation are key to spotting them.

Hunting Strategies: How Scorpionfish and Stonefish Catch Their Prey

Scorpionfish and Stonefish are both ambush predators, meaning they remain completely still until unsuspecting prey comes too close. Once within striking distance, they attack with lightning-fast reflexes.

Hunting Techniques:

✅ Scorpionfish: Use their textured bodies to blend into coral and rocks. When prey approaches, they open their mouths rapidly, creating a vacuum that sucks in small fish and crustaceans.

✅ Stonefish: Stay buried in sand or among coral rubble, nearly undetectable. When prey swims overhead, they lunge upward with incredible speed, capturing their meal in a split second.

Both species are masters of patience, sometimes waiting hours before making a single move. This hunting technique makes them incredibly efficient predators, ensuring their survival in reef environments.

Are Scorpionfish and Stonefish Dangerous to Divers?

Both species have venomous spines that can deliver painful stings if accidentally stepped on or touched. However, these fish are not aggressive and will only use their venom in self-defense.

How Dangerous Are Their Stings?

Scorpionfish Stings: Cause pain, swelling, and irritation but are rarely serious if treated promptly.
Stonefish Stings: More potent and can cause severe pain, nausea, swelling, and in rare cases, serious complications. Immediate treatment is necessary.

How to Avoid Being Stung:

✔️ Maintain good buoyancy – Avoid resting hands or knees on the reef where these fish may be hiding.
✔️ Look carefully before touching anything – These fish rely on camouflage, so always inspect ledges and coral formations closely.
✔️ Wear protective footwear in shallow waters – If wading near reefs, use reef-safe shoes to prevent accidental contact with a Stonefish buried in the sand.
✔️ Follow your dive guide’s lead – Experienced dive professionals at New Wave Divers know where these creatures hide and will help point them out.

The Role of Scorpionfish and Stonefish in the Reef Ecosystem

Despite their venomous nature, Scorpionfish and Stonefish are important to the health of the reef.

How They Benefit the Ecosystem:

🌿 Population Control – They regulate fish populations by preying on smaller species, keeping reef ecosystems balanced.
🌿 Natural Selection – Their ability to avoid predation through camouflage helps maintain biodiversity.
🌿 Reef Stability – Their presence encourages a healthy food chain, supporting other marine species in the ecosystem.

These fish may be feared by some, but they are an essential part of the ocean’s natural order.

Final Thoughts: A Diver’s Guide to Observing These Elusive Predators

Diving in Boracay offers the unique opportunity to witness some of the ocean’s best camouflaged predators in action. Whether spotting a Scorpionfish resting among corals at Camia II Wreck or catching a glimpse of a Stonefish lying motionless in the sand at Friday’s Rock, these encounters are both thrilling and humbling.

At New Wave Divers Boracay, we help divers safely and responsibly observe these incredible creatures. If you’re an underwater photographer or a diver who loves the challenge of spotting well-hidden marine life, let us guide you to Boracay’s best sites for Scorpionfish and Stonefish encounters.

Ready to explore the hidden world of Boracay’s reefs? Book your dive with New Wave Divers today!

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!

02/01/2025 Dive Log – Diniwid

Written by Scuba Dive Marketing on February 1, 2025. Posted in Dive Logs. No Comments on 02/01/2025 Dive Log – Diniwid

Dive Log: 02/01/2025

Dive Site Name: Diniwid

Dive Depth: 17.8

Dive Duration: 43 minutes

About The Dive: Took 6 fun divers to Diniwid, as we started to descend before we even reached the bottom first thing we saw was a huge sea turtle munching on a coral, I guess that was his breakfast as we continued on toward the edge of the wall, found a dark green frog fish, as we went down the wall we noticed a blue spotted sting ray, all in all I'd say everybody was super happy with our 43 minute dive

01/29/2025 Dive Log – Fridays reef

Written by Scuba Dive Marketing on January 29, 2025. Posted in Dive Logs. No Comments on 01/29/2025 Dive Log – Fridays reef

Dive Log: 01/29/2025

Dive Site Name: Fridays reef

Dive Depth: 12 meters

Dive Duration: 47 mins

About The Dive: This morning in Friday's reef we enjoyed a relaxing dive.
We had a light current with about 15 to 20 meters visibility.
The dive site has a lot of different types of anemonefish, nudibranchs and healthy corals.
We got lucky and also saw a small Hawksbill Turtle eating corals.
Great spot for Discover Scuba divers or Open water training dives

12/27/2024 Dive Log – Punta Bunga

Written by Scuba Dive Marketing on January 28, 2025. Posted in Dive Logs. No Comments on 12/27/2024 Dive Log – Punta Bunga

Dive Log: 12/27/2024

Dive Site Name: Punta Bunga

Dive Depth: 34

Dive Duration: 43

About The Dive: Amazing deep dive in Punta Bunga where we saw a huge green turtle, a big marble ray, a baby eagle ray and a mama white tip shark!
Thanks to Oskar as my dive buddy for this enjoyable dive!

Why Boracay is the Perfect Place to Become a PADI Mermaid

Written by Scuba Dive Marketing on January 28, 2025. Posted in Blog, Learn To Dive. No Comments on Why Boracay is the Perfect Place to Become a PADI Mermaid

Why Boracay is the Perfect Place to Become a PADI Mermaid

Boracay is world-famous for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a dream destination for travelers. But beyond its reputation as a tropical paradise, Boracay is also the perfect place to transform into a mermaid. Whether you’ve always dreamed of gliding effortlessly underwater like a mythical sea creature or want to learn a fun and unique way to explore the ocean, the PADI Mermaid Course at New Wave Divers Boracay offers an unforgettable experience.

With calm, warm waters, stunning coral reefs, and expert instruction, there’s no better place to earn your mermaid certification. Here’s why Boracay is the ultimate destination to embrace the mermaid lifestyle.

Crystal-Clear, Warm Waters Make Learning Easy and Fun

One of the biggest advantages of taking your PADI Mermaid Course in Boracay is the ideal water conditions. Unlike some other destinations where strong currents or cold water can make learning difficult, Boracay’s waters are:

Calm and Shallow: Many of Boracay’s training areas have gentle conditions, making it easier for beginners to practice their movements.
Warm Year-Round: With water temperatures ranging from 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F), you won’t have to worry about feeling cold while learning to swim like a mermaid.
Crystal Clear: With excellent visibility, it’s easier to see and navigate underwater, making your mermaid experience even more magical.

📍 Best Locations for Mermaid Training in Boracay:

Shallow lagoon areas near White Beach – Ideal for beginners to practice basic mermaid swimming techniques.
Angol Point and Coral Garden – Calm and shallow reef areas perfect for advancing mermaid skills while enjoying marine life.

A Breathtaking Underwater World to Explore

Mermaiding isn’t just about looking graceful in a monofin—it’s also about connecting with the ocean. Boracay’s reefs provide the perfect underwater playground for mermaids, filled with marine life and beautiful coral formations.

What You Might See While Mermaiding in Boracay:

Colorful reef fish like angelfish, butterflyfish, and clownfish
Coral gardens teeming with life, perfect for underwater photography
Graceful sea turtles, sometimes spotted in the shallows
Crystal-clear sandy seabeds, creating a picture-perfect mermaid backdrop

Unlike a swimming pool or controlled indoor environment, training in Boracay allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while learning to move like a real mermaid.

A Course for Everyone: From Beginners to Advanced Mermaids

At New Wave Divers Boracay, we offer PADI Mermaid Courses for all levels, so you can choose the perfect course based on your experience and goals.

PADI Mermaid Course Options in Boracay:

✔️ Discover Mermaid – A short introduction to mermaiding, perfect for first-timers who want to try swimming with a monofin.

✔️ PADI Basic Mermaid – Learn the fundamentals of mermaid movement, breath control, and buoyancy in confined water.

✔️ PADI Mermaid – Expand your skills with more advanced techniques and extended underwater breath-holding, practicing in open water settings.

✔️ PADI Advanced Mermaid – The ultimate mermaid challenge, where you perfect your underwater control and learn advanced breath-hold techniques in deeper water.

These courses allow you to progress at your own pace, making mermaiding in Boracay an accessible and fun activity for everyone—from kids and families to experienced swimmers looking for a new challenge.

The Perfect Setting for Stunning Mermaid Photography

If you’ve ever wanted to capture breathtaking mermaid photos, Boracay offers the perfect backdrop. With its white sand, turquoise waters, and vibrant reefs, every shot looks magical.

📸 Best Places for Mermaid Photoshoots in Boracay:

Shallow sandbars near Puka Beach – Dreamy tropical settings for surface-level mermaid shots.
Clear water lagoons near White Beach – Calm waters allow for artistic underwater photography.
Angol Point and Coral Garden – Great for capturing mermaids swimming among marine life.

Many PADI Mermaid students choose to add a professional underwater photoshoot to their experience, ensuring they have lasting memories of their transformation into a mermaid.

A Fun and Unique Activity for Families and Friends

Mermaiding is not just for solo travelers—it’s a fantastic experience to share with friends, couples, and families. Learning to swim like a mermaid together creates unforgettable memories, and Boracay’s relaxed island vibe makes it an excellent setting for group experiences.

Perfect for:

Families looking for a fun water activity for kids and parents.
Groups of friends wanting a unique island adventure.
Couples looking for a romantic and playful experience in the ocean.

Safe and Professional Mermaid Training at New Wave Divers

When learning any new water activity, safety and proper training are essential. At New Wave Divers Boracay, we provide:

✅ Certified PADI Mermaid Instructors – Experienced professionals who ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
✅ High-Quality Mermaid Equipment – Comfortable and durable mermaid tails and monofins provided.
✅ A Supportive Learning Environment – Whether you’re a strong swimmer or a total beginner, our courses are tailored to help you feel confident in the water.

Our team is passionate about mermaiding and marine conservation, helping students build confidence while respecting and protecting the ocean environment.

A Gateway to Ocean Conservation and Awareness

Becoming a mermaid isn’t just about fun—it’s also about developing a deeper appreciation for the ocean. Through the PADI Mermaid Course, students learn about:

🌊 Marine life interactions – Understanding how to move gracefully without disturbing the reef.
🌊 Ocean conservation – Learning why it’s important to protect coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
🌊 Responsible water practices – Using reef-safe sunscreen and practicing sustainable tourism.

Boracay’s commitment to marine conservation makes it the perfect place to foster an awareness of protecting the ocean while enjoying its beauty.

Final Thoughts: Become a Mermaid in Boracay Today

Boracay’s warm, clear waters, stunning marine life, and expert instructors make it the best place to take a PADI Mermaid Course. Whether you’re trying mermaiding for fun, looking to build confidence in the water, or dreaming of an unforgettable underwater photoshoot, Boracay offers the perfect setting to bring your mermaid dreams to life.

At New Wave Divers Boracay, we provide professional mermaid training for all levels, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and truly magical experience.

Ready to transform into a mermaid? Contact us today and start your PADI Mermaid adventure in Boracay!

The Role of Artificial Reefs in Boracay: How Wrecks and Structures Support Marine Life

Written by Scuba Dive Marketing on January 26, 2025. Posted in Blog, Dive Sites in Boracay, Scuba Diving Boracay. No Comments on The Role of Artificial Reefs in Boracay: How Wrecks and Structures Support Marine Life

How Wrecks and Structures Support Marine Life

The Role of Artificial Reefs in Boracay: How Wrecks and Structures Support Marine Life

Boracay’s natural coral reefs are famous for their beauty and biodiversity, but beneath the surface, artificial reefs are playing an increasingly important role in supporting marine life and enhancing the diving experience. From purposefully sunken wrecks to man-made structures designed to encourage coral growth, artificial reefs are becoming vital ecosystems that attract diverse marine species.

In this article, we’ll explore how artificial reefs in Boracay contribute to marine conservation, provide habitat for marine life, and create new opportunities for divers to explore thriving underwater environments.

What Are Artificial Reefs?

Artificial reefs are human-made underwater structures designed to promote marine life by providing surfaces for corals to attach and shelter for fish and invertebrates. These reefs can be created using a variety of materials, including:

Sunken ships or wrecks
Concrete blocks and reef balls
Metal structures designed to encourage coral growth
Old tires, stone piles, and other stable materials

Over time, these structures become encrusted with corals, sponges, and algae, transforming into thriving ecosystems that attract a wide range of marine species.

Why Artificial Reefs Matter in Boracay

Boracay’s natural reefs are under pressure due to environmental changes, human activities, and natural wear and tear. Artificial reefs help alleviate some of this pressure by:

Providing New Habitats – Artificial structures create shelter and breeding grounds for marine life, from small reef fish to large predators.
Supporting Coral Growth – Hard surfaces encourage coral polyps to settle and grow, expanding reef ecosystems.
Restoring Marine Biodiversity – Artificial reefs attract a variety of marine species, helping restore balance to the ecosystem.
Reducing Pressure on Natural Reefs – By offering alternative dive sites, artificial reefs help protect heavily visited natural reefs from excessive diver impact.

Boracay has several successful artificial reefs that have transformed into vibrant marine environments over the years.

Key Artificial Reef Dive Sites in Boracay

Camia II Wreck: Boracay’s Most Famous Artificial Reef

The Camia II Wreck is one of the most well-known artificial reefs in Boracay. This former fishing vessel was intentionally sunk in 2001 to create a new dive site and marine habitat. Over the past two decades, it has become home to a wide range of marine species.

Marine Life Highlights:

Schools of batfish and trevallies circling the wreck
Scorpionfish and lionfish hiding among the encrusted metal surfaces
Ghost pipefish and nudibranchs found in the crevices
Occasional visits from barracudas and reef sharks

The wreck sits at around 30 meters (98 feet), making it ideal for Advanced Open Water divers and those taking wreck diving specialty courses.

Tribird Wreck: An Aircraft-Turned-Reef

One of Boracay’s more unique artificial reef projects, the Tribird Wreck, is a sunken airplane that has become a haven for marine life. Although smaller than the Camia II Wreck, it attracts diverse fish populations and macro life.

Marine Life Highlights:

Glassfish and anthias swarming around the structure
Flatworms and nudibranchs adding color to the wreck
Yellowtail damsels and orangeband surgeonfish hiding in the wreckage

This dive site is a favorite among underwater photographers due to its unique shape and growing coral formations.

Balinghai Reef: An Artificial Reef Success Story

Balinghai is a prime example of an artificial reef that has successfully integrated with its natural surroundings. Over time, concrete and stone structures placed in the area have attracted a variety of marine life, making it a great dive site for beginners and macro enthusiasts.

Marine Life Highlights:

Frogfish and trumpetfish camouflaged among the artificial structures
Map puffers and scrawled filefish patrolling the reef
Banggai cardinalfish sheltering in the coral growths

Balinghai is an excellent site for divers who want to witness how artificial reefs support marine biodiversity at shallow depths.

Coral Nursery Projects in Boracay

Several reef restoration projects in Boracay focus on coral propagation and artificial reef creation. These initiatives involve planting coral fragments onto artificial structures to promote reef regrowth.

How Coral Nurseries Work:

Coral fragments are collected from healthy donor reefs.
They are attached to specially designed structures, such as concrete domes or metal frames.
Over time, the corals grow and establish themselves, forming a new reef ecosystem.
Fish and other marine organisms colonize the new reef, creating a thriving habitat.

These projects help improve reef resilience and provide excellent educational opportunities for divers interested in marine conservation.

The Benefits of Artificial Reefs for Divers

For divers, artificial reefs offer unique opportunities to explore and interact with marine life in ways that natural reefs sometimes cannot.

Exciting Wreck and Structure Exploration
- Wreck diving provides a different challenge, requiring divers to navigate through man-made structures while observing marine life.
- Sites like Camia II Wreck allow divers to experience a thriving artificial ecosystem.
Great for Underwater Photography
- Artificial reefs attract diverse marine species, creating excellent opportunities for both macro and wide-angle photography.
- Sites like Tribird Wreck provide stunning visuals with fish schools and corals growing over the structures.
Ideal for Advanced and Specialty Training
- Wreck diving, deep diving, and buoyancy control specialties can be practiced effectively in artificial reef environments.
- New Wave Divers Boracay offers specialty courses that incorporate these unique sites into training.
Opportunities to Support Conservation
- Divers can participate in coral restoration projects and clean-up dives at artificial reef sites.
- By diving responsibly and spreading awareness, divers contribute to the long-term health of Boracay’s marine environment.

How Divers Can Help Protect Artificial Reefs

While artificial reefs provide benefits to marine life, they also require protection from human impact. Divers can contribute by:

Practicing Good Buoyancy – Avoid touching or kicking up sediment that can harm growing corals.
Not Removing or Disturbing Marine Life – Many artificial reefs host fragile species that rely on their new habitat.
Supporting Conservation Efforts – Joining reef restoration projects or donating to marine conservation organizations.
Choosing Responsible Dive Operators – Diving with environmentally conscious dive shops that prioritize reef protection.

At New Wave Divers Boracay, we are committed to sustainable diving practices and supporting artificial reef projects that enhance marine biodiversity.

Final Thoughts: The Future of Artificial Reefs in Boracay

Artificial reefs in Boracay are proving to be an invaluable resource for marine conservation, tourism, and diver education. From shipwrecks that have transformed into thriving ecosystems to coral nurseries that help rebuild damaged reefs, these structures play a crucial role in maintaining Boracay’s rich underwater world.

For divers, artificial reefs offer exciting and rewarding experiences, providing opportunities to witness marine life in unique environments while contributing to reef conservation efforts. Whether you are exploring the Camia II Wreck, photographing marine life at Tribird Wreck, or participating in coral restoration at Balinghai Reef, you are part of a movement that helps preserve Boracay’s underwater beauty for future generations.

If you’re eager to experience these incredible dive sites, contact New Wave Divers Boracay today to book your next dive and explore the thriving world of artificial reefs.

A Diver’s Guide to Boracay’s Seasonal Marine Visitors

Written by Scuba Dive Marketing on January 24, 2025. Posted in Blog, Marine Life Of Boracay, Scuba Diving Boracay. No Comments on A Diver’s Guide to Boracay’s Seasonal Marine Visitors

A Seasonal Guide To Marine Life In Boracay

A Diver’s Guide to Boracay’s Seasonal Marine Visitors

Boracay is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, diverse dive sites, and abundant marine life, but one of the most fascinating aspects of diving here is how the underwater landscape changes throughout the year. While Boracay offers excellent diving year-round, different seasons bring unique marine visitors, making each dive experience distinct.

For divers looking to maximize their encounters with specific species, understanding the seasonal patterns of marine life in Boracay is key. From pelagic fish and migratory species to rare macro critters, this guide will walk you through what to expect in Boracay’s waters at different times of the year.

Understanding Boracay’s Two Seasons and Their Impact on Diving

Boracay experiences two primary seasons:

Amihan (Northeast Monsoon) Season (November to May) – Characterized by calm seas and clear visibility on the western dive sites. This is the best season for diving sites like Yapak, Camia II Wreck, and Crocodile Island.
Habagat (Southwest Monsoon) Season (June to October) – Brings stronger winds and occasional rain, shifting dive conditions to the eastern sites like Tambisaan Reef and Channel Drift. Visibility can be slightly reduced, but marine activity remains high.

Each season affects the presence and behavior of marine life, influencing what divers are most likely to see underwater.

Amihan Season (November to May): Peak Visibility and Big Fish Encounters

Clear Water and Schooling Pelagic Fish

During the Amihan season, divers enjoy some of the best visibility of the year, often exceeding 20-30 meters at deeper sites like Yapak and Punta Bunga. With calm waters and stable conditions, larger pelagic fish tend to frequent Boracay’s deep walls and open-water dive sites.

Marine Highlights of Amihan Season:

Giant Trevallies and Barracudas (Best seen at Yapak & Channel Drift)
- Schools of giant trevallies (Caranx ignobilis) and barracudas roam Yapak’s deep walls, hunting in the strong currents.
- These predatory fish are often seen circling divers or hanging motionless against the current, creating excellent photo opportunities.
Whitetip Reef Sharks (Best seen at Yapak & Punta Bunga)
- These sleek, graceful sharks use Boracay’s deep walls and ledges as resting spots during the day.
- They are more commonly spotted between December and April, when visibility is high and currents bring in more food.
Schooling Bannerfish and Red-Tooth Triggerfish (Best seen at Yapak & Camia II Wreck)
- These bright, fluttering fish form dense schools, adding vibrant life to the deep reef environments.
- The Camia II Wreck is an excellent place to witness schools of red-tooth triggerfish hovering over the sunken structure.
Hawksbill and Green Turtles (Best seen at Angol Point & Balinghai)
- While sea turtles are present in Boracay year-round, sightings increase during Amihan season, particularly at Angol Point and Balinghai where they forage among the reefs.

Habagat Season (June to October): Macro Magic and Unique Marine Encounters

Changing Conditions and an Explosion of Macro Life

As the winds shift and visibility varies, macro life flourishes in Boracay’s sheltered dive sites. While the bigger pelagic fish may be less frequent, this season is a paradise for divers interested in smaller, more elusive marine creatures.

Marine Highlights of Habagat Season:

Ghost Pipefish and Frogfish (Best seen at Crocodile Island & Angol Point)
- These well-camouflaged creatures thrive in Boracay’s shallow reefs, using feather stars and coral branches for cover.
- July to September is the best time to spot ghost pipefish in their various color morphs, as well as well-hidden frogfish.
Nudibranch Blooms (Best seen at Crocodile Island & Tambisaan Reef)
- With slightly warmer water and different currents, nudibranchs become more abundant, displaying their vibrant colors.
- The Spanish Dancer nudibranch is occasionally spotted during night dives.
Peacock Mantis Shrimp (Best seen at Diniwid & Crocodile Island)
- This fascinating crustacean, known for its powerful “punch,” is often seen peeking out of burrows.
- The Habagat season is an excellent time to see them engaging in territorial displays.
Blue-Spotted Stingrays (Best seen at Laguna & Santoson)
- These graceful bottom dwellers rest in sandy patches and are more frequently encountered from July to October when waters are slightly murkier, offering them better camouflage.

Year-Round Marine Life in Boracay

While some species follow seasonal trends, many of Boracay’s marine creatures can be found year-round.

Anemonefish: Found at almost every reef dive site, often defending their homes aggressively.
Scorpionfish & Stonefish: Masters of camouflage, hidden in plain sight on rocky or coral-covered seabeds.
Moray Eels: Seen poking out of coral crevices at sites like Camia II Wreck and Friday’s Rock.

These species provide consistent marine diversity no matter when you dive in Boracay.

When is the Best Time to Dive in Boracay?

For the Best Visibility and Big Fish Encounters:

✅ November to May (Amihan Season) – Perfect for deep walls, drift dives, and schooling pelagic fish.

For Macro Life and Unique Critter Sightings:

✅ June to October (Habagat Season) – Ideal for underwater photographers and those interested in finding rare marine species.

Regardless of the season, Boracay offers year-round diving opportunities, with dive sites available on both the eastern and western sides of the island, ensuring that there are always great conditions somewhere.

Final Thoughts: What to Expect on Your Dive Trip to Boracay

Boracay’s ever-changing underwater landscape makes it a truly dynamic dive destination. Whether you are looking for large schools of fish, the thrill of diving with sharks, or the delicate beauty of macro life, every season brings a unique diving experience.

At New Wave Divers Boracay, we offer guided dives and training programs tailored to the seasonal changes in marine life, ensuring that every diver gets the best possible experience.

If you are planning a dive trip to Boracay, consider what marine life you’d love to see and let us help you explore the island’s underwater wonders. No matter the season, the diving in Boracay is always unforgettable.