Why you Should Explore in Cebu Philippines 

Cebu, Philippines is home to some of the most incredible world-class dive sites, from kaleidoscope-like coral reefs bursting with marine life to intriguing shipwrecks and underwater caves. If you haven’t been to this corner of the world, then you’re missing a lot. Join us on our upcoming Philippine trip to experience this fantastic tropical destination. 

Nemo Diving Center together with Flying Fish Travel brings you a Philippine trip dubbed “All Shapes and Sizes”. This 3-night underwater adventure features beautiful Cebu diving spots and an exciting diving itinerary. 

Moalboal 

Moalboal is a charming municipality in the province of Cebu where you can find Pescador Island, a mecca for divers from different parts of the world. This scuba diving gem is renowned for its plethora of marine life, breathtaking coral reefs, and astounding sardine run making it an irresistible draw for enthusiastic divers.

Malapascua

Malapascua is a small island off the coast of Cebu famous for its white sand and pristine waters. Divers from different parts of the world visit this island to see its diverse range of marine life, especially thresher sharks which are often spotted during early mornings at Monad Shoal.

Unparalleled Marine Biodiversity

Here are just a few of the incredible marine life that you may encounter in Cebu scuba diving spots.

Sardine Run

Just imagine seeing a sea of dazzling silver during your Pescador Island diving. This awe-inspiring underwater phenomenon is none other than the sardine run where millions of sardines congregate in a synchronous movement. The sheer density of these tiny fish creates a mesmerizing effect, resembling a whirling ball of silver underwater which attracts different predators including tuna, barracuda, trevally, jacks, and thresher sharks. Join our trip for a chance to witness this breathtaking spectacle and tick it off your scuba diving bucket list. 

Thresher Shark

There are three recognized species of thresher sharks namely the common thresher, the bigeye thresher, and the pelagic thresher. When you go Moalboal scuba diving, you are more likely to encounter the pelagic thresher (Alopias pelagicus). The pelagic thresher is the smallest among the three species with an average size of three feet. They are typically shy and non-aggressive towards humans. Like most sharks, thresher sharks are often solitary. 

Thresher sharks have a unique feature that makes them stand out – their iconic long tail with elongated caudal fin which varies in size depending on the species. They are noted for slapping their tails in the water, a behavior used for stunning prey. This technique is also used to corral schooling fish into a tight ball, making them easier to catch. Thresher sharks like to feed on herrings and mackerels but are also fond of eating squid. 

Mandarin Fish 

Stunning is an understatement when describing the mandarin fish. They are also called Mandarin Goby, Mandarin Dragonet, Green Mandarin fish, Psychedelic fish, and Striped Mandarin. They are small, typically reaching only 3 inches (8 centimeters) in length. Mandarin fish are diurnal creatures which means that they are usually active during the day. 

Bursting with colors, the mandarin fish have vivid patterns on the body that make them great subjects for underwater photography. Another fascinating thing about this species is its ritual reproduction mating “dance” wherein the females gather at the reef at sunset to seek a mate. The males begin their flashy courtship dance and the female chooses the male that she likes. She rests on his pelvic fin and the two float above the reef where they spawn. After a whirlwind courtship and the eggs and the sperm are released, the couple go on separate ways. 

Blue-ringed octopus

The blue-ringed octopus is a tiny species, about the size of a golf ball. When it’s in a relaxed state, the blue-ringed octopus appears beige or yellow. However, when threatened, it dramatically changes in color and showcases vibrant blue rings on its adorn its back, arms, and dorsal surface. Each ring has a dark center and blurred edge.

Like other octopus species, the blue-ringed octopus is a nocturnal creature. It usually hunts at night in search of its favorite prey like small crabs, shrimp, and other small crustaceans. During the day, it prefers hiding in crevices and holes. 

Remember to observe this creature from a distance and do not attempt to touch it because it has a toxic venom. 

Frogfish

The frogfish, aptly named for its resemblance to the amphibian, is a unique underwater creature. Their bodies are covered in fleshy appendages and bumps, resembling sponges, coral, or even seaweed. Renowned for their incredible camouflage abilities, frogfish can mimic their surroundings with astonishing precision. This ability enables them to ambush unsuspecting prey such as fish, crustaceans, and sometimes other frogfish. 

Cuttlefish

Did you know that the cuttlefish can display different colors, and patterns, and even imitate the texture of coral or seaweed when they are hunting or avoiding predators? This is why the cuttlefish is a pro when it comes to camouflage tactics. It can rapidly change its skin color and texture to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. 

Nudibranchs

Nudibranchs come in intricate patterns and dazzling colors from vibrant blues and striking oranges to neon yellows and polka dots. No wonder divers love seeing them. Nudibranchs are also known for their slow and graceful gliding movements which makes them ideal photography subjects.

Eco-friendly diving 

Please join our trip to Cebu, Philippines and get a chance to encounter these amazing marine creatures up close, especially the much-talked-about sardine run. We’ll take you to explore Cebu’s diving gems – Moalboal and Malapascua.

Nemo Diving Center promotes sustainable and eco-friendly diving practices. In line with this, our dive instructors promote responsible diving behaviors to protect the delicate marine ecosystems, avoid disturbing marine life, and ensure the safety of divers.