Philippines Explorer II Liveaboard, Philippines

Philippines Explorer TWO is a 24-metre private liveaboard designed for small groups seeking a more personal cruising and diving experience. Originally built in 2008 and fully rebuilt in 2022, the vessel operates with a maximum of 6 guests and a crew of 5, creating a quiet and flexible onboard environment. Designed around private charter use, Philippines Explorer 2 liveaboard focuses on space, privacy, and access to less crowded destinations across the region.

Cabin Types

Accommodation on Philippines Explorer 2 is arranged across four en-suite cabins, each with natural light, individually controlled air conditioning, and private bathrooms with hot water.

Premium Suite

The Premium Suite is a full-beam cabin designed for two guests. It features a double bed with a natural latex mattress, a private lounge area with sofa seating and workspace, and an entertainment system with a smart TV and surround sound. The en-suite bathroom includes a rain shower and a panoramic ocean-view window.

Deluxe Suite

Located in the bow, the Deluxe Suite accommodates two guests in a double bed. The cabin includes a skylight and side windows for natural light, a workspace, and an en-suite bathroom with a shower, a wash basin, and a WC. The skylight also functions as an emergency hatch.

Comfort Cabins

Two Comfort Cabins are available, each designed for single occupancy. These cabins include a single bed, en-suite bathroom, storage space, and a work area, offering a more private setup within the vessel’s layout.

Boat Interior

The boat is arranged across three decks, providing multiple indoor and outdoor areas for relaxation. Air-conditioned indoor spaces are complemented by open deck areas and an al-fresco dining setup connected to the open kitchen. A Garmin Fusion integrated sound system is installed throughout the vessel. The layout is designed to balance shared spaces with privacy, supported by the limited number of guests onboard.

Dive Deck

Diving and watersports are supported by onboard equipment including tanks (12L and 15L), an air compressor, air bank, and Nitrox. A tender with an outboard engine is used for transfers to dive sites. The vessel also carries snorkelling gear, seabobs, fliteboards, and fishing equipment, allowing activities to extend beyond diving.

Safety

Safety and navigation systems include AIS, radar, EPIRB, SART, DSC-VHF marine radio, life rafts, life vests, oxygen kit, first aid kit, fire alarms, and bilge alarms. A Seakeeper gyro-stabiliser is installed to improve onboard comfort and stability. Silent generators contribute to reduced noise levels during overnight stays.

Itineraries

Philippines Explorer 2 liveaboard operates structured itineraries within the Philippines, typically lasting 7 days and 6 nights, with departures scheduled on Wednesdays depending on the route.
The Malapascua: Sharks & Shoals itinerary includes sites such as Moalboal, where the sardine run forms dense schools, and Pescador Island’s Cathedral formation. The route also includes Oslob for whale shark encounters and Malapascua for thresher shark dives.
The Malapascua: Mantas & Sharks route expands into areas such as Ticao Pass and Manta Bowl, known for manta ray sightings, along with Gato Island’s tunnel systems and drop-offs across the region.
Southern Leyte itineraries focus on a mix of macro and wide-angle diving. Sites such as Anda feature walls and turtle encounters, while Napantao Island is known as a marine sanctuary. Additional highlights include macro-focused dive sites and opportunities to snorkel with whale sharks.

Food & Drinks

Meals on board include a mix of Asian and Western cuisine, prepared using fresh ingredients. The offering includes all meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages such as soft drinks, coffee, teas, and herbal infusions. A selection of wine is available, and beach BBQs are part of selected itineraries.

Boat Specification

Philippines Explorer 2 liveaboard Philippines measures 24.38 metres in length with a beam of 5.54 metres and cruises at approximately 7.5 knots. The vessel features a GRP hull and superstructure, powered by two Volvo Penta D6 engines. Water production is supported by a water maker rated at 300 litres per hour. Power is supplied by two silent Kohler generators. Internet access is available via a Starlink connection.

Overall, MV Philippines Explorer 2 liveaboard Philippines is structured around private travel, combining a small guest capacity, flexible itinerary planning, and a mix of diving and leisure activities across multiple regions