Tubbataha National Park Liveaboard Diving
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Scuba Diving in Tubbataha National Park
Marine Biodiversity
Vivid Corals
World Heritage
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO Marine Park, lies deep in the Sulu Sea, far from the coastlines of western Philippines and even further from everyday human interference. This remote sanctuary, accessible only by boat, is widely regarded as the crown jewel of liveaboard diving in Tubbataha Philippines. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 and immortalized on the 1000-peso note, Tubbataha stands as both a national treasure and one of the most extraordinary diving destinations in the Coral Triangle.
Its isolated position, formed from submerged volcanic atolls, creates a convergence zone for oceanic life. Here, Tubbataha National Park liveaboards take divers to sites that reveal staggering biodiversity and flawless marine conditions. From massive coral gardens to encounters with pelagics, this is Tubbataha diving liveaboard at its best.
North and South Atolls & Jessie Beazley Reef
The park consists of three main formations: North Atoll, South Atoll, and Jessie Beazley Reef. More than 370 coral species, 600 species of fish, 14 shark species, and 12 types of cetaceans have been recorded here. Swarms of reef fish, swirling baitballs, manta rays, and occasional whale sharks highlight the diving experience. While it’s primarily about pristine reefs, some itineraries may also include a shipwreck dive site for variety.
Sea Turtles and Reef Sharks
Dives often begin with trevallies, tuna, and barracuda in the blue, then drift past schools of sweetlips, butterflyfish, and curious sea turtles. Shark encounters are frequent—blacktip, whitetip, grey reef, silky, and occasionally hammerhead or tiger sharks. Rays, including eagle rays and mantas, round out the experience.
Pristine Corals and Marine Ecosystems
Tubbataha lies at the centre of the Coral Triangle, home to one of the world’s richest ecosystems. With over 360 species of coral, divers encounter massive barrel sponges, gorgonian fans, forests of Acropora, and delicate soft corals. Macro enthusiasts will find nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, and shrimp tucked into coral folds
Must See Tubbataha National Park Dive Sites
There are a few prominent dive sites in Tubbataha National Park
Tubbataha Reef
Tubbataha Reef is the centrepiece of every Tubbataha Reef liveaboard diving itinerary. It offers everything: dramatic drop-offs, swirling pelagics, dense coral growth, and a constant buzz of reef activity. Divers here can expect to encounter shark species, manta rays, reef fish, and, with a bit of luck, even whale sharks.Malayan Wreck
The Malayan Wreck, perched on the southwest edge of the North Atoll, offers a dive that unfolds in chapters. Before even reaching the wreck, divers drift along a coral wall where grey reef sharks, whitetips, and the occasional hammerhead glide by. The wreck itself, likely a freighter from the WWII era, is home to harlequin sweetlips, rainbow runners, and lurking giant morays. At night, it transforms: Spanish dancers undulate across the sand while crustaceans retreat into the crevices of twisted steel.Jessie Beazley Reef
Roughly 20 km northwest of the North Atoll, Jessie Beazley Reef is a compact site that delivers outsized diving. With coral slopes starting at 7 metres and plummeting to over 50, the reef teems with reef sharks, tuna, barracuda, and sometimes even mako or thresher sharks. On calm days, the site is ideal for wide-angle photography, offering a kaleidoscope of vibrant coral reefs and pelagic encounters.Amos Rock
Named after a rock outcrop where midnight snapper school, Amos Rock is a go-to site when winds limit access to eastern spots. The reef is alive with fusiliers, Napoleon wrasse, batfish, and flashes of colour from angelfish and butterflyfish.Shark Airport
At Shark Airport, the nickname isn’t an exaggeration. White tip reef sharks sprawl across the shallow plateau like aircraft on a runway. Drift dives here often yield sightings of silky sharks, nurse sharks, grey reef sharks, and, occasionally, whale sharks. Triggerfish nest along the edges, adding an extra dose of energy to this already active site.Delsan Wreck
Less famous than Malayan but equally atmospheric, the Delsan Wreck draws in huge schools of fish, cruising reef sharks, and the occasional manta ray. Nestled within the protected zone, it’s a favourite for divers seeking a combination of wreck structure and natural reef lifeLiveaboard Ports of Departure and How to Get There
Most Tubbataha Reef liveaboard Philippines cruises depart from Puerto Princesa, a coastal city in Palawan. Travellers are strongly advised to arrive at least one day prior to embarkation. This buffer allows time to unwind, adjust to local time, and prepare for the unforgettable journey ahead. The same principle applies to the return schedule; your departure flight for the day after disembarkation to accommodate possible delays
When To Go Diving in Tubbataha National Park
Water temperature
Located in the heart of the Sulu Sea, east of Palawan, Tubbataha Reef is shaped by a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: dry and wet. The peak scuba diving season runs from mid-March to mid-June, coinciding with the dry months. During this time, the seas are generally calm, skies are clear, and underwater visibility can often reach 30–35 metres or more, perfect conditions for exploring the superb dive sites scattered across the North and South Atolls and Jessie Beazley Reef. With crossings from Puerto Princesa typically taking over 12 hours, these calm seas make the journey to this remote UNESCO World Heritage Site far more comfortable.
From June to February, the wet season brings heavy rains, strong winds, and unpredictable swells. These conditions make the long open-water crossing unsafe, and the park is closed to divers until the following dry season. No Tubbataha liveaboards operate during this period, allowing the reefs and diverse marine life to recover undisturbed. By the time the next season begins, divers are often rewarded with an abundance of reef fish, healthy corals, and a greater chance of encountering larger pelagic species such as manta rays, hammerhead sharks, and even whale sharks.
For anyone planning a Tubbataha reef liveaboard diving trip, whether aboard a Tubbataha luxury liveaboard or a Tubbataha liveaboard budget option, booking well in advance is essential. The short season and limited number of vessels mean spaces fill quickly. Arriving in Puerto Princesa at least one day before departure and allowing a buffer day after your return ensures the journey begins and ends without unnecessary stress
From June to February, the wet season brings heavy rains, strong winds, and unpredictable swells. These conditions make the long open-water crossing unsafe, and the park is closed to divers until the following dry season. No Tubbataha liveaboards operate during this period, allowing the reefs and diverse marine life to recover undisturbed. By the time the next season begins, divers are often rewarded with an abundance of reef fish, healthy corals, and a greater chance of encountering larger pelagic species such as manta rays, hammerhead sharks, and even whale sharks.
For anyone planning a Tubbataha reef liveaboard diving trip, whether aboard a Tubbataha luxury liveaboard or a Tubbataha liveaboard budget option, booking well in advance is essential. The short season and limited number of vessels mean spaces fill quickly. Arriving in Puerto Princesa at least one day before departure and allowing a buffer day after your return ensures the journey begins and ends without unnecessary stress
Frequently Asked Questions About Tubbataha National Park
What scuba certification is required for Tubbataha diving?
Most liveaboard Tubbataha operators require divers to hold an Advanced Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent) with at least 40 logged dives. The atolls are known for strong currents that make drift diving thrilling, but they also demand solid buoyancy control and awareness of potential down currents and “washing machine” effects
Are there age restrictions for diving in Tubbataha?
Diving here is challenging and best suited for mature, experienced divers. Younger participants must meet both skill and certification requirements, and be fully confident in open-ocean conditions, before joining a Philippines liveaboard Tubbataha trip
What scuba gear should I bring?
Most equipment can be rented onboard, but divers often prefer bringing their own for comfort and fit. Essential items include a BCD, regulator, booties, fins, mask, wetsuit, and a dive computer, which is mandatory for every diver. Torches are useful even though night diving is not offered. Gloves are not permitted unless there is a medical reason. A friendly crew on board will assist with equipment setup and handling
How much does a Tubbataha liveaboard trip cost in the Philippines?
Price vary by vessel, cabin type, and season. In general, liveaboard Philippines Tubbataha trips are considered premium experiences, though there are both budget and high-end options. The best Tubbataha liveaboard vessels feature enhanced comfort and service, while simpler boats cater to cost-conscious divers. Discounts are rare, though some fleets may provide early-bird or last-minute rates. Park regulations require divers to pay national park fees, which are usually collected onboard in addition to extras such as gear rental
Are night dives offered on Tubbataha trips?
Most Tubbataha National Park liveaboards do not allow night dives, following marine park regulations. Instead, some boats schedule sunset dives, offering a unique chance to observe reef life during twilight hours
Do I need travel/diving insurance?
Yes. The conditions at Tubbataha include strong currents, deep walls, and occasional surges, which are not suitable for beginners. All divers must have valid dive insurance before joining a liveaboard diving Philippines Tubbataha, and comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended
Tubbataha National Park Diving Reviews
4.6
Excellent
7 verified reviews
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5.0
April 2025
Although the boat looks very green in all the photos, it was not disturbing at all. We stayed in the room on the upper floor. The beds and bathroom were spacious and comfortable. The room charging stations, clean towels and sheets. Enough space for 2 people to be comfortable in the room.
The food served on the boat was great. It was like eating at a gourmet restaurant. I congratulate the chef and his team.
Our dive guides King and Jess were very good. We had safe and enjoyable dives to very beautiful dive sites. The boat crew took very good care of our dive equipment. The chaser boats that carried us to the dive site were very comfortable and fast. The boat crew took very good care of us and our equipment during the dives.
The reefs are very beautiful and well-preserved. The corals are very lively and healthy. I am very happy to see them.
I would like to thank the boat and the dive team very much.
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2025-05-13by O. Merve diving Philippines onboard Stella Maris Explorer
4.3
Great guides and food!
The only downside of this trip were few other guests sadly. The safety of the diving was fantastic, our guide King was great and food was beyond what I expected. My vegetarian options were coming out separately looking like a gourmet restaurant plates. There is no card payment on the boat, which would have been useful.
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2025-05-03by Z. Agata diving Philippines onboard Stella Maris Explorer
5.0
Excellent choice for Philippines diving
Comfortable beds and air conditioning, delicious foods, friendly service and safe dive guiding
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2024-06-17by K. Gordon diving Philippines onboard Infiniti
