Tucked along Cebu’s western coast, Moalboal stands as the Philippines’ premier underwater destination.
The main attraction – a massive sardine ball swirling like a living tornado – happens year-round, making this spot reliably spectacular. Local coral reefs burst with sea turtles and tropical fish, while seasonal whale shark visits add extra excitement.
We especially appreciate the morning tours with smaller groups, which provide better viewing opportunities and more personal attention.
The 3-hour excursions strike an ideal balance, offering enough time to experience the sardine run and explore nearby reefs without exhausting newcomers.
Check out our favorite tours below, ranked for value and experience quality.
Key Points
- Experience the renowned sardine run, where millions of sardines gather in a mesmerizing tornado-like formation.
- Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life of Pescador Island, including encounters with tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasional whale sharks.
- Set out on a scuba diving tour that offers face-to-face encounters with majestic sea turtles, complemented by the experience of swimming alongside thousands of sardines.
- Enjoy the convenience of seamless transportation from major Cebu cities and the inclusion of all necessary scuba gear, insurance, and GoPro cameras.
- Benefit from the expertise of highly-rated PADI divemasters who prioritize safety and comfort during the underwater adventures.
Cebu: Moalboal Scuba Diving, Sardines Run & Pescador Snorkel
On your Cebu adventure, you can experience the captivating Moalboal scuba diving, where you’ll witness the legendary sardine run and explore the vibrant Pescador Island through snorkeling. Priced from $130.40 per person, this 8-hour tour offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
You’ll be picked up from various locations in Cebu and driven to Moalboal, where you’ll enjoy a 3-hour guided tour for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Dive into the mesmerizing sardine shoal and encounter a variety of marine life, including barracudas, jacks, and occasionally thresher sharks.
With the drift diving experience, you can effortlessly cover larger reef areas and capture stunning underwater photos and videos.
After the diving, you’ll explore Pescador Island’s vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasional whale sharks and dolphins. Relax on the sandy beaches and enjoy a picnic lunch before the return trip.
Read our full review: Cebu: Moalboal Scuba Diving, Sardines Run & Pescador Snorkel Review
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Moalboal : Scuba Diving Sardine Run and Turtle Chasing
One of the most captivating scuba diving experiences in Moalboal is the renowned Sardine Run, where you’ll witness the mesmerizing sight of millions of sardines swirling in a tornado-like formation.
Accompanied by experienced dive professionals, you’ll also have the opportunity to chase and encounter majestic sea turtles.
The breathtaking 1-day tour includes a 2.5-hour private car transfer to Moalboal, a 1-hour guided tour and safety briefing at Panagsama Beach, and a 30-minute photo stop.
Priced at $139.56 per person, the experience provides hotel pickup and drop-off, all necessary scuba gear, boat fees, insurance, and even a GoPro camera to capture your underwater adventures.
With a 5/5 rating based on a delighted customer’s praise for the friendly and accommodating guide, this scuba diving tour in Moalboal promises an unforgettable encounter with the vibrant marine life of the Philippines.
Read our full review: Moalboal : Scuba Diving Sardine Run and Turtle Chasing Review
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Moalboal: Scuba Diving With the Sardine and Sea Turtles
For scuba enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled underwater experience, the Moalboal: Scuba Diving with the Sardine and Sea Turtles tour promises a captivating encounter with the vibrant marine life of the Philippines.
Priced from $176.20 per person, this 10-hour excursion offers the chance to swim alongside thousands of sardines during the renowned sardine run and come face-to-face with majestic sea turtles.
With a 1.5-hour diving duration, you’ll have ample time to explore the breathtaking underwater scenery, all while utilizing top-notch equipment provided by the tour.
Led by the highly-rated PADI divemaster, Fritz Francisco, you’ll embark on a seamless journey with private transportation from Cebu City, Mandaue City, or Lapu-Lapu City.
Rated 5/5 by previous travelers, this tour is a must-try for those seeking an unforgettable scuba diving adventure in Moalboal.
Read our full review: Moalboal: Scuba Diving With the Sardine and Sea Turtles Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Moalboal offers incredible scuba diving experiences. You’ll encounter the mesmerizing sardine run and have the chance to swim alongside turtles. This vibrant marine life makes Moalboal a must-visit destination for any scuba enthusiast. With its diverse underwater world, you’re sure to have an unforgettable diving adventure in this beautiful part of Cebu, Philippines.