Malapascua: Advance Divers Shark Dive & Optional Transfer

Malapascua Island is a renowned destination for advanced divers seeking an exhilarating shark diving experience. With depths ranging from 12 to 30 meters, divers can witness the graceful movements of thresher sharks, large rays, and whitetip reef sharks, guided by experienced PADI Divemasters. Convenient transfer options from Cebu or Mactan enhance accessibility, while flexible booking and cancellation policies cater to diverse needs. While an overnight stay is recommended for optimal preparation, the opportunity to encounter these magnificent creatures is undoubtedly worth the journey.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Private Car With Driver Services In Cebu City.

Key Points

• Malapascua Island offers daily thresher shark sightings, with early morning dives available at popular sites like Monad or Kimud Shoal.
• The diving experience is tailored for advanced open water divers, with opportunities to observe diverse marine life, including thresher sharks, large rays, and whitetip reef sharks.
• Dive packages range from 2 to 3 dives, with equipment rental and Nitrox add-ons available, as well as optional pickup from Cebu or Mactan.
• Advanced open water certification is required, and overnight stays on the island are recommended for proper acclimation and preparation.
• The dive shop provides a smooth check-in process, with weather monitoring and safety prioritized, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable diving experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

Experience the unique opportunity to dive at Malapascua Island, the only place in the world where visitors can see thresher sharks daily.

Enjoy early morning dives at Monad or Kimud Shoal, with the option to book now and pay later.

Plus, you can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the dive.

This flexible booking system ensures a hassle-free diving experience tailored to your needs.

Diving Experience

Divers frequently observe a variety of marine life during the Malapascua shark dives, including thresher sharks, large rays, frogfish, and whitetip reef sharks.

The dives are conducted by experienced PADI Divemasters, ensuring a safe and informative experience. Dive depths range from 16-30 meters at Monad Shoal and 12 meters at Kimud Shoal.

Recently, shark sightings have been exceptional, with more frequent encounters at Kimud Shoal.

Whether you’re an advanced open water diver or seeking to further your skills, the Malapascua shark dives offer an unparalleled opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Dive Packages and Options

Travelers can choose between 2 or 3 dive trips, which include the sought-after shark dives as well as additional sites like Gato.

Equipment rental is available for 350 PHP per dive, and Nitrox can be added for 350 PHP. The marine park fee is 400 PHP per dive.

For convenience, pickup options from Cebu or Mactan are offered.

Divers should note that these dives are suitable only for Advanced Open Water Divers, not for children under 15 or unqualified divers.

It’s recommended to stay overnight on Malapascua Island before the dive and check-in at the dive shop the day prior to confirm the schedule and sort equipment.

Requirements for Divers

To dive at Malapascua Island and witness the captivating thresher sharks, divers must be certified as Advanced Open Water Divers or higher.

The diving experience isn’t suitable for children under 15 or unqualified divers.

Divers are recommended to stay overnight on the island before the dive to ensure they’re well-rested and prepared.

On the day prior, divers should check in at the dive shop to confirm the schedule and sort out their equipment.

Due to safety reasons, flying within 24 hours after the dive isn’t advised.

The dive groups are limited to a maximum of 15 travelers.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Accommodation Recommendations

Staying overnight on Malapascua Island is highly recommended before the dive. This allows divers to acclimate and be well-rested for the early morning shark dives.

Accommodation options include:

1. Resorts with direct beach access and amenities like restaurants and bars.
2. Budget-friendly guesthouses offering basic rooms and shared facilities.
3. Eco-lodges focused on sustainability and immersing guests in the island’s natural surroundings.
4. Luxury villas for those seeking a more private and upscale experience.

Regardless of the chosen accommodation, the convenience of being on the island is unbeatable for making the most of the shark diving opportunities.

Check-in and Equipment

Arriving at the dive shop the day before the shark dive is crucial to sort out the necessary equipment and confirm the schedule.

Divers must check-in and ensure they’ve the right gear – from tanks and buoyancy control devices to wetsuits and masks. The shop staff will help fit the equipment and provide guidance on using it.

Checking the dive schedule and times is also important, as weather conditions can affect the diving plans.

After handling the logistics, divers can relax and prepare mentally for the thrill of seeing the magnificent thresher sharks the next day.

The smooth check-in process sets the stage for an unforgettable shark diving experience.

Diving Times and Weather

Diving times at Malapascua are subject to the ever-changing weather conditions in the area. The dive shop closely monitors the weather and may adjust the schedule accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Some key points about diving times and weather:

1. Dive times can vary from day to day, so it’s essential to check with the dive shop for the latest updates.

2. Bad weather, such as strong winds or heavy rain, may force the cancellation or rescheduling of dives.

3. The best time to dive is typically in the early morning, when conditions are more stable.

4. Divers should be prepared for potential changes and be flexible with their schedule.

Group Size and Safety

The dive operator maintains a maximum group size of 15 travelers for these shark dives. This ensures a safe and personalized experience, allowing the divemasters to provide close supervision and guidance.

Safety is the top priority, and unqualified divers aren’t permitted to join the excursions. Participants must be Advanced Open Water certified or higher, as the dives can reach depths of up to 30 meters.

Flying within 24 hours after diving is also not recommended to avoid any potential health risks. By adhering to these guidelines, the dive operator ensures that every guest has a thrilling yet secure encounter with the majestic thresher sharks of Malapascua.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Water Temperature at the Dive Sites?

The average water temperature at the dive sites is typically between 26-29°C (79-84°F). This temperate range provides a comfortable environment for divers to explore the diverse marine life, including the famous thresher sharks.

Can I Bring My Own Diving Gear or Do I Have to Rent It?

Divers can bring their own diving gear or rent it. The rental fee is 350 PHP per dive, and Nitrox is available for an additional 350 PHP. The marine park fee is 400 PHP per dive.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Dives?

Divers are generally allowed to bring their own underwater cameras and photography equipment, though some restrictions may apply to preserve the marine environment. It’s best to check with the dive operator for their specific policies on photography during the dives.

Can I Opt for a Single Dive Instead of a Package Deal?

Yes, travelers can opt for a single dive instead of a package deal. The dive shop offers flexibility, allowing visitors to book a single shark dive if they prefer not to purchase a multi-dive package.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Dive Trips?

There is no minimum number of participants required for the dive trips. The tours are open to individual divers, and the maximum group size is 15 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Recap

Malapascua Island’s shark dives offer advanced divers an exhilarating experience. With depths ranging from 12 to 30 meters, guided by experienced PADI Divemasters, sightings of thresher sharks, large rays, and whitetip reef sharks are frequent. Optional transfer services and flexible booking policies cater to diverse needs, while an overnight stay is recommended for optimal preparation and acclimation before the dives.

You can check if your dates are available here: