The Ultimate Philippines Diving Experience

Martin Gomez Jun 23, 2026

Why Puerto Galera, Philippines Should Be on Every Diver's Bucket List

March 26 – April 2, 2027

If you're looking for a destination that combines spectacular marine biodiversity, world-class reefs, incredible macro life, colorful coral gardens, and warm tropical waters, few places on Earth compare to Puerto Galera, Philippines.

Located on the island of Mindoro and home to the renowned Scandi Divers Resort, Puerto Galera is one of Southeast Asia's premier dive destinations and a favorite among underwater photographers, marine life enthusiasts, and adventure-seeking divers from around the world.

A UNESCO-Protected Marine Paradise

Puerto Galera sits within a protected marine environment recognized for its exceptional biodiversity. Thanks to nutrient-rich currents flowing through the Verde Island Passage—often called the "Center of the Center of Marine Biodiversity"—the area supports one of the highest concentrations of marine species found anywhere on the planet.

Every dive offers the possibility of discovering something new.

Incredible Marine Life

Puerto Galera is famous for both its large marine life and its extraordinary macro critters.

What You May Encounter

Sea turtles
Reef sharks
Eagle rays
Giant trevally
Barracuda
Tuna
Schools of snapper and fusiliers
Giant moray eels

Macro Life Paradise

For underwater photographers, Puerto Galera is legendary.

Look for:

Pygmy seahorses
Frogfish
Ghost pipefish
Nudibranchs
Blue-ring octopus
Mimic octopus
Wonderpus
Harlequin shrimp
Seahorses
Rare crustaceans

Every dive becomes an underwater treasure hunt.

World-Class Coral Reefs

The reefs surrounding Puerto Galera are bursting with life and color.

Divers can explore:

Vibrant coral gardens
Drift dives
Pinnacles
Walls
Swim-throughs
Soft coral reefs
Blackwater environments

The variety of dive sites means no two dives are ever the same.

The Famous Verde Island

Often considered one of the best dive sites in the Philippines, Verde Island is a highlight of any trip to Puerto Galera.

Known for:

Massive schools of fish
Exceptional coral coverage
Strong biodiversity
Stunning underwater topography
Crystal-clear visibility

Many divers consider Verde Island one of the finest dives in all of Southeast Asia.

Exceptional Diving for Photographers

Puerto Galera is consistently ranked among the world's top underwater photography destinations.

Whether you're shooting wide-angle reef scenes or searching for tiny macro subjects, the opportunities are endless.

Expect:

Rare critters
Colorful reefs
Dramatic reefscapes
Unique behaviors
Outstanding visibility

Scandi Divers: Built by Divers, for Divers

Scandi Divers has earned an international reputation for delivering exceptional dive experiences.

Guests enjoy:

Professional dive operations
Comfortable accommodations
Oceanfront location
Experienced dive guides
Camera-friendly facilities
Easy access to Puerto Galera's best dive sites

The resort combines comfort, convenience, and world-class diving in one package.

Warm Water and Perfect Conditions

March and early April offer excellent diving conditions.

Typical conditions include:

Water temperatures around 80°F–84°F (27°C–29°C)
Good visibility
Calm seas
Comfortable weather
Ideal diving conditions for multiple dives each day

Why Divers Love Puerto Galera

✔ One of the most biodiverse marine environments on Earth

✔ Incredible macro photography opportunities

✔ World-famous Verde Island diving

✔ Vibrant coral reefs and walls

✔ Reef sharks, turtles, rays, and schooling fish

✔ Rare critters found nowhere else

✔ Warm tropical waters

✔ Exceptional dive operations at Scandi Divers

✔ Perfect blend of adventure and relaxation