11/11/2024
Puerto Galera: The Diving Capital of the Philippines
Puerto Galera, located on the northern tip of Mindoro Island, has rightfully earned its title as the "Diving Capital of the Philippines." Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, it has become a world-class destination for both novice and experienced divers.
One of the key reasons Puerto Galera holds this title is its prime location within the Verde Island Passage, recognized as the "Center of Marine Biodiversity in the World." This passage is home to over 60 percent of the world's known marine species, making the waters of Puerto Galera an underwater paradise. The area offers more than 40 dive sites, each boasting its own unique marine ecosystem, from shallow coral gardens to deep drop-offs, thrilling drift dives, and mysterious wreck sites.
Among the most popular dive spots is The Canyons, known for its strong currents that create an exhilarating drift dive experience. Here, divers can encounter schools of jacks, barracudas, and trevallies. Verde Island is another must-visit dive site, famous for its vibrant coral walls and diverse marine life, including turtles, moray eels, and colorful nudibranchs. For wreck diving enthusiasts, the Alma Jane wreck provides an unforgettable experience, with its sunken cargo vessel now acting as an artificial reef, attracting a wide range of marine species.
What makes Puerto Galera exceptional is not only the diversity of its dive sites but also the ease of access to them. Most dive spots are just a short boat ride from the shore, allowing divers to explore multiple sites in a day. Local dive shops and resorts offer professional services, ensuring that divers have safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable experiences.
Beyond the underwater attractions, Puerto Galera’s warm and welcoming atmosphere adds to its charm as a diving hub. With a variety of beachfront resorts, restaurants, and entertainment options, divers can relax and enjoy the laid-back island life after their underwater adventures.
With its rich marine biodiversity, stunning dive sites, and vibrant local community, Puerto Galera has rightfully earned its place as the Diving Capital of the Philippines, attracting divers from all over the globe to explore its underwater wonders.
CTTO.
