Malapascua: Advance Divers Shark Dive & Optional Transfer

Malapascua Island offers advanced divers an unparalleled shark diving experience. With reliable thresher shark sightings at Monad and Kimud Shoal, divers can enjoy exceptional visibility and encounters with diverse marine life. Priced at PHP 1,592 per person, this thrilling underwater adventure is easily accessible thanks to an optional transfer from Cebu or Mactan for PHP 500. While an overnight stay on the island is required, the convenience and logistics are sure to enhance your dive experience. But what secrets lie beneath the waves, waiting to be discovered?

Key Points

• Malapascua Island offers exceptional opportunities for advanced open water divers to encounter thresher sharks and other marine life during daily early morning dives.
• The shark dive experience starts at PHP 1,592 per person, with flexible cancellation and booking periods ranging from 30 to 365 days.
• Dive requirements include Advanced Open Water certification, a check-dive or refresher course, and a maximum group size of 15 travelers for safety and comfort.
• Optional transfer service from Cebu or Mactan to Malapascua Island is available for a PHP 500 fuel surcharge, providing convenient access to the dive center.
• Dive sites at Monad Shoal (16-30 meters) and Kimud Shoal (12 meters) offer improved visibility and the chance to see thresher sharks, rays, and other unique marine creatures.

Overview of Dive Experience

Malapascua Island off the coast of Cebu, Philippines is the only location worldwide where divers can reliably spot elusive thresher sharks on a daily basis.

Early morning dives at Monad or Kimud Shoal often yield exceptional sightings, with reports of improved visibility over the past 20 years.

Along With the majestic threshers, divers may encounter large rays, whitetip reef sharks, frogfish, and ghost pipefish.

Advanced open water divers can choose from double or triple shark dive options, including the nearby Gato dive site.

This premier shark encounter is a must-do for experienced enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled underwater experience.

Pricing and Booking Information

The Malapascua shark dive experience starts at PHP 1,592 per person.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with flexible cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The valid booking period is between 30 to 365 days.

Opt for an additional PHP 500 fuel surcharge to dive at Kimud Shoal, or choose the transfer from Cebu or Mactan for PHP 500.

The dive package is suitable for Advanced Open Water Divers and not recommended for children under 15 or untrained divers.

Groups are limited to 15 travelers for safety and comfort.

Dive Requirements and Safety

To dive with the thresher sharks at Malapascua, participants must have an Advanced Open Water Diver certification. This dive isn’t suitable for children under 15 or untrained divers.

If divers haven’t been active recently, they’ll need to complete a check-dive or refresher before joining the tour. For safety and comfort, the group size is limited to 15 travelers maximum.

Divers should stay overnight on Malapascua Island, as the early morning departures are around 5 AM. After meeting at the dive center, divers can finalize arrangements and equipment.

Dive depths range from 16-30 meters at Monad Shoal and 12 meters at Kimud Shoal.

Dive Logistics and Meeting Point

Travelers must stay overnight on Malapascua Island before the dive, as early morning departures occur around 5 AM. Meeting at the dive center is necessary to finalize arrangements and equipment.

Dive Site	Depth (m)
Monad	16-30
Kimud	12

The dive depths range from 16-30 meters at Monad Shoal and 12 meters at Kimud Shoal. Divers will need to meet at the dive center to complete paperwork and receive their equipment before embarking on the early morning boat trip to the dive sites.

Included Amenities and Equipment

The package includes a tank, weights, boat ride, and refreshments such as coffee, tea, and drinking water.

A professional PADI Divemaster will guide the group throughout the dive.

For an additional fee, divers can rent optional equipment like wetsuits and regulators at PHP 350 per dive.

Nitrox is also available for PHP 350 per dive.

Plus, there’s a marine park fee of PHP 400 per dive.

The included amenities and equipment ensure a comfortable and safe diving experience for advanced-level participants.

Malapascua Island Accommodation

Where does one stay when embarking on the Malapascua shark dive?

Travelers must stay overnight on Malapascua Island before the early morning dive, as departures often occur around 5 AM. There are several accommodation options on the island, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range and high-end resorts.

Many dive operators offer package deals that include both the dive experience and on-island lodging. Staying on Malapascua ensures a stress-free start to the dive, with easy access to the meeting point at the dive center.

Accommodation can be booked in advance through the dive operators or directly with the island’s hotels and resorts.

Optional Transfer From Cebu/Mactan

For the convenience of travelers, an optional transfer from Cebu or Mactan is available for an additional PHP 500 fuel surcharge.

This transfer service ensures a hassle-free arrival at Malapascua Island, where the shark diving adventure begins. Guests can opt for this convenient transportation option to avoid the need to arrange their own travel logistics.

The transfer will take you directly to the dive center, where you’ll finalize the dive arrangements and equipment.

This additional service provides a seamless start to your Malapascua shark diving experience, allowing you to focus on the excitement of the dives ahead.

Dive Site Details and Expectations

Beneath the waves of Malapascua Island lie the renowned dive sites of Monad and Kimud Shoal, where divers embark on a captivating encounter with the elusive thresher shark. At Monad, the average depth ranges from 16-30 meters, while Kimud Shoal offers a shallower dive at 12 meters. Divers can expect to witness not only the graceful movements of the thresher sharks but also the presence of large rays, whitetip reef sharks, frogfish, and ghost pipefish. The visibility in the area has reportedly improved over the past 20 years, further enhancing the overall diving experience.

Dive Site	Depth (m)	Marine Life
Monad	16-30	Thresher sharks, large rays, whitetip reef sharks
Kimud Shoal	12	Thresher sharks, frogfish, ghost pipefish
Gato	N/A	Additional dive site option

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Dive?

The maximum group size for the dive is 15 travelers. The tour limits the number of participants to ensure safety and comfort during the diving experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on Camera/Video Equipment?

Divers are permitted to bring their own cameras and video equipment on the shark dives. However, there are no specific restrictions, and they should ensure the equipment is appropriate for the dive conditions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Dive Duration?

There is an option to extend the dive duration. Participants can purchase additional dive time for a fee, which allows them to stay underwater for a longer period and potentially see more marine life.

Can I Book a Private Dive Session?

Yes, private dive sessions can be booked. Clients can request a private tour for their group, which allows for more personalized attention and flexible scheduling. However, additional fees may apply for private dives.

Are There Additional Fees for Single or Solo Divers?

There are no additional fees for single or solo divers. The package pricing applies regardless of the number of participants, as long as the overall group size doesn’t exceed the maximum of 15 travelers per tour.

Recap

Malapascua Island offers an exceptional shark diving experience for advanced divers. With reliable thresher shark sightings, exceptional visibility, and diverse marine life, this destination is a must-visit. Divers can enjoy convenient transfer options and on-island accommodations, making the logistics seamless. Whether seeking thrilling underwater adventures or exploring the island’s beauty, Malapascua is the perfect destination for a memorable dive experience.