Choosing the right itinerary for a Philippines liveaboard trip largely depends on a few key aspects including your diving proficiency, personal preferences, and the specific season. Here are several factors to consider:
Diving Experience: Different dive sites cater to various skill levels. For instance, if you're looking at embarking on a Philippines dive safari, destinations like Apo Reef and Anilao are perfect for beginners due to their relatively calm waters and vibrant marine life. On the other hand, seasoned divers may prefer the challenges posed by Tubbataha dive sites, known for their strong currents and deeper dives.
Marine Life Preferences: The Philippines is rich in marine biodiversity. Depending on your interests, you might opt for destinations renowned for specific marine encounters. For those looking forward to a whale shark encounter in the Philippines, Malapascua and Oslob are hotspots. Tailoring your itinerary to include dive sites known for specific marine encounters can greatly enhance your experience.
Seasonal Variations: The best time to dive in the Philippines can vary. For instance, the Tubbataha National Park is accessible only during a short season from March to June. Therefore, incorporating information about the Philippines diving season in your itinerary can be pivotal. Consider sites like Visayas, a year-round destination, to experience the best diving holidays in the Philippines.
Trip Duration: Depending on your available time, you may choose a shorter liveaboard trip focusing on a particular region like Apo Reef (noteworthy for Apo Island diving), or a more extended expedition that encompasses a broader area, potentially including stops for Puerto Princesa diving or Bohol diving, offering a more diversified array of dive sites