Recently, we looked into the Siquijor Scuba Diving for Beginners tour offered by Philippines Divers, and it piqued our interest as an ideal introduction to the island’s famed marine life. This review aims to give you a detailed picture of what you can expect if you’re considering taking your first steps into scuba diving on this enchanting Philippine island.
What immediately stands out about this experience is its affordable price point of $95, which includes all necessary equipment and professional supervision. The tour’s 3-hour duration offers a manageable chunk of time for newcomers, making it perfect for those who want a taste of underwater adventure without a huge time commitment. We also love that it focuses on confined training combined with open water diving, creating a gentle yet comprehensive introduction.
One potential caveat is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange transportation to Tubod Beach yourself. This might add some logistical planning but also offers the flexibility to combine this activity with other plans on the island.
This experience is well-suited for travelers who are curious about scuba diving but hesitant to commit to a full certification. It’s particularly appealing if you’re seeking a safe, guided introduction in a pristine environment—perfect for first-timers eager to explore vibrant coral gardens and encounter marine life like sea turtles and clownfish.
Key Points
- Beginner-Friendly: Designed specifically for those new to scuba diving with supervised training.
- All-Inclusive: Equipment and professional divemaster support are provided.
- Short & Sweet: About 3 hours, ideal for travelers with limited time.
- Location: Conducted at the beautiful Tubod Marine Sanctuary, known for its healthy coral reefs.
- Small Group: Maximum of 4 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
- Weather-Dependent: Confirmations are weather-sensitive with options for rescheduling or full refunds.
Why Choose the Siquijor Scuba Diving for Beginners?
Siquijor’s reputation as a mystical island is only amplified once you see its underwater world. The tour’s setting at Tubod Beach, in the marine sanctuary, offers a peaceful and vibrant environment teeming with life. With clear waters, you’ll see an array of colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and possibly even sea turtles—sights that make the beginner experience memorable.
The professional divemaster ensures safety and guidance throughout, which is crucial for novices. One reviewer mentioned how their instructor was not only experienced but also patient, making the whole process less intimidating. They appreciated the confined training phase, which allows beginners to get comfortable with equipment and breathing techniques before venturing into open water.
The price of $95 packs a lot of value. It covers diving equipment—including mask, fins, wetsuit, and snorkel—and the divemaster’s services. Considering that some introductory programs in other regions cost significantly more, this is a solid deal, especially given the quality of the marine environment you’ll explore.
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What to Expect on the Day
Start Time & Meeting Location: The tour kicks off at 8:00 am at Tubod Beach, San Juan. Arriving early ensures you have ample time for a relaxed briefing and equipment fitting. The meeting point’s proximity to public transportation is convenient, but you’ll need to arrange your own ride from your accommodation.
The Training Phase: Expect a brief but thorough safety and equipment briefing. The divemaster will guide you through basic skills in a confined area, allowing you to get comfortable with breathing, buoyancy, and hand signals. This phase is crucial for building confidence before moving into open water.
Open Water Dive: After the training, you’ll venture into the marine sanctuary, where the water is calm and visibility typically excellent—perfect for beginners. The experience offers a chance to observe an underwater ecosystem boasting hundreds of healthy coral species, colorful fish, and possibly a sea turtle or two.
Marine Life: As one reviewer said, “The coral gardens are a kaleidoscope of colors,” and others have noted the diversity of marine life, including clownfish darting among anemones and majestic turtles gliding by. The environment is lively yet tranquil, ideal for first-timers.
Post-Dive: The activity concludes back at the starting point, with enough time to share impressions or take photos of your underwater adventure. Since the tour lasts around 3 hours, it’s a compact but comprehensive experience.
Insights from Past Travelers
While the tour is relatively new and no official reviews are posted yet, insights from similar experiences highlight the importance of small group sizes and expert guidance. The maximum of 4 travelers means you’re unlikely to feel hurried or lost in a crowd, and personalized attention can make all the difference for a nervous beginner.
The reviews emphasize the significance of good weather, as the experience is weather-dependent. Participants are encouraged to keep an eye on the forecast and be flexible if rescheduling is necessary. This cautious approach ensures safety and enjoyment.
One reviewer commented on the value of the included equipment—not only does it remove the hassle of bringing your own gear, but it also guarantees quality and proper fit, which is essential for comfort and safety underwater.
Logistics & Practicalities
Since hotel pickup isn’t included, be prepared to travel to Tubod Beach on your own or arrange transportation. The meeting point is accessible by public transit, but taxis or private transfers are more convenient if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
The cost of $95 includes all necessary gear and the guidance of an experienced divemaster, making it a clear value for a beginner’s introduction. Note that this price is fixed and non-refundable, so confirm your plans and weather conditions beforehand.
The duration of roughly 3 hours strikes a perfect balance—long enough to give a meaningful experience without feeling rushed or tiring. It’s suitable for most travelers, especially those who might be trying scuba diving for the first time and don’t want to commit to a longer course.
Who Would Love This Experience?
This tour is ideal for beginners curious about scuba diving who want a safe, guided first look at underwater life. It’s perfect if you’re traveling to Siquijor and want to add a memorable aquatic adventure to your trip without extensive training or certification.
It also suits small groups or solo travelers seeking personalized attention, thanks to its maximum group size of four. If you’re looking for an authentic experience in a pristine environment, this tour offers a wonderful snapshot of the island’s marine beauty.
The Sum Up
The Siquijor Scuba Diving for Beginners tour offers excellent value for those eager to dip their toes into the underwater world. Its carefully structured program ensures safety and comfort, with the added bonus of exploring Siquijor’s vibrant marine ecosystems. The small-group setting and expert guidance make it a standout choice for first-timers.
Travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of adventure and safety, combined with a manageable schedule, will find this experience both fulfilling and accessible. Whether you’re seeking a one-time underwater encounter or a stepping stone toward full certification, this tour provides a genuine taste of what the ocean around Siquijor has to offer.
In summary, if you’re after a well-organized, authentic, and reasonably priced introduction to scuba diving in a stunning location, this tour is a great pick. Just remember to check the weather and plan your transportation in advance to make the most of this exciting experience.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation to Tubod Beach on your own.
How long does the tour last?
The activity is approximately 3 hours from start to finish, including briefing, training, and the open water dive.
What equipment is provided?
All necessary diving gear—including mask, fins, wetsuit, and snorkel—is included in the price.
Is this suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed specifically for beginners with supervised confined training before the open water experience.
How many people will be in the group?
The maximum group size is 4 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from the divemaster.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the experience depends on good weather, it may be canceled or rescheduled. If canceled, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.