As the capital city and a major hub of the Philippines, Manila might not offer direct diving experiences within its boundaries, but it plays a significant role in facilitating diving activities across the country. From specialized diving shops to diving courses and exhibitions, Manila has a lot to offer to both seasoned and beginner divers.
Diving Shops and Gear
Manila houses a number of reputable diving shops where you can find a variety of diving gear and equipment. Stores such as Divers Network in Makati and Dive Supply Manila in Quezon City offer a wide range of products, from wetsuits and BCDs to dive computers and underwater cameras. These shops also provide servicing and repair for diving equipment.
Diving Courses and Training
Several diving schools and training centers are based in Manila, offering courses from beginner to professional levels. Institutions like Scuba Studio and Pacifica Dive offer PADI certifications, from Open Water Diver to Dive Instructor courses. These centers often organize regular dive trips to nearby dive sites, allowing students to practice their skills in real-world environments.
Diving Expos and Events
Manila regularly hosts diving exhibitions and events that bring together the diving community from the Philippines and beyond. Events such as the Diving Resort Travel Expo Philippines provide a platform for dive operators, equipment manufacturers, tourism boards, and enthusiasts to interact, exchange ideas, and showcase the latest in diving technology and dive travel packages.
Dive Travel Agencies
With the Philippines being an archipelago boasting more than 7,000 islands, there are countless diving destinations to explore. Manila-based dive travel agencies like Blue Horizons Travel & Tours and Diver's Network can help you plan and organize your diving trips to the best spots in the country, whether you're looking to dive the WWII wrecks in Coron, the vibrant coral gardens of Anilao, or the UNESCO-listed Tubbataha Reefs.