## How Much is Scuba Diving in Boracay?
Boracay, a stunning tropical paradise in the Philippines, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it a prime destination for scuba divers from around the globe. With its diverse underwater ecosystems and abundance of dive sites, Boracay offers an unforgettable scuba diving experience. However, before embarking on this thrilling adventure, it’s essential to understand the costs involved to ensure a well-planned trip.
### Dive Site Fees
Boracay boasts numerous dive sites, each with its unique characteristics and depths. The dive site fees vary depending on the location and the services provided. Here’s a general breakdown of the costs:
– House reef dives: These dives take place within the marine sanctuary surrounding Boracay Island. They typically cost around PHP 500-800 (US$10-15) per dive.
– Boat dives: For dives farther offshore, such as at Cathedral Rock or Crocodile Island, you’ll need to take a boat. The boat fees range from PHP 1,000-2,000 (US$20-40) per dive, including round-trip transportation and equipment rental.
– Night dives: Night dives offer a unique experience exploring Boracay’s underwater world under the cloak of darkness. They typically cost around PHP 800-1,200 (US$15-20) per dive.
### Equipment Rental
If you don’t have your own scuba diving equipment, you’ll need to rent it on the island. Rental prices vary depending on the quality and type of equipment. Here’s an approximate cost breakdown:
– Dive computer: PHP 500-1,000 (US$10-20) per day
– BCD (buoyancy compensator device): PHP 500-1,000 (US$10-20) per day
– Regulator: PHP 300-500 (US$6-10) per day
– Wetsuit: PHP 300-500 (US$6-10) per day
– Mask, snorkel, and fins: PHP 300-500 (US$6-10) per day
### Guided Dives
For beginners or divers who prefer guidance, hiring a certified dive instructor is highly recommended. Guided dives typically cost PHP 500-1,000 (US$10-20) per dive, depending on the dive site and the level of experience required.
### Dive Courses
If you’re a novice diver or want to enhance your skills, Boracay offers a range of dive courses, from beginner to advanced levels. The costs vary depending on the course level and the duration:
– Open Water Diver Course: PHP 10,000-15,000 (US$200-300)
– Advanced Open Water Diver Course: PHP 15,000-20,000 (US$300-400)
– Rescue Diver Course: PHP 20,000-25,000 (US$400-500)
### Additional Costs
In addition to the primary expenses mentioned above, there are some other costs to consider:
– Environmental fee: PHP 100-200 (US$2-4) per person, which helps support marine conservation efforts.
– Marine Sanctuary fee: PHP 100-200 (US$2-4) per person, which contributes to the protection of the marine ecosystem around Boracay.
– Transportation: If your dive site is located on a neighboring island, additional boat or ferry fees may apply.
– Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Boracay varies significantly depending on the time of year, location, and amenities.
– Food and drinks: Factor in the cost of meals and refreshments during your dive trip.
### Tips for Saving Money
To make your scuba diving adventure more budget-friendly, consider the following tips:
– Travel during the off-season: Prices tend to be lower from May to September, except during holidays.
– Book in advance: Many dive shops offer discounts for early bookings.
– Bundle up services: Some dive shops offer package deals that combine multiple dives, equipment rental, and guided tours.
– Rent equipment locally: Renting your equipment in Boracay can be more affordable than bringing your own.
– Opt for group dives: Joining a group dive can help reduce the per-person cost.
– Look for discounts and promotions: Dive shops often offer discounts on dive packages and courses.
### Conclusion
Scuba diving in Boracay offers a unique and unforgettable experience for divers of all levels. While the costs can vary depending on the type of diving, equipment needed, and other factors, the memories created and the underwater wonders explored are priceless. By carefully considering the expenses and following the tips above, you can plan a cost-effective and enriching scuba diving adventure in the beautiful waters of Boracay.