Discover Freediving On Romblon Island

Freediving in Romblon, Philippines, offers an unparalleled underwater adventure. Known for its clear waters and rich marine biodiversity, Romblon is perfect for divers of all skill levels. Whether it be snorkeling, scuba diving, or freediving, this guide provides a comprehensive look at what makes Romblon the best new underwater exploration destination. Our guide will provide you with the inside scoop, taking you from unique dive sites like Robinson's Cove and Blue Hole to practical travel tips and safety advice.

Key Takeaways

• Romblon Freediving offers tailored packages for all skill levels, including thrilling adventures like exploring the Hidden Sea and Blue Hole!
• Freediving in Romblon means the experience of a lifetime in pristine, uncrowded waters with vibrant marine life and stunning underwater landscapes year-round.
• Planning your trip to Romblon is part of the adventure, with diverse accommodation options and affordable accessibility to breathtaking dive sites!

Our Freediving Packages In Romblon

Romblon Freediving offers a variety of packages tailored to both beginners and experienced divers. Among their most intriguing offerings is the chance to explore Cobrador Island, whose bright corals and turtle sanctuary make it the most tranquil dive experience in Romblon. Those curious about the mysterious Blue Hole at the northern end of Tablas Island can join guided tours. The Blue Hole, surrounded by Gorda's Point's clear waters, is a diver's dream, teeming with large schools of fish.

The packages also include boat dive tours, taking you to three pristine locations, including the Blue Hole (weather permitting). This offers a chance to explore the untouched diving spots of this peaceful island province, with lots of underwater videos provided. For beginners, there's an introductory freediving class designed to help you take your first dive into these beautiful waters. This course is perfect for non-swimmers, panic swimmers, and newbies looking to explore the ocean in a safe group setting. This introductory course is a prerequisite for participating in any fundiving tours.

Additionally, Romblon Freediving offers land tours to four magical beaches on the island, providing an unforgettable experience of Romblon's natural beauty.

Unique Selling Points of Romblon Freediving

Romblon is celebrated for its otherworldly dive locations, allowing adventurers to explore diverse underwater landscapes largely devoid of crowds. Freediving here feels like discovering an untouched, serene underwater haven, often without other people around to disturb the tranquility. The waters surrounding Romblon are renowned for their incredible marine diversity, featuring rare and vibrant aquatic species that make every dive an exciting adventure. Here are some of the reasons why Romblon has become one of the favorite diving destinations in the country.

It's near.

It's just a boat ride away from Manila, on an overnight ferry. So if you're coming from NAIA airport, you just need to take a bus or a van to Batangas (between 2 - 3 hours), then ride a ship to Romblon. Other ports of entry are Lucena, Roxas City and San Agustin. There is an airport in Tablas Island, the biggest island in the province, and you can ride the smaller boats to get to the different islands.

The beaches are mostly unexplored.

Romblon is it's own little world, composed of several islands, so basically it's surrounded by beaches. Some of them are perfect for swimming due to the fine, white sand and crystal clear waters. But there are several dive spots waiting to be explored. It's the epitome of raw natural beauty.

The dive spots are diverse. 

One of the standout features of freediving in Romblon is its accessibility for people of all skill levels. The sea conditions are favorable year-round, making it an ideal spot for both beginners and seasoned divers.  And the dive spots are some of the most diverse in the Philippines, with lots of mystery to explore. Catering to a wide range of personal interests, from shallow coral gardens perfect for beginners to challenging deep dives for pros. This region offers a variety of terrains, including coral gardens, sandy areas, and marine sanctuaries. The oceans here are suited to different diving interests, whether you're looking to explore vibrant coral reefs or observe the sharks and marine life that inhabits the sandy seabeds. Romblon truly stands out as a premier diving destination for both novice and experienced divers alike.

It has a rich biodiversity.

Macro photographers will be thrilled with Romblon's reputation as a critter haven, featuring species like nudibranchs, frogfish, and even the rare blue-ringed octopus. For those interested in larger marine life, occasional sightings of turtles, reef sharks, whale sharks and schools of fish add to the beauty of Romblon.

Preparing for Your Trip

In this region, the local culture is celebrated for its vibrant traditions and rich history, which attract many visitors each year. Try to avoid ocean-based vacations here during Christmas season, fiesta season (2nd Saturday of January) and holy week, which is usually in April.

Flying to Romblon

Getting to this province requires a bit of planning, but the journey is part of the adventure, and well worth it. Travelers should fly into Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila before making their way to Romblon. Direct flights from Manila to Tugdan Airport are limited and primarily operated by Cebu Pacific and AirSwift, so it's essential to book in advance to secure your spot. Once you arrive at Tugdan Airport, the next step is to take a ferry to Romblon.

After:

To get to Romblon, follow these steps:

1. Once you arrive at Tugdan Airport in Tablas island, you'll ask the locals for a van to San Agustin port

2. Catch a boat to Romblon Island. The early ship is at 6AM, and a smaller boat departs at 1PM daily.

Sailing to the Island

Ferry services from Batangas Pier to Romblon are available, typically taking about 10 hours. Checking ferry schedules in advance can help ease your travel plans and avoid last-minute hassles. For those who prefer traveling overnight, there are options to travel from Manila to Tablas Airport via ferry.

Daily trips are available on Starlite Ferries departing at around 4 PM from Batangas to Romblon Island. You'll sleep on the ship, and arrive around 2 AM the next day (about 10 hours travel time)

You can also sail from Lucena Port to Romblon on Starhorse Ferries. Check the schedule for updates, as this route often changes.

Hotels in Romblon

Accommodations on the island range from budget-friendly transient houses to luxury dive resorts like The Three P Holiday & Dive Resort. We recommend inquiring with LCF Hotel for a nearby, ocean view place that fits into your budget. There are lots of options around Romblon Bay, just near the port and town center. Horizon Hotel is likely the nicest accommodation in Romblon, but is a bit farther away and more pricey than other hotels.

The Best Freediving Spots In Romblon

Romblon boasts some of the best dive sites in the Philippines, each offering unique underwater aesthetics. Freediving at the Blue Hole is a surreal experience, diving down around 10 meters to reveal stunning underwater landscapes. The vibrant coral gardens, dramatic underwater cliffs, and diverse marine habitats make every dive a visual feast. Visibility around the Blue Hole is often praised for its clarity, enhancing the overall diving experience.

Talipasak Beach

This beach is about a 20 minute drive from the town and offers a small resort selling food, drinks and more. There are also affordable accommodations here at Talipasak Beach Resort if you'd like to stay overnight and really enjoy this hidden gem. On the white sand beach you'll be able to strap on your fins and immediately be surrounded by a plethora of coral life, large fish and even small sharks. This is a shallow coral bed nearby rocky formations and small caves, so there is plenty to explore for freedivers of all levels.

Blue Hole

The Blue Hole is a must-visit, offering a dive into its depths and exploration of the mysterious underwater terrain. With visibility reaching up to 30 meters, it's perfect for capturing stunning underwater photos and observing the marine life that thrives there. Located off Punta Gorda in Tablas Island, this is one of the best diving spots in Romblon. This underwater sinkhole, the only documented one in the Philippines, starts at a shallow reef before descending into a dramatic 6-meter-wide volcanic chimney. As you drop down, you'll find yourself in a massive chamber that opens up into a sandy bottom at 30 meters deep, where vibrant corals and marine life thrive. But don't let the beauty fool you—a strong current can make this dive tricky, so it's essential to go with our tour package so you don't miss out on this experience.

Gorda's Point‍

Located just near Blue Hole, Gorda's Point is a place where divers can observe huge schools of fish and various corals, creating a dynamic and colorful underwater scene. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it a favorite among freedivers.

Cobrador Island‍

Many notable freedivers say Cobrador is the most underrated freediving destination in the Philippines. It's one of the smaller nearby islands which sits in pristine, crystal clear water, covered in marble and white sand beaches alike. Surrounded by beautiful coral and home to turtle sanctuaries, Cobrador offers stunning coral beds, and diverse ocean floors with visibility up to 30 meters. There are many diving spots around this small island, but if you're unsure, just get to the island and hop in with your fins as you'll be sure to explore paradise easily.

Turtle Feeding Place‍

If you're looking for the extra thrill of meeting sea turtles and other marine life, Turtles' Feeding Place offers an exceptional experience for underwater explorers. The vibrant coral formations, ranging from 5 to 25 meters deep, provide a stunning underwater landscape that will leave you out of breath (not literally, I hope). It has mild currents and great visibility, perfect for both beginners and seasoned divers all year round. And it is quite accessible too. It's just 10 minutes away from Lonos, Romblon, or 20 minutes from the Romblon town proper.

The House Reef

‍If you're staying at the Three P Holiday & Dive Resort, don't miss out on the opportunity to step straight into the water from the beach! This dive site is a beautiful mix of sandy patches, seagrass, and large overgrown blocks, making it a haven for all sorts of marine life. It's also a fantastic spot for snorkeling, but if you're into night diving, this place really shines after dark. Whether you're into macro or super macro photography, you'll find plenty to capture in this rich and diverse environment.

Agnay Fish Sanctuary‍

This is a hidden gem tucked away in a sheltered bay near the village of Agnay. This dive site is particularly known for its unique, dome-shaped Acropora corals that create a stunning underwater landscape. If you're diving early in the morning, you're in for a treat—this is when you'll see the reef come to life with schools of fish, along with the occasional eagle ray or shark passing by. The sanctuary's calm waters make it a peaceful and rewarding dive spot.

Bangug Island‍

This small gem near Bonbon Beach is a paradise for divers who love discovering rare marine creatures. Its reef system runs parallel to the island, starting at just 2 meters deep and gradually sloping down to a sandy bottom at 20 meters. Along the way, you'll encounter vibrant soft corals, overgrown rocks, and fascinating seagrass fields. This site is renowned for its tiny treasures, like the elusive Severnsi Pontohi pygmy seahorses and various species of Hairy and Algae Shrimp.

Bonbon Beach 

‍This versatile dive spot promises something special for every type of swimmer. This is the largest, and most popular beach on the island, so expect some visitors during warm, dry months. On the far side of the sandbar you'll find calm waters perfect for swimming and freediving. You'll swim out past the beautiful, starfish covered sandy bottom to a serene sea grass area. Just beneath the surface is a wide seagrass meadow dotted with large coral-covered boulders and large colorful starfish, creating a beautiful underwater ambiance that's perfect for all experience levels. If you keep swimming out, approximately 100 meters, the sea floor at Bon Bon Beach drops off into a vast dark world, approximately 30 meters deep. Here you will find larger fish, turtles, manta ray and even the passing school of dolphin if you're lucky.

Bonbon Fan Coral Collection‍

This is another deep dive site near Bonbon Beach that's sure to captivate any underwater enthusiast. Descending to a maximum depth of 35 meters, this site is famous for its stunning fields of large fan corals that create an awe-inspiring backdrop. Divers can discover a fascinating array of marine life, including pygmy seahorses, vibrant nudibranchs, colorful cowries, and rare crustaceans.

Punta Corazon‍

Getting here by land might be tricky, but it's possible. You'll walk to an old resort with a seafront that is loaded with stunning formations of staghorn corals that create a vibrant underwater landscape. Staghorn corals are a type of stony coral that gets their name from their antler-like branches. The site is teeming with life, from large parrotfish to a variety of crustaceans and coral-associated fish species.

Magnificat

‍Magnificat is a must-visit dive site featuring a stunning shallow coral garden bustling with reef fish. You may encounter a gentle current that sweeps you past majestic gorgonians, black corals, and vibrant stone corals. The site is a treasure trove for macro lovers, offering sightings of Denise and Bargibanti pygmy seahorses, colorful nudibranchs, and the occasional scorpionfish.

San Pedro Turtle Sanctuary‍

This is a fantastic spot for both diving and snorkeling, where you get the chance to encounter its famous sea turtles up close. The sanctuary's wall is also home to sea snakes, graceful eagle rays, and schools of swarm fish, making it a lively underwater haven.

St. Joseph Cliff

‍Set along an exposed cliff, this dive site features a gentle current where you'll get treated to a unique coral community, including vibrant Zoanthid species. Below the wall lies a sandy area bustling with life, home to a large colony of garden eels. Keep an eye out for big lobsters, rare crustaceans, and an array of colorful nudibranchs.

Agpanabat Fish Sanctuary and Agpanabat Caves & Canyons Marine Sanctuary‍

These spots boast of towering coral formations interspersed with sandy patches. The vibrant landscape is alive with schooling fish and a diverse array of marine life. The dramatic steep walls, overhangs, caves, and gorges also offer a unique adventure twist. The rugged rock formations create a unique underwater playground for divers, promising an unforgettable exploration of this extraordinary marine sanctuary.

Coco Cabana Resort‍

Located approximately 30 minutes drive from the port, this beautiful resort offers good food, nice accommodations and friendly staff. But the beachfront is where the magic happens. The coast is covered in gorgeous, weathered rock formations and a walkway to one of the safest drop off points into the sea. You'll quickly be welcomed by rocky corals and a vast underwater world of crevasses, tunnels, caverns and a maze of rock formations. This is a freedivers playground, one of the most unique seascapes in The Philippines.

Channel of Alad‍

This channel offers an exciting drift dive experience, with sandy bottoms and coral formations that make for a dynamic underwater landscape. Strong currents are often present, making it perfect for divers who enjoy the thrill of a drift dive. Marine life here is abundant, with plenty of lobsters and moray eels to discover. It is very accessible by boat, just 10 - 15 minutes from the port.

Mapula‍

Sea turtles can often be spotted gliding along the slope of this site. The muddy sediments are also home to a variety of fascinating critters, including vibrant nudibranchs, small frogfish, and numerous crustaceans. A special highlight here is the elusive Lembeh Sea Dragon (Kyonemichthys rumengani), a rare and captivating species that makes this site even more unique.

Best Time To Dive In Romblon

Romblon is a fantastic diving destination year-round, but the best time to dive is between October and June when the weather is more favorable and visibility is at its peak. While diving is still possible during the rainy season from July to September, visibility can be significantly reduced. However, if you're planning to visit Romblon in the second week of January, be aware that the island gets crowded due to the Biniray Festival, a popular Catholic feast that attracts many visitors.

Freediving Tours In Romblon

There is only one freediving company, Romblon Freediving, who offers boat dives, fun dives and introduction classes for new freedivers. They are headquartered at Talipasak Beach, but provide transfers and accommodations from the resort itself. If you find yourself on Tablas Island, there is another freediving company called Kampay Club Freedivers, who offer fun dives at the beautiful Binucot Beach.

Reaching the dive sites in Romblon is straightforward, with short boat rides directly from local resorts. Island hopping typically requires renting an outrigger boat, with prices starting around Php 3,000, making it an affordable option for groups. Guided tours often include excursions to nearby attractions, enhancing the overall diving experience and allowing you to explore more of Romblon's natural beauty.

Real-Life Underwater Experience

Romblon Freediving offers an experience unlike any other. The coastal region features a mix of pristine dive sites with coral formations and diverse marine habitats. The waters are recognized for their incredible biodiversity, making it a prime location for observing a variety of marine life, from black tip shark to dolphin to octopus.

Visibility during dives is generally around 30 meters, allowing for excellent underwater observation and photography. The diving conditions are optimal year-round, although the best time for diving is between October and June. During the rainy season, underwater visibility tends to decrease, impacting the overall diving experience.

Weather can be unpredictable, leading to challenges such as reduced visibility and choppy waters. Strong currents are not very common, although very possible, depending on the habagat season. The beauty of this freediving world is best enjoyed with careful planning and checking with local guides before your trip. Checking real-time weather updates and current conditions before diving ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

Despite these challenges, the real-life freediving experience in Romblon is unforgettable. The encounters with marine wildlife, the breathtaking underwater landscapes, and the sense of tranquility make it a must-visit destination for freedivers.

Challenges Faced During Diving

Understanding the challenges of freediving in Romblon is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Weather conditions, such as sudden storms or unfavorable winds, can create hazards, making it important to monitor the forecast before diving. Ocean tides and currents near dive sites can pose challenges, requiring careful selection of dive times and locations.

Your time spent beneath the surface is not without danger. The underwater world presents the occasional sighting of the sea snake (walo walo), who's bites are rare but deadly. The depths of Romblon are also covered in sea urchin, so dive socks are advised. Large jellyfish are not very common in this area, but stinging plankton surely is, especially around Bon Bon Beach. You may encounter a feisty moray eel or trigger fish, so be sure to stay away from those unpredictable creatures.

Equipment and Safety Checks

Anytime people enter the water, the right equipment and thorough safety checks are paramount. Freediving masks should be low-volume to conserve air during equalization and fit snugly against your face without gaps. An effective snorkel for freediving is simple and flexible, lacking extra features like valves, making it easy to use during dives. For beginners, softer silicone fins are recommended to help enhance technique and conserve energy. Be sure you apply dish soap, shampoo or toothpaste to your mask before you jump in to avoid fogging.

Wetsuits can retain body heat, especially on colder days or if you plan on exploring deeper depths. A buoy is always a great idea if you're swimming beyond the coast, or near passing boats. Safety lanyards are also important for deep dives, helping divers maintain line orientation and enhancing safety during potential emergencies. Make sure your camera is ready for those Instagrammable photos and videos.

Preparing for potential equipment issues, which may require quick adjustments or troubleshooting during dives, is important. Inspection of fins, and thorough equipment checks before each dive can mitigate risks and ensure a smooth experience. Always prioritize safety, surface recovery breathing, the buddy system and be prepared for any challenges that might arise underwater.

Overall Value for Money

In terms of value for money, Romblon is an excellent choice for freedivers. Travel costs to Romblon can vary, but average expenses for flights and ferries are budget-friendly compared to other high-demand destinations. Dive packages in Romblon are competitively priced, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced divers seeking affordable options.

Romblon offers a one of a kind experience because of the friendly locals and small geographic area, making it easy to get around. There is a rich history as the marble capital of The Philippines and a local fisherman culture that is like no other. The costs are very low as this place is still untouched by the overwhelming tourist bustle like nearby Boracay. There are many scuba diving resorts here as well, offering very low cost itineraries.

As for the aesthetics underwater, Romblon is literally surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and diverse sea creatures such as turtles and schools of colorful fish. The dive sites make for stunning underwater videos with clear visibility and gorgeous seascapes, so you'll always go home with lasting memories. The serene diving conditions allow for a relaxed experience, appealing to divers of various skill levels.

Overall, the combination of competitive pricing for dive packages and extraordinary natural beauty makes Romblon a worthy consideration for freediving enthusiasts looking for value for money. When compared to other popular freediving destinations in the Philippines, Romblon provides a mix of affordability and surreal diving experiences that distinguish it from others.

Summary

In summary, freediving in Romblon offers a unique and unforgettable experience. From the diverse marine life and pristine dive sites to the vibrant coral reefs and serene underwater landscapes, Romblon has something to offer every diver. With its budget-friendly travel options and competitive dive packages, it stands out as a premier destination for freediving enthusiasts.

Whether you're a seasoned diver or a curious beginner, Romblon Freediving promises an adventure that goes beyond the ordinary. So pack your bags and fins, book your hotel, and get ready to dive into the enchanting waters of Romblon Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to go freediving in Romblon?

The best time to go freediving in Romblon is from October to June when visibility is fantastic! Dive in during these months for an amazing underwater experience!

How do I get to Romblon Island?

To reach Romblon Island, simply fly into Manila and catch a direct flight to Tugdan Airport. Then hop on a ferry to your tropical destination! Another method is to take a bus to Batangas and hop on an overnight ferry. Adventure awaits!

What equipment do I need for freediving in Romblon?

Get ready for an amazing underwater adventure in Romblon! You'll need a low-volume mask, a flexible snorkel, long fins, a wetsuit, and a weight belt. If you don't have gear, don't worry because Romblon Freediving has all the essentials you need for rent.

Are there any challenges to diving in Romblon?

Diving in Romblon can be an adventure with challenges like unpredictable weather, mild currents, and the need for careful planning to reach those remote dive spot. But overcoming these obstacles makes the experience all the more rewarding!

Is Romblon suitable for beginner divers?

Absolutely! Romblon is perfect for beginner divers, providing friendly conditions that make learning to dive a fantastic experience!