If you like the following, this trip might be for you:
Stunning Reefs
The reefs of Tubbataha are nothing less than an epicentre of marine life. With one of the highest coral densities in the world, Tubbataha's dives are an explosion of colours and forms of all kinds: the reef's ecosystem supports over 360 species of coral and 700 species of fish. No wonder this is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This region is only accessible by liveaboard!
Large Pelagics
Tubbataha's reefs are not only famous for the coral forests it is home to, also larger pelagic animals roam these waters! Whale sharks, thresher sharks and manta's are passing through our itinerary right in the time when we venture out! Reef sharks are residents, and out in the blue silky sharks and many other species can pop up as well. Anything can happen here!
Top Liveaboard
The operator's flagship, the Solitude One, has undergone recent refurbishments, integrating cutting-edge onboard safety and diving technologies. The vessel was created to blend cool design, practicality, and comfy vibe without overdoing it. The local crew makes sure they know each guest by name and pops in only when it's necessary, so you get that cozy "home away from home" feel with all the privacy and exclusivity you want.
Unforgettable Sunsets
The Philippines is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, which paint the skies in a palette of fiery oranges, pinks, and purples with bangka's and beaches in the background. It is a setting that is truly incomparable, and one of the most underrated events. The top deck of this wonderful Liveaboard might just be the best way to enjoy it, too!
The Best Itinerary
This 13 night extended transitioning trip brings us from Cebu, all the way to the southern Visayas to Tubbataha. It's an endless string of underwater highlights in a region that just bursts with life. This gives you the chance to enjoy the absolute maximum of what the Philippines have to offer.
Unique Circle
Uniting dynamic divers of different nationalities fosters a global community, where shared passion and appreciation for marine life can transcend language and cultural differences. Connecting people both above and below the waves is what drives us!
One We Fought For
"The Solitude One on an extended itinerary is something everything agent wants to offer to his clients. It was not easy to get our hands on a trip with this capacity, on the best itinerary in the best time of year. The combo of the colourful Visayas and the massive diversity of Tubbataha is truly what pristine diving looks like."
- Marcel, Travel Butler-
Meet you BTM trip leader
Marcel Wilpernig
Travel Butler & Trip Leader
Tubbataha with Behind the Mask Travel
April 15th - 28th, 2027
Rates & Inclusions:
- per person
Included:
- 13 nights in a quad sharing cabin
- Full-Board Meal Plan with in-between meal snacks and all non-alcoholic bevereages
- 3 or 4 daily guided Boat Day-Dives (Including 1 Night Dive) ** all dives are subject to our No-Fly/Altitude Minimum 18 Hours
- Return transfer to and from the local airport of the location and dates of the cruise
- Embarkation/disembarkation (Pickup/Drop-off other than Airport , especially Manila is subject to additional charge);
- Philippines VAT/GST
Not included:
- Int. and domestic flights
- Crew tips
- Rental Equipment
- Alcoholic beverages
- Pre and/or post cruise hotels, activities, international and domestic sea/air transportation
- Marine Park Fees, Photography Permits, Diving Permits. I.e, Tubbataha Marine Park Fees (5000PHP per person)
- International and Domestic Airport Departure Tax
- Alcoholic Beverages, Gratuities, Scuba & Skin Diving Equipment, Enriched Air Nitrox
- Solitude reserves the right to impose a Fuel Surcharge if International Crude Barrel average prices increase
- Surcharge for Deluxe-cabin twin or double 750 USD per person, for Stateroom (A1/A2) main deck twin or double 1.400 USD per person, for single use stateroom or deluxe cabin 50% (3.800 USD)
Important note: Minimum number of participants 7 persons to confirm and carry out the trip. We strongly recommend that you take out travel insurance with our partner DiveAssure. For extensions in the Philippines, please contact us! Our terms and conditions apply.
April 15 – 28, 2027
14Days,13Nights
Day 1: Cebu CityEmbarkation starts from 1300hrs / 1pm. The location will beadvised closer to the date of departure. Only transfers fromMactan International/Domestic Airport are included in thecruise package, hotel/resort transfers by Solitude to theembarkation point are available, but will be subject to charges.These charges will vary due to the size of the island of Cebu. Youare best advised to organise with your hotel/resort to betransferred directly to the embarkation point or to Cebu’sMactan Airport (CEB) where we can pick you up from 1300hrsonwards. Upon boarding Solitude One, a welcome from the restof our crew awaits you. Orientation and registration (rememberyour C‐Cards and/or Log Books!) will begin once you arewelcomed. During the registration, Permit and National Parkfees will be collected as well. Please refer to our Know‐Before‐You‐Godocument for the complete guide and amount. Dinner isincluded. We sail overnight to Monad and Kimud Shoals (8hours).
Day 2 & 3: Monad & Kimud ShoalsThe Monad and Kimud shoals are one of the few places where Thresher Sharks are regularly seen – being on a liveaboard allows us to be there before any of the land based dive centres arrive! Besides the Threshers there are plenty of great divespots as well.
Day 4 & 5: Southern LeyteFor the next 2 days we exlore the various dive sites of SouthernLeyte. The area is famous for both pelagic and macro life, allwith a backdrop of beautiful, healthy coral.
Day 6 & 7: Dauin & BalicasagOn day 8we’ll enjoy a change of pace in Dauin to take part insome of the best muck diving in the Philippines. We spend the day searching in the black sand for rare critters. On day 9 we head to the island of Balicasag, which is just off the coast of Bohol. Balicasag is famous for amazing coral, a dramatic vertical wall, schooling trevally, great macro, and a sandy slope full of coral bommies.
Day 8: Cagayancillo. Today we will explore the reefs and walls around Cagayancillo. An off the beaten path destination only visited during ourtransition cruises. There’s great coral and marine life. Enjoy!
Day 9 – 13: Tubbataha Reefs National ParkThe dive sites in Tubbataha Reefs are in close proximity. Divesites will be scheduled based on tides/currents as well ascommunicating with other liveaboards in the vicinity to avoidovercrowding a particular dive site. Tubbataha Reefs NationalPark is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dive sites are comprisedof walls and slopes. The water is usually very clear, currents canbe strong, and all dives are done as drift dives. The coral growthis prolific, boasting some of the most healthy coral reefs, andbiggest Gorgonia fans in the world. The lush, multi-colouredcoral creates a stunning seascape. Clouds of colourful reefdwelling fish can be seen hovering above the coral everywhereyou look. Large schools of jacks, barracuda, and turtles arenormal sightings. Several species of sharks can also be seen,including whale sharks. There are also many interesting macro-organisms including pygmy seahorses and lots of nudibranchs.We do not do night dives in Tubbataha for safety reasons,because of the potential for strong
The Solitude One
The Solitude One is a well-known liveaboard dive yacht that offers a high-quality diving experience in various marine environments. This vessel is designed for divers’ comfort and adventure.
Equipped with spacious cabins, modern facilities, and an experienced crew, the Solitude One provides a comfortable stay for those looking to explore remote dive sites.
The yacht focuses on personalized service and delivering memorable diving experiences. Whether you’re diving in the Maldives, Palau, or the Philippines, the Solitude One promises a blend of luxury, adventure, and natural beauty for divers seeking extraordinary underwater journeys.
The Visayas and Tubbataha
The Visayas and Tubbataha regions offer a captivating underwater experience in the Philippines.
The Visayas, a central cluster of islands, boasts a reputation for its vibrant marine life, splendid coral reefs, and numerous dive sites, including destinations such as Malapascua, Moalboal, and Apo Island. Here, divers can encounter a plethora of marine species, from schools of colorful fish to majestic sea turtles, and even the occasional sighting of gentle giants like whale sharks. The Visayas caters to divers of all levels of expertise with dive sites like Monad Shoal, renowned for its thresher shark encounters, and the enchanting Pescador Island and Siquijor.
In contrast, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in the remote Sulu Sea. It is celebrated for its pristine coral reefs and a diverse range of marine life, including awe-inspiring encounters with sharks, manta rays, barracudas, and an abundance of vibrant reef fish. The dive sites within Tubbataha, notably the North Atoll and the South Atoll, offer a range of experiences, from exhilarating wall dives to breathtaking drop-offs. However, it’s important to note that diving in Tubbataha is restricted to a specific season, typically from mid-March to mid-June when the weather conditions are most favorable.
Both the Visayas and Tubbataha present unique and memorable diving opportunities. While the Visayas provides accessibility and a variety of dive sites for all skill levels, Tubbataha offers a more secluded and pristine diving experience, making it ideal for those seeking untouched underwater ecosystems.
Divers are advised to ensure they are certified and experienced, especially when considering Tubbataha, given its remote location and protected status. Collaborating with reputable dive operators and adhering to environmental guidelines is essential to help protect and preserve these precious marine environments.