In short
- Snorkelers stay in shallow waters to see corals and sea turtles.
- Divers can explore vertical walls dropping past 60 meters.
- The Cathedral dive site is reserved for Advanced Open Water divers.
In this article
Both snorkelers and divers visit the waters around this uninhabited limestone rock. Snorkelers float over coral gardens near the surface, while divers descend into deep caverns. Dive Sites details the specific drop-offs and macro life areas.
What do snorkelers see at Pescador Island?
Snorkelers mainly see shallow coral gardens, sea turtles, and schooling fish near the surface.
Pescador East is a popular spot for snorkelers. It features a slope with coral heads and macro life. You have a high chance of spotting green sea turtles grazing. Snorkelers stay near the boat and look down into clear water. Temperatures range from 27°C to 29°C year-round.
What do scuba divers see at Pescador Island?
Divers experience vertical walls, deep caverns, and pelagic species like reef sharks.
Dive depths range from 5 to 40 meters, with walls dropping well past 60 meters (200 feet). Pescador West offers drift diving along a steep vertical wall. Divers often spot reef sharks and pelagic fish in deeper currents. You must watch out for shifting currents and stay close to your divemaster.
| Feature | Snorkeling | Scuba Diving |
|---|---|---|
| Depth | Surface | 5 to 40+ meters |
| Key Locations | Pescador East | Pescador West, Cathedral |
| Marine Life | Turtles, shallow corals | Reef sharks, deep caverns |
Can beginners scuba dive at Pescador Island?
Beginners can dive the shallower slopes, but the famous caverns require advanced certification.
Open Water divers can explore Pescador East, which has a slope rich with macro life. The Cathedral dive site requires an Advanced Open Water certification. This underwater cavern features a chimney that drops from 18 to 35 meters.
Is Pescador Island safe for kids to snorkel?
Yes, kids can snorkel here if they wear life jackets and stay close to the boat.
Coast Guard advisories generally require life jackets during boat transit. Non-swimmers must wear life jackets in the water. The boat ride from Panagsama Beach takes 11 to 15 minutes. There is no physical beach on the island, so you swim directly from the outrigger boat.
Do I need a tour guide to go to Pescador Island?
Yes, you need a local boat operator and guide to visit the marine sanctuary.
Private boat rentals cost around PHP 3,000 for 3 to 5 people. This covers the 11 to 15-minute ride from Moalboal. You will also pay environmental and municipal marine sanctuary fees of PHP 100 to 300. Dive guides and snorkel masters keep you safe and ensure you follow sanctuary rules.
What are the rules for swimming and diving here?
You cannot touch the marine life or stand on the corals.
Spearfishing is strictly banned in the sanctuary. You must not chase or harass sea turtles or reef sharks. Divers should not board an airplane within 18 hours after scuba diving. Apply reef-safe sunscreen 30 minutes before entering the water.
Questions travellers ask
How deep is the water around Pescador Island?
The underwater wall drops vertically to depths well past 60 meters (200 feet). Typical dive depths range from 5 to 40 meters, while snorkelers stay near the surface.
Are there sharks at Pescador Island?
Yes, scuba divers and snorkelers occasionally spot reef sharks in the waters surrounding the island.
Can you walk on Pescador Island?
No, there is no beach or landing area on the island itself. It is strictly a water-based stop for diving and snorkeling from a boat.
