The Ultimate Travel Tips for Divers Visiting Bohol
The flights are booked, the anticipation is building, and you’re already dreaming of the warm, turquoise water and vibrant coral reefs of Bohol. A spectacular diving adventure awaits you, and you can practically feel the excitement.
But a truly great trip—the kind that is seamless, stress-free, and utterly unforgettable—is built on a foundation of smart planning. The little details you figure out beforehand can make all the difference once you’re here. As your local experts on the ground, we at Sierra Madre Divers have compiled the ultimate list of travel tips to ensure your diving adventure in Bohol is as smooth and incredible as possible.
Think of this as your pre-flight checklist for paradise.
1. Getting to Paradise: Flights, Ferries, and Transfers
Your journey to Alona Beach is easier than ever.
- The Main Gateway: The best airport to fly into is Panglao International Airport (TAG). It’s modern, efficient, and located right here on Panglao Island, just a 10-15 minute ride from our dive shop on Alona Beach.
- Airport Transfers: When you exit the airport, you’ll find plenty of tricycles and vans available. For maximum convenience and peace of mind, we recommend pre-booking your transfer with your hotel or with us. It’s a great feeling to see a friendly face with your name on a sign after a long flight.
- The Cebu Option: Some travelers find better flight deals into Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB). From Cebu, it’s an easy and scenic two-hour trip on a comfortable, air-conditioned fast ferry to Tagbilaran, the main city in Bohol. From the Tagbilaran ferry port, it’s about a 30-40 minute ride to Alona Beach.
2. Packing Your Bags: The Diver’s Essentials
Deciding what to pack can be tricky. Here’s our advice for a Bohol dive trip.
- Your Core Dive Gear: We always recommend bringing your own mask and dive computer. A perfect mask fit is crucial for comfort, and being familiar with your own computer is a huge safety advantage.
- Regs & BCD: If you love your own setup and have the luggage space, bring it! If you prefer to travel light, we offer high-quality, well-maintained rental equipment.
- Wetsuit: The water here is wonderfully warm, typically ranging from 26-30°C (79-86°F). For most people, a 3mm shorty or a thin full-body suit is more than enough. Many divers are comfortable in just a rash guard and shorts, especially in the warmest months.
- The “Save-a-Dive” Kit: This is a pro tip! A small kit with spare mask and fin straps, o-rings, and any specific clips or bolts for your gear can prevent a minor issue from ruining a dive.
- General Must-Haves:
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: This is non-negotiable. Chemicals in regular sunscreen are incredibly damaging to our precious coral reefs. Please choose a mineral-based (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) sunscreen.
- Dry Bag: Essential for keeping your phone, wallet, and camera safe and dry on the boat.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Help us reduce plastic waste by bringing your own bottle. We have clean, safe water for refills.
- Lightweight Clothing: Quick-dry shirts, shorts, and swimwear are all you’ll need for most of your trip.
- Universal Power Adapter: The Philippines uses Type A, B, and C outlets. A universal adapter is your safest bet.
3. Staying Healthy & Safe
A little bit of prep ensures you stay healthy and can enjoy every moment of your trip.
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: The tropical sun is strong. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially on dive days, to stay hydrated and reduce your risk of decompression sickness.
- Travel and Dive Insurance: We cannot stress this enough. Your standard travel insurance may not cover scuba diving. Please ensure you have a specific dive insurance policy (like from DAN – Divers Alert Network or equivalent). It provides peace of mind and covers you for any dive-related incidents.
- Basic First-Aid: While we have comprehensive first-aid kits on our boats and at the shop, it’s always wise to carry a small personal kit with antiseptic wipes, plasters, and any personal medications.
4. Money & Connectivity: Pesos, Cards, and Wi-Fi
- Currency: The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). While major establishments accept credit cards, it’s essential to have cash on hand for smaller restaurants, local shops, and tricycle rides.
- ATMs: There are several ATMs in the Alona Beach area, but they can occasionally be out of service or cash. It’s a good idea to withdraw some cash at the airport upon arrival.
- Credit Cards: We, along with most major hotels and restaurants, accept Visa and MasterCard.
- Staying Connected: The most reliable way to have data is to buy a local SIM card (from Globe or Smart) at the airport. Alternatively, you can pre-purchase an eSIM online if your phone is compatible. Wi-Fi is available in most establishments but can be slow and unreliable at times.
5. Your Diving Days with Us
- Bring Your Cards: Don’t forget your PADI certification card (or eCard) and your logbook!
- Go Nitrox: If you are Enriched Air certified, we highly recommend diving with Nitrox. Given our multi-dive day trips, it will significantly extend your bottom time on your second and third dives. If you’re not certified, you can complete the easy, half-day course right here with us!
- Marine Park Fees: For protected sites like Balicasag Island, there is a small environmental fee required per diver. This money goes directly to the local government units to fund the conservation and protection of these incredible sanctuaries. It’s a fee you can feel good about paying.
- Listen to the Briefing: Our local guides are experts. Their briefings contain vital information about the site, potential currents, and the specific marine life to look for. They know these reefs like the back of their hand. Trust their expertise.
6. Be a Five-Star Guest
- Respect the Culture: Filipinos are famously warm and hospitable. A friendly smile and a simple “Salamat” (Thank you) go a very long way.
- Respect the Environment: Adhere to the principles of “leave no trace.” Do not touch, stand on, or take any coral. Do not harass or chase marine life. Secure your gauges and be mindful of your fins to protect the delicate ecosystem you’ve come to see.
With a little preparation, you can spend less time worrying about the small stuff and more time focused on the adventure. We’re not just here to take you diving; we’re here to help make your entire trip to Bohol seamless and unforgettable.
Have any more questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We can’t wait to see you here in paradise!
