Visayas Itinerary feedback wanted

[ByrdDiver]

My fiancé and I are planning a trip to Philippines in early 2024 and are looking for suggestions. We like both big animals and macro and are considering a Live aboard so that we can experience the best of both worlds. After doing some research, we want to make sure we hit Malapascua to see Thresher sharks and Moalboual for the sardine runs. Look like limited schedules and wondering how the conditions and wildlife are in Jan / Feb? Also, any feedback on Aggressor Philippines (Multiple previous, positive experiences in other locations)

 

[Centrals]

LoB is not necessary if only interested in Malapascua and Moalboal.

Three routes are offered by Aggressor. Pity that Visayas 360 does not include Southern Leyte which is the best in the area. I have noticed Camotes is included in the itinerary and the Tulang Wall is very good. There is a deep wreck Boholana Princess not too far from it. Did one deep air dive on it and it was interesting. It is in Trimix range to be honest.

Camotes Islands

Camotes Islands Scuba Diving

www.divescotty.com

 

[ByrdDiver]

Thanks for the information. Any additional details on weather conditions or visibility during Jan or early February? Do whale sharks migrate through during this time?

 

[Centrals]

Northeast Southwest Monsoon Weather Philippines

Northest monsoon AMIHAN Southwest monsoon HABAGAT What Is MONSOON WEATHER That Affects Philippine Weather Puerto Galera

www.pgyc.org

Cooler weather.

It is whaleshark season in Southern Leyte.

Ethical Swimming with Whale Sharks in Leyte, Philippines

Yes you can swim with whale sharks in Oslob Cebu but it’s not natural, so where can you have an ethical whale shark watching experience in the Philippines? Feed Do Travel went to Sogod Bay in Southern Leyte - the best place to see whale sharks.

www.feetdotravel.com

Another place is Oslob but:

Inside the Chaotic World of Whale Shark Tourism

In the Philippines, whale shark tourism is a booming business. But questions have arisen about how this activity could harm the animals.

www.nationalgeographic.com

I am neutral in this because not everyone would have money and time to watch this gentle giant.