Seacology and the California Academy of Sciences will lead an unforgettable expedition to the Verde Island Passage, one of the world’s most fascinating underwater destinations.

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Reserve your spot.

Welcome to the Philippines

Made up of more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines sits at the nexus of Southeast Asia and the Pacific. The country’s unique geography and history have made the sprawling archipelago home to a wide and fascinating diversity of ecosystems and cultures.

In our third trip co-hosted with the California Academy of Sciences, Seacology invites you to join us in the Verde Island Passage, one of the world’s greatest centers of marine biodiversity. Accompanied by some of the world’s leading experts in the fields of marine and island conservation, our dive-and-snorkel centered expedition will explore the vibrant underwater world of the Passage’s thriving coral reefs.

Our destination is conveniently located just a couple of hours south of the capital city of Manila, but far enough to enjoy the unspoiled natural beauty of this unique and fascinating corner of our planet.

Our accommodations

We will begin our expedition at the Buceo Anilao Beach and Dive Resort. Set against a hillside at the tip of the Calumpan Peninsula, the resort offers panoramic views of the Verde Island Passage and neighboring Marikaban Island.

Enjoy local and international cuisine expertly prepared at the on-site restaurant, relax with a soothing massage or yoga session, or take in the sunset from the oceanfront bar. The Buceo Anilao, recently recognized as a Travelers’ Choice property by Tripadvisor, is a family-friendly destination and offers babysitting services and guided snorkeling adventures for older children.

For the second half of our journey, we will cross the Verde Island Passage to the luxurious Atlantis Resort in Puerto Galera.

Both resorts offer full-service dive centers to provide divers and snorkelers everything needed to explore the area’s thriving reefs. The centers offer expert instruction for those who want learn to dive or to improve or refresh their skills.

Diving and snorkeling

The Verde Island Passage is home to one of the greatest concentrations of marine biodiversity in the world. With dozens of dive sites accessible from our resorts, our guests can explore the area’s sprawling reefs and come face-to-face with their inhabitants, from endangered sea turtles to huge groupers and curious cephalopods.

Dubbed “the nudibranch capital of the world” for its boggling number of brightly colored sea slugs, the Passage offers an unrivaled opportunity to immerse oneself in the kaleidoscope of colors found in the heart of the Coral Triangle.

Our work in the Philippines

For more than 20 years, Seacology has worked with communities across the Philippines to protect the country’s fragile environment. Through our unique win-win approach to conservation, our dozens of projects in the Philippines have preserved more than 40,000 acres of rainforest, mangroves, coral reefs, and other critically important ecosystems. At the same time, they have helped local communities meet their needs through the building of schools, sustainable energy systems, and more.

The Academy’s scientists have built partnerships with local people and organizations along the Verde Island Passage. These citizen-science initiatives have deepened the scientific community’s understanding of this unique ecosystem and informed policy for protecting it.

Our guests will learn from both organizations about their work, and will have the opportunity to visit current and potential Seacology projects to meet the communities they benefit.

Itinerary and locations

Dec. 8 Arrive in Manila (recommended)
Dec. 9 Morning transfer to Buceo Anilao
Dec. 9-13 Stay at Buceo Anilao, optional diving or snorkeling, nightly presentations from Seacology and California Academy of Sciences, Seacology project visits
Dec. 13 Transfer to Puerto Galera
Dec. 13-16 Stay at Atlantis Resort Puerto Galera, optional diving or snorkeling, nightly presentations from Seacology and California Academy of Sciences, Seacology project visits
Dec. 17 Transfer back to Manila, departure

Book your spot

We recommend reserving your spot early, as this trip is expected to sell out quickly.

Prices per attendee:

Single occupancy: $1,818
Double occupancy: $2,359

To make your reservations contact Mike Hoppe,
Reef and Rainforest Dive and Adventure Travel:
by filling out the form below or calling +1 (800) 794-9767 ext. 309

A non-refundable deposit of $750 is required to hold your place. Full balance due by September 20, 2024.

The cost includes all in-country transfers to and from both resorts; lodging and full meal plan at both resorts; diving and snorkeling fees at Atlantis.

Does not include international airfare; hotel stay and meals in Manila; costs for renting diving or snorkeling equipment at either resort; diving and snorkeling outings at Buceo Anilao; soft drinks and alcoholic beverages; a very modest daily marine park fee; or gratuities.

Travel insurance is highly recommended.