Malapascua Island

"Malapascua Island is renowned for its unique opportunity to see thresher sharks, making it a top destination for divers. While diving is the primary draw for many visitors, the island also offers beautiful beaches and a serene environment for those seeking relaxation. Many dive resorts provide accommodation for guests who book diving trips or courses. To see the thresher sharks, divers typically descend to depths of 20-30 meters, so an advanced diving certification is recommended. However, this isn’t strictly necessary, as most dive operators offer buoyancy training for beginners before the shark dive. Reaching Malapascua requires a bit of effort. Travelers must first make their way to Maya Port, which can be accessed by bus from Cebu City. The bus journey takes approximately five hours and costs around 200 pesos, though it’s worth noting that buses don’t depart on a fixed schedule—they typically wait until full, which may lead to delays. Alternatively, taxis are available for around 3,500 pesos. Upon arriving at Maya Port, it’s possible to stay overnight if you arrive late. I stayed at Arriyus Apartelle, a conveniently located guesthouse near the ferry dock. The rooms are clean, and the host was incredibly accommodating, allowing us to check in at 2 a.m. The ferry to Malapascua is an outrigger boat, not a traditional ferry, and, like the buses, it doesn’t run on a set schedule. Departures depend on passenger demand, so be prepared for some flexibility in your travel plans. "

"This is where you dive with thresher sharks "