The ocean is so vast! In fact 71% of Earth’s surface is covered in water! No wonder that we attempt to explore it for we have less surface (land) left for us to rediscover! 😛
Kidding aside, I just cannot blame anyone why we keep on rediscovering the water world! How can you resist a totally different horizon which is full in color and is in total harmony? It really is a double or triple pounding heart heart!!!
If you love snorkeling or diving, then this topic is just right for you! You gotta take note that Apo Island is a good haven to experience Poseidon’s fluid world. I have to say with full conviction, that this sanctuary delivers super big time!!!
![Apo Island Sea Turtle](https://jiyonthesoloist.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wp-image-161514700.jpg?w=660)
General information about Apo Island
Apo Island’s name is derived from a Filipino word meaning “old man”. The island is part of the municipality of Dauin, Negros Oriental and has a marine reserve on its nearby waters. It can be reached by a 30-minute motorized boat ride from Malatapay, Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental.
![](https://jiyonthesoloist.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/img_20170713_125022.jpg?w=660)
Snorkeling and diving packages
This one was a little easy for me. I just contacted Harold’s Diving Center, had my self available on the day and paid P1,200.00. The whole day activity package (approximately from 9AM to 2PM) is already inclusive of the life vest, snorkel set and fins, unlimited drinking water, coffee or tea, lunch (pancit canton and egg) and dessert (fruits).
![](https://jiyonthesoloist.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wp-image-1820186940.jpg?w=660)
I initially researched for an itinerary, but i found the insights a little of a hassle and more costly.
- You will need to take a bus bound for Bayawan.
- Alight at Malatapay Market, take a short walk and look for the information center.
- Rent a motor boat (RT, P2,000 good for 4 persons, P2,500 good for 6 and P3,000 for 8)
- Upon arrival, get a tour guide for an additional fee. You are not allowed to enter the protected area without a guide.
- Rent for snorkel sets for an additional fee.
- If you are not planning to stay in the island, you will need to get back to Malatapay before 4PM.
As you can see, taking a package is more convenient. You can spare the saved time for other things related to your tour the following day! In the end, it is really up to you to decide! Just do not forget to enjoy, socialize and have fun!
Personal insights
I took Harold’s Diving Center’s package and I have to say that i am very much satisfied with the tour. This is not cozy or the most comfortable one, but i believe all the essential points are covered and accounted for – experienced staff and guides, relatively functional vessel, snorkel and diving equipments, life vests, drinking water and of course food! It is basically a complete package!
The activity is exciting! A little scary at first because you don’t know what is in the waters! But as soon as you witness the coral forest, the colorful fishes and the sea turtles, you will just want to explore for more! I got a little envious of the skilled free divers because they can get upclose with the wonders! How i wished i could swim like them!
![](https://jiyonthesoloist.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wp-image-763882397.jpg?w=660)
I also have to share, that it was exhausting! I would sometimes catch my breath because it was really a long swim!!! I even got dizzy for minutes and skipped the second out of three snorkel/diving sites (an abominable non-swimmer problem)!!! Thank goodness i was able to catch up and was able to snorkel on the last and most wonderful site of the tour! Literally colorful corals everywhere! Coral gallore at your heart’s content!!! Honestly, aside from Siquijor, this is the highlight of my 3rd visit to the Visayas! This is a place that I will definitely visit again!!!
![](https://jiyonthesoloist.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wp-image-719726755.jpg?w=660)
Soloist Galaero Score
Here goes my rating of the place!
- Accessibility and Convenience of Transportation – 97% Taking Harold’s Diving Center’s package, going to Apo Island was a breeze! Not the most comfortable but tolerable!
- Tourist Experience and Impact – 98% Snorkeling and diving to the area will make you feel heaven! Plus the sea turtles!
- Availability of general accommodations – 98% The package is reasonably complete.
- Overall rating – 98% – I will definitely comeback and try it again!!! Next time, it will be with my siblings!
Contact numbers:
Harold’s Diving Center :
+63917 302 4455, +63939 935 6322
Apo island is one of the bests! See it for yourself and enjoy!!!
-jiyon