Scandi Divers - Scandi Divers Resort - Puerto Galera, Philippines

Resort News

Miss Scuba Philippines Diving and Conservation Trip to Puerto Galera – Hosted by Scandi Divers

Posted on October 11, 2024October 11, 2024 by Scandi Divers

11
Oct

Miss Scuba Philippines 2024, Jane Darren Genobisa and returning guest MSP National Director, Miss Cindy Pacia Madduma made their way from the 2024 DRT Show Philippines to Scandi Divers Resort in Puerto Galera for some exciting dives and conservation activities this September.

International Coastal Cleanup Day 2024

Every 3rd Saturday of September marks International Coastal Cleanup Day, a global movement where people from all walks of life unite in the mission to clean and restore our seas and waterways. The main objective is to harness the power of people to fight ocean trash and protect the marine environment we love.

Miss Scuba Philippines family, alongside the Scandi Divers team and the Puerto Galera diving community, actively participated in the Underwater Cleanup in celebration of ICC at various dive sites in Puerto Galera.
Trash collected from the ocean floor included abandoned fishing lines, plastic sachets, cups, utensils, broken-down plastics, and PVC pipes. All the collected trash will be sorted, tallied, and documented.
Plastic pollution poses a huge threat to our oceans, but small efforts can make a significant impact. Each bottle, straw, and piece of trash removed brings us closer to a cleaner, healthier ocean.

Mangrove Planting

Miss Scuba Philippines 2024 Jane Darren Genobisa continued her hands-on efforts to protect our oceans through a meaningful mangrove planting activity in Puerto Galera, conducted in collaboration with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), Bantay Dagat, and the Coast Guard. This initiative not only aims to restore coastal ecosystems but also to bolster the natural defenses against erosion and flooding. Jane’s genuine passion for preserving marine life and her drive to inspire others to take action truly reflect her role as an ocean advocate!

Trying out the exciting Lefeet Mini Underwater Scooters!

Jane and MSP National Director Cindy had an unforgettable dive experience trying the Lefeet mini underwater scooter for the first time! Both were thrilled to give it a go and found it surprisingly easy to maneuver, even in unpredictable currents. Plus, it’s much quieter than the larger ones!

The Lefeet mini scooter is available for rent at Scandi Divers Resort, see our Lefeet Article for details! It’s definitely worth checking out for anyone looking to add a fun twist to their dive experience!

Experiencing the incredible Ocean Reef Neptune IDM (Full Face Mask)

Jane and Cindy were also very lucky to have the opportunity to try OCEAN REEF, INC. full face mask diving, using the amazingly innovation Neptune IDM (Integrated Diving Mask ( with expert training conducted by Instructor Eva Zhang! Together, they gained valuable skills, further enhancing their safety and confidence underwater. The Neptune IDM are truly amazing technology and are available for purchase through Scandi Divers Resort. Check out the Integrated Diving Masks page for lots of information, videos, images and specs.

Diving & Snorkeling Guide to Puerto Book

Authors Tim Rock and Simon Pridmore recently published their latest in a series of 9 Diving & Snorkeling Guides for iconic diving locations around the world. They spent the last two weeks of completing the book here with us at Scandi Divers Resort, while enjoying the underwater wonders Puerto Galera has to offer!

Jane and Cindy both received a copy of Puerto Galera 2024 Edition by Tim Rock and Simon Pridmore to learn more about the underwater world of Puerto Galera and discover even more about the treasures it holds! The book can be purchased at Scandi Divers Resort, just pop in or contact us for inquiries, and you can find more information as well as online and offline purchasing options by visiting the Diving & Snorkeling Guide to Puerto Galera article.

In Conclusion

All of us at Scandi Divers Resort would like to thank Jane and Cindy for their visit, it was an absolute delight to host them, and we look forward to seeing them again in the future!

Resort News

Huge breaking news from Scandi Divers Resort!

Posted on October 8, 2024October 8, 2024 by Scandi Divers

08
Oct

The 2025 Scuba Diving Magazine Readers Choice Awards have been announced…

We are absolutely thrilled to share that we’ve been voted the Best overall Dive Operator in the whole of the Indo-Pacific region!

We claimed another three awards including Best Quality of Staff, Attention to Safety and Quality of Dive Facility!

These awards are the biggest honor we’ve ever achieved in our 20+ years in the dive industry. These awards wouldn’t have been possible without our brilliant guests. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts. With many of you coming back as repeat guests we can celebrate this wonderful achievement together.

Please don’t underestimate the crucial role that you play. From these Scuba diving magazine votes, to Trip Advisor, Undercurrent and Scuba Board reviews all go towards our success. We mustn’t forget the importance of word of mouth as well. This has also played a big part in our growth in the dive industry.

These awards really mean the world to us. It will give us a further boost to level up even more. We have many planned improvements that will galvanize Scandi’s reputation further. Please help us share this wonderful news with your diving friends and we’ll see you at the resort soon.

Resort News

Diving & Snorkeling Guide to Puerto Galera

Posted on August 29, 2024August 29, 2024 by Scandi Divers

29
Aug

This beautiful and informative book can be purchased in paperback on Amazon (click the link) for $24.99

The PDF version can be bought on Blurb.com for only $10.99

Paperback versions will be available at Scandi Divers Resort in the not too distant future, for a discounted price. We will announce when they are available.

Book Overview

The wild coastline north of Puerto Galera, in northern Mindoro in the Philippines, is one of the most famous dive destinations in the world. It is an easy drive and fast boat ride from Manila and a world away from the bustle of the city. Above the water, expect tall cliffs, golden beaches, hidden resorts, excellent dive schools and talented guides. Under the sea, splendid coral reefs, rare marine life, teeming fish, and large pelagic creatures await you, as does the fabulous, lush Verde Island Marine Monument offshore.

In this book, authors Tim Rock and Simon Pridmore introduce you to Puerto Galera’s dive and snorkeling sites and share all the practical information you need for a trip to this tropical paradise.

Please note that while this guide includes detailed descriptions of the pick of Puerto Galera’s diving and snorkelling spots, and we include a homage to Puerto Galera’s status as a world-leading destination for technical divers too, it does not cover the sites that are specifically for technical divers.

Becoming a Diver with Scandi Divers Resort – Excerpt from the book:

Puerto Galera is one of the best places in the world to learn to dive. Along the Sabang coast, the waters are suited for beginners, with warm, calm, clear water in the bays all year-round and shallow reefs.

You have your choice of many professional dive centers, all affiliated with international training agencies and their instructors are keen, attentive and knowledgeable. The Philippine Commission on Sport Scuba Diving (PCSSD) registers and accredits all dive establishments, providing further assurance of quality.

Prices are reasonable and equipment standards are high. A tip – the cheapest packages are unlikely to be the best. Do your research, ask questions and shop around.

This is Mae’s short story: “I am no longer a young lady and learning to dive has been a long-held ambition. Last year, I joined a bunch of divers from the USA and elsewhere at Scandi Divers on Big La Laguna Beach. There, over two weeks, I completed my Open Water, Advanced Open Water and Nitrox Diver courses, racked up almost 30 dives in the Bay, along the Sabang wall and out at Verde Island, and became a fully-fledged scuba diver, ready to take on the underwater world. A major feature of this life-changing fortnight was how much support I received from the experienced divers I was mingling with all day long on the boat, on the beach and over dinner. Every new accomplishment was greeted with delight all around, back-pats and handshakes, whoops and woo-hoos, and, from day one, I was folded into their community.”

Excerpts from the book:

In Conversation with Author Tim Rock

This beautiful and informative book can be purchased in paperback on Amazon (click the link) for $24.99

The PDF version can be bought on Blurb.com for only $10.99

Paperback versions will be available at Scandi Divers Resort in the not too distant future, for a discounted price. We will announce when they are available.

Resort News

Lefeet P1 Underwater Scooters coming to Scandi Divers Resort on June 26th 2024

Posted on June 18, 2024June 18, 2024 by Scandi Divers

18
Jun

LEFEET P1: Versatile Underwater Scooter With Modular Design

Introducing the LEFEET P1: Redefine Underwater Mobility

Dive into a world of underwater exploration with the LEFEET P1, the cutting-edge underwater scooter designed to redefine your aquatic adventures. This sleek and powerful device combines advanced technology with user-friendly features, offering a thrilling and effortless way to navigate the depths of the ocean.

Modular Design ( Handheld, Tank Mount, Leg Mount, Dual Rail, SUP Mount)
Light Weight (less than 2.3kg / 5lb)
Wireless Control
Camera Mount
Airplane Legal
Waterproof to 60m

Quick and easy assembly

Say goodbye to time-consuming setups! With our quick-release structure, you can assemble batteries and accessories without any tools.

With a weight of 5 pounds, LEFEET P1 will unleash its full potential as it propels you through the underwater adventure at an incredible speed of up to 2.3 meters per second or 5.1 miles per hour, providing an exciting and unparalleled underwater experience for users.

Want to try it out?

These amazing scooters will be available to rent per dive or for longer periods, and can also be purchased from Scandi Divers!

Contact us for more information and to get your chance to try out one of these cutting edge underwater scooters! Message us through our Facebook Page or email info@scandidiversresoert.com

News, Resort News

Greener Future for Scandi Divers: Solar Panels, Sewage Treatment, and Sustainable Practices

Posted on April 13, 2023April 13, 2023 by Scandi Divers

13
Apr

As concerns about climate change and environmental degradation continue to grow, the importance of sustainable practices is becoming increasingly apparent in every sector, including tourism. As a dive resort, we recognize the impact that our operations can have on the environment and are committed to minimizing our footprint. That is why we are proud to announce the recent additions we have made to our resort to further enhance our sustainability efforts.

Solar Panels

One of the most significant additions we have made is the installation of solar panels. These panels harness the sun’s energy to generate electricity for our resort, reducing our reliance on traditional energy sources. Not only does this help us reduce our carbon footprint, but it also lowers our energy costs, allowing us to invest more resources into improving our guests’ experiences. By utilizing renewable energy, we are not only protecting the environment but also creating a more sustainable future for our resort and the wider community.

Sewage Treatment Plant

Another addition we have made is the installation of a sewage treatment plant. This plant enables us to treat our wastewater on-site, reducing the impact that our operations have on the surrounding environment. By treating the wastewater before it is released, we are ensuring that it does not harm the surrounding marine ecosystems. This not only benefits the environment but also contributes to the overall health and wellbeing of our guests, who can be assured that the water they are swimming in is clean and safe.

Room Management Tools

In addition to our renewable energy and wastewater treatment efforts, we have also implemented new room management tools. These tools are designed to help us minimize our water usage by reducing the amount of washing needed for linens and towels. By providing guests with the option to reuse their towels and linens, we are not only reducing our water usage but also lowering our energy usage by reducing the frequency of laundry loads. These small changes may seem insignificant, but they can add up to make a significant impact over time.

The Future of Sustainability at our Resort

While we are proud of the steps we have taken so far to improve our sustainability, we recognize that there is always more that can be done. Moving forward, we are committed to exploring new ways to reduce our environmental impact and promote sustainability. This may involve further investments in renewable energy, implementing more efficient water and energy-saving measures, and working with local communities to promote sustainable tourism practices.

Conclusion

As a dive resort, we understand the importance of preserving the natural beauty of the underwater world. That is why we are committed to promoting sustainable practices that minimize our impact on the environment while providing our guests with an unforgettable experience. Our recent additions, including solar panels, a sewage treatment plant, and new room management tools, are just the beginning of our sustainability efforts. We look forward to continuing to explore new ways to promote sustainability and make a positive impact on the world around us.

Resort News

From Speed to Tradition: Scandi Divers’ New Boats Offer Something for Everyone

Posted on March 21, 2023April 16, 2023 by Scandi Divers

21
Mar

As a dive resort, we understand the importance of providing our guests with the best possible experience. That is why we are thrilled to announce the addition of two new boats to our dive fleet: a new speedboat and a traditional Philippine banka. With these new additions, Scandi Divers now has a total of five boats, ensuring that we can provide the best possible diving experience in the area.

New Speedboat

Our new speedboat is perfect for those looking for a fast and efficient way to reach their dive sites. Equipped with powerful engines and comfortable seating, this boat will get you to your destination quickly and in style. Whether you are exploring nearby reefs or heading out to deeper waters, the speedboat is the perfect choice for those who want to make the most of their time underwater.

New Banka

We have also added a traditional Philippine banka to our dive fleet. These boats are known for their stability and comfort, making them the perfect choice for those who prefer a more relaxed and leisurely diving experience. With ample space for divers and their gear, the banka is a great option for larger groups or families. Plus, its traditional design is a nod to the rich culture and history of the Philippines.

Unique Feature: Boat Covers

One thing that sets Scandi Divers apart from other dive resorts in the area is our commitment to our guests’ comfort. That is why all of our boats, including the new speedboat and banka, are equipped with covers to protect guests from the sun. This unique feature is not common among dive resorts in the area, and we are proud to offer it as a way to enhance our guests’ experience.

The Best Dive Experience in the Area

With our new additions to the dive fleet, Scandi Divers is now better equipped than ever to provide the best possible diving experience in the area. Whether you prefer the speed and efficiency of the new speedboat or the comfort and tradition of the new banka, we have a boat that is perfect for you. Plus, with covers on all of our boats, you can rest assured that you will be comfortable and protected from the sun throughout your dive trip.

Conclusion

At Scandi Divers, we are committed to providing our guests with the best possible diving experience. That is why we are thrilled to add a new speedboat and banka to our dive fleet, bringing our total number of boats to five. With covers on all of our boats, we are also proud to offer a unique feature that sets us apart from other dive resorts in the area. Whether you are a seasoned diver or just starting out, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable dive experience on our new boats.

Blackwater Diving

Dive Spotters Training at Scandi Divers

Posted on January 10, 2022 by Scandi Divers

10
Jan

Scandi divers had the pleasure of hosting the Puerto Galera leg of the Dive Spotters Training Program. Alongside this we refreshed our knowledge about bonfire and blackwater diving.

Dive Philippines stalwarts Wen and Cels only work with the best, with the main presentations conducted by Ram Yoro. Ram is well known and a true sensei in the bonfire/ blackwater field. There were 19 participants from the dive shops in Puerto Galera. There was the added dangled carrot of a nice t-shirt and some great meals from chef Ivan at Scandi divers.

Ram shared his knowledge and techniques from the blackwater world to the enthralled room of dive professionals. We got to learn about all the amazing species that can be seen around the bonfire of placed dive lights. Time was also spent refreshing everybody on the current hot marine critters and where’s the best place to find them. After a break of almost 2 years from major tourism it was a very worthwhile exercise to reboot our knowledge on the bountiful marine life in Puerto Galera.

As the sun went down we prepared the lights and lines for a bonfire dive right in front of Scandi divers resort. With the dive pro’s spread over four light set ups we were flabbergasted at the amazing species that live in the mid-water. There were many larval fish, with juvenile pipe fish and seahorses drifting around. A tiny larval octopus decided to attract itself to one of the guys, even hiding in the sleeve of his wet suit. We lost count of the number of crustacean species that were attracted by the powerful lights. The dive blew the minds of the participants, for some it was the first time to experience this kind of diving.

The next morning was spent going over proof of life images and video footage taken by the divers. Ram was also mightily impressed with the amount of night life. We finished up by honing our spotting skills with two dives in our muck diving area. The area outside of Montani was described as a AAA dive site by Ram. The sightings included a hairy shrimp, sean the sheep nudibranch, blue dragon and a tiny flamboyant cuttlefish.

The evening was spent giving out certificates to the participants and then of course the Red horse started to flow. The karaoke was fired up and all the blackwater creatures decided to go to deeper water.
Scandi divers would like to thank Dive Philippines, the department of tourism and the master Ram Yoro for sharing his amazing experience with us. We now look forward to using our new skills to impress our guests once international travel restarts again.

Puerto Galera Dive Sites

Top 5 dive sites of Puerto Galera

Posted on September 7, 2020 by Scandi Divers

07
Sep

Puerto Galera is one of the most diverse scuba diving destinations in the world. With over 40 dive sites and 3,000 marine species to dive with we have given our verdict on the top 5 dive spots that you have to visit during your stay at Scandi divers resort.

The Drop off at Verde Island is not just the number 1 dive in Puerto Galera but must be classed as one of the best in Asia. The Pinnacle breaks the surface before dropping down to three hundred meters. It can have very strong currents which brings in fish by the bucket load. You can see large tuna and snapper mixed in with massive schools of wide mouth mackerel, Chub and the neon colored blue streak fusiliers. The population of anthais is so thick that you struggle to see the reef in places. You can see banded sea snakes, hawksbill turtles and warty frogfish. There are some massive sea fans and barrel sponges that can dwarf scuba divers. With a spectacular ecosystem existing here also look out for large pelagic species in the blue.
Canyons have been listed in the 50 top dives in the world. Best visited with a decent incoming tide, it can be a jaw dropping experience. There are 3 separate canyons the deepest one at 27 meters. You can see schools of jacks, Spanish mackerel and batfish. The delicate soft corals that cover the reef are beautiful soft pinks, purples and orange in color. The large sea fans quiver as the currents rush through them with pygmy seahorses clinging on for dear life. Hiding from current are oriental sweetlips, scorpion fish and moray eels. As you get to the last canyon there is an old anchor embedded into the reef, look out in the blue for spotted eagle rays and tuna before heading up for your safety stop.
The Alma Jane wreck was sunk in 2003 and has become one of the best dives in Puerto Galera. This artificial reef is down at thirty meters and is encrusted with some great coral growth. There is a resident school of a hundred or so batfish that are always facing into the current. Around the prop shaft you see large snappers. You can explore inside the wreck very easily, look out for banded sea snakes living in the celling. There are some large lion and scorpion fish. There is a high chance that you will see a few giant frog fish.
The Giant Clams are one of the best muck diving locations in the Philippines. If you would like to see mimic octopus, thorny seahorses, ornate ghost pipe fish, Dragon sea moths, Hairy frogfish, wunderpus, harlequin shrimp, blue ring octopus and the flamboyant cuttlefish then you will have to visit this magical macro playground.
Kilima Steps creeps in at number 5, we chose this site not only because of its beautiful stepped topography but this is place where you can see the majestic thresher shark. If the sharks don’t show up then you can still find the Palate surgeonfish otherwise known as Dori from Finding Nemo. You can discover many tropical reef fish and a number of nudibranch species.

So what do you think about our choice of the top 5 dive sites? You are welcome to let us know what your top 5 dives are from Puerto Galera. Thanks for reading this blog and we hope you can share it with your friends.