Pamilacan Dive Site

Overview

Pamilacan Dive Site is a slope dive off Pamilacan Island in the Bohol Sea, administered under Baclayon municipality. It is rated for PADI Advanced divers and above given its depth and current strength; the shallow sandy portions rule out snorkelling. Visibility runs 15–22 m, depth 8–35 m, currents 2–4 (strong), and the most rewarding band sits at 10–20 m. The reef has taken some damage from past dynamite fishing — a legacy of the era before the island’s economy pivoted from the pamilac harpoon hunt of whale sharks, manta rays, and dolphins to the dive and cetacean-watching tourism that now supports it.

Location

Pamilacan Island lies in the Bohol Sea, approximately one hour by outrigger from Baclayon town on Bohol’s southern coast. The dive site wraps around the island’s reef slope, with the main entry point on the island’s western or south-western face.

Getting There

Boats depart from Baclayon port. Arrange transport through local dive operators or the Pamilacan Island community. The crossing takes approximately 45–60 minutes depending on sea conditions.

Practical Info

• Difficulty: PADI Advanced or higher required
• Depth: 8–35 m (best at 10–20 m)
• Visibility: 15–22 m
• Current: strong (2–4); recommended as a drift dive
• Suitable for two dives: first in front of the small rocky island; second before the exit point of the first dive

What to Expect

Begin the dive with the slope on the right shoulder, heading south to south-west at 25 m depth, then ascending to 10–15 m. The reef slopes with many coral heads and soft corals, including coral strings. Species encountered include the Sea Whip (Junceela fragilis), schools of Napoleon Wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus — also called the double-headed Maori Wrasse), Barracudas, Batfish, and occasional Manta Ray (Manta birostris). The site is noted as a good drift dive and can support two separate dives in a single outing.

The dive area falls within proximity of the Danajon Bank (Double Barrier Reef), one of only two double barrier reef systems in the Indo-Pacific.

Notes

• Not recommended for beginners or snorkellers due to depth and current
• Dynamite fishing has had some impact on reef condition; confirm current reef health with local operators before booking
• Combine with dolphin and whale watching tours departing from the same island