Just returned from diving with “Scandi Divers” in Puerto Galera (PG) on Mindoro Island just south of the main Island (Luzon) and a 40-minute boat ride from Batangas Port. From Manila airport, all in its about 2.5 – 3 hour trip, easily arranged by the Award-Winning Staff at Scandi. Just one of the reasons they have been named “Best Dive Operator” by Scuba Diving Magazine “Readers Choice” (Scandi Divers Resort | Scuba Diving)
A quick backgrounder from Wiki on the area:
Oriental Mindoro is touted as the country's emerging eco-tourism destination. In 2005, the Philippines was found to be the center of marine fish biodiversity and the home of the most diverse marine ecosystem in the world.
Read my (admittedly) long post below or view some videos on my YouTube Channel
I have been diving there with the Scandi Team for over 10 years (multiple trips) and it has changed my diving perspective in so many ways.
I was used to the Caribbean and having to move around fairly quickly to see some variety of reef and other marine life.
In “PG”, the amazing sea life found at every turn has slowed me down, which is a good thing due to my advancing age! There is a reason they call this the center of the diving universe on planet earth, so much to see and an easy pace is rewarding by allowing you the energy to do multiple dives per day.
My time with the team at Scandi never disappoints. While the resort is not a 5-diamond level of accommodation (nothing in that region is) the rooms are clean, comfortable, and well priced. While “Suite B” is my favorite, the Penthouse rooms at the adjoining Cambells property are new and very nice, with great views. Again, the staff make it a comfortable place to stay, and the facilities are first class.
Food and Beverage options are very good, with outstanding service including bartender “Eric”, Hostess Marjorie, Manager Mavi, just some of my favorites. Only place in PG with Starbucks coffee, and a very accommodating kitchen who will even cook you a fish that you can buy directly the fisherman returning to the beach.
Yes – Beach. Situated in Big La Laguna, a “half moon bay” away from the noise and bustle of Sabang, (which has virtually NO beach at all) one Scandi advantage is it has a nice beach area to chill on. Also presents easy access to great snorkeling or an easy shore dive if you are there to begin your diving certifications.
There are also other really great beach options nearby, with an easy boat ride (Captains Mark and Freddy Highly recommended) including “Heart Beach” with White Beach being a bit farther, but it is well worth the Tuk Tuk ride or even better by boat.
One important note about location - Most people I encounter there think while they are in Sabang or Big La Laguna they are actually in Puerto Galera. However, the actual town of PG is about 15 minutes away (by Tuk Tuk or Boat) and it’s a very interesting town with a long history of a safe harbour during storms.
It’s well worth a visit for seeing the Galleon Ships they built, walking around and getting some local flavor, and buying T-shirts and souvenirs. Super Safe and Friendly.
The Dive Staff is a big highlight, which is a major contributor to their “Best Dive Operator” Award. Shop Coordinator “Rex” us super organized and professional, leading a diverse team of top-notch instructors and Dive masters too numerous to list, and a great crew of boats and support staff (shout of to Arman who looks after the gear).
While Larry, Leo, Eva and the rest of the team are fantastic, my top call out is to Rey Magsino, whom I have deemed “The Specialist”, as his vibe is very cool, his eye in the water when looking for stuff is unmatched, and if you are at all nervous about, or in need of special training, he’s your guy. You will come back a better diver is you spend a week or even a few days with this team.
They are also the only operator in the area with the “Lefeet” underwater scooters for rent. A great option if some stronger currents, enjoy the latest diving accessories, or even for a great time snorkeling
Another advantage to this area, and especially Scandi, is there are over 50 dives within a 5 – 10 minute boat ride. This allows you to do your dive, come back to the resort to chill, eat, whatever, then go back out at your leisure.
The one dive that is farthest away is Verde Island. Yes, its almost an hour by boat, but its almost life changing in its significance. Recommended for Advanced divers and above, Scandi does a great day trip with a first dive at “the Pinnacle” a wall dive that will blow your mind, and a second dive on the back size of the site. A fantastic lunch is served on Verde Island, plenty of surface time, and a 3rd dive on the way back.
I did not get a chance to go this year, but last years first dive is here:
Thanks for reading my post. If you want more information about PG in general, or Scandi in particular, respond to my post and I’ll get back to you.
A quick backgrounder from Wiki on the area:
Oriental Mindoro is touted as the country's emerging eco-tourism destination. In 2005, the Philippines was found to be the center of marine fish biodiversity and the home of the most diverse marine ecosystem in the world.
Read my (admittedly) long post below or view some videos on my YouTube Channel
I have been diving there with the Scandi Team for over 10 years (multiple trips) and it has changed my diving perspective in so many ways.
I was used to the Caribbean and having to move around fairly quickly to see some variety of reef and other marine life.
In “PG”, the amazing sea life found at every turn has slowed me down, which is a good thing due to my advancing age! There is a reason they call this the center of the diving universe on planet earth, so much to see and an easy pace is rewarding by allowing you the energy to do multiple dives per day.
My time with the team at Scandi never disappoints. While the resort is not a 5-diamond level of accommodation (nothing in that region is) the rooms are clean, comfortable, and well priced. While “Suite B” is my favorite, the Penthouse rooms at the adjoining Cambells property are new and very nice, with great views. Again, the staff make it a comfortable place to stay, and the facilities are first class.
Food and Beverage options are very good, with outstanding service including bartender “Eric”, Hostess Marjorie, Manager Mavi, just some of my favorites. Only place in PG with Starbucks coffee, and a very accommodating kitchen who will even cook you a fish that you can buy directly the fisherman returning to the beach.
Yes – Beach. Situated in Big La Laguna, a “half moon bay” away from the noise and bustle of Sabang, (which has virtually NO beach at all) one Scandi advantage is it has a nice beach area to chill on. Also presents easy access to great snorkeling or an easy shore dive if you are there to begin your diving certifications.
There are also other really great beach options nearby, with an easy boat ride (Captains Mark and Freddy Highly recommended) including “Heart Beach” with White Beach being a bit farther, but it is well worth the Tuk Tuk ride or even better by boat.
One important note about location - Most people I encounter there think while they are in Sabang or Big La Laguna they are actually in Puerto Galera. However, the actual town of PG is about 15 minutes away (by Tuk Tuk or Boat) and it’s a very interesting town with a long history of a safe harbour during storms.
It’s well worth a visit for seeing the Galleon Ships they built, walking around and getting some local flavor, and buying T-shirts and souvenirs. Super Safe and Friendly.
The Dive Staff is a big highlight, which is a major contributor to their “Best Dive Operator” Award. Shop Coordinator “Rex” us super organized and professional, leading a diverse team of top-notch instructors and Dive masters too numerous to list, and a great crew of boats and support staff (shout of to Arman who looks after the gear).
While Larry, Leo, Eva and the rest of the team are fantastic, my top call out is to Rey Magsino, whom I have deemed “The Specialist”, as his vibe is very cool, his eye in the water when looking for stuff is unmatched, and if you are at all nervous about, or in need of special training, he’s your guy. You will come back a better diver is you spend a week or even a few days with this team.
They are also the only operator in the area with the “Lefeet” underwater scooters for rent. A great option if some stronger currents, enjoy the latest diving accessories, or even for a great time snorkeling
Another advantage to this area, and especially Scandi, is there are over 50 dives within a 5 – 10 minute boat ride. This allows you to do your dive, come back to the resort to chill, eat, whatever, then go back out at your leisure.
The one dive that is farthest away is Verde Island. Yes, its almost an hour by boat, but its almost life changing in its significance. Recommended for Advanced divers and above, Scandi does a great day trip with a first dive at “the Pinnacle” a wall dive that will blow your mind, and a second dive on the back size of the site. A fantastic lunch is served on Verde Island, plenty of surface time, and a 3rd dive on the way back.
I did not get a chance to go this year, but last years first dive is here:
Thanks for reading my post. If you want more information about PG in general, or Scandi in particular, respond to my post and I’ll get back to you.
