Tubbataha Liveaboards

[Harry Kreigh]

I'm considering a trip to Tubbataha next April. Which of these boats (or others) do you recommend: Tristar, Stella Maris or Ocean Explorer. Looking for a comfortable, high-end boat, not crowded, with an outstanding dive operation. Thanks!

 

[Babydamulag]

Our guys use the Explorer and Stella Maris. I am told they have great service, good equipment and even will allow non-diving friend/company to come with you. Go to -http://www.divingtravel.com/philippinesliv.htm

 

[Hank49]

I did the Tri Star about 11 years ago. No complaints. Big enough to handle if it gets a little rough. Good food. Great drop boats and service.

 

[Babydamulag]

How is Belize these days?

 

[jbb]

I'm considering a trip to Tubbataha next April. Which of these boats (or others) do you recommend: Tristar, Stella Maris or Ocean Explorer. Looking for a comfortable, high-end boat, not crowded, with an outstanding dive operation. Thanks!

I just did the Tristar four weeks ago. Really enjoyed the trip. Not sure it is the highest end of live aboards as I have not been on the others. Even with 20 divers it didn't seam that crowded to me. We were split into 3 dive groups for the trip. The owners were on the trip and even acted as dive guides. The other divers were a diverse group from the Philippines, Germany, US, Britain and Singapore based expats.

 

[manhattandiver]

I would think twice before booking a trip with the Explorer fleet (unless you like it when your boat hits the reef).

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=136566&highlight=eco+explorer

 

[Hammerhead]

I just did the Tristar four weeks ago. Really enjoyed the trip. Not sure it is the highest end of live aboards as I have not been on the others. Even with 20 divers it didn't seam that crowded to me. We were split into 3 dive groups for the trip. The owners were on the trip and even acted as dive guides. The other divers were a diverse group from the Philippines, Germany, US, Britain and Singapore based expats.

Seconded. I was there in April. One comment is that they (Tristar) like to head back to Hunter's Rock for the last 3 dives which was a was a waste (fished out of existence). Given that it only saves an hour, talk the captain into staying at North Tuba for these dives.

 

[Babydamulag]

Good point. Stay at Tuba as long as the skipper will let you!