Anilao, Batangas | Free Diving with Apnea Philippines

In this blog, I will share how I learned freediving.

Actually, I love swimming even when I was a kid. I am a strong swimmer, can hold my breath long and I can dive deep. But this is without the proper form or training. Learned everything through experience during my travels.

Several years ago, I stumbled upon Apnea Philippines. I was so intrigue about freediving that I enrolled to their Discover Freediving Session. This is when I came to know Marese, the Founder of Apnea Philippines.

She shared the science about freediving. Taught us the basics; from breathing exercise, finning, duck dive and safety/rescue. Since then, been practicing this skill every chance I get.

From time to time, I do take Line training session with Apnea Philippines. I think that aside from experience, formal training or guidance from experts will greatly help hone this skill.

One weekend, my sister and I went to Anilao, Batangas for an open water line training session with Apnea Philippines. 

The session covers everything from line training to duck dive.

After a fun session with Apnea Philippines, looked for a restaurant near the area. This is where we’ve discovered Johanna’s Grille. A local restaurant known for its baby back ribs.

Want to learn freediving? Check out Apnea Philippines in Facebook.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO ANILAO, BATANGAS

Anilao, Batangas is open all year round but the best time to visit is during summer. This is from March to May.

WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO PACK TO ANILAO, BATANGAS

• Beach outfit

• Swimwear

• Rash guard / Wetsuit

• Sandals / Slippers

• Protection from the sun

• Snorkeling Gear

• Fins

• Dry bag

• Tumbler

• Camera / Action Cam

• Trash bag

• Food / Snacks / Drinks

HOW TO GET TO ANILAO, BATANGAS FROM MANILA

The fastest way to get to Anilao, Batangas from Manila is by car. From EDSA, exit to SLEX then to CALABARZON/STAR Expressway. Then take Batangas City exit. At the rotunda, exit at Bauan – Batangas Provincial Road. Before the Diversion Road Flyover, stay on the right. Then turn right on Palico – Balayan Batangas Road. Follow the Bauan – Batangas Provincial road and turn left on Mabini Road. Follow the road until you reach the Mabini Circumferential Road then turn right. Travel time is around 3-4 hours.

Another option is public transportation. Take a bus bound to Batangas Pier via CALABARZON in Buendia. Alight in Batangas Grand Terminal. Travel time is 3-4 hours.

Then ride a jeepney to Anilao. Travel time is around 1 hour. In Anilao, ride a trike to your resort/accommodation.

ANILAO, BATANGAS BUDGET AND ITINERARY

The estimated budget for a freediving session in Anilao is around Php4,000.00/pax. Assuming this is a 2 person trip and will use a car to Anilao, Batangas.

 You can still lower the costs if you use public transportation and on food. See costs details below:

• Discover Freediving - Php2,600.00/pax (day trip)

• Gas – Php1,000.00

• Toll Fees

  • SLEX Filinvest to Calamba - Php91.00

    • SLEX

  • SLEX to STAR Tollway - Php25.00

  • STAR Tollway to Batangas - Php104.00

    • STAR Tollway

• Johanna’s Grille - Php1,000.00 / 2 pax estimate

• Bus fare – Php200.00 estimate

• Jeepney – Php50.00 estimate

• Tricycle – Php50.00 estimate

  NOTE: Rates indicated above may change.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN VISITING ANILAO, BATANGAS

• Discover Freediving is 1 hour theory and 2 hours open water session.

• Discover Freediving is open to Non-swimmers.

• Freediving gear already included in the package but you can bring your own gear.

• There are plenty of ATMs in the town proper.

• Signal is not a problem in this area.

ANILAO, BATANGAS TRAVEL TIPS

• Skyway is your friend especially on weekends.

• Schedule your trip as early as possible to avoid traffic.

• Book in advance.

• There are plenty of resorts in the area. Expect the place gets crowded during long weekends and summer.

• Best to use a floating stick or bobber with your GoPro in water activities.

• Clean as you go.

WATCH THE FULL VIDEO HERE

WHAT’S IN MY BAG?

If you want to know more about the cameras, gadgets and travel essentials I use, check out “MY GEAR”

See you on my next adventure…. Peace!