Swimming with Turtles in Apo Island
Have you tried swimming with turtles? What if I tell you there’s a place in Philippines that is a haven for sea turtles.
During our Dumaguete trip, instead of exploring new places we decided to revisit Apo Island. A volcanic island, a marine sanctuary and a popular dive site near Dumaguete City. The reason for this is that I heard there were turtles in the area. I didn’t believe it at first because I’ve been on the island several times already and never did I encountered one. Also, swimming with turtles is part of my bucket list, so I wouldn’t let this chance pass.
Our driver picked us up at our hotel around 6AM. From there, we drove for 30 minutes to Malatapay port. When we arrived at the port, there were no people in the area. I’ve asked a local and learned that it was too early for the regular trip. The local said we should have booked in advance if we plan to go to the island that early. While waiting for a boat, we sat in one of the nipa huts near the shore and watched the sun rise.
After a few minutes, the first boatman arrived. We arranged a private boat to save time. With luck on our side, 2 tourists arrived with the same plan as ours – Half day tour of Apo Island. We agreed to go as a group that way we split up the costs of the boat.
In Apo Island, I know that there are sea snakes near the famous rock formation and Tomato clown fish are abundant on the other side of the island.
What I didn’t know, on the right side of the docking area is the perfect spot to swim with sea turtles.
As soon as we arrived in Apo Island, we went straight to the tourism office to register. Also, since this is a protected area, it is required to have a guide for the swimming with turtles activity.
I remember setting my expectations low. Kept saying to myself that I’ll be happy to see one turtle in this experience. But as soon as I entered the water, I saw turtles of different sizes grazing on sea grass. Turtles were not even bothered with us swimming around taking photos and videos. I never imagined being surrounded by these gentle creatures. Bucket list checked!
Here’s a detailed guide of Dumaguete.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT APO ISLAND
The best time to visit Apo Island is during dry season. This is from December to May. Apo Island is open all year round and marine life is abundant throughout the year. Tourist can visit anytime and still encounter sea turtles. On the other hand, tourist can still visit on rainy season, but avoid going when there’s a typhoon. It is Ideal to go as early as possible to Apo Island and back to Dumaguete before late afternoon. Sea swells tend to be stronger late afternoon. Expect this place to be busy during summer, weekends and holidays.
WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO PACK TO APO ISLAND
Snorkeling gear – Tourist can rent in Apo Island but I recommend bringing your own.
Action Camera
Snack / Food
Tumbler and plenty of water
Cash
Dry bag
Protection from the sun
Extra clothes
HOW TO GET TO APO ISLAND FROM MANILA
To get to Apo Island from Manila, take a direct flight from Manila to Dumaguete. Departure will be from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3. Arrival is in Sibulan Airport (Dumaguete Airport). Flight time is 1 hour 30 minutes. From airport, hire a tricycle to city proper. Approximately 10 minutes.
From Dumaguete City, going to Apo Island is easy. You’ll have several options: buses, habal-habal or rent-a-car. Each of the options have their advantages but we chose the latter so that we have control on the schedule and of course convenience.
From Dumaguete City, it is a 30 minutes to Malatapay Market. In Malatapay Market, go near the shore for the boat terminal. Then a 30 minute boat ride to Apo Island.
APO ISLAND BUDGET AND ITINERARY
The estimated budget for the Apo Island half day tour is approximately Php1,500.00 per pax. This can be lower if you’ll a bus or a habal-habal ride to Malapatay Market. Also, a cheaper option is a public boat to Apo Island. The downside is the schedule of boats. See the breakdown of costs below:
Rent-a-car with Driver - Php1,000.00 – 2,000.00/day
Private Boat - Php2,000.00 – 3,000.00/ roundtrip
Apo Island Entrance Fee - Php100.00/pax
Turtle Experience Guide - Php300.00/pax
NOTE: Rates indicated above may change
IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN VISITING APO ISLAND
If you want to book in advance, ask your Hotel concierge for recommendations:
Rent-a-car
Private boat in Malatapay Market
Follow the rules especially when swimming with turtles.
There are several resorts and accommodations in Apo Island where tourist can stay.
Few restaurants in Apo Island. Limited Food options for tourists.
Sea can be rough especially during monsoon, Expect to get wet going to Apo Island and back to Malatapay port.
Cash basis for this activity.
Signal may be weak in some parts of Apo Island.
ATMs are available in town proper.
APO ISLAND TRAVEL TIPS
Follow the rules especially when swimming with turtles.
Visit as early as possible to avoid the crowd.
Look for other tourist in Malatapay Market. This way you can hire a private boat and split the costs. This will lessen your expense and will not be dependent on the public boat schedule.
If you rented a private boat, ensure to coordinate with the boatman your schedule departure from Apo Island.
Also, you may leave your belongings in the boat.
Do not bring valuables.
For better turtle experience, I recommend using fins.
Limited food options in Apo Island. For day tours, just bring snacks and eat a decent meal when you get back to town proper.
Do not leave trash behind.
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