Posted by Chris White on Fri, Jan 06, 2012 @ 01:36 AM
Just offshore from a small beach on the south east coast of Cebu, is a unique experience waiting for every diver (and snorkeler) who is willing to make and early start so that they can be in the water just after dawn. After a simple shore entry, divers swim out over the sandy sloping bottom to the area where up to 9 whale sharks come each morning to be fed krill by the local fishermen. At the moment, all of the whale sharks are males as the two pregnant females have recently left the area. There are a few juveniles in the group.
The whale sharks follow the few fishermen who are feeding them and who bring them in front of divers and snorkelers. The whale sharks appear to be oblivious of the divers, snorkelers and boat riders who swim around them. All visitors are reminded to follow good diving practices by:
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not touching the whale sharks;
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keeping a distance of 3m; and
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not using flashes or strobe lights.
Everyone is able to have a close encounter with these gentle giants and see first hand how gracefully they cruise through the sea with their cavernous mouths. Patient photographers will be able to get some special shots when the whale sharks break away from feeding and swim away from the boats and the snorkelers.
For divers who can drag their eyes away from the whale sharks, there is very interesting marine life just off-shore in 5m of water - I have seen dragonets, large trumpet fish, schools of jacks, lionfish and much more. There are reports of manta rays in the area but I have yet to see them.
Posted by Chris White on Fri, Dec 16, 2011 @ 07:41 PM
Wow what an unusual Tropical Storm. We were expecting it to turn into a typhoon strength storm which would pass over central Cebu early morning on December 17. Instead it verred south and passed overnight well below the island of Cebu and only at tropical storm strength. Thus no damage and no interruption to diving in Moalboal. All we got was a little wind and some overnight rain. It is now heading towards Malaysia.
What was really unusual about this storm is that it stayed below 10degrees latitude whereas nearly all typhoons that reach the Philippines are above 10 degrees latitude. The brunt of the storms is usually borne by Leyte and Luzon with just side effects in Cebu
Posted by Chris White on Sun, Dec 11, 2011 @ 05:41 AM
This is the second installment of a three part blog edited from an article which appeared in the Daily Tribune on September 29, 2011 and was written by Deni Rose Afinidad. The first part of this blog was posted on November 18. The first blog outlined the reasons Dr. Carpenter has for saying that The Philippines has become the heart of marine life on the planet. Here are the detailed explanations for his hypothesis.
Reason 1 – Most Diversity of Habitats
The Philippines has more diversity of habitats (sea grass, soft sediments, corals, etc.) than anywhere else on Earth. It also has more coastlines per unit area than any tropical place in the globe.
Latitudinal diversity is also the Philippines’ edge over Indonesia. The Philippines is in different latitudes so it has tropical and subtropical species, unlike Indonesia, which is only tropical.
Reason 2 – Area of Concentration for Different Species
The country is an area of concentration because of geology or ocean patterns. For this, Carpenter and team looked at the genetics of species. “The genetics of populations are like fingerprints that let us track populations in time and space. How these species are separated can tell us about the species’ evolution,” he explained.
According to his study, during the Ice Age, the whole world was enveloped in ice except the Coral Triangle, and the presence of more land protected and enabled the species here to develop and evolve.
Around 54 million years ago, Manila and the rest of Luzon were underwater, located near where Australia is, he said. Mindanao, Palawan and Visayas were where Papua New Guinea is. But because of plate tectonic movements, the Philippines has become more integrated than any archipelago in the planet. The main islands of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao came together, enabling the Philippines to develop a diversified geology, and such variety made it an area of accumulation for different species.
Since Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao came from different parts of the world, they contain different species, but the genetic code of species indicates they come from the same group. “The genetic makeup of species matches the Philippines’ fingerprint 10 million years ago. If species grew up from different places, then they will have a different genetic makeup,” expounded Carpenter.
There had only been a genetic break or separation of species because of strong currents in the country, and different separation of species in the country means there is a lot of population breaks in the country, which is something unique to the Philippines, he asserted. In Indonesia, there are only two population breaks, but in the Philippines there are five, indicating that species are still evolving in the country.
Reason 3 – The Philippines is the Center of Origin
Dr. Carpenter theorizes that the country is a center of origin — the Philippines might be where species originated and are evolving.
“There is a genetic signature that species are congregating in the Philippines because it is probably their origin or coherent with their genetic makeup,” he remarked. A species of sardine, for example, has been found to be also existent in the Philippines when it has been previously listed as emanating from China.
“Other species originate from the Philippines but are being washed to Indonesia and other places, which is why there is also a concentration of species there,” Carpenter justified.
“There is a unique bio-geology here in the Philippines that took millions of years to create, so if we destroy it, we are interrupting a process benefited by the whole world.”
Posted by Chris White on Fri, Nov 18, 2011 @ 12:44 AM
want to share with a three part blog edited from an article which appeared in the Daily Tribune on September 29, 2011 and was written by Deni Rose Afinidad. This article will help explain why the Philippines is such a precious marine resource and well worth putting on every diver’s bucket list.
Why we Need to Protect the Marine Biodiversity of the Philippines
Preserving the Philippines, marine biologist Kent Carpenter noted, should be a global priority because the country, according to his years of research verified by many scientists from different fields, has been found out to be “the center of the center of marine life in the universe,” - the place with the most number of marine species per unit area, or the “bull’s eye” or concentration of species in the Coral Triangle.
The Coral Triangle
The Coral Triangle is a 5.4 million square-kilometer stretch of ocean encompassing six countries, including the Philippines. It is less than one percent of the world’s total surface area, and yet it contains 75 percent of the Earth’s coral species and coral reefs.
“About every group of species — seaweeds, grass, crustaceans, snails, among others — peak their diversity in the Coral Triangle,” Carpenter revealed.
Their team made a distribution map identifying 2,983 species in the Triangle, and based on this map the Philippines has the highest concentration of species in the Triangle. In fact, it has more marine species than anywhere else on the planet. “This is surprising to us because we were predicting to find it in eastern Indonesia because it is in the equator and because of the number of species discovered there,” he admitted
Why the Philippines? The answer to this puzzle, said Carpenter, might be the key to protecting the world’s marine biodiversity.
Center of biodiversity
Carpenter has three main hypotheses why the Philippines has become the heart of marine life on the planet:
- The country is an area of refuge for marine species. The country, he maintained, has more diversity of habitats (sea grass, soft sediments, corals, etc.) than anywhere else on Earth;
- The country is an area of concentration because of geology or ocean patterns;
- He theorizes that the country is a center of origin — the Philippines might be where species originate and are evolving.
Detailed explanations for these hypotheses will be in part two of this blog series
Posted by Chris White on Mon, Nov 14, 2011 @ 02:02 AM
Photographs kindly provided by the guest.
I want to share with you a comprehensive report recently posted by a widely traveled Canadian guest who stayed with us in October 2011. You can read the original on Trip Advisor.
My stay at this resort was for 3 weeks. I was uncertain about what the weather would be like as October is the tail end of the rainy season. With the exception of one day, however, the weather was very good to excellent.
Turtle Bay Dive Resort is family owned, hosted by Chris and Fe White. Located in the deep south of Moalboal, Cebu, it fosters a very intimate and relaxing environment, providing everything you need on site. The property is exquisitely maintained by very pleasant staff. There are many things to do at and outside the resort.
Divers and snorkelers will be very pleased with the many dive sites. Pescador Island is nearby and frequented by the resort's on site dive facility. This site will satisfy all divers and snorkeler's equally. Shore diving is very good as well and the resort's house reef is filled with a variety of life. Turtle Bay is a very fitting name for this resort. If you are looking for turtle encounters, you won't be disappointed. They are plentiful and used to divers so taking pictures/video is easy. Both Green and Hawksbill occupy these waters.
While on Cebu, try to arrange a trip to Apo Island, south of Negros, which is next to Cebu. The diving is pristine, but advanced skills may be necessary for some sites, since currents can be strong and unpredictable.
Outside of diving, we enjoyed a couple of trips to Kawasan Falls. It’s about a half hour to 45 minute drive south. The resort can make all the arrangements for you. There is a nice 20 minute to half an hour walk to the first level of the falls upon arrival. There is a well defined walking path and all around is lush jungle. The first level of the falls is nice, but its best to walk up the path leading to the upper falls. Make sure to ask your tour guide about this, as there are less people. The water in the falls is chilly, and the falling water comes down HARD, so be ready. The ambient temperature will warm you up nicely afterwards, however. We also visited the Orchid, Garden in the town of Moalboal, which has a variety of flora to enjoy, as well as some caged monkeys and birds. The Horn Bill birds are fascinating. A visit to the rice fields was educational and fun. There you'll see how they irrigate the land to water the rice, and all around are the local carabao, a type of ox, used to work the fields. Getting there is a bit of a bumpy ride, as the fields are up in the mountains. The town of Moalboal is about half hour walk from the resort. In the town are pharmacies, fruit stands, restaurants, police, schools, government buildings, etc.
The resort itself has plenty to offer to the diver and non-diver alike. They have a games room, a double swimming pool, a gift shop, massage therapy, a two level restaurant with guest lounge, complete with a large TV, DVD's, WiFi, books, magazines, water dispensers, washrooms, and a computer, if you need one. The layout of the eating/living areas is inviting, done in a Filipino/ Indonesian theme. The landscaping is intricate and garden-like, with a myriad of plants and trees (even grass) with pathways by which to enjoy them. There is a nice area for sunning yourself near the sea, but no beach per se. If you would like to lay and play on a white sand beach, White Beach is a 25 minute drive away.
The food was delicious and always different, especially at lunch and dinner, with large portions, variety and fresh ingredients being the norm. If you have a food preference, they will provide it, and the fish is always wonderful. When dining, Chris and or Fe would join us and the other guests, which we all enjoyed.
The rooms are colonial style and very clean, comfortable and beautifully decorated, with AC, fans, fridges, etc. They provide bottled water in the room fridges everyday. The cleaning staff is thorough and friendly. Rooms are available for families, couples and singles. I stayed in a seaside room with a lovely view. There are garden rooms available as well if you prefer.
Overall, the staff at this resort really works closely with Chris and Fe, to ensure that the guests are always taken care of. I've stayed at many resorts over the years, but this one is exceptional and in a class by itself.
Posted by Chris White on Fri, Nov 11, 2011 @ 07:33 AM
1. Chosen as one of the Top Three Dive Sites in the World
It has been scientifically proven that we are the epicenter of marine biodiversity in the world. 488 of the 500 known coral species in the world are found here spread in over 13,000 square miles of coral reefs, many of which have been grown since the Ice Age. Plus there are over a thousand different species of marine life. All of this can be enjoyed with water temperatures averaging 28C. I will post more blogs giving the details about the Coral Triangle.
2. Delectable foods
Each region has also its own particular cuisine. Filipino food is a diverse blend of Oriental, European and American culinary tastes. Fresh seafood is abundant here.
3. Full of exotic and pristine beaches.
Boracay Island is but one of the countless beaches that you can enjoy here. With more than 7, 000 islands here, world- class beaches with crystal-blue waters of both the China Sea and the Pacific Ocean are abundant here. Explore the other top beaches here: Alona Beach of Panglao Island in Bohol, Coron and El Nido Islands of Palawan, Dumaguete, Camiguin Island and of course, White Beach and Lambok Beaches at Moalboal and Badian in Cebu
4. We are a vibrant, fun- loving and eclectic group of people
The Philippines has 16 regions each with their own particular culture, personality and beliefs. One thing that is similar in each and every Filipino is their hospitality and love of fun which is infectious.
5. Value spending
Here in the Philippines, your money will go a long, long way. We manufacture and export world- class products such as furniture, jewelry, accessories, food, guitars (made in Mactan) plus there are branches of globally- renowned brands here.
6 Relax and rejuvenate
Treat yourself at our spas and health centers at a fraction of the price in your country. Of course, you can enjoy a full-body massage in the newly opened Bay Spa at Turtle Bay Dive Resort.
7. We are an English- speaking country
Over 90% of the population speaks English in addition to Filipino and their own local language.
8. Philippine Fiestas
Filipinos never forget to be thankful for their own patron saints and bountiful harvest by celebrating their town’s festival. With countless towns and cities, we are a veritable land of fiestas and festivals anytime of the year. The famous Sinulog fiesta in Cebu City culminates on the 3rd Sunday of January each. The Moalboal fiesta is celebrated on May 15 & 16.
Posted by Chris White on Sun, Nov 06, 2011 @ 05:51 AM
I want to share with you 5 useful tips for looking after your dive mask. As we all know, having problems with your mask can really spoil a great dive so follow these 5 steps and ensure you always get a great view of your dives. This article was published in Scuba Diver in July 2011
Scuba Diving Gear: Mask Care
Critical scuba diving gear requires annual inspection and service by a qualified technician, but even dive masks — your window to the underwater world — need some special tender loving care. Here’s our guide to keeping your mask in tiptop shape in 5 easy steps.
Pre-dive.
1. If you haven’t replaced your mask strap with a stretchy fabric one, stretch out the strap to look for fine cracks. If you do find any, immediately replace the strap.
2. Examine the silicone of your mask skirt. The most common failure area on a mask is the feather-edged seal on the skirt. This can become imperfect or irregular in shape with time and heavy use, and that irregularity can create leaks.
3. Check all the buckles, which can crack, split or become clogged with debris that can interfere with how they function. Then check the frame of your mask for cracking, chips or other obvious signs of wear, especially in the areas immediately adjacent to the glass lens.
Post-dive.
1. To avoid mildew growth, rinse your mask in warm, fresh water and allow it to drip dry completely before packing it away.
2. Pack the mask loosely, so nothing distorts the mask skirt. Leaving it squashed into a weird position for a long period of time will cause it to take on an unnatural shape
Next Dive Vacation
Book your next dive vacation with Turtle Bay Dive Resort and be amazed at what you see in our underwater world.
Posted by Chris White on Tue, Nov 01, 2011 @ 11:13 PM
Looking for your next get-away dive trip? Not sure what you will find once you get there? Aqua Lung's Partner Centers are privately owned dive centers around the world that have gone through an extensive selection process.
Each Aqua Lung Partner Center offers the following:
• up to date and well maintained rental equipment;
• inspected and tested cylinders and valves;
• factory trained repair technicians who can service Aqua Lung equipment; and
• a friendly and qualified staff that will make your dive experience memorable.
At the time of writing this blog there are 16 Aqua Lung Partner Centers in the Philippines; two of these are in Cebu. We are pleased to announce that Turtle Bay Dive Resort is the latest addition to the family of Aqua Lung appointed Partner Centers.
Click on this link to see the full list of Partner Centers in the Philippines Aqua Lung Partner Centers in the Philippines
Turtle Bay Dive Resort has a fully equipped PADI registered dive center. In addition to Aqua Lung dive gear, we have two Bauer compressors, a nitrox mixer, two traditional Filipino “banca” dive boats and two smaller glass fiber dive boats. The resort has its own boat jetty and so getting on and off the dive boat is effortless and, best of all, divers will not have to trample over coral to get to the boats. We also have an in-house PADI instructor who can teach courses starting at Discover Scuba and Bubble Maker (for under 10 year olds) all the way through to Dive Master.
Posted by Chris White on Sat, Oct 22, 2011 @ 11:50 PM
Do you breathe your tank down faster than your buddy? Here are 5 diving tips I want to share with you. I read these useful tips in the September 2011 issue of Scuba Diving. These tips should help you conserve your oxygen and extend your bottom time.
1. Fix the Small Leaks.
Even a tiny stream of bubbles from an O-ring or an inflator swivel adds up over 40 minutes, and may be a sign of more serious trouble ahead. A mask that doesn't seal is another kind of leak in that you have to constantly blow air into it to clear out the water. It's also a source of stress, which needlessly elevates your breathing rate and thereby reduces your breathing efficiency. Does your octopus free-flow easily? That can dump a lot of air quickly. Detune it or mount it carefully so the mouthpiece points downward.
2. Dive More.
Inexperienced divers are famous for burning through their air supply at a furious rate, so one of the best diving tips for saving air is to simply dive more often. You may not be a new diver, but unless you dive almost every week it's still an unnatural activity. By diving more, your body will get used to the idea and you'll breathe less.
3. Swim Slowly.
The energy cost of speed is even more than you might think. Swim half as fast as you do now and you'll use less air.
4. Stay Shallow.
As your regulator has to deliver air at the same pressure as the water, a lungful at 33 feet/ 10 metres (two atmospheres) takes twice as much out of your tank as does the same breath at the surface. At 99 feet/30 metres (four atmospheres) it takes twice as much as at 33 feet/10 metres. There's absolutely nothing you can do about that except to avoid being deeper than you have to be. If you're making a transit over an uninteresting sand flat to get to the edge of the drop-off, do it at 15 feet/5 metres instead of at 40 feet/12 metres and you'll save air.
5. Minimize the Lead.
If you're over-weighted, you have to put more air into your BCD to float it and be neutral. The inflated BCD is larger and requires more energy and oxygen to push it through the water. An extra eight pounds of lead means your BCD is one gallon bigger when inflated enough to make you neutral.
Book your next dive vacation at Turtle Bay Dive Resort
Posted by Chris White on Fri, Oct 21, 2011 @ 05:02 AM
The management of Turtle Bay Dive Resort are pleased to announce the formal opening of The Spa at Tongo. Situated next to the lagoon pool, the Spa is the ideal place to relax after a day of diving. Start with a sauna to get your tired muscles really relaxed and then enjoy a full-body massage of your choice in one of the two air-conditioned massage rooms. We have rooms for couples so you can treat your partner. My favorite massage is the hot stone masage.
After you have relaxed for an hour enjoy a cup of exotic tea whilst you settle down on the sofa and get lulled by the spa background music. You can also treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure or foot massage whilst you gaze out over the pool.
The Spa at Tongo is only for the enjoyment of guests who are checked-in and staying with Turtle Bay Dive Resort.
Check our more photographs in the photo gallery -Gazebo
