Verde Island Passage

Verde Island Passage

The centre of the centre of marine biodiversity.

AdvancedPhilippines
Depth
5–35 m
Visibility
10–25 m
Water
26–29 °C
Current
Can be strong
Best time
Nov – May
Signature life
Soft-coral pinnacles

The dive

Why dive Verde Island Passage

Scientists call it the centre of marine biodiversity — a current-swept pinnacle wrapped in soft coral, plus world-class macro a short boat away.

Marine life

Soft-coral pinnaclesFrogfishNudibranchsSchooling jacksSea snakes

Dive profile

ReefDriftMacro

When to go

Best time: Nov – May

November–May is the dry, calmer window. The pinnacle drift fires on current; macro at Anilao is good year-round.

Readiness

Who it suits

Advanced-level site — suits Advanced Open Water divers and up. Typical requirements:

Advanced Open WaterDrift

Not sure you're ready? Read our readiness guide or check yourself in the planner.

Logistics

Getting there & staying

Getting thereSelf-drive from Manila (~3 hrs) + boat. Drive from Manila (MNL) to Batangas/Anilao (~3 hrs), then short boats to the passage.
Where to stayDive resort. Anilao or Puerto Galera resorts with camera support and easy day boats.
Operator to look forReviewed Anilao operators with drift and macro experience.

Sources

Further reading

Links checked 29 September 2026. They cover the site's location, protection status and background. Costs, difficulty and season windows are ScubaRogue's editorial estimates, so confirm them with your operator before you book. How we research

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