Panay Island offers some of the Philippines’ most accessible and diverse scuba diving spots. Known for its vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters, it’s a haven for both beginners and seasoned divers. Among the array of options, we particularly like the Fun diving with DiveGurus – their experienced guides and variety of sites from Crocodile Island to wreck sites make it a standout for certified divers. For newcomers, the SSI Basic Diver course offers a gentle introduction to underwater breathing, perfect for those curious about trying scuba without full certification. And for underwater photo buffs, the Discover Scuba Diving with Underwater Photo and Video lets you capture Boracay’s marine wonders. Each experience caters to different interests and skill levels, making Panay Island a flexible destination for diving adventures.
Quick Overview
Our list covers certified dives, try-out experiences, photography-focused tours, and multi-activity island-hopping trips. Whether you want to explore shipwrecks, learn the basics, or just enjoy helmet diving, there’s something for all. To get a head start, browse through the options below and pick the one that best fits your comfort level and curiosity.
1. DiveGurus -Scuba Diving in Boracay
At number 1, DiveGurus offers a fun, professional dive experience tailored for certified divers. With a rating of 5.0/5 from 23 reviews, it’s clear that their emphasis on safety and guiding quality hits the mark. The tour includes over 20 dive sites around Boracay, including well-known spots like Crocodile Island and Friday’s Rock, suitable for open water divers, as well as more challenging wreck sites like Camia and Tribird for advanced divers. The $40 per person price for approximately 2.5 hours provides good value, especially considering the personalized attention from experienced dive masters.
What makes this tour stand out is the flexibility of site choices, from shallow coral gardens to wreck explorations, making it perfect for divers with different skill levels. The reviews confirm that under the leadership of professionals, dives are both enjoyable and safe, with many travelers praising the guidance and marine sights. This tour is ideal if you’re certified and want to maximize your time exploring Boracay’s underwater treasures.
Bottom Line: A top pick for certified divers seeking variety and professionalism in their Boracay dive adventures, offering access to a wide range of dive sites at a fair price.
2. Scuba Diving in Boracay: SSI Basic Diver for Beginners
Next up is the SSI Basic Diver course, designed for those curious but new to scuba. For around $58.46, you get roughly four hours of instruction and shallow water practice that introduces you to breathing underwater. This is a great way to dip your toes into the world of scuba without a full certification. The course covers gear handling and safety basics, giving you enough confidence to enjoy the underwater environment comfortably.
What sets this experience apart is its suitability for absolute beginners who want a taste of scuba in Boracay’s calm waters. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, and the instructor’s focus on safety makes it a reassuring choice. While it doesn’t include a full certification, many participants leave with a sense of achievement and a new hobby to pursue later.
Reviewers highlight how accessible and encouraging the experience is, especially for first-timers. This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but eager to see underwater life up close, including coral reefs and colorful fish.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those interested in trying scuba for the first time, especially if you want an introductory experience in a safe, supportive environment.
3. Discover Scuba Diving in Boracay with U/W Photo and Video
At number 3, this Discover Scuba Diving experience combines a chance to explore Boracay’s underwater world with the added bonus of underwater photography. For $65, you’ll have about 2.5 hours underwater, guided by a professional instructor who’ll help you discover what lies beneath the surface. The highlight is the opportunity to have professional photos and videos taken during your dive, giving you lasting memories of your aquatic adventure.
What makes this tour special is the focus on capturing your experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just a quick look; you get to see marine life and reef formations while having high-quality images as keepsakes. The small group size and experienced guides help ensure your safety and enjoyment.
Many reviewers mention how smooth the process was, even for first-timers, and appreciate the chance to get underwater photos taken by a photographer. It’s a good pick if you’re interested in a guided, photo-friendly intro to Boracay’s reefs, with the added value of sharing your underwater moments with friends later.
Bottom Line: A perfect mix of beginner-friendly diving and professional photography, making it ideal for social media lovers and first-time divers.
4. WaterColors – PADI Scuba Diver Certification in Boracay
Number 4 on our list is the PADI Scuba Diver Certification course offered by WaterColors. For around $485, you’ll spend roughly two days learning in one of the Philippines’ most beautiful beaches. The course includes full gear and training materials, with instruction adhering strictly to PADI standards, emphasizing safety and confidence.
This course is designed for those who want to learn scuba comprehensively, including theory, pool work, and open water dives. What makes it special is the group setting, which helps keep costs manageable. Participants rave about the small group atmosphere and the stunning Boracay backdrop, making learning both practical and enjoyable.
If you’re planning a longer stay and want to earn your certification, this course is a great investment. The reviews note the professional guidance and the beautiful environment as key benefits. It’s best suited for travelers who are committed to getting certified and want a high-quality, structured training experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those looking to earn their scuba certification in a relaxed, picturesque setting, with all equipment provided and safety top priority.
5. Boracay PADI Discover Scuba Diving
Next is the PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience, a quick and affordable way to get underwater. For just $60, this roughly 2.5-hour tour takes you into Boracay’s waters to see fishes, corals, and perhaps even a Nemo or two. Guided by a professional instructor, you’ll learn basic skills before embarking on a shallow dive.
What makes this experience attractive is its simplicity and value for money. It’s perfect if you’re curious about scuba but not ready for a full course. Many guests appreciate that they got to swim freely among marine life while having photos and videos taken underwater.
Despite its brief duration, it’s packed with memorable moments, especially for first-timers. The tour is suited for travelers who want a quick taste of the underwater world without a long commitment.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, short introduction to scuba diving that offers a memorable underwater encounter for beginners.
6. Boracay Helmet Diving
Number 6 is the Helmet Diving tour, a unique way to experience the underwater world without needing to swim. For just $35, you’ll climb down a ladder into about 3 meters of water, with a helmet secured over your head, allowing you to walk along the sea bed. The process takes about 20 minutes but offers an up-close view of marine life in a safe, easy way.
Guests love how nervousness is addressed through thorough briefings and the presence of helpful staff. The crystal-clear water makes it easy to see marine creatures and coral formations. It’s especially popular with families or travelers who prefer a less active but still immersive experience.
Many reviewers mention how surprisingly comfortable and fun helmet diving is, with some calling it an “unforgettable” experience. It’s a fantastic option if you want to enjoy the sea but aren’t comfortable with swimming or diving.
Bottom Line: An accessible, fun way to see underwater life without needing to get wet or have prior diving experience.
7. Boracay Island Hopping + Hot Kawa + Parasailing + Helmet Diving
This all-in-one adventure combines island hopping with multiple activities including hot kawa baths, parasailing, and helmet diving. Priced at $125, it’s a full day (6–7 hours) of exploring several beaches and reefs while enjoying a buffet lunch. It’s suited for travelers who want variety and a taste of Boracay’s best sights.
Highlights include visits to Puka Shell Beach, Crocodile Island, and White Beach, with opportunities to snorkel, swim, and relax. The hot kawa bath offers a chance to unwind after hours in the sun, and parasailing delivers stunning aerial views. This tour’s reviews praise the value and fun, though some note that the activities are somewhat condensed to fit everything in a day.
It’s best for those looking for a comprehensive day of fun without the hassle of organizing multiple activities themselves. It suits active travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Bottom Line: A great way to see multiple spots around Boracay with a mix of water sports and downtime, perfect for families or groups.
$125.00 per person
8. Boracay Island Hopping + Helmet Diving and UFO with Premium Lunch
Finally, this half-day tour priced at $98 includes island hopping, helmet diving, and a fun UFO inflatable ride, complemented by a delicious buffet lunch. Covering about 4–5 hours, it’s tailored for travelers seeking a quick yet varied experience.
It features stops at Ilig Iligan Beach, Crocodile Island, and Puka Shell Beach, with activities like snorkeling, helmet diving, and even the UFO ride. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention from the guide. Many reviews highlight the convenience and variety of activities packed into a short tour.
This tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive, fun-filled half-day with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and take photos. It’s suitable for anyone looking for an active overview of Boracay’s marine life and scenic spots.
Bottom Line: An efficient, activity-packed option for travelers wanting a snapshot of Boracay’s highlights in a half-day trip.
$98.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Scuba Experience in Panay Island
When selecting your scuba diving experience, consider your budget, available time, and interest level. For certified divers wanting more freedom, DiveGurus provides variety and expert guidance. If you’re new or uncertain, SSI Basic Diver offers a gentle introduction. For those interested in underwater photography, the Discover Scuba with Photo & Video is ideal.
If you’re planning a longer stay and eager to get certified, the PADI Scuba Diver Course fits well. For a quick experience, the Helmet Diving tour is fun and accessible, regardless of swimming ability. Meanwhile, if you want multiple activities in one day, the island-hopping options with parasailing or UFO rides offer excellent variety.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.
Concluding Thoughts
Panay Island offers a wide range of scuba diving experiences, from casual helmet dives to full certification courses. For travelers on a budget or short on time, options like the Helmet Diving or Discover Scuba are quick and fun ways to get in the water. Certified divers will appreciate DiveGurus’ site variety and professional guides, while those committed to earning their certification will find the WaterColors PADI course worth the investment.
For maximum fun and variety, the Island Hopping tours combine marine exploration with other activities like parasailing and hot kawa baths, perfect for a full day of adventure. Whatever your preference, Panay Island’s waters are waiting to provide a memorable underwater experience. Book early, and enjoy exploring the vibrant marine life that makes Boracay and Panay so special.