Blue Ribbon Dive Resort has operated for over 15 years, relocating from Puerto Galera to Anilao in 2018 to access better macro diving. The move came with a full property renovation—new training pool, bar, restaurant, and lounge. What distinguishes Blue Ribbon from most Anilao operations is their SDI/TDI 5 Star certification and technical diving focus. If you’re interested in sidemount, intro to tech, or advancing beyond recreational limits, this is one of the few Anilao resorts with resident tech instructors.
The property is small—just 7 rooms—which means you won’t get lost in a crowd. Staff know your name, your gear setup, and how you take your coffee by day two.
Seven rooms keep things intimate. Sea View rooms come with balconies facing the water—good for post-dive sunset drinks without leaving your floor. All rooms have air conditioning, hot water, flat screen TV with cable, personal safe, and storage closets. The small footprint means you’re never far from the restaurant, pool, or dive center.
The resort runs on an “own staff” model—divemasters, instructors, and boat crew are Blue Ribbon employees, not freelancers hired for the day. This matters for consistency; you’re not getting whoever showed up that morning.
Check availability and rates on Agoda
Blue Ribbon holds SDI/TDI 5 Star Resort status. They offer the full recreational range (Open Water through Divemaster) but specialize in courses most Anilao resorts don’t touch: sidemount configuration, Intro to Tech, and technical diving certifications.
The camera room has air conditioning, air guns, and a dehumidifier fridge for keeping sensitive electronics dry between dives—a specific detail that underwater photographers notice. The resort runs its own boat rather than contracting out, so scheduling stays consistent.
Daily operations include up to three day dives plus optional night dives or blackwater sessions. They run trips to Sombrero Island and sites in Verde Island Passage, which some smaller operations don’t offer due to distance.
Blue Ribbon is the pick for divers interested in going technical—the SDI/TDI pathway and resident tech instructors set it apart from PADI-only operations. The small property suits solo travelers and couples who prefer knowing everyone at the resort rather than navigating a larger crowd. Returning guests book specifically for the continuity; same staff, same boat crew, same quality year after year. If you want a no-frills dive operation that punches above its size, this delivers.
Klook.com
