M/V Dolphin operates a 27-meter steel-hulled liveaboard specializing in budget-conscious access to Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and Apo Reef Natural Park.
Built in Japan in 1986 and converted to a dive liveaboard in 2009, the vessel delivers value-focused diving with family-run hospitality. The Dolphin accommodates 18 guests across 9 cabins, positioning itself as an accessible alternative for divers prioritizing reef access over luxury amenities.
The Dolphin measures 27 meters with a cruising speed of 10 knots. The vessel’s weight and keel design provide stable cruising through the Sulu Sea.
The Dolphin spreads 9 cabins across three decks. Lower deck houses the kitchen, dining room, and four cabins. Middle deck contains six cabins including two VIP suites. All accommodations sit above the waterline.
Standard twin cabins feature individual air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms with hot water showers, LED TVs with USB and HDMI ports, and under-bed storage. The two VIP cabins on the upper deck offer more space, private bathrooms, and mini-bars. Daily housekeeping maintains cabin cleanliness with fresh linens and towels provided.
Meals lean toward Filipino and international fusion prepared fresh daily. The galley delivers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks throughout the day. Vegetarian and dietary restrictions accommodated with advance notice. Unlimited water, soft drinks, and fruit included. Beer complimentary with trips. Full bar operates for cocktails and additional beverages.
Common areas include an air-conditioned salon with dining space, bar, audio/video entertainment, and a small library with marine life references. The upper deck provides open space for sun loungers, tables, BBQ equipment, and a dance floor for the traditional karaoke night before departure.
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Diving operations emphasize efficiency and safety. The vessel carries three compressors and a nitrox membrane system, with two fiberglass chase boats for site transfers.
Camera facilities include dedicated rinse tanks and charging stations, though photographers note the camera table runs small for multiple users.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park serves as the primary destination from March through June. Six to seven-day trips explore both North and South Atolls plus Jessie Beazley Reef, with sites including Shark Airport, Malayan Wreck, Ko Ok, Black Rock, and Triggerfish City.
Apo Reef Natural Park trips run outside Tubbataha season, visiting the world’s second-largest contiguous coral reef. Some itineraries combine Apo with Coron wreck diving.
Extended expeditions up to 20 days traverse multiple regions from Puerto Princesa to Anilao or vice versa, stopping at Cagayancillo, Sipalay, Apo Island, Bohol, and Cebu sites. Custom charters available for group bookings.
Check schedules on Liveaboard.com or Divebooker.
Standard Tubbataha trips include accommodation in twin-share cabins, full-board meals with snacks, soft drinks and beer, up to four dives daily with dive guide services, air fills, weight belts and tanks, airport and hotel transfers in Puerto Princesa, beach towels and cabin towels, and toiletries. Equipment rental available separately. Nitrox costs extra.
Dolphin works for divers who value Tubbataha access over resort-level comfort. Shared bathrooms in some cabins and aging fixtures keep costs significantly lower than premium vessels, making UNESCO diving accessible to budget-conscious travelers. If you prioritize shark encounters and pristine reefs over polished amenities, the price-to-experience ratio delivers.
Check rates & availability on Liveaboard.com or Divebooker.
Anda
Apo Island
Apo Reef
Balicasag
Bohol
Cabilao
Cebu
Coron
Dauin
Malapascua
Moalboal
Negros Oriental
Occidental Mindoro
Oriental Mindoro
Oslob
Palawan
Panglao
Puerto Galera
Puerto Princesa
Sumilon
Tubbataha
Sabang Beach, Puerto Galera, O...
