Paul’s Dive Center

Overview

Paul’s Dive Center operates on Apo Island, Negros Oriental, one of a small number of dive operations based on the island itself. Apo Island is a community-managed marine protected area 7 km off the southeastern tip of Negros — the island has around 900 residents and is accessible by 30–45 minute banca from Malatapay, Zamboanguita.

Being island-based allows Paul’s to offer dives before the day-trip boats arrive from Dauin and Zamboanguita, with immediate access to all Apo Island sites including the coral gardens at Chapel, Rock Point, and the drift sites at Coconut Point.

Courses & Training

Paul’s Dive Center offers introductory dive programs for non-certified visitors alongside guided fun dives for certified divers.

• Entry programs: Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) for non-certified guests — orientation, shallow skills, and guided reef dive.
• Fun dives: Guided dives to the main Apo Island sites for certified divers.
• Equipment: Rental gear, tanks, and air fills on-site on the island.

Guided Diving & Operations

All Apo Island dive sites are accessible from the island base by short boat transfer or shore entry.

• Sites: Rock Point, Chapel, Coconut Point, Cogon, and the Marine Sanctuary (verify current access — sanctuary sections are periodically restricted for rehabilitation).
• Conditions: Coconut Point and Cogon have strong currents — advanced divers only. Protected gardens accessible for Open Water and above.
• Turtles: Green and hawksbill sea turtles are resident on the western coral gardens and sighted on most dives.

Get covered before you dive: DAN Travel Insurance or DiveAssure.

Practical Information

Paul’s Dive Center is on Apo Island. To reach the island, take a banca from Malatapay, Zamboanguita (30–45 min). Bring cash — there is no ATM access on the island. Electricity runs for limited hours and WiFi is minimal.

For resort-quality stays with Apo Island access, Dauin and Zamboanguita resorts are the recommended base for day trips.

Best For

Day visitors to Apo Island who want to add a supervised dive without prior certification. Certified divers staying on the island who need local guide knowledge of Apo’s specific sites and conditions.