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Stella Maris Explorer

Liveaboard operator covering Tubbataha and Philippine routes

Stella Maris Explorer is a 36-meter aluminum-hulled dive cruiser operated by Expedition Fleet, the largest privately owned liveaboard fleet in the Philippines. The vessel accommodates up to 20 guests in 10 retro-chic cabins with memory foam mattresses and en-suite bathrooms. What sets Stella Maris apart is the 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio and included nitrox — unusual for Philippine liveaboards. The crew includes divemasters with 3,000+ logged dives and certified Emergency Medical Technicians. Routes cover Tubbataha (March-June) and Apo Reef–Coron combinations, with two chase boats ensuring efficient dive operations.

Vessel Specifications

  • Length: 31.08 meters (36m LOA)
  • Beam: 7.4 meters
  • Hull: Aluminum
  • Capacity: 20 guests in 10 cabins
  • Build: 1986, well-maintained
  • Cruising speed: 8-10 knots
  • Power: 220/110V-60Hz
  • Water maker: 5 tons/day
  • Engines: MTU main engine

Accommodation & Onboard Amenities

Ten cabins spread across three decks offer varied configurations. Three Deluxe cabins on the main deck feature double or twin beds with Nespresso machines, flatscreen TVs, and DVD players. Four Standard twin bunk cabins occupy the upper deck, while additional Premium Economy and Economy options provide budget-friendly alternatives. All cabins include memory foam mattresses, air conditioning, storage space, and private en-suite bathrooms.

The cozy carpeted lounge includes a TV/DVD system and library of books and magazines. The top sundeck features a bar area and jacuzzi at the bow. Four showers on the dive deck allow quick freshwater rinse-offs. Rebreather and sidemount diving can be accommodated.

Food is a consistent highlight — guests describe meals as “rich with protein” including BBQ pork, lobsters, duck, and beef, plus desserts like cheesecake and ice cream. The galley team delivers quality and variety throughout each trip.

Read full reviews on Liveaboard.com or Divebooker.

Diving Operations

Two chase boats provide efficient site transfers. The 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio means personalized attention throughout each dive. Crew members have logged at least 3,000 dives, with some certified as Emergency Medical Technicians. Nitrox is included in the price — a notable value addition.

  • Dives per day: Multiple dives with excellent organization
  • Air/Nitrox: Nitrox included in price
  • Tenders: 2 chase boats
  • Special diving: Rebreather and sidemount accommodated
  • Dive guides: 3,000+ dive experience, some EMT certified
  • Service: Virtually no diver work — BCDs brought to chase boat, tanks rigged, suits rinsed

Routes & Itineraries

Tubbataha expeditions run March through June with water temperatures of 26-28°C and excellent visibility. Guests report encounters including whale sharks, grey sharks, marbled rays, barracuda, and schools of jacks amid magnificent corals and incredible biodiversity.

Apo Reef and Coron combination trips run outside Tubbataha season, visiting some of the most remarkable coral reefs in the region. Expect shark, turtle, and manta ray encounters along with excellent macro opportunities in the Visayas.

Check schedules on Liveaboard.com or Divebooker.

What’s Included

Trips include cabin accommodation, full-board meals, nitrox (included — unusual for Philippine liveaboards), multiple dives daily with experienced guides, chase boat transfers, and use of onboard facilities including jacuzzi. Equipment rental available separately.

Why Choose This Boat

Stella Maris Explorer works for divers who value included nitrox and highly experienced crew. The 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio means exceptional service — virtually no diver work required with BCDs delivered to chase boats, tanks rigged, and suits rinsed. Part of Expedition Fleet, the largest private liveaboard operation in the Philippines, bringing reliability and established procedures. Best for divers seeking professional operations, technical diving support, and excellent food without luxury pricing.

Check rates & availability on Liveaboard.com or Divebooker.

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