Sipalay, located on the western coast of Negros Occidental, Philippines, is fast becoming one of the country’s most exciting diving destinations. Known as the “Jewel of Sugar Island,” this coastal paradise combines pristine beaches, laid-back island life, and vibrant coral reefs. For travelers seeking adventure beneath the waves, choosing the right Sipalay diving packages is the best way to experience its underwater wonders.
Why Choose Sipalay for Diving?
Unlike more crowded destinations such as Boracay or Cebu, Sipalay offers a quieter and more intimate diving experience. Its waters are home to over 30 dive sites, including coral gardens, walls, caves, and shipwrecks. From colorful reef fish to large pelagic species and even historic wrecks, Sipalay is perfect for both beginners and seasoned divers.
With Sipalay diving packages, you can enjoy affordable, all-inclusive deals that combine accommodation, meals, and multiple dives—making it easy to focus on the adventure.
What’s Included in Sipalay Diving Packages?
Most dive resorts and PADI-certified dive centers in Sipalay offer customizable packages. Here’s what you can expect:
- Accommodation – From beachfront cottages to luxury boutique resorts.
- Daily Dive Trips – Boat dives to nearby reefs and wrecks.
- Professional Dive Guides – PADI/SSI-certified instructors and dive masters.
- Equipment Rental – Full scuba gear, including tanks and weights.
- Meals & Drinks – Fresh seafood and local cuisine included in many packages.
- Courses & Certifications – Options for beginner to advanced training (Open Water, Advanced, Rescue, Nitrox, etc.).
- Extra Activities – Snorkeling, kayaking, island hopping, or land excursions to caves and waterfalls.
Popular Sipalay Diving Packages
1. Beginner Diving Packages
Perfect for first-time divers who want to try scuba in a safe environment. These usually include:
- Introductory Discover Scuba Diving session
- One or two shallow reef dives
- Basic gear rental
- Instruction from a certified dive guide
2. Open Water Certification Packages
For those ready to get certified, this package includes:
- 3–4 days of training (theory + confined water + open water dives)
- PADI/SSI certification upon completion
- Training materials and dive logbook
- Unlimited use of dive equipment during training
3. Fun Dive Packages
Designed for certified divers who want to maximize their dive experience. Typically includes:
- 2–3 dives per day across different sites
- Multi-day bundles (e.g., 6 dives/3 days, 10 dives/5 days)
- Discounted rates for longer stays
- Options for night dives or specialty dives
4. Wreck Diving Packages
Sipalay is famous for its wrecks, especially in Campomanes Bay. These packages often include:
- Guided wreck dives to WWII ships and artificial reefs
- Specialty training (wreck diver certification available)
- Photography opportunities for underwater enthusiasts
5. All-Inclusive Dive Holiday Packages
For divers who want everything handled, these packages combine:
- Accommodation (3–7 nights or more)
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Daily dives
- Airport transfers (Bacolod or Dumaguete)
- Extra tours and island-hopping adventures
Top Dive Sites Included in Sipalay Diving Packages
- Punta Ballo Beach – Easy access to multiple dive sites, great for beginners.
- Campomanes Bay – Famous for wreck diving and coral-covered shipwrecks.
- Turtle Island – Known for frequent turtle encounters.
- MS Jojo Wreck – A must-see for intermediate divers.
- Artistic Reef – Ideal for underwater photography.
Cost of Sipalay Diving Packages
Prices vary depending on the resort and the type of package:
- Intro dive: $50–$70 per person
- Fun dives (per dive): $30–$45
- Open Water Certification: $350–$450
- Multi-day packages with accommodation: $500–$1,000 depending on luxury level and number of dives
Compared to more famous destinations, Sipalay offers some of the most affordable diving packages in the Philippines without compromising on quality.
Best Time to Book Sipalay Diving Packages
Diving in Sipalay is possible all year, but the best season is November to May, when the water is calm and visibility can reach up to 30 meters. June to October is rainy season but still offers great diving opportunities, especially for wreck enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a Sipalay diving package is the easiest way to explore this hidden diving paradise. With its stunning coral reefs, fascinating wrecks, and eco-friendly resorts, Sipalay offers both adventure and relaxation for divers of all levels.