Shark Cave

Shark Cave, Puerto Galera

Prepare for an exhilarating advanced dive at Shark Cave, one of Puerto Galera's most renowned dive sites. Located in the Escarceo region, this dive site is famous for its unique geological features and abundant marine life. Divers will find a deep ledge and overhang system that serves as a daytime resting area for local reef sharks. While often described as an overhang rather than a true cave, the deep recess offers an intimate view of resting predators.

Dive Profile and Conditions

• Difficulty: Advanced
• Certification Required: Advanced Open Water certification is essential for exploring this dive site.
• Depth: The main cave area is typically found at a maximum depth of 27 to 28 meters, though divemasters may assess conditions at shallower depths of around 18 meters before proceeding.
• Current: Divers should be prepared for moderate currents, which can sometimes be treacherous, making it suitable for experienced divers only.
• Temperature: The water temperature in Puerto Galera generally ranges from 25°C to 30°C, offering comfortable diving conditions year-round.
• Site Types: This dive site combines elements of a cavern, wall, and drop-off, providing a diverse underwater landscape.
• Hazards: As an overhead environment, proper training and excellent buoyancy control are crucial. The confined space can silt easily, and the resting fauna are easily disturbed, so divers must maintain impeccable buoyancy.

Marine Life Encounters

Shark Cave lives up to its name, offering incredible opportunities to observe various shark species. Divers will regularly encounter Whitetip Reef Sharks (Triaenodon obesus) resting within the overhang. Tawny Nurse Sharks (Nebrius ferrugineus) are also seasonally present. Beyond the sharks, the dive site is teeming with other fascinating creatures:

• Fish: Look out for schooling Humpback (Humphead) Snapper (Lutjanus gibbus), various Soldierfish (Myripristis sp.), and the striking Honeycomb Moray (Gymnothorax favagineus). You may also spot large grouper, barracuda, parrotfish, and blue triggerfish.
• Rays: Keep an eye on the sandy bottom for beautiful Blue Spotted Stingrays.
• Invertebrates: The cave and surrounding wall are adorned with soft corals, numerous sea fans, and giant barrel sponges. Divers can also find octopus, moray eels, lionfish, and scorpionfish.
• Rare Sightings: While less common, some divers have reported occasional sightings of hammerhead sharks and even whale sharks in the vicinity.

We recommend excellent buoyancy control and a keen eye to fully appreciate the intimate views of the marine life this exceptional dive site has to offer. The combination of its unique structure and resident predators makes Shark Cave a must-visit for advanced divers in Puerto Galera.