The Canyons

The Canyons, Puerto Galera: A World-Class Drift Adventure

Prepare for an exhilarating drift dive at The Canyons, widely considered the signature drift dive site of the Philippines and rated by CNN in 2012 as one of the "50 most beautiful dive sites in the world". Located at the northern tip of Puerto Galera's peninsula, this dive site is exposed to nutrient-rich currents, fostering a remarkably healthy coral reef system.

The Dive Experience

Divers will typically begin their adventure near the renowned Hole-in-the-Wall, allowing the powerful 2–3 knot tidal current to gently carry them northeast along the reef. This advanced drift dive unfolds over three successive canyons, reaching depths of approximately 24 m, 27 m, and 30 m respectively. The canyon walls are a vibrant spectacle, plastered with stunning pink Dendronephthya soft corals and impressive gorgonian fans. As you traverse these underwater landscapes, you can find shelter from the strongest currents within the canyons, observing larger fish gracefully navigating the flow above. The dive culminates with a blue-water ascent into the current, followed by a drifting safety stop. At the end of the deepest canyon, divers will also find an old Spanish anchor embedded in the rock, a historical relic amidst the vibrant marine life.

Marine Life Encounters

The strong currents at The Canyons attract a rich diversity of marine life. Divers will often encounter impressive schools of Bigeye Trevally (Caranx sexfasciatus) forming tight, mesmerizing formations, particularly around current-swept reef points. Keep an eye out for large Bigeye Barracuda (Sphyraena forsteri) patrolling the blue, often seen in schools near coral reefs.

Beneath ledges and within crevices, we often spot the placid Whitetip Reef Shark (Triaenodon obesus) resting during the day. These sharks are common residents of Indo-Pacific reefs and are known for their distinctive white-tipped fins. Another fascinating resident is the Banded Sea Krait (Laticauda colubrina), a highly venomous but generally docile marine reptile, easily identified by its striking black-and-white bands and paddle-shaped tail. These amphibious snakes hunt for eels and small fish among the reefs.

Diving Conditions and Requirements

• Difficulty: Advanced
• Depth: The dive site reaches a maximum depth of 32 m, with the canyons themselves at 24 m, 27 m, and 30 m.
• Current: Expect strong currents, making this a thrilling drift dive.
• Water Temperature: Water temperature typically ranges from 25°C to 30°C, though it can drop to 22°C in cooler months.
• Visibility: Visibility at the dive site can vary between 12 meters and 40 meters, depending on tides and currents.
• Certification Required: Due to the strong currents and depth, an Advanced Open Water certification is required.
• Hazards: Primary hazards include strong currents, the depth, and potential decompression obligation.
• Recommendations: We highly recommend diving The Canyons on the right tide and with Nitrox to maximize your bottom time and enhance safety. Always follow your instructor or guide closely, as strong currents can create downcurrents.