Best of Visayas, heart of the Philippines

Are you ready to take on the greatest adventure of your life? Then hop on M/Y Gypsy and let us tell you all about what to expect! The Visayas, a central region of the Philippines, is renowned for its stunning natural wonders and diverse ecosystems. Here are some highlights of the natural beauty you can find on our trip:

  1. White Sand Beaches: The Visayas is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, including the famous ones in Bohol, Sumilon, and Panglao. These beaches feature powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque sunsets.
  2. Coral Reefs and Marine Life: The region is celebrated for its rich marine biodiversity. Areas like Apo Island and Balicasag Island offer incredible diving experiences with vibrant coral gardens and various species of fish.
  3. Natural Parks and Reserves: The Visayas boasts several protected areas, such as the Apo Island and the Siquijor Island Eco-Tourism Park, which showcase unique flora and fauna, hiking trails, and opportunities for eco-tourism.
  4. Waterfalls: The region features stunning waterfalls, such as Cambugahay Falls in Siquijor, known for its cascading turquoise waters, and Tumalog Falls, also in Cebu, noted for its misty charm.
  5. Chocolate Hills: The Chocolate Hills are a remarkable geological formation located in Bohol, Philippines. They consist of at least 1,200 hills, although some estimates suggest there could be as many as 1,700. These hills are characterized by their unusual, symmetrical conical shapes that rise from the ground, creating a landscape that looks almost otherworldly.
  6. Animals and Rivers: The Philippine tarsier (Tarsius syrichta) is one of the world’s smallest primates and is a native species to Bohol. These small creatures are known for their distinctive large eyes, which are adapted to their nocturnal lifestyle, allowing them to see well in the dark. Tarsiers are typically about the size of a human fist and have long fingers and toes that help them climb trees and navigate their forest habitats.The Floating River in Bohol typically refers to the Loboc River, known for its picturesque scenery and vibrant ecosystem. The Loboc River flows through lush greenery and cliffs, creating a serene and enchanting environment. Visitors can enjoy scenic boat rides along the river, often featuring traditional wooden boats that offer refreshments and local music.
  7. Biodiversity: The region’s diverse ecosystems range from lush mountains and rainforests to coastal areas rich in wildlife, providing habitat for various species unique to the Philippines.
  8. All in one stop: The Visayas comprises numerous islands, Beaches, Fauna and marine biodiversity. On this trip you will capture the very heart of the Philippines right in the center of the country. From Whale sharks & Turtles to any color imaginable of vibrant reefs. To rare land animals, unique landscapes, rivers and faunas that make Philippines one of the greatest place on earth to experience.

The combination of these natural wonders makes the Visayas a vibrant destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in experiencing the unique beauty of the Philippines.

Best of Visayas Itinerary

The following is a sample scenario of how the trip might be, this of course all depends on many factors like, weather, sea state, visibility, and what we have heard on the radio of what is to be seen.

We will leave at Pura Vida Dive resort in Dauin 2 pm lunch time and embark on M/Y Gypsy.

Once on board, welcome drinks and fine dining snacks. Followed by the crew mandatory briefing for the upcoming trip.

Around 4 pm the Yacht leaves for a sunset cruise to Apo Island where we stay overnight.

We wake up in one of the beautiful island of Apo Island

Snorkeling or freediving the stunning turtle and coral haven of the site called Chappel & Rock point west.

After morning swim we go on to the island and get to know the local life of the islanders, visiting the village, lighthouse & more.

In the afternoon jump into the water for different site to explore what the wonders of Apo island will show us. Followed by a sunset cruise to Siquijor!

Each day meals are as followed:

6:30 Light Breakfast
8:30 Big Breakfast, usually after morning activity
12:00Lunch
14:30Snacks

19:00Dinner

We wake up at the world class white sand sunny beach of San Juan Siquijor!

For the next 2 days we explore the very best of Siquijor. First day we chase waterfalls on a land based tour. Lagaan waterfall and the majestic Cambughay Falls, a gatorade blue falls which look like out of a fairytale. On the island are historic churches, villages and landmark century trees where you can do foot spa and learn about the whichcraft of the island.

Day two on Siquijor we cruise to the north west side of the island and swim in the sanctuary of Tulapos Marine Sanctuary, a spectacular snorkle and freediving spot with large schools of barracudas and other fish species. Siquijor is also known for it’s pristine hard coral reefs! Later on we cruise to the island of Balicasag.

Each day meals are as followed:

6:30 Light Breakfast
8:30 Big Breakfast, usually after morning activity
12:00Lunch
14:30Snacks

19:00Dinner

Arriving the night before at Balicasag Island you will get to experience the island without any crowd. So we recommend jumping in the water before all the boats from Panglao arrive! We get to enjoy the schools of fish, reefs and turtles all to ourselves. Later on we explore the island shaped like a circle, fun little island life and prestine white sand beach covering the whole island. In the afternoon we cruise heading to Panglao for a must see sardine run in Napaling Reef Panglao which has amazing visibility. After the snorkel a cave exploring in Hinagdanan, a crystal clear blueish water cave.

The day after we go on a land tour to visit the famous Chocolate hills, a UNESCO heritage site. Followed by a visit to the cute little Tarsiers and a afternoon cultural heritage shows on Loboc river.

Each day meals are as followed:

6:30 Light Breakfast
8:30 Big Breakfast, usually after morning activity
12:00Lunch
14:30Snacks

19:00Dinner

Early morning we cruise to see the Whale sharks of Oslob and then we go on land to see the misty Tumolog Falls. After that we cruise to Sumilon Island where we catch the sunset on a white sandbar and evening farewell party!

Each day meals are as followed:

6:30 Light Breakfast
8:30 Big Breakfast, usually after morning activity
12:00Lunch
14:30Snacks

19:00Dinner

We cruise from Sumilon Island in the morning back to Pura Vida Beach & Dive Resort in Dauin.

A crew will perform a debfriefing and a breakfast, we then disembark the boat 8 am.