Romblon Island is globally recognized by divers as one of the premier destinations for Super Macro diving and underwater photography in the Philippines. It is famous for sightings of rare and unique critters such as the Ghost Nudibranch (Melibe colemani), Butterfly Sea Slugs (Cyerce), and Pygmy Seahorses, as well as stunning underwater landscapes like the Romblon Blue Hole and open-water Blackwater Diving. Diving is possible year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from November to May. Water temperatures average between 26–29°C, with excellent visibility ranging from 10–30 meters. |
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General Info
Romblon Province is located in the northern island group of the Visayas region, right in the heart of the Philippines. Although it is a peaceful island, well off the beaten track for mainstream tourists, Romblon is an unmissable destination for underwater macro photographers. Its pristine coral reefs, undisturbed marine environment, and rich biodiversity of rare, tiny sea creatures make it truly exceptional.
Beyond its underwater wonders, Romblon is renowned as the "Marble Capital of the Philippines" for its fine craftsmanship. It also boasts stunning natural attractions on land, such as Bon Bon Beach, famous for its long, fine white sandbar that connects to a neighboring island during low tide.
Getting There
Because Romblon remains an unspoiled island, getting there requires a multi-step journey—a trade-off well worth it for the tranquil atmosphere and uncrowded dive sites.
Travaling from Thailand to the Philippines
Fly from Bangkok (BKK/DMK) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila (MNL). From Manila, there are two main transfer options:
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Flight + Short Ferry (Most Convenient & Time-Saving):
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Route: Take a domestic flight from Manila (MNL) to Tugdan Airport (TBH) on Tablas Island.
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Transfer: Take a van or local transport from the airport to San Agustin Port (approx. 1 hour), then take a high-speed ferry or a local motorized outrigger boat (Bangka) across to Romblon Island (approx. 30–45 minutes).
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Overland + Overnight Ferry (Budget-Friendly Option):
- Route: Travel overland from Manila to Batangas Port (approx. 2–3 hours), then board an overnight ferry (such as Starlight Ferries or 2GO) directly to Romblon Island (approx. 8–10 hours aboard).
Upon arriving at Romblon Town Port, you can reach your dive resort via a local tricycle or resort-arranged transfer. For diving trips, local Bangka boats are used to reach most dive sites, taking only 5 to 30 minutes from shore.
Flight Info.
Recommended Flights from Bangkok (Sample Itinerary)
Departure
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Bangkok – Manila: Philippine Airlines / Cebu Pacific (Late night or early morning flights are recommended for seamless domestic connections)
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Manila – Tugdan (Tablas): AirSWIFT / Cebgo (Subject to seasonal flight schedules)
Return
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Tugdan (Tablas) – Manila: Cebgo / AirSWIFT
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Manila – Bangkok: Philippine Airlines / Cebu Pacific
(Note: Domestic flights to Tablas Airport may not operate daily. It is recommended to check the flight schedule in advance before planning your trip.)
Overnight
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Primary Accommodation for Divers: Mostly situated along the northern and western beaches of Romblon Island, as well as on nearby Alad Island. These are specialized dive resorts offering all-inclusive packages that combine diving, lodging, and meals (e.g., Romblon Fun Divers, The Three P Dive Resort).
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Overnight Stays in Manila: If you have a long layover between flights, it is recommended to stay at a hotel near Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)—such as in the Newport City or Pasay areas—for maximum convenience and easy travel back to the airport.
