Diving atSumilon Manit (Philippines)
Sumilon Manit offers a compelling underwater landscape, characterized by its prominent reef structures and a protected marine sanctuary. Situated near Sumilon Island, this site presents divers with a diverse underwater topography. Expect vibrant hard and soft coral formations that define both gentle slopes and dramatic wall compositions. This location is part of a larger marine sanctuary, establishing a rich and carefully preserved environment.
Evening condition tracking at Sumilon Manit features an air temperature of 26.5°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0 m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
Dive Site Overview
Sumilon Manit offers a compelling dual dive experience, thoughtfully catering to various skill levels and preferences. Divers can choose between the exhilarating drift at Jack Fish Point or the serene exploration within the Sumilon Island sanctuary.
At Jack Fish Point, strong currents create a dynamic environment for sightings of Black Tip and White Tip Sharks, impressive barracuda formations, and vast schools of jacks, providing a faster-paced encounter along the reef wall. Often, excellent visibility allows for clear views of the action unfolding. Conversely, the protected Sumilon Island sanctuary promises a more tranquil underwater journey, largely devoid of strong currents.
This area becomes an ideal setting for leisurely macro photography, observing thriving coral gardens, and encountering immense schools of reef fish. Divers might also spot individual Napoleon wrasse navigating the vibrant ecosystem.
Average visibility in the sanctuary often exceeds 30 m (100 ft), enhancing the appreciation of its diverse coral structures and abundant smaller marine life. Reaching this site typically involves a boat journey of approximately 30 minutes from the mainland.
The varied conditions at Sumilon Manit accommodate all certified divers, from Open Water beginners to seasoned instructors.
Sumilon Manit
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Sumilon Manit show 26° air, 31° sea temperature, 0.0 m waves, and 15 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Dive conditions at Sumilon Manit remain consistently favorable year-round, with an 'Excellent' dive score reported across all months. Air temperatures typically range between 27°C (81°F) in cooler months like February and 28.5°C (83°F) during warmer periods in April and May, ensuring comfortable surface intervals. Rain levels are generally low, with the driest months showing as little as 2.9 mm in April and August, while wetter months like October and November average around 7.7 mm. Waves tend to be mild, rarely exceeding 0.5 meters (1.6 ft), and wind speeds are usually moderate, making for smooth boat transfers and entry/exit conditions.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Current dynamics are a key aspect of diving Sumilon Manit, varying significantly across the site. Jack Fish Point is known for its drift diving, where currents can range from 0 to 2 knots, offering an exciting, faster-paced experience along a wall. For those preferring tranquil conditions, the Sumilon Island sanctuary delivers calm waters and virtually no current. Visibility here is consistently strong, typically between 10-25 m (33-82 ft), and often surpassing thirty meters in prime conditions. Much of the interesting marine activity occurs between 8-18 m (26-59 ft), though the maximum depth can extend well into typical recreational limits, making it suitable for a broad range of experience levels.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching Sumilon Manit requires divers to be prepared for varied water movements. Planning for potential drift conditions at sites like Jack Fish Point is crucial; a surface marker buoy (SMB) and a dive computer are recommended for all dives. Divers exploring the calmer sections of the sanctuary will find conditions more forgiving, yet standard safe diving practices, including thorough buddy checks and conservative dive profiles, remain essential. It's always advisable to consult with local dive professionals who are familiar with the site's current conditions before entering the water. Awareness of personal limits and adherence to established dive plans contribute significantly to a safe and enjoyable experience.
Recommended Equipment
Current and surface separation risk. Local briefing strongly recommended.
- Dive Computer
- DSMB
- Reel / Spool
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Sumilon Manit, Philippines. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
The latest conditions reported around Sumilon Manit place the water temperature close to 31°C (87°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 26°C (80°F).
Dive skin or rash guard is generally considered suitable for water temperatures like this.
Forecast trends indicate similar diving conditions over the next few days.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Sumilon Manit.
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN World.
+1-919-684-9111- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
Marine Life at Sumilon Manit
The vibrant reef systems at Sumilon Manit support a rich diversity of marine life. Encountering Black Tip and White Tip Sharks is a common highlight, particularly around Jack Fish Point. Schools of barracudas and large aggregations of jacks create impressive spectacles within the blue. Exploring the coral gardens reveals an abundance of macro life, complemented by massive schools of mackerel and fusiliers that flow across the reef. Keep an eye out for resident Napoleon wrasse, and occasionally, divers might be treated to glimpses of large turtles or even passing whale sharks and mantas.
Dive Sites Near Sumilon Manit
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Dive Centers Near Sumilon Manit
Working Hours
Today: 06:00 - 18:00
Reef Turtle Dive Center
Vibrations Dive Center
Dauin Diving Center
Sea Pearl Divers
Dive Point Siquijor
Island Vibes Explorers Diving Center
French Touch Diving
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Search Flights
Check available flights and routes on Expedia, using the nearby airports listed in this section.
Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently Asked Questions
What types of diving can I expect at Sumilon Manit?
You'll find both exciting drift dives at sites like Jack Fish Point, known for sharks and schooling fish, and tranquil reef dives within the Sumilon Island sanctuary, ideal for macro photography and observing large schools of fish in calm waters.
How clear is the water usually?
Visibility at Sumilon Manit is generally excellent. While it can vary between 10-25 m (33-82 ft), it often exceeds thirty meters, especially in the protected sanctuary areas.
Are there strong currents at the dive site?
Currents depend on the specific dive area. Jack Fish Point can have drift currents up to 2 knots, making it an exciting drift dive. The Sumilon Island sanctuary, however, is typically calm with little to no current.
What marine animals are commonly seen here?
Divers frequently encounter Black Tip and White Tip Sharks, barracudas, and large schools of jacks. The site is also home to abundant macro life, huge schools of mackerel and fusiliers, and Napoleon wrasse. Occasional sightings of large turtles, whale sharks, and mantas are also reported.
Is Sumilon Manit suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, Sumilon Manit is well-suited for all diver levels. Open Water Divers can enjoy the calm conditions of the sanctuary, while more experienced divers can tackle the drift dives at Jack Fish Point.
How far is Sumilon Island from the mainland or major dive centers?
Sumilon Island is approximately 10 km (6 miles) from Liloan and typically takes about 25 minutes by banca boat from that area. From other shore points, it's generally around a 30-minute boat ride.
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Sumilon Manit
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Sumilon Manit show 26° air, 31° sea temperature, 0.0 m waves, and 15 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.