dan.org · Independent Article
Tiger sharks at Monad and thresher sharks now frequently found at Kimud.
Dive Spot Guide•
Monad Shoal
Deep boat dive for sharks off Malapascua.
Local operator required
Boat access from Malapascua through a dive operator is the normal way to reach the shoal.
Dawn boat run to a deep seamount with variable current; best for experienced divers comfortable waiting at depth.
About Monad Shoal
Monad Shoal is a boat-access seamount off Malapascua with a deep top and a famous cleaning-station profile. It used to be the island's thresher site, but current reports place thresher sightings more reliably at Kimud Shoal; Monad is now better known for tiger sharks and other large pelagics. Early-morning runs still matter for light, conditions, and shark activity.
•
Research Estimate At Monad Shoal
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
VisibilityVisibility: 20m
AccessChallenging entry effort
CoralMixed health
Aquatic LifeGreat variety
FacilitiesBasic facilities
Crowd / PopularityQuite busy
CurrentModerate current
SurgeLight surge
Where Is Monad Shoal?
This spotNearby spotsExplore nearby spots on the map
Community sourced coordinates.
Monad Shoal Planning Details
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
20m - 45m
Depth Note
The shoal top is around 20-27 m with a sheer drop-off to about 45 m.
Best Season
Year-round; March to June usually has the calmest seas and best visibility.
Typical Conditions
Deep seamount with a 20-27 m top, a steep drop-off, and current that can range from manageable to strong.
Safety & Access At Monad Shoal
Site conditions, restrictions, and access requirements.
Site Conditions
Strong current
Safety Notes
Keep buoyancy tight over the seamount and follow guide instructions closely; current and depth are the main constraints.
Access Restrictions
Boat-only dive from Malapascua; many operators expect Advanced Open Water or equivalent and good buoyancy control.
Legal Notes
Public guides list free access and no permit requirement; operator rules still apply for certification and departure timing.
Local Intel For Monad Shoal
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
Deep morning boat dive on a seamount with shark-cleaning action; best for divers comfortable holding depth and following the guide's route.
Freediving
Not suitable for freediving; the site is too deep and current-prone for a useful freedive profile.
Snorkeling
Not a snorkel site; the draw is a deep boat dive at the cleaning station.
Wildlife at Monad Shoal
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Recent Logged Visits At Monad Shoal
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Dive Spot Log Averages At Monad Shoal
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Conditions
Avg. Visibility20m
Activity
No dive activity logged yet.
