Moalboal dive podcast discussing the Saavedra wall, pygmy seahorse, and blacktips.
Protected wall reef with giant fans and coral.
Protected wall reef with giant fans and coral.
Boat access, sanctuary fees, and site rules are easiest through local Moalboal operators.
Marine Sanctuary is a protected boat-access reef in Moalboal with a coral-covered slope that drops into a steep wall, giant gorgonian sea fans, and a broad mix of hard and soft coral. It works well for relaxed day-boat diving, with enough texture for macro subjects and enough open reef for wide-angle shots. The site feels calm and scenic once you are on it, but the day still depends on boat logistics, sanctuary rules, and weather.
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
18m - 55m
Depth Note
Coral-covered slope leading to a wall dropping from about 18 to 55 m.
Best Season
March-June
Typical Conditions
Protected reef-wall diving with strong coral growth, good visibility, and boat access from Moalboal; the dry-season window is the safest bet.
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Safety Notes
Watch buoyancy along the wall and respect sanctuary rules and fees.
Access Restrictions
Protected marine sanctuary site with user fees and local access rules.
Legal Notes
Community-established marine sanctuary with user fees and no-fishing protection.
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
A protected reef wall with a coral slope, giant sea fans, and enough structure for both macro and wide-angle work.
Freediving
Freediving can work on the shallow reef top, but the wall section is better left to scuba.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is possible on the shallow top, though the wall and fan corals are better appreciated on scuba.
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.
Last Updated
Research Sources
Moalboal dive podcast discussing the Saavedra wall, pygmy seahorse, and blacktips.
CRM learning destinations directory with sanctuary season and fee context.
Operator site describing the sanctuary wall, gorgonian fans, and marine life.
Moalboal guide with visibility and site context that includes Saavedra Marine Sanctuary.
Community sanctuary history and protected-status context for Saavedra.
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