Moalboal is proud to be the Diving Capital in Cebu because of its marine sanctuaries where tons of corals in different shapes, sizes and colors can be seen. Also, fishes in wide variety including rare tropical fishes and some sharks can be found only here.
The municipality depends so much on the income generated by tourism so the government is exerting much effort in boosting the industry in the town. In expressing their gratitude to the abundance of marine floras and faunas, the town has come up with the celebration known as the “Kagasangan Festival”.
The festival is the main highlight in celebrating the town fiesta. Kagasangan means “corals” which is teeming in the place. Dancers in their coral-designed costumes danced in rhythm of the song “Kagasangan” which is especially composed for such.
The place focuses more on the sea and under the sea adventures such as snorkeling in shallow water but with equally-wonderful coral sightings or diving into the deep blue waters for occasional views of rare fishes, rays and sharks.
Some famous sites in Moalboal:
This fascinating island is the main attraction of the place. It is a must-see place because of its protected marine life, very abundant with corals both in shallow and in deep waters. The shallow reef is about 3-10 meters wide, best for snorkeling. Fishes are teeming with the occasional sightings of sharks, manta rays, rare turtles and whales. Tañon Strait is by the way, a major thoroughfare by whales and dolphins.
Only 4 kilometers away from the coast of Panagsama Beach, it takes 10 to 20 minutes travel time by pump boats. Divers should not miss the experience here in Pescador Island which is probably the best dive and snorkel place in entire Cebu.
The Cathedral
It is an open top funnel with the wide opening of 15 meters. Shafts of sunlight enter the funnel especially by noon. After 35 meters, the bottom exit can be reaches. It is best place to dive and learn. The walls have overhangs, crevices and cracks that serve as habitat of many kinds of sponges and other soft corals.
Sunken Island
One of the most exciting diving spots is the fantastic Sunken Island. The name itself indicates an underwater pinnacle and its summit can be found 25 meters below the sea surface.
Give your eyes a treat with the sundry variety of fishes and corals. Though a favored place for underwater photographer, only the experienced divers are allowed to take a dive because of its strong water currents.
House Reef
This is an artificial reef at 3 meters to 40 meters deep. Good for diving at day or night time. Though artificial, many fishes make their home in it. Even whale sharks sometimes appeared in the House Reef of Moalboal.
Airplane Wreck
Another interesting dive spot is the Airplane Wreck. It is a two-seater place, dropped into the sea of Moalboal to be an artificial reef for fishes and other marine faunas such as turtles can take refuge. It is a joint project of the government and non-government organizations in Cebu City.
Copton Point
It is the extreme west point of the Copton Peninsula. It can be reached about 20 minutes travel from Panagsama Beach. The average depth is 25 meters to the maximum of 40 meters. Many sea corals, sponges and sea fans can be seen. Fishes may follow you as you take your dive. Some occasional sightings of sharks and sea snakes are noted.
Orchid Garden
Another thing that shouldn’t be missed is the Orchid Garden in Moalboal. It has one of the best collections of orchids in the entire Cebu Island. The place has also a swimming pool for visitors.
Other interesting places are:
Tongo Point
Bas Diot
Panagsama Beach
Osmeña Peak
