Free Willly Diving - Apo Reef

Free Willy Diving, it’s a name that conjures images of big pelagics, doesn’t it? And sometimes, Apo Reef delivers. We’ve found ourselves drifting along this wall, eyes peeled for anything large. It’s not always a pelagic fest, though, so manage those expectations. What you *will* see, almost without fail, are wrasse. Bird wrasse darting around, those flashier blue spotted ones, a constant flurry of activity. The wall itself is interesting; we love seeing the Star Coral formations, and if you slow down and really look, you’ll spot those tiny Two-toned Pygmy Squid – they’re masters of camouflage, so take your time. Those Onespot Butterflyfish are a common sight, adding splashes of yellow. We’d suggest keeping an eye out for the unusual, like the Gilbert's Synaphobranchid Eel if you’re lucky enough, or even a Tassled Coffinfish on the deeper sandy patches if the current is cooperative. It’s a site for divers who appreciate the subtle beauty of the reef alongside the chance for something bigger. If you get a calmer day, it’s a fantastic opportunity to really explore the nooks and crannies.

Location
Apo Reef, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
11.964739, 121.922590

Marine Protected Area: DENR Antique, BFAR Antique, Office of the Provincial Agriculture (OPA) Antique and Rare Inc.

Best Time to Dive in Apo Reef

The warmest water temperatures in Apo Reef occur in June, averaging 30.3°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 27.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.1°C
  • February: 27.8°C
  • March: 28.2°C
  • April: 29.1°C
  • May: 30.1°C
  • June: 30.3°C
  • July: 29.9°C
  • August: 29.6°C
  • September: 29.7°C
  • October: 29.8°C
  • November: 29.5°C
  • December: 29.2°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Apo Reef

Nearest Dive Centres to Free Willly Diving

Marine Life in Apo Reef

Home to 181 recorded species including 171 reef fish, 5 seagrass & algae, 2 other, 1 whales & dolphins, 1 hard corals, 1 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Free Willly Diving

Based on average water temperature of 29.3°C, currents 8 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories