Dari-Laut,
located in Tingloy, Batangas, is a notable dive site in the
Philippines, offering a unique underwater experience characterized by
its diverse marine life and interesting topography. Heres an
in-depth look at Dari-Laut:
Location:
Region:
Tingloy, Batangas, Philippines
Access:
Typically accessed via a boat ride from Anilao, Mabini, or directly
from Tingloy on Maricaban Island.
Dive
Site Features:
Artificial
Reef:
Dari-Laut
is famous for its artificial reef structures. These include sunken
floating barge, concrete blocks, and other man-made objects that have
been deliberately sunk to create a habitat for marine life.The
artificial reef attracts a variety of marine species and provides an
interesting backdrop for underwater exploration.
Marine
Life:
Fish:
The site is home to a variety of fish species, including snappers,
groupers, angelfish, and butterflyfish. Schooling
Fish: Large schools of Yellow Snappers, barracudas, Spade
Batfish, and fusiliers are often seen patrolling the area. Macro
Life: The artificial structures are encrusted with corals,
sponges, and other invertebrates, providing excellent opportunities
for macro photography. Divers can find Electric Flame Scallop,
nudibranchs, shrimps, crabs, and other small critters. Other
Marine Life: The site also attracts sea turtles, moray eels, and
the occasional reef shark.
Topography:
The
topography of Dari-Laut is dominated by its artificial reef
structures, creating a unique underwater landscape.The depth and
layout of the structures make it an interesting site for exploration
and photography.
Depth
and Difficulty:
Depth
Range: Typically ranges from 10 to 30 meters, making it suitable
for both novice and advanced divers.
Difficulty
Level: The dive site is generally accessible to divers of all
experience levels, though the deeper areas may be more suitable for
intermediate to advanced divers.
Current:
Usually mild, but it can vary, so divers should be prepared for
occasional stronger currents.
Visibility:
Generally good, ranging from 10 to 25 meters, providing clear views
of the underwater structures and marine life.
Best
Time to Dive:
Season:
The best time to dive at Dari-Laut is during the dry season, from
November to May, when sea conditions are most favorable.
Weather
Conditions: The site can be dived year-round, but the dry season
offers the best visibility and calmest waters.
Additional
Information:
Dive
Shops and Resorts: Numerous dive operators in Anilao, Mabini,
and Tingloy offer trips to Dari-Laut. These operators provide
necessary gear, guides, and boat transfers.
Conservation
Efforts: Divers are encouraged to follow responsible diving
practices to preserve the artificial reef and its inhabitants. This
includes avoiding contact with structures and marine life, and not
leaving any trash behind.
Travel
Tips:
Accommodation:
Various accommodations are available in the vicinity, including
budget lodges, mid-range hotels, and high-end resorts in Anilao and Tingloy.
Getting
There: Dari-Laut can be accessed by traveling to Batangas City
from Manila (approximately 2-3 hours by car), then taking a boat from
Anilao or Mabini to Tingloy.
Summary:
Dari-Laut
in Tingloy, Batangas, offers a unique diving experience with its
artificial reef structures and diverse marine life. The sites
man-made habitats create an interesting and dynamic underwater
environment, attracting a wide range of species. Whether you're a
novice or an experienced diver, Dari-Laut provides an intriguing
underwater adventure with its distinctive topography and vibrant ecosystem.