Arthur's Rock

Arthur's Rock is a well-known dive site located near Mabini, Batangas, within the popular Anilao diving area. Here's a comprehensive overview of Arthur's Rock:
Location

  • Geography: Arthur's Rock is situated off the coast of Mabini in Batangas, a region famous for its rich marine biodiversity and diverse diving opportunities. It is part of the larger Anilao dive circuit.

  • Access: The dive site is easily accessible by a short boat ride from various dive resorts in Anilao, typically taking around 10-15 minutes.

Dive Profile

  • Depth: The site features a range of depths, from shallow areas starting at around 5 meters (16 feet) to deeper sections reaching up to 30 meters (100 feet). This range makes it suitable for divers of different experience levels.

  • Terrain: Arthur's Rock is characterized by its rocky outcrops and coral-covered slopes. The topography includes large boulders, coral formations, and sandy patches.

Marine Life

  • Biodiversity: The site is renowned for its rich marine life, offering a vibrant underwater environment that is perfect for both macro and wide-angle photography.

  • Corals: Arthur's Rock boasts a variety of hard and soft corals, creating a colorful and dynamic underwater landscape.
  • Highlights: Notable marine species that divers can encounter include:Schools of reef fish such as fusiliers, damselfish, and anthiasVarious species of nudibranchsFrogfishScorpionfishMoray eelsPygmy seahorsesCrustaceans like shrimps and crabsOccasional sightings of sea turtles and octopuses

Dive Conditions

  • Visibility: Visibility at Arthur's Rock typically ranges from 10 to 30 meters (33 to 100 feet), with better conditions usually found during the dry season.

  • Current: Currents can vary from mild to moderate, making it accessible to most divers. However, divers should always check current conditions before diving.
  • Water Temperature: The water temperature generally ranges from 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F), providing a comfortable diving environment throughout the year.

Best Time to Dive

  • Season: The best time to dive at Arthur's Rock is during the dry season, from November to May, when the seas are calmer and visibility is optimal.

  • Weather: Diving is possible year-round, but the rainy season (June to October) may bring rougher seas and reduced visibility.

Safety and Recommendations

  • Experience Level: Arthur's Rock is suitable for divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. The varying depths and mild currents make it an ideal site for all experience levels.

  • Guided Dives: It is recommended to dive with a local guide who knows the site well, ensuring safety and enhancing the diving experience by pointing out unique marine life.
  • Conservation: Divers should practice responsible diving, avoiding contact with corals and marine life to help preserve the underwater environment.

Unique Features

  • Underwater Topography: The rocky outcrops and boulders create an interesting and varied underwater landscape, making each dive unique.

  • Macro and Wide-Angle Photography: Arthur's Rock offers opportunities for both macro photography (with numerous small creatures like nudibranchs and pygmy seahorses) and wide-angle photography (with schools of fish and expansive coral formations).Training Site: The site is also used for dive training, including open water and advanced courses, due to its suitable conditions and diverse marine life.

Arthur's Rock is a standout dive site in Mabini, Batangas, known for its rich marine biodiversity, varied underwater topography, and suitability for divers of all skill levels. Its accessibility from Anilao and the opportunity to encounter a wide range of marine species make it a must-visit location for diving enthusiasts.