Dari-Laut

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. Here’s 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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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 site’s 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.