The pristine waters of northern Busuanga is a diver’s paradise that offers more than just breathtaking coral reefs and historic World War II wrecks. For those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience, diving with dugongs—often referred to as “sea cows”—is a must. These gentle giants of the ocean, which are more closely related to elephants than to any marine creature, offer a rare and magical encounter for divers. In Busuanga, where the waters are clear, warm, and teeming with life, the opportunity to see dugongs in their natural habitat is truly unparalleled.
Get to know the Dugong
Dugongs are large marine mammals that belong to the order Sirenia, a group of herbivorous creatures that also includes manatees. Dugongs can grow up to three meters long and weigh as much as 400 kilograms, making them one of the largest marine animals in the world. They are easily recognizable by their unique appearance—a streamlined, fusiform body, fluked tail, and paddle-like flippers. Unlike other marine mammals, dugongs are strictly herbivorous, feeding primarily on seagrass found in shallow coastal waters.
The dugong’s gentle demeanor and slow, graceful movements have earned it the affectionate nickname “sea cow.” However, their populations are dwindling due to habitat destruction, hunting, and entanglement in fishing gear. As a result, they are now classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Busuanga, with its well-preserved marine ecosystems, remains one of the few places in the world where divers can still encounter these elusive creatures.
Busuanga: A Dugong Haven
Busuanga is part of the Calamianes Group of Islands in northern Palawan, an area known for its rich marine biodiversity and crystal-clear waters. The island’s coastline is dotted with seagrass meadows, the primary feeding grounds for dugongs. These seagrass beds provide a crucial habitat for the dugongs, which spend most of their time grazing and resting in these areas.
What makes Busuanga particularly special for dugong encounters is the presence of a small but stable dugong population. The local communities, along with conservation groups, have worked diligently to protect these creatures and their habitats. Strict regulations are in place to ensure that diving activities do not disturb the dugongs or their environment. This has made Busuanga a safe haven for these gentle giants, allowing divers to observe them in a natural and undisturbed setting.
Diving with Dugongs: What to Expect
Diving with dugongs in Busuanga is a truly magical experience. As you descend into the clear, warm waters, you’ll be surrounded by the vibrant colors of the coral reefs and the serene beauty of the seagrass meadows. The anticipation builds as you approach the dugong’s feeding grounds, knowing that at any moment, one of these gentle giants might glide into view.
The experience of seeing a dugong for the first time is awe-inspiring. Despite their size, dugongs are incredibly graceful in the water, moving slowly as they graze on the seagrass. They are usually solitary creatures, but it’s not uncommon to see a mother with her calf, a sight that is both heartwarming and rare. Dugongs are naturally curious and may approach divers, providing a unique opportunity for close encounters and photography.
When diving with dugongs, it’s important to remember that these are wild animals and should be treated with respect. Divers are advised to maintain a safe distance, avoid touching the dugongs, and minimize noise and movement to prevent disturbing them. Following these guidelines not only ensures the safety of the dugongs but also allows for a more rewarding and authentic experience.
Early morning dives are often the most rewarding, as dugongs tend to be more active during this time. However, dugong sightings are not guaranteed, as these creatures are wild and move freely within their habitat. Patience and multiple dives may be necessary to increase the chances of an encounter.
Conservation Efforts and Responsible Tourism
Dugong conservation is a top priority in Busuanga, and responsible tourism plays a crucial role in protecting these vulnerable creatures. The local government, together with non-governmental organizations and the diving community, has implemented various conservation initiatives to preserve the dugong population and their habitat.
One of the key efforts is the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs) around Busuanga. These MPAs restrict human activities that could harm the dugongs or their seagrass meadows, such as destructive fishing practices and coastal development. Additionally, local dive operators are trained to conduct responsible dugong dives, ensuring that their guests adhere to strict guidelines that minimize the impact on the dugongs.
Tourists are encouraged to support these conservation efforts by choosing eco-friendly dive operators, participating in marine conservation programs, and spreading awareness about the importance of protecting dugongs. By doing so, visitors to Busuanga can contribute to the long-term survival of these magnificent creatures and ensure that future generations can enjoy the same magical encounters.
We arrange dugong dive day trips! To make the most out of the trip, a second dive at nearby Kyokuzan wreck is included. Check out our day trips for more details.
Special thanks to our guest Dino Ko for the photos.
