Nestled within the Tañon Strait, Pescador Island is a small limestone islet just off the coast of Moalboal, Cebu. Its name, meaning “fisherman” in Spanish, stems from its abundant marine resources and historical importance to local fishermen.
You can organize your own tour based on the info below, or you can come on a luxury live-aboard cruise with us through the Visayas region to experience a host of beautiful sites like this.
Marine Features & Appeal
- Underwater Topography: The reef features a sandy slope with soft corals (5–10 m depth), descending into dramatic walls draped in hard corals, plunging to around 40 m. Visible is the enchanting “Cathedral” cavern—a cathedral-like swim-through illuminated by sunlight.
- Biodiversity: Expect vibrant reef life—nudibranchs, frogfish, Spanish dancers, reef sharks, turtles, and schools of tropical fish. The island was declared a marine park and fish sanctuary in 1990, with entrance fees supporting local conservation efforts like patrols, education, and cleanup.
How to Get There
- From Cebu City: Travel 3–4 hours to Moalboal (by bus or van), then it’s only a 15–20 minute boat ride to Pescador.
- Transfers and Tours: Many operators in Moalboal (especially along Panagsama Beach) include boat transfers, guides, and entrance fees as part of snorkeling or scuba packages.
Activities & Highlights
- Scuba Diving: Dive shops from Moalboal offer trips around Pescador with access to the Cathedral, coral walls, and rich marine life.
- Snorkeling & Freediving: Beginners can enjoy snorkeling along the shallower coral ledges, teeming with life, and sometimes even venture ashore—though some tales suggest the islet might be haunted!
- Year‑Round Access: Ideal conditions—calm seas and excellent visibility (often up to 40 m)—are most consistent in the dry season (December–May), but the sardine run and marine activity make it worthwhile year-round.
Dive & Tour Packages with Prices
| Operator / Package | Inclusions | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Local Dive Shops (e.g. Savedra) | Boat dive + guide + tanks; Marine Park Fee (₱100) applies | ~₱1,600 per dive |
| Fun Dive Packages | 2 boat dives + 1 shore dive (3 dives) | ₱4,200 |
| Deep Sea Snorkel Tour (Savedra) | Scuba Dive + Sardines + Pescador | From US $160 per person |
| Island Hopping Full-Day (CebuTours.ph) | Private van + boat + snorkeling at Pescador, sardines, turtle point, optional dolphin watching | ₱1,350–₱7,000 depending on group size |
| Combined Sardines + Pescador + Kawasan Tours | Multi-activity day trips | From US $134 |
And yes—the famous Moalboal sardine run is often paired with Pescador stops by many operators to maximize your day-trip experience.
Where to Stay Near Pescador Island
Base yourself in Moalboal’s Panagsama Beach—it offers dive shops, tour operators, and easy access to boat rides:
- Resorts like Quo Vadis or Cebu Seaview Dive Resort have dive packages with transparent pricing. projectexpedition.com
- Budget options like Pig Dive Hostel / Maayong Hostel in Panagsama work for backpackers and solo travelers. Joan’s Footprints
Final Notes and Booking
Pescador Island is a standout marine sanctuary that offers thrill for both divers and casual snorkelers. Whether you’re exploring coral walls under water or admiring majestic sardine schools, it’s a bucket-list destination with something for every level of adventurer.
You can use the above information to book a local tours yourself, or you can let us book for you a luxury live-aboard cruise through the Visayas region to visit many sites like this.
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We are a family operation managing private custom boat tours in the beautiful Palawan area, and are happy to help travelers with their plans through the country, having traveled a lot of it ourselves and planning to visit it all.