T

he popular whale shark and
manta ray viewing area around
Donsol and Ticao Island is called
Manta Bowl and has become a
destination for those wanting to see
large marine life, big fish schools
and even pelagics like marlins and
sailfish in the open sea.
Donsol is reached by flying in to
southern Luzon via Legaspi. The
“perfect volcano”, imposing Mount
Mayon, looms over Legaspi City
and the surrounding countryside.
The airport is out of town so divers
head for the hour ride through the
surrounding countryside into the
Province of Sorsogon. Most stay at
the resorts a few miles out of town
along the beach where there are
also some very good little eateries.
Make sure you try the Bicol Express.
Or, one can fly or take a ferry to
Masbate City on the Island of

Masbate in the Bicol region of the

Philippines. The Province of

Masbate comprises three major

islands, Masbate, Ticao and Burias.

There are coastal resorts here as

well and Ticao Island is a short ferry

ride away. Manta Bowl is quite

close to resorts along the eastern

Ticao coast.

The best time to visit is October

to June. After that, the north

monsoon, “habagat”, blows in and

makes water rough and creates low

visibility in the bay.

Donsol/Ticao/Masbate

Donsol whale shark

art on town wall

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Donsol

Ticao^19

20,

21

22

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Masbate

Luzon