This is not a dive to be taken lightly, and a dive that our guides conduct only on very rare occasions and then only with the most experienced divers. This is a strong current drift dive with current speeds that can reach up to 12 knots. The strongest currents and fastest drifts occur when the ebbing tide is at its largest tidal change, usually in April. The dive can be kept shallow or made deeper depending on the tack you take through the bay. The depth however has no bearing on the difficulty; in fact the shallower option is the faster current usually. It is possible to end up passing over the Canyons and heading out into Verde Island Passage (1mile) in as short a time as 10 minutes so be warned! There may be strong down-currents on this dive.

Listen to your dive briefing thoroughly and get a good understanding for how the ocean will be moving. There is such a large body of water rushing around the headland of Escarceo Point to meet the waters of the Verde Island Passage that a great tidal eddy is created in Kilima Bay. As you traverse across the bay you will notice the water wanting first to pull you deeper down the gravel slope and at about halfway will try and push you shallower back up it. You will need to angle your body and the direction of your fin kicks against these currents to stay on the right track for the direction that you wish to travel. Tracking Below 18m will take you deeper and across the Canyons and beyond into the stronger down currents. Staying above 14m will take you shallower and towards the back of Hole in the Wall where the current eventually drops off completely.

Be aware of what’s going on, since the down currents can be pretty fierce on a deeper track. Finning steadily against down currents is usually enough to stay in control but occasionally some extra inflation of your BCD’s might be required to aid your ascent. This must be done very carefully and is best avoided if possible. The best and safest way to dive the deeper track is to have a signal tube on the surface. Your guide will signal you to use one if needed.

You will see some very large fish swimming in the current, totally awesome! This dive is one memory that you will never forget and arguably one of the most exhilarating dives in the Philippines.

TIP - To enjoy a long drift, the group has to start way back at Sinandigan Wall. It is recommended that every diver in the group (and groups should be small) carries a signal tube.