Manta Liveaboards

Manta Liveaboards is an independent dive liveaboard based in Coron, Palawan, in the Philippines. Established in 2023 by founders Luke Williams (UK) and Travis Weaver (Australia), it is the first large liveaboard vessel to base itself in this pristine region and the first to offer the spectacular Coron - El Nido route. The vessel, Navis 1, is a spacious and stable all-steel twin-hull catamaran, 23 metres long and 13 metres wide, with generous deck space and comfortable motion even in challenging seas. She carries up to 18 guests in nine air-conditioned cabins (a mix of twin-share and double rooms), each with an ensuite hot-water bathroom, large windows and ample under-bed storage. On board there is a large dining area, a huge roof deck, a dedicated camera room and Starlink high-speed internet. Distinct from the large fleets, Manta offers a personalised, small-group experience run by a warm, all-Filipino crew with an intimate knowledge of the local marine environment and culture. Itineraries reach the very best of Palawan's waters: the Coron Safari (via Apo Reef), a 7 day / 6 night voyage of around 18-20 dives taking in Barracuda Lake, WWII Japanese wrecks, dugongs, Black Island and Apo Reef - the world's second-largest contiguous coral reef - with sharks, mantas, turtles, huge walls and pristine coral gardens; shorter Apo Reef and Coron - El Nido crossings; and expedition trips to the remote, UNESCO-listed Tubbataha Reef departing from Puerto Princesa. Trips go beyond diving, weaving in village tours and live music for a rich, holistic experience. Departure dates run on a fixed schedule with trips from around US$1,600; Apo Reef from US$1,700 and the Coron Safari from US$1,980. Exact pricing and availability are confirmed on request.