Apo Island Day Trip from Siquijor: Sea Turtles & Snorkeling

Why Visit Apo Island?

Apo Island stands as one of the Philippines’ greatest marine conservation success stories. This tiny volcanic island, located about an hour by boat from Siquijor, transformed from a depleted fishing ground into a thriving marine sanctuary that now hosts hundreds of sea turtles and pristine coral gardens.

For travelers based in Siquijor, a day trip to Apo Island offers an unforgettable opportunity to swim alongside green sea turtles in their natural habitat—an experience that consistently ranks among the top wildlife encounters in the Philippines.

About Apo Island

Location & Background

Apo Island lies off the southeastern coast of Negros Oriental, approximately 7 kilometers from the mainland town of Dauin. The island measures just 72 hectares but punches far above its weight in terms of marine biodiversity.

Quick Facts:

The Conservation Story

In the 1970s, dynamite and cyanide fishing had devastated Apo Island’s reefs. A community-based marine management program, established with help from Silliman University, turned the tide. Today, the island’s no-take marine sanctuary spans 15.5 hectares and serves as a model for community-led conservation worldwide.

The Sea Turtle Experience

What to Expect

Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) have made Apo Island their permanent home, attracted by the abundant seagrass beds. Unlike some locations where turtle sightings require luck, Apo Island almost guarantees encounters—sometimes with dozens of turtles in a single snorkeling session.

Typical sightings:

• Green sea turtles (resident population of 50+)
• Hawksbill turtles (occasional)
• Turtles feeding on seagrass in shallow areas
• Juveniles and adults of various sizes

Responsible Turtle Watching

The turtles tolerate human presence because visitors follow strict guidelines:

• Maintain 3 meters distance from turtles
• Never touch or chase the animals
• Don’t use flash photography
• Let turtles surface naturally for air
• Follow your guide’s instructions

Snorkeling & Diving

Snorkeling Sites

Even if you’re only snorkeling, Apo Island’s reefs impress. The sanctuary’s protected status has allowed coral to recover dramatically.

What you’ll see:

• Hard and soft coral formations
• Colorful reef fish (clownfish, angelfish, parrotfish)
• Giant clams
• Sea cucumbers
• Occasional reef sharks

For Divers

Certified divers can explore deeper sites with walls dropping to 40+ meters:

Popular dive sites:

• Coconut Point: Wall dive with strong currents attracting pelagics
• Chapel Point: Gentle slope with macro life
• Sanctuary: The protected area with the densest marine life

How to Book from Siquijor

Organized Tours (Recommended)

Most Siquijor resorts and tour operators offer Apo Island packages:

Typical inclusions:

• Round-trip boat transfer
• Snorkeling gear
• Environmental fees
• Island entrance fee
• Basic lunch
• Guide services

Cost: ₱1,500-2,500 per person (varies by group size)

Booking tips:

• Book 1-2 days in advance
• Minimum 2-4 people usually required
• Solo travelers may join group tours
• Ask your accommodation for recommendations

Private Boat Charter

For groups or more flexibility:

• Private boats: ₱4,000-6,000 for up to 6 passengers
• Allows custom timing and longer stays
• Can combine with other stops

What to Expect on Tour Day

Typical Itinerary

5:30-6:00 AM: Pick-up from accommodation 6:30 AM: Depart from Siquijor port 7:30 AM: Arrive at Apo Island, pay fees 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Snorkeling sessions (usually 2-3 spots) 12:00 PM: Lunch on the island 1:00 PM: Optional additional snorkeling or beach time 2:00-3:00 PM: Depart for Siquijor 4:00 PM: Return to Siquijor

Fees to Budget

What to Bring

Essential Items

• Reef-safe sunscreen (required in marine sanctuary)
• Rash guard or swim shirt
• Underwater camera
• Towel
• Cash for fees and tips
• Dry bag for valuables
• Hat and sunglasses

Optional Gear

• Snorkel mask (if you prefer your own)
• Prescription snorkel mask
• Motion sickness medication
• Waterproof phone pouch

Best Time to Visit

Ideal Conditions

November to May: Calm seas, best visibility, optimal conditions June to October: Possible rough seas, tours may cancel

Morning vs. Afternoon

Morning departures (6-8 AM) are standard because:

• Calmer waters
• Better visibility before afternoon winds
• Turtles more active
• Avoid afternoon rain

Comparing Apo Island to Siquijor Snorkeling

The verdict: If swimming with turtles is a priority, Apo Island is unmissable. If you prefer convenience and solitude, Siquijor’s own marine sanctuaries (Tubod, Caticugan) offer solid alternatives.

Tips for the Best Experience

1. Go early in the season (November-December) for calmer seas and fewer tourists

2. Bring your own snorkel gear if particular about fit and hygiene

3. Eat a light breakfast to avoid seasickness on the boat ride

4. Budget extra for tips—your guides are local fishermen whose livelihoods depend on tourism

5. Consider a dive if you’re certified—the underwater landscape is even more impressive at depth

6. Respect the rules—Apo Island’s success depends on visitors following conservation guidelines

Beyond the Water

Island Walk

Between snorkeling sessions, explore the small island:

• Meet friendly local residents
• See the historic lighthouse
• Walk to the island’s viewpoint
• Visit the small chapel

Support the Community

The community-based management means your fees directly support:

• Marine sanctuary patrol and enforcement
• Reef rehabilitation projects
• Local education programs
• Sustainable fishing practices

Alternative Options

If Apo Island Tours Are Unavailable

Weather or minimum group requirements may cancel Apo trips. Alternatives include:

Siquijor Marine Sanctuaries:

• Tubod Marine Sanctuary (San Juan)
• Caticugan Marine Sanctuary
• Tulapos Marine Sanctuary (Larena)

Other Activities:

• Diving directly from Siquijor
• Island circumnavigation tour
• Waterfall chasing instead

Final Thoughts

A day trip to Apo Island ranks among the most rewarding experiences available from Siquijor. The combination of guaranteed turtle encounters, vibrant coral reefs, and a community-led conservation success story creates an experience that goes beyond typical tourism.

Yes, it requires an early wake-up and a boat journey. But floating in crystal-clear water as a sea turtle gracefully glides past you is the kind of moment that justifies the effort—and likely becomes the highlight of your Philippines trip.

Book ahead, bring reef-safe sunscreen, and prepare for an unforgettable underwater adventure.

Prefer staying closer to Siquijor? Check out our diving guide for sites you can access without the boat trip.