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Diving on the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard
Like all vessels of the Expedition Fleet, the 118-foot (36 m) Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard was designed and built with divers’ comfort and safety in mind. Over the years, the vessel has been upgraded to ensure trips run smoothly, no matter whether you’re heading to Tubbataha Marine National Park, Apo Reef, or Coron.
The liveaboard covers Tubbataha from March to June, while Apo Reef and the wrecks and reefs of Coron can be dived year-round. There is no doubt that Tubbataha is one of the main attractions of Philippine liveaboard diving, with a chance to see different shark species, experience large schools of fish, and even work on your eye for macro creatures.
The season in Tubbataha is short because sea conditions become too challenging and rough at other times. This short season allows the reef and marine life to recover and regenerate, leaving it even healthier for the coming year.
Diving from the Stella Maris Explorer starts from the dive deck on the bridge deck area, where divers prepare for their next adventure. From the dive deck, divers enter one of two 27-foot (8 m) chase boats that can drop them in exactly the right place and pick them up safely after their dive.
The liveaboard offers seven- and eight-night itineraries, and divers can complete up to four dives per day. Every dive is accompanied by experienced dive guides at a ratio of five divers to one guide.
The Stella Maris Explorer has been equipped with a nitrox membrane system, and nitrox is included in the trip price for certified divers. Those who are not certified yet can take their course right on board at an additional charge.
Highlights:
- Up to four dives per day
- Nitrox included in the trip price for certified divers
- Transition trips between seasons to enjoy the best of more than one dive destination
Onboard the Stella Maris Explorer
The Stella Maris Explorer accommodates 21 divers in 10 cabins spread over three decks. All have been designed and furnished in a unique retro-chic style, and feature air-conditioning and ensuite showers and toilets, complete with towels and toiletries. Memory foam pillows and mattresses ensure divers sleep well each night.
Starting on the lower-level main deck, two economy bunk cabins are perfect for sharing. The same level is also home to the liveaboard’s only premium economy cabin, which accommodates up to three people. This is an excellent choice for friends traveling together or a family of divers.
Step up to the Stella Maris Explorer’s flying deck for the four standard cabins, which benefit from natural light and have been furnished with bunk-style twin beds. Those looking to travel with a higher level of comfort can choose one of three deluxe cabins.
You’ll find those cabins on the main bridge deck, and each has windows allowing divers to enjoy the breathtaking and ever-changing views. Equipped with different styles of beds, these cabins all feature Nespresso machines, TVs, DVD players, and small workstations.
Outside of the cabins, there is a comfortable and spacious salon on the main deck, which is ideal for spending time in between dives or relaxing with a movie at the end of the day. Divers who prefer to relax outdoors will love the top deck complete with comfy chairs and loungers and a choice of sunny or shaded areas. However, the main attraction of the top deck is the hot tub.
Highlights:
- Hot tub on the top deck
- Deluxe cabins and standard cabins offer natural light
- Each cabin has memory foam mattresses and pillows
Dining on the Stella Maris Explorer
Picture yourself on the sundeck at the end of a diving day, sipping on a tasty cocktail and toasting to a successful diving day. All of that is part of the Stella Maris Explorer’s dining experience.
The crew serves all main meals buffet-style in the salon on the bridge deck, allowing divers to eat and relax in comfort. Whenever possible, meals are prepared from fresh local ingredients. Dishes include local flavors and Western dishes.
The crew is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions during your time onboard. As always, we recommend notifying the operator early if you have specific dietary requirements.
Your liveaboard package also includes unlimited snacks throughout the day, including fresh fruit. In addition, divers can help themselves to drinking water, tea, and coffee. Soft drinks and alcoholic drinks are available to purchase onboard the Stella Maris Explorer.
Highlights:
- Well-stocked bar is perfect for sunset drinks
- Unlimited snacks keep divers fueled
Things we like:
- Air-conditioning and carpeting throughout
- Custom-built liveaboard for Tubbataha exploration
- Up to four dives per day
- Nitrox included in the trip price
Things we don't like:
- Some of the cabins are rather small
- Sit-down showers in bathrooms
Key Facts
| Year Built | 1980 |
| Max Divers | 20 |
| Price Range | Mid-range |
| Trip Length | 5-7 Nights |
| Internet | Yes ($) |
| Nitrox | Yes (free) |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | No minimum |
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