Apo Reef, Dream of Para-Para-Paradise

From the premise of a secluded island trip, I already knew that going to Apo Reef won’t be a walk in the park. We woke up super duper early. If I can remember it was 4 AM when we packed our bags and left Kalamatan resort on the wee hours of the morning.
4:41 AM, Sablayan
We boarded on a tourist boat in Sablayan Port. Surprisingly the boat seemed built for long haul trip, there’s even a restroom in it . It is way better compare to the boat we use during our trip to Calaguas. Thank goodness! We sat down motionless, almost glued to our seats when the sun finally shows up. I am the type of person who wakes up early but rarely catches the sunrise. Let’s just say I’m more excited to see a sunny side up than a sunrise.There was a temporary ruckus when one of the boatman pointed to a certain direction to look at something. I couldn’t believe it at first until we saw a group of dolphins playfully jump out of the water. It was totally unexpected and sadly we weren’t able to capture that moment. It was a indeed beautiful morning. .

arrival in Apo Reef

And since I’m talking about food, a satisfying breakfast consisting of fried chicken, tocino and scrambled eggs were served while we're in the boat. The boat ride seemed like forever, I drift off to sleep after that delicious brekkie. I eventually woke up when a relentless wave angrily lashed at the perimeter that we’re seated. I can’t hardly remember how long the boat ride was. From the boat, we could see the corals and some fishes underneath. Out of the horizon an island surrounded by pristine water showed up. Soon enough, the Apo Reef was finally in sight.

Apo Reef Natural Park, the underwater paradise

Para-para-paradise

As we landed in Apo Reef, I was filled with awe of its beauty. The sands were so white, you really had to squint your eyes just to stare at it with the gawking sunlight. We were naturally drawn by its powdery white sand and crystal blue waters . Even that of the more popular and crowded Boracay won't stand a chance when compared to Apo Reef's pristine beach.

We wasted no time and hurriedly left our bags to the island’s main hall to check out the marine life on the island. The waters around the island are shallow making it ideal for leisurely swimming, and snorkeling. We enjoyed the snorkeling part very much, as there are different fishes and colorful corals, you’d actually think you’re just taking a dip inside an aquarium. Part of the itinerary that day is snorkeling on the deeper part of the island. I wasn’t keen on doing this but since I’ve traveled so far away just to get here why not join right?

the first batch getting ready

Call it a leap of faith, this is actually my first time to do this. And so I grabbed the life vest and quickly donned them. Holding on to my snorkel, wearing the mask, and we’re set. I was thrilled and nervous at the same time. It was kinda scary looking down as we went farther to the ocean, nothingness came into view. I can vaguely remember seeing pawikan and an array of different fishes during that time. I was happy to overcome my fear for a while. Despite the relatively strong waves that we encounter as we held on to a raft pulled by a motorized boat we safely made it to the shore.

Restricted area, the pawikan sanctuary

While we were on the beach and waiting for our lunch, I couldn’t help but be envious when one of our companion went diving. It surely is a different world out there. I decided to use the time to walk around. And why I am not surprised almost all parts of the island were so picturesque that one can't help but get shutter-frenzy.