The Verde Island Passage, the strait separating Mindoro from the Luzon mainland, is the reason serious divers make the trip to Puerto Galera. Scientists have identified it as one of the most biodiverse marine environments on the planet — a claim backed up by every dive you do here. Turtles, reef sharks, nudibranch species in bewildering variety, schools of barracuda, and thriving hard coral gardens are all standard fare.
The most celebrated sites include the Canyons, where strong currents funnel past a series of dramatic underwater ridges drawing pelagic fish; Monkey Beach for its reliably calm conditions and approachable marine life; and the Washing Machine, a powerful drift site that earns its name. Verde Island itself, accessible by banca boat in about 30–40 minutes from Sabang, has a famous wall dive that drops to over 50 metres along a nearly vertical coral-encrusted face.
Most dive operators in Sabang offer day trips to the best sites. Currents can be strong — check conditions before any site, and follow your divemaster's briefing carefully.