Dive Batanes Lodge and Restaurant

We still got to tour Sabtang and Batan, and Batanes was beautiful even in the less crowded, off-season months. But if the chance of being stranded would stress you out, visiting during the “ber” months may not be for you. We went in October to dive. The owner warned us that the weather can be unpredictable, but we’d already booked our tickets. Our diving plans went awry, though we’d still like to come back and dive when we get another chance. We’ll probably book with this resort again because the dive master/guide and staff gave us such good service and helped make the trip enjoyable despite the weather. Some dive sites, including Sanctuary, were closed in October for turtle hatching season. It rained the night before our first dive, so visibility wasn’t great. The waves were my main challenge, and after one dive we had to cancel the rest. With the weather still unpredictable, we couldn’t follow our three-day dive plan. The locals know what’s safe and worthwhile for their guests, so it’s best to take their advice.

The staff can help you find just about anything to do around Batanes, from a gym to places to see and food to try. They even arranged a deep sea fishing trip for my friend and me, where we hand-lined queen snapper from 400m down. Afterward, the chef cooked our catch into a great grilled fish dinner with all the sides. I’ve stayed at Dive Batanes twice now and would live here full time if I could. Everyone is super friendly and helpful, and they treat you like family. The food is second to none, and I’m always happy and full after every meal. I hope I get another chance to stay here.

We had a great time with the karaoke, but the rest of the stay was just OK. The room was big, though basic essentials like extra towels, soap, and shampoo were only provided if we asked at the front desk. The blankets were too thin to keep us warm and comfortable, and the towels didn’t look fresh or white. Breakfast wasn’t very good, since the meat and rice weren’t cooked properly. We bought fresh fish and ingredients at the market and asked the staff to cook them for breakfast. They did, but charged us PHP 3,600, which seemed like too much. I wouldn’t make that same choice again.

The inn is very close to the sea, and the staff are courteous. Rooms are clean, and the rates are reasonable and comfortable enough when four people share a room, but quite high for couples. Ask for a balcony room with a sea view when booking, since another building faces away from the sea. There’s no cellphone signal in the rooms, which I liked, since you come to batanes to connect with nature. The food is average, though there are restaurants within walking distance. You need to reserve a table, or you can get food to go and eat it back at the hotel on your balcony.