Scotty's Action Sports Network

Scotty's Action Sports Network (SASN) has been a fixture in the Philippine diving scene since 1986. Based in Mactan, Cebu, the centre has built a reputation for handling everything from entry-level certifications to extreme technical diving. Their presence extends across the region, with operations in Boracay, Bohol, and Cebu, allowing for extensive dive safaris throughout the archipelago.

The centre is built around a serious approach to gas management and safety. They produce their own Nitrox, Trimix, and Heliox blends on-site using certified BAUER Pure air compressors. This technical foundation makes them a reliable choice for divers looking to push their limits in more demanding environments.

The team at SASN is structured to support a wide variety of diving disciplines. They maintain a professional ratio of one guide for every four divers, ensuring close supervision during both recreational and technical excursions.

Their expertise covers a massive breadth of specialties, from freediving and reef exploration to highly technical pursuits like Closed Circuit Rebreather (CCR) and Hypoxic XR diving. Whether you are working through a Divemaster course or training for deep wreck penetration, the instruction is grounded in established international standards.

SASN offers an extensive curriculum through PADI, SSI, RAID, and GUE. For those starting their journey, they provide Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water Diver, and Rescue Diver courses. They also offer specialised training such as Peak Performance Buoyancy and Underwater Navigation to refine core skills.

Technical divers will find a deep catalogue of advanced training, including SSI Cave Diving, SSI Full Cave Diving, and SSI Technical Wreck Diving. They also provide PADI Tec 60 and Tec 100 CCR Rebreather courses, alongside SSI Hypoxic XR and SSI XR Nitrox diving. For those interested in the more niche aspects of the sport, they offer Side Mount and Search and Recovery training.

The centre utilises bangka and speedboat vessels to reach the various dive sites. These boats are used for everything from local Mactan excursions to full-day safaris at remote islands like Sibay or Maniguin. On board, you can expect essential amenities including water, towels, a first aid kit, and a diving toolbox to handle any minor kit issues. The boats are also equipped with communication devices to ensure safety during transit.

The shore-based facilities are designed to support both recreational and technical divers. SASN operates its own gas blending station, providing Nitrox, Trimix, and Heliox. They use government-certified BAUER compressors to ensure the air quality meets high standards.

Full equipment hire is available for those not travelling with their own kit. For those on multi-day trips, the staff provides services such as equipment cleaning and the transport of cylinders and gear. The centre is also well-equipped to handle technical configurations, including side mount setups.

The reefs are vibrant with hard coral (Scleractinia), soft corals (Alcyonacea), barrel sponges, and various sea fans (Gorgoniidae). You will find a high density of reef fish, including many species of Anthias, Butterflyfish (Chaetodon), and Wrasse (Labridae), alongside colourful sponges and crinoids.

Macro enthusiasts can find a wealth of life, including Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani), pygmy seahorses, and various crustaceans like shrimp (Caridea) and crabs (Brachyura). Octopus (Octopus vulgaris), frogfish (Antennarius), and scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) are also present among the coral heads.

Pelagic encounters vary by location and season. You can encounter Manta ray (Mobula alfredi), sharks (Selachimorpha), and large schools of jacks (Carangidae) or trevallies. Between March and June, you may have the opportunity to see whales and dolphins (Delphinidae) during safaris to Pamilacan Island. In other areas, look out for Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), reef sharks, and various rays.

Diving conditions in the region vary significantly by site. Some locations, such as Cervera Shoal, are known for powerful to brutal surface currents, making them suitable for experienced drift divers. Other sites, like Laurel Island, present moderate currents that require a degree of experience.

Some sites, such as Sumilon Island and Crocodile Island, can have strong currents that may carry a diver away from the reef. It is always important to assess the local conditions with your guide before entering the water.