The 34-metre M/Y Resolute is a unique dive and pleasure yacht that has been cruising the Philippines since 1998, making it one of the longest-running liveaboards in the country. Before this, Resolute had the fascinating history of being used as a Soviet spy trawler during the cold war. A few years after decommissioning, the vessel was bought and converted into the full-service dive liveaboard it is today. Thanks to its sturdy construction and aptitude for extended voyages, Resolute has also participated in several underwater archeological missions, scientific surveys and humanitarian relief efforts.

From March to June Resolute journeys to Tubbataha – the gem of diving in the Philippines, providing guests with five days of diving in the UNESCO heritage site’s atolls and reefs. During the months of July to October, the vessel navigates around the island of Cebu, treating divers to whale sharks, thresher sharks, and colourful critters. The ship then moves on to the second largest contiguous reef in the world – Apo Reef – offering hammerheads, reef sharks, barracudas and other pelagics. For the rest of the year Resolute sets up in the Batangas area, making weekly trips to the Verde Island Passage and Puerto Galera from its home base in Anilao.

Onboard Resolute

Meals aboard Resolute are served at picnic-style benches in the open-air dining area and typically consist of a five-course buffet of Filipino cuisine with some international flair. The vessel’s two experienced chefs can also cater to different dietary needs. Up to 16 guests can be accommodated in Resolute’s eight cabins which are decorated in a simple yet inviting Scandinavian style. This rustic wooden aesthetic is carried through much of the vessel’s interior, including the cosy main deck lounge which is equipped with bench seating, beanbags and a camera table. A semi-covered outdoor lounge area can be found on the upper deck and is furnished with beanbags and sun loungers.

Diving from Resolute

Resolute’s dive deck offers plenty of space for each diver to kit up with ease and features useful storage crates, camera table and convenient toilets. Each diver is supplied with a 12l tank, SMB and weight belt, while BCDs, regulators, dive computers, wetsuits, masks, fins and booties are available to rent at an additional cost. Nitrox fills can be provided for a minimal charge and 15l tanks are also available to rent. A selection of certification and specialty courses are offered on board.