The Gulf of Davao is situated on the south coast of Mindanao Island and is approximately between latitude 6° 15' and 7° 20' East and longitude 125° 25' and 126° 10' East. It has a water area of 10,500 sq. km. and approximately 520 km. of coastline from Calian Point in Davao del Sur to Cape San Agustin in Davao Oriental. Within the Gulf are the islands of Samal and Talikud in Davao del Norte, Kopiat in Davao Oriental and Lunod in Compostela Valley. Samal Island is the largest of these islands, with 118 km. of coastline.

The Gulf has a unique pattern of water movement. During flood tide, water mass south of Samal Island flows southwest. In the northern portion of the island, between Bassa Point and Gill Point, water mass flows northeast, then southward and swiftly veers east-northeast during the peak tide current. In addition, the more saline oceanic waters flow into the gulf through the deeper section of the Gulf pushing the existing water mass northward. Tide waves occurring ahead at the eastern section cause older water to wave towards the area of low elevation at the western side. Eddies and standing oscillations are present.

There are 33 rivers and creeks that empty into the Davao Gulf. Water exchange is mainly tidal with relatively good surface mixing during strong monsoon winds. The northern portion is generally estuarine in character due to the massive influx of freshwater from the flood plains especially during the rainy season. This is why there would be a lot of river debris such as tree branches and river bank debris, especially during highest tides and heavy rainfall.

HOLIDAY OCEANVIEW MARINA

The only marina for yachts in the whole of Mindanao, it is located at the northernmost point of Samal Island. It is now operational, with yachts coming in mainly for storage purposes whilst owners go back to their home country. The marina offers 24/7 security and Davao being typhoon free, it is a perfect area to leave your yachts in. Power and electricity is available. There is a slipway for haul-outs as well. For more information and booking of berths/haulouts, just click on my contacts link.