Lusong Gunboat

Situated in the idyllic region of Palawan in the Philippines, the waters surrounding Coron are a diver's paradise. Here's a closer look: Natural Splendor The reefs in Coron are a living tapestry of vibrant marine life and intricate coral formations. The biodiversity here is staggering, from colorful schools of fish dancing among the corals to the larger pelagics that occasionally grace these waters. The clear turquoise seas enhance visibility, making every dive a visual feast. Historical Underwater Museum: The historical significance of Coron's underwater world is what truly sets it apart. During World War II, in September 1944, a series of air strikes by the US Navy led to the sinking of several Japanese Imperial Navy ships. Over time, nature has claimed these wrecks, transforming them into thriving artificial reefs. Divers can explore the hauntingly beautiful remains of these ships, with many still largely intact. Inside, artifacts of war lie juxtaposed against the backdrop of marine life that has since made the wrecks their home. Dive sites like the Irako, Okikawa Maru, and Akitsushima are among the most popular and offer a somber reminder of the past. **A Dive for Everyone:** Coron caters to all diving levels. Beginners can snorkel the shallower reefs or dive some of the wrecks that are closer to the surface. For the more experienced, deeper wrecks and challenging swim-throughs await. Ecotourism and Preservation: As tourism in Coron has surged, there's been a concerted effort to protect its underwater treasures. Regulations ensure that the wrecks and reefs are preserved, and many dive shops contribute to conservation efforts, ensuring that Coron remains a pristine dive destination for generations to come. In summary, Coron is more than just a dive spot; it's an experience that blends natural wonder with poignant history, beckoning divers from around the world to explore its depths.

Discover a historical WWII Japanese shipwreck that sunk and is now covered by the colorful corals, home of different fishes and sea fans. In a distance a large coral the garden lies that lives by different kinds of corals and thousands of fishes. Reef and Wrecks Tours is the best itinerary for snorkeling activities and diving experiences. • Pass Island Pass Island Coron is one of the whitest, sandiest & tropical islands. Imagine pure white silica, soft underfoot, and tall, green palm trees towering skywards and casting blissful shadows over the beach. Then imagine a cold beer in hand and refreshing, calm waters to swim in. • Lusong Gunboat This gunboat was strafed when cruising close to Concepcion village. Disabled by hundreds of machine-gun bullets she was caused to beach herself at the Southern tip of Lusong Island. The wreck is equally good for snorkeling and wreck photography and is often used for relaxation between main dives. The wreck has been salvaged and the entire top has gone. It is nicely covered with sponges and soft corals, many butterflyfish, angelfish, pufferfish, and batfish can be seen. There is also good snorkeling on the reef beside the wreck. • Lusong Coral Garden This is an absolutely amazing coral garden very close to the Lusong shipwreck spot. There are so many types of corals with breathtaking colors and shapes as far as your eye can see. • East TangatWreck East Tangat wreck sunk on the 24th of September 1944 that was believed to be either a tugboat or an anti-submarine craft. This happened during World War II. This shipwreck is 40 meters or 130 feet long and 500 gross tons. The wreck lies listing to starboard down a sandy slope with the stern at 22 meters or 72 feet. The top of the bow at 10 feet points at 320 degrees (compass bearing). This is because East Tangat Wreck has very good shallow water that is also enough to be enjoyed by the snorkelers. The site is also good for novices, underwater photographers, and writers. On the other hand, allocentric and adventurous divers could possibly not find the experience they are searching for at this dive site. These people prefer deeper water and sometimes strong currents. On the wreck, you can find a few corals, both soft and hard, and there are some large lettuce corals beside the East Tangat wreck. It has been home to many aquatic animals and a very good marine life. There you can see schools of small angelfish, butterflyfish specifically the Copper band butterflyfish, white sponges, and many more. Sea stars and crinoids are rarely seen. Location: Close to the southwest side of Tangat Island, Coron, Palawan, Philippines Main Attraction: Wreck diving, snorkeling Average depth: 10 meters or 33 feet Maximum depth: 22 meters or 72 feet Condition: Mild to strong currents