In 1944, the US sank a fleet of Japanese supply and warships in the bay.

The shipwrecks are now giant artificial reefs! Covered in coral, packed with fish, and way more intact than you’d expect after +80 years.

Some sit shallow enough that you can float over them with a snorkel. Others are 40 metres down and need advanced certifications.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Shallow wrecks like Skeleton Wreck and East Tangat Gunboat are perfect if you don’t dive but still want to see a WWII ship up close. A lot of the shallower wrecks are available on the standard island hopping tours.

• Deeper dives like Irako, Okikawa Maru, and Kogyo Maru are massive structures you can swim through if you’ve got the training on a specialised diving tour.

• Plenty of coral growth, schooling fish, and the odd turtle cruising past.

TO ACCESS

• All wrecks are reached by boat from Coron Town.

• Most dive shops run full-day trips that mix 2–3 wrecks with a reef or lake stop in between.

TIPS & HACKS

• Pick a solid dive shop, especially if you’re doing wrecks - read the reviews.

• Don’t cram too many deep dives in one day, you might burn out fast.

• If you’re snorkelling, bring your own mask and fins. Rental gear can be average.