Diving in Palawan

Marine life and Kogyu Maru wreck condition

Over the years, the wreck has become home to a wide range of marine species. Schools of batfish, groupers, and snappers patrol the openings, while macro lovers will enjoy nudibranchs, shrimps, and pipefish in sheltered corners. Sponges and soft corals cover the hull, giving it a striking look. Visibility is usually good, though can drop during plankton season.

Dive planning and safety for Kogyo Maru

Kogyo Maru is considered an advanced dive because of its depth and the potential for penetration. Nitrox is often used to extend bottom time, and proper wreck training is recommended for entering the deeper sections. Good buoyancy is essential, especially when exploring confined areas or areas with loose silt.

Dive equipment

Take a look at some of the specialized equipment that is used during wreck diving.

Wreck diving in Coron

Discover all the interesting wrecks of Coron using our database of dive sites.

Dive centers

Take a look at the different dive centers that offer wreck diving not only in Coron.

Wreck diving techniques

What is so special about wreck diving? One thing is that you can’t go straight up because you are inside.

Kogyo Maru: a deep dive into Coron’s history

Kogyo Maru is more than just a wreck—it’s a time capsule resting quietly beneath the waves of Coron Bay. Sunk during an air raid in 1944, this Japanese auxiliary ship once carried construction materials and equipment. Now, decades later, it has transformed into one of the region’s most fascinating dive sites.

Why diving Kogyo Maru is worth the depth

Although it lies deeper than many other wrecks in Coron, Kogyo Maru offers rich rewards for those with experience. The ship sits upright between 22 and 36 meters, making it ideal for advanced divers or those diving with nitrox. Because of its size—over 130 meters long—every dive offers something new, whether it’s a slow swim along the outer structure or a focused exploration of the inner decks.

Inside Kogyo Maru: What divers can expect

One of the most exciting parts of diving Kogyo Maru is exploring its interior. Large cargo holds reveal cement mixers, steel cables, and even construction vehicles—clear reminders of the ship’s wartime role. Though parts of the wreck have collapsed, much of the structure is still open enough for penetration, especially with proper training and a dive light.

Marine life around Kogyo Maru

Like many wrecks in the bay, Kogyo Maru has become a haven for marine life. Soft corals and sponges now cover much of the metal, while schools of snapper, batfish, and groupers move between the beams. In quieter corners, you might spot nudibranchs, shrimps, or even a resting lionfish. This blend of history and biology makes the site perfect for underwater photographers.

How to safely dive Kogyo Maru

Because of its depth and the potential for silt, diving Kogyo Maru requires care. Most dive centers recommend it only for certified advanced divers, and wreck penetration should only be done with proper training. Still, thanks to the wreck’s size and visibility, even an external tour is incredibly rewarding.

Conclusion: Kogyo Maru is a must for wreck lovers

For those seeking more than just coral gardens or shallow reefs, Kogyo Maru offers a unique kind of dive. It’s immersive, atmospheric, and full of character. The combination of preserved wartime history and thriving marine ecosystems makes every dive both exciting and meaningful. Whether it’s your first wreck penetration or your tenth visit to Coron, Kogyo Maru will leave a lasting impression.