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🧱 The Story Behind the Akitsushima Wreck
The Akitsushima was a Japanese seaplane tender sunk by Allied forces in September 1944 during an air raid over Coron Bay. Today, it rests on its port side at a depth of 22 to 36 meters, serving as both a haunting war memorial and one of the most iconic wreck dives in the Philippines. This 118-meter vessel offers a dramatic reminder of World War II history—now accessible to adventurous divers.
Season
Oct-June
🌊 What Makes Akitsushima Unique?
Unlike many other wrecks in Coron, the Akitsushima still shows signs of its military structure, including massive crane arms that were once used to launch seaplanes. With large open cargo holds, twisted metal beams, and coral-covered surfaces, this wreck combines historical significance with awe-inspiring visuals.
🤿 Is the Akitsushima Wreck Dive Right for You?
This dive is recommended for advanced divers due to its depth and overhead environments. Penetration is possible through some of the cargo holds, but should only be attempted with proper training and equipment. Good buoyancy control is essential to avoid disturbing silt and visibility. Many PADI and SSI dive centers in Coron offer guided tours to the wreck, often as part of a multi-wreck day trip.
📍 Dive Planning Tips
Best Season: October to June
Depth: 22–36 meters
Visibility: 10–20 meters
Experience Level: Advanced (wreck diving certification recommended)
Dive Type: Boat dive
🌍 How to Dive the Akitsushima
Akitsushima is accessible via dive boats departing from Coron town. Most dive centers offer daily wreck diving trips that include Akitsushima as part of a 2- or 3-dive day. Book with a reputable shop that provides wreck diving briefings and experienced guides.
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.
Three great links
Historical Depths
Discover the fascinating history of the Akitsushima Wreck, a World War II relic that tells stories of the past. Wikilink
Underwater Wonderland
Experience vibrant marine life as you navigate through the Irako shipwreck, a hub for biodiversity.
Diving Tips
Learn essential diving tips to safely explore this iconic wreck, suitable for divers of varying expertise. When you participate with one of the dive centers you will get a lot of really good information and tips regarding wreck diving.
Marine life around the wreck
The wreck is now home to a thriving ecosystem. Expect to see batfish, lionfish, groupers, scorpionfish, and occasionally turtles and rays gliding by. Macro photographers will also love the small critters hiding in the nooks and crannies of the ship’s decaying structure.
Palawan’s wreck diving adventures
Discover everything from dive centers to dive sites with our interactive map, list of trusted dive centers and other useful tools.
Top 4 dive centers
Top four dive centers in Palawan. We did it so you don’t have to.
Plan your trip
Create your dream journey with the help of our carefully selected resources.
List of dive centers
Browse through all dive centers and discover experts near you.
Top 10 dive sites
Discover the most breathtaking diving spots around Palawan.
Travel guide
Get tips and advice to make your diving adventure unforgettable.
Discover What Divers Are Saying About Us
Here, our customers share their real experiences from diving adventures with us in Palawan. Read genuine reviews, personal stories, and testimonials that highlight their satisfaction with our dive services, guides, and unforgettable underwater moments. Whether it’s exploring shipwrecks, meeting sea turtles, or learning to dive, you’ll find out why so many divers choose us again and again
Very nice experience with a smooth process and some useful tools.
Anna Svensson
Certified Diving Instructor
Half the fun is to plan the trip and read about all the highlights.
Mikael Eriksson
Marine biologist
When I was going to pick some great spots to go to I used the Trip planner.
Lisa Andersson
Underwater Photographer