Diving in Palawan

Three great links

Historical Depths of Olympia Maru

Discover the fascinating history of the Olympia Maru 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.

Exploring Olympia Maru – Coron’s most approachable wreck

Olympia Maru is often described as one of the easiest and most enjoyable wrecks to dive in Coron Bay. Although it lacks the size and depth of other well-known WWII wrecks, it offers something just as valuable—accessibility. Because of its shallow location, good visibility, and relatively open structure, Olympia Maru is a great starting point for divers who want to experience wreck diving without feeling overwhelmed.

Originally a Japanese cargo ship, Olympia Maru was sunk during the American air raids of 1944. Over time, it has settled peacefully into the seabed, resting at depths between 10 and 25 meters. This makes it suitable for Open Water divers, and even those on their first few wreck dives will find it approachable. In fact, many dive centers use Olympia Maru as a warm-up site or an ideal second dive of the day.

What sets Olympia Maru apart

Is how inviting it feels underwater. The hull is partially broken, which allows natural light to filter through the wreck. Because of this, divers can explore some sections safely without the need for advanced wreck training. That said, it’s always best to dive with a guide, especially when entering any overhead environment.

Marine life adds another layer of charm to the site. Schools of small reef fish move through the beams, and critters like lionfish, nudibranchs, and shrimp hide in cracks and shadows. Soft corals and sea fans now decorate the structure, turning this once war-torn vessel into a living reef. As a result, it’s become a favorite not just for wreck lovers, but also for underwater photographers.

Conditions are usually calm, and currents are rare. Still, visibility can vary depending on tides and weather. But even on cloudier days, Olympia Maru remains enjoyable thanks to its easy depth and open layout.

For those looking to experience history and marine life in the same dive, Olympia Maru is a strong recommendation. It’s not just a wreck—it’s an underwater classroom, a sanctuary for sea life, and a reminder of the stories resting quietly beneath the waves.