Blog

learn to dive in coron withe the PADI open water course at Pirates Diving Center

Learn to Dive in Coron

Pirates Diving Resort

Your Ultimate Guide to the Open Water Course with Pirates Diving Center

Introduction Coron, Palawan, is a diver’s paradise, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and historic shipwrecks. If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the underwater world, there’s no better place to start your journey than with an Open Water Course in Coron. In this guide, we’ll take you through the learning to dive in Coron, focusing on the exceptional training provided by Pirates Diving Center. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to enhance your skills, this blog will show you why Coron is the best place to learn to dive.

learn to dive with Pirates Diving Center in coron, Palawan
The Giant Stride Entry

Why Choose Coron for Your Open Water Course?

  1. Stunning Dive Sites
    Coron boasts some of the most breathtaking dive sites in the world. From the famous WWII shipwrecks to vibrant coral reefs, the underwater scenery here is unparalleled. The clear waters offer excellent visibility, making it an ideal location for beginners.
  2. Rich Marine Biodiversity
    The waters around Coron are teeming with marine life. You’ll encounter a variety of fish species, colorful corals, and even the occasional sea turtle. This rich biodiversity enhances the learning experience, providing plenty of opportunities to practice your skills.
  3. Experienced Dive Centers
    Coron is home to several reputable dive centers, but Pirates Diving Center stands out for its exceptional training programs and experienced instructors. With a focus on safety and personalized instruction, Pirates Diving Center ensures that every student receives the best possible training.
open water student diver
getting to know your equipment

The Open Water Course: An Overview

  1. Knowledge Development
    This portion of the course covers the theoretical aspects of diving. You’ll learn about dive equipment, safety procedures, and the principles of underwater navigation. The knowledge development sessions can be completed online or in a classroom setting at Pirates Diving Center.
  2. Confined Water Dives
    In confined water dives, you’ll practice basic scuba skills in a controlled environment. These sessions typically take place in a shallow water area, often off one of Coron’s white sandy beaches. You’ll learn how to set up your gear, clear your mask, and perform essential safety drills.
  3. Open Water Dives
    The highlight of the course is the open water dives. You’ll complete a series of dives in the open ocean, applying the skills you’ve learned in real-world conditions. These dives are conducted at some of Coron’s most beautiful dive sites, providing an unforgettable experience.
Beginner dive site in Coron
Dimangelet, perfect for beginner divers

Why Choose Pirates Diving Center?

  1. Experienced Instructors
    Pirates Diving Center boasts a team of highly experienced and certified instructors. They are passionate about diving and dedicated to providing top-notch training. Whether you’re a nervous beginner or an experienced diver looking to refresh your skills, the instructors at Pirates Diving Center will ensure you feel confident and comfortable.
  2. Personalized Training
    At Pirates Diving Center, the focus is on personalized instruction. The small class sizes allow for individualized attention, ensuring that each student progresses at their own pace. The instructors take the time to address any concerns and provide additional support as needed.
  3. Modern Facilities
    Pirates Diving Center is equipped with modern facilities and high-quality dive gear. The center maintains strict safety standards, regularly servicing and updating their equipment. You’ll have access to everything you need for a safe and enjoyable diving experience.
  4. Convenient Location
    Located in the heart of Coron town, Pirates Diving Center is easily accessible. The center is just a short distance from many of Coron’s top dive sites, minimizing travel time and maximizing your time in the water.
  5. 5-Star Training Facility Pirates is an official SSI and SDI diver training facility, following ISO standards
Beginner Diver, Learning to dive in Coron with Pirates Diving Center
First training dives

A Day in the Life of an Open Water Student

  • Morning: Knowledge Development
    Your day begins on the boat on the way to our first location, with a knowledge development session. You’ll review the theoretical aspects of diving, either online or in a boat based classroom setting. The instructors at Pirates Diving Center make learning engaging and interactive, ensuring you grasp the essential concepts.
  • Mid-Morning: Confined Water Dives
    After the knowledge session, you’ll head to the shallow water area for your confined water dives. Here, you’ll practice setting up your gear, clearing your mask, learning buoyancy techniques and performing safety drills. The instructors provide hands-on guidance, helping you build confidence in your skills.
  • Afternoon: Open Water Dives
    The highlights of the day are the open water dives. The dive boat and head to one of Coron’s stunning dive sites. Under the supervision of your instructor, you’ll apply the skills you’ve learned in real-world conditions. The clear waters and vibrant marine life make for an unforgettable experience.
  • Late Afternoon Review and Relaxation
    After a day of diving, on the boat journey return to Pirates Diving Center, you together with your instructor will undertake a review session. The instructors will go over the day’s activities, addressing any questions or concerns. and on the 2nd day there is a multiple choice test to make sure everything is fully understood. The rest of the evening is yours to relax and explore Coron town.
seeing a Turtle while learning to dive with Pirates in Coron, Palawan, Philippines
Seeing a Turtle on your training dive

Testimonials from Pirates Open Water Course Graduates

Kevin L.
“Great choice to go with Pirates. We chose Pirates as they were more inviting when we visited their dive shop. Some of the other dive operators were a little bit cheaper, but they were focused more on the price rather than asking about us. We are experienced divers and have become very particular in what we like in a dive operator over the years. We were delighted that we chose to go with Pirates as they were excellent in everything. We were picked up at 8 am from our hotel and driven to the dive shop, where Tom, our divemaster, was waiting ready to get our equipment into the boxes to take to the boat. After filling in the usual paperwork, it was off to the docking area to meet with the other divers already on the boat. Pirates’ boat is great, spacious, and comfortable. We felt a little bit like celebrities as every time we encountered other boats, the people on them were busy taking pictures of The Black Revenge.”

Hub C.
“Very nice dive shop. Ask for Tom or Flo for divemaster. They know all the good dive spots. Barracuda Lake is a must. Thanks again!”

Mark B.
“Wonderful experience diving wrecks and reefs with Pirates Diving. I chose Pirates Diving based on their online reviews and they were quick to respond to my queries via WhatsApp. The dive center is professionally run, staff are friendly and helpful, and all trips were well organized, with clear briefings.”

Anonymous
“Extremely accommodating—as a solo traveler and diver, two days out of the 11 I was the only diver on board the boat, no issues to take me out alone. This is great service which is offered by very few other dive shops. The boat was excellent, having been newly refurbished, and the boat crew—Captain, Boatboy/Cook, and dive guides—Instructor and Divemasters were friendly and attentive. Excellent dive sites—dived all 9 wrecks that were readily accessible, a surreal experience diving in Barracuda Lake, and superb reefs. Recommend using Pirates Diving Center if you are planning a trip to Coron.”

Seeing shipwrecks while Learning to Dive in Coron
Corals growing on the steel of a shipwreck

Preparing for Your Open Water Course

  1. Medical Clearance
    Before starting your course, you’ll need to complete a medical questionnaire. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, you may need to obtain clearance from a doctor.
  2. Study Materials
    Pirates Diving Center provides all the necessary study materials for the knowledge development portion of the course. You can choose to complete this section online or in a classroom setting.
  3. Packing Essentials
    When packing for your trip to Coron, be sure to include the following essentials:
  • Swimsuit
  • Towel
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Dive logbook (if you already have one)
  1. Accommodation
    Coron offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. From budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts, you’ll find plenty of choices. Pirates Diving Center can provide recommendations based on your preferences. some can be found at https;//piratescoron.com/accommodation/
taking the Open Water Course onboard the Black Revenge of Pirates Diving in Coron
Pirates “Black Revenge” dive boat

Exploring Coron Beyond Diving

While diving is the main attraction, Coron has plenty to offer beyond the underwater world. Here are some must-see sights and activities:

  1. Kayangan Lake
    Kayangan Lake is one of the most iconic spots in Coron. The crystal-clear waters and stunning limestone cliffs make it a photographer’s dream. Take a dip in the refreshing waters and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
  2. Twin Lagoon
    Twin Lagoon is another popular destination. The two lagoons are separated by a narrow opening, which you can swim through at low tide. The mix of salt and freshwater creates a unique swimming experience.
  3. Maquinit Hot Springs
    After a day of diving, relax in the natural hot springs at Maquinit. The warm, therapeutic waters are the perfect way to unwind and soothe tired muscles.
  4. Island Hopping Tours
    Coron is surrounded by beautiful islands, each with its own unique charm. Join an island-hopping tour to explore pristine beaches, hidden lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs.
Exploring Coron's Islands with Pirates Diving Center
Malpacuya Island, Coron

Conclusion

Learning to dive in Coron is an unforgettable experience. The combination of stunning dive sites, rich marine biodiversity, and exceptional training at Pirates Diving Center makes it the best place to learn to dive. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have maybe previously have taken a discover diving day, taking the Open Water Course in Coron will open up a whole new world of underwater adventures. So, pack your bags, dive into the crystal-clear waters of Coron, and embark on a journey you’ll cherish forever.

Dugong in Coron

Dugongs in Coron: A magical Adventure

Pirates Diving Resort

Introduction to the Dugongs in Coron

Coron, Palawan, is a paradise for divers and snorkelers, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and historical shipwrecks. Yet, among its many underwater treasures, one experience stands out as particularly magical: diving and snorkeling with dugongs in Coron. These gentle marine giants, also known as sea cows, are rare and enchanting creatures that inhabit the waters around Coron. This blog will guide you through the incredible journey of encountering dugongs in their natural habitat, highlighting the unique day excursions that make this adventure possible.

The Magic of Dugongs

Dugong and Diver in Coron

Who Are the Dugongs?

Dugongs are marine mammals closely related to manatees and are part of the Sirenia order. These gentle creatures graze on seagrass in shallow coastal waters and are often referred to as “sea cows” because of their diet and grazing habits. Dugongs are characterized by their streamlined bodies, paddle-like flippers, and distinctive tails that resemble those of dolphins. They can grow up to three meters in length and weigh as much as 500 kilograms.

Conservation Status

Dugongs are classified as vulnerable to extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their populations have declined due to habitat loss, hunting, and accidental capture in fishing gear. Therefore, encountering these magnificent creatures in the wild is a rare and special experience, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts to protect their habitats.

Preparing for the Adventure

Early Morning Departure

The adventure of diving and snorkeling with dugongs in Coron begins bright and early. Day excursions typically depart at 5 AM, allowing participants to maximize their time with these elusive creatures. The early start ensures that you arrive at the dugong sanctuary during optimal viewing times, when the animals are most active.

The Journey to the Dugong Sanctuary

Overland Travel

The journey to the dugong sanctuary begins with an overland trip from Pirates Diving Center in Coron Town. To the location of the Dugongs sanctuary, finding them can take anywhere from 1 ½ to 2 hours. The scenic drive offers stunning views of Palawan’s lush landscapes, rolling hills, and coastal scenery. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about the region’s natural beauty and local culture.

Breakfast and Briefing

Upon arrival at the dive center, you’ll be greeted with a hearty breakfast to fuel your day of adventure. This is also the time when dive guides and park rangers will provide a detailed briefing about the day’s activities, safety protocols, and information about dugongs and their habitat. The briefing ensures that all participants are well-prepared and understand the importance of respectful and responsible interactions with these marine mammals.

Boarding the Dive/Snorkel Boat

Upon reaching the coast, you’ll board a traditional bangka or dive boat, which will take you to the dugong sanctuary. The boat ride is an adventure in itself, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and crystal-clear waters. As you approach the sanctuary, excitement builds at the prospect of encountering dugongs in their natural habitat.

Encountering Dugongs in Coron: The Experience

Guided Dives and Snorkeling

The presence of experienced dive guides and park rangers ensures a safe and informative experience. Whether you’re diving or snorkeling, your guide will lead you to the best spots for observing dugongs. The guides are well-versed in the behavior and patterns of these gentle giants, increasing your chances of a memorable encounter.

The Magic of Seeing Dugongs in Coron

As you descend into the water or float on the surface, you’ll be awestruck by the serene beauty of the underwater world. The seagrass meadows, where dugongs graze, are teeming with life, from colorful fish to delicate corals. Suddenly, a shadowy figure appears in the distance – a dugong, gracefully gliding through the water. Observing a dugong in its natural habitat is a magical experience, marked by the gentle movements and peaceful demeanor of these magnificent creatures.

Interaction Guidelines

To ensure the safety and well-being of the dugongs, it’s crucial to follow interaction guidelines provided by the park rangers and dive guides. Maintain a respectful distance, avoid sudden movements, and refrain from touching or feeding the animals. By adhering to these guidelines, you help protect the dugongs and contribute to the conservation of their habitat.

A Day to Remember: The Full Experience

Exploring the Sanctuary

The day excursion includes multiple dives or snorkeling sessions, allowing you to explore different areas of the dugong sanctuary. Each session offers new opportunities to observe and learn about these fascinating creatures. In addition to dugongs, you’ll encounter a diverse array of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and schools of colorful fish.

Lunch and Leisure

A sumptuous lunch is served on the boat or at a picturesque beach, providing a welcome break from the water. Enjoy freshly prepared dishes featuring local ingredients, such as grilled seafood, rice, and tropical fruits. After lunch, there’s time to relax, swim, or simply soak in the beauty of your surroundings.

Afternoon Encounters

The afternoon is dedicated to additional dives or snorkeling sessions. On one of the Sanctuary’s coral reefs, By now, you may feel more comfortable in the water, enhancing your chances of close encounters with more marine life. The changing light and water conditions offer new perspectives and photo opportunities, making each session unique.

The Importance of Dugong in Coron Conservation

Protecting Marine Habitats

Dugongs rely on healthy seagrass meadows for their survival. Unfortunately, these habitats are under threat from coastal development, pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts in Coron aim to protect and restore seagrass beds, ensuring a sustainable future for dugongs and other marine species.

Community Involvement

Local communities play a vital role in dugong conservation. Many residents are involved in monitoring and protecting dugong habitats, as well as educating visitors about the importance of marine conservation. By participating in dugong excursions, you support these community-based conservation initiatives and contribute to the local economy.

Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism practices are essential for preserving Coron’s natural beauty and ensuring the long-term survival of dugongs. Choose tour operators that prioritize environmental responsibility, adhere to strict interaction guidelines, and actively participate in conservation efforts. Your responsible choices as a traveler can make a significant difference in protecting Coron’s delicate marine ecosystems.

Practical Tips for Dugong Encounters

What to Bring

  • Snorkeling/Diving Gear: While the diving operators provide equipment, bringing your own mask, snorkel, and fins ensures a comfortable fit.
  • Underwater Camera: Capture the magic of your dugong encounters with an underwater camera or GoPro.
  • Sun Protection: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and a long-sleeved rash guard to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized throughout the day with plenty of water and light snacks.

Health and Safety

  • Fitness Level: Ensure you are in good health and comfortable in the water. Consult with your doctor if you have any medical concerns.
  • Follow Guidelines: Adhere to all safety and interaction guidelines provided by your dive guide and park ranger.
  • Respect Wildlife: Remember that you are a guest in the dugong’s habitat. Respect their space and avoid any actions that could harm or disturb them.

Conclusion

Diving and snorkeling with dugongs in Coron is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a unique blend of adventure, education, and conservation. The opportunity to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a privilege that few people get to experience. By participating in these carefully managed excursions, you not only create unforgettable memories but also contribute to the protection and preservation of dugongs and their marine environment.

The early morning departure, the scenic overland journey, the guided dives, and the delicious meals all add to the richness of this adventure. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a novice snorkeler, encountering dugongs in Coron will leave you with a deep appreciation for these remarkable creatures and the importance of conserving their habitat.

Plan your trip to Coron and embark on this incredible journey. Witness the magic of the underwater world, connect with nature, and become an advocate for marine conservation. The dugongs of Coron are waiting to welcome you to their underwater paradise.

To book your Dugong dive or snorkel experience, contact piratescoron@gmail.com or use the contact form on the website

Diving into History and Adventure:

Pirates Diving Resort

Unveiling Coron’s Shipwreck Tales:

Introduction:

Nestled in the breathtaking province of Busuanga, Coron, Philippines, lies an underwater realm teeming with history and natural wonders. Its like diving into history with Coron’s shipwrecks, remnants of World War II, hold captivating tales waiting to be explored by adventurous divers. In this article, we invite you to dive into the depths of Coron’s shipwreck sites, discover their fascinating stories, and witness the indomitable spirit of exploration and resilience. Join us on this unforgettable journey, where Pirates Diving Center serves as your trusted guide to uncovering Coron’s hidden treasures.

Diving into History: The American Navy Attacks

Coron’s shipwrecks bear witness to a tumultuous chapter in history—the American Navy air raid attacks of September 24, 1944. In an effort to disrupt Japanese supply lines during World War II, a squadron of American carrier-based aircraft targeted Japanese ships anchored in Coron Bay. The resulting aerial assault inflicted significant damage, sinking several vessels and forever altering the underwater landscape.

The Attack on September 24, 1944:

On that fateful day, a formation of American planes launched from their carriers, soaring through the skies towards Coron Bay. Their mission: to incapacitate the Japanese fleet and weaken their stronghold. With precision and determination, the aircraft unleashed their devastating payload, raining bombs upon the unsuspecting vessels below. The echoes of explosions reverberated through the bay, forever etching this event into history.

Coron, situated on the island of Busuanga, is know as the shipwreck diving capital of South East Asia

The Shipwrecks of Coron:

Irako: Once a Japanese refrigeration ship, the Irako met its watery grave during the air raid attack. Now lying on the ocean floor, it stands as a poignant reminder of the fierce battles that unfolded in these waters.

Okikawa Maru: Once a majestic tanker, the Okikawa Maru now rests peacefully on the seabed, its hulking structure adorned with vibrant corals. As you explore its remains, you can’t help but imagine the bravery and sacrifice of those who sailed aboard this vessel.

Akitsushima: The remnants of the Akitsushima, a seaplane tender, provide a glimpse into the naval operations of the Japanese forces. Swim through its majestic corridors, now home to an array of marine life, and marvel at the juxtaposition of nature’s beauty against the backdrop of wartime history.

Olympia Maru, Nanshin Maru, Black Island Wreck, Lusong Gun Boat, East Tangat Wreck, Skeleton Wreck, and Kogyo Maru: These additional shipwrecks scattered throughout Coron’s waters offer divers a chance to immerse themselves in history. Each wreck tells its own story, from cargo vessels to gunboats, providing a mosaic of the past waiting to be explored.

Diving Delights in Coron:

Beyond the historical significance of the wrecks, Coron boasts a myriad of dive sites catering to divers of all levels. Here are some notable sites that showcase Coron’s natural beauty:

Barracuda Lake: Dive into the surreal realm of Barracuda Lake, known for its thermocline phenomenon, where distinct layers of warm and cold water create an otherworldly experience. Encounter the elusive barracudas and traverse impressive rock formations as you explore the lake’s depths.

Siete Pecados: Immerse yourself in the vibrant marine park of Siete Pecados, where colorful coral gardens house a kaleidoscope of marine life. Swim among schools of reef fish and marvel at the intricate ecosystem that thrives in this underwater paradise.

Dimalanta Point: Brace yourself for an exhilarating drift dive at Dimalanta Point, where strong currents carry you past breathtaking coral formations and encounter majestic rays gliding through the water. Explore the depths and be awed by the abundance of marine biodiversity.

PADI Wreck and Deep Specialty Courses in Coron:

Pirates Diving Center in Coron offers specialized PADI courses to enhance your diving skills and allow you to explore the wrecks and depths with confidence. Consider these courses to expand your knowledge and embark on thrilling underwater adventures:

PADI Wreck Specialty Course: Delve deeper into the art of wreck diving with the PADI Wreck Specialty Course. Learn advanced techniques for safe wreck penetration, navigation, and the preservation of these historical sites. Uncover hidden treasures while respecting the fragility of these underwater relics.

PADI Deep Specialty Course: Unlock the mysteries of the deep with the PADI Deep Specialty Course. Acquire the skills necessary to plan and execute dives at greater depths, expanding your range of exploration. Discover the secrets that lie in the abyss and witness the captivating sights that await.

Conclusion:

Coron, Philippines, beckons adventurers and diving enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a realm where history and natural beauty intertwine. Traverse the depths and unlock the stories held within Coron’s shipwrecks, testaments to a turbulent past. Explore vibrant dive sites, where marine life thrives amidst breathtaking coral formations. With Pirates Diving Center as your trusted companion, embark on a journey of discovery, where the echoes of history merge with the wonders of the underwater world. Let Coron’s shipwrecks and dive sites leave an indelible mark on your soul, as you witness the resilience of nature and the enduring spirit of exploration.

Pirates Dive boat moored at Kayaygan Lake Jetty Coron

Shipwrecks of Coron, Philippines

Pirates Diving Resort

Southeast Asia is renowned for its exceptional shipwreck diving sites, offering thrilling and captivating experiences for diving enthusiasts. One of the best shipwreck diving destinations in the region is Coron, located in the province of Palawan in the Philippines. It is renowned for its exceptional shipwreck diving. The area is home to numerous Japanese World War II wrecks that have turned into captivating underwater attractions. Coron Bay is a treasure trove for wreck divers with some of South East Asia’s best shipwreck diving including the iconic Irako Maru, Okikawa Maru, and Akitsushima. These wrecks have become artificial reefs teeming with marine life, surrounded by crystal-clear waters:


The shipwrecks in Coron Bay have a rich history tied to the events of World War II. During the war, Coron Bay served as a sheltered anchorage for the Japanese Imperial Navy, making it a target for American forces. In September 1944, a series of airstrikes known as the “Operation Stalemate II” took place, leading to the sinking of several Japanese vessels that now rest on the bay’s seabed. Here’s a brief history of Corons shipwrecks:
Japanese Fleet in Coron Bay: As the war progressed, the Japanese Imperial Navy sought refuge in Coron Bay to protect their vessels from American airstrikes. The bay’s strategic location and natural protection made it an ideal anchorage. The Japanese fleet stationed in Coron Bay consisted of various types of ships, including supply ships, warships, and auxiliary vessels.
Airstrikes and Sinking: In September 1944, American forces launched a series of airstrikes on the Japanese fleet in Coron Bay. The attacks aimed to disrupt Japanese supply lines and eliminate their naval presence in the area. The precise details of each sinking vary, but it is believed that most of the ships were struck by bombs or torpedoes, causing them to sink to the seabed.
Rediscovery and Exploration: After the war, the wrecks in Coron Bay remained largely forgotten until their rediscovery in the 1980s. The pristine condition of the wrecks, combined with the area’s clear waters and abundant marine life, attracted divers from around the world. Today, Coron’s shipwrecks are among the most popular diving sites in the Philippines.
Artificial Reefs and Marine Life: Over the years, the sunken vessels in Coron Bay have transformed into thriving artificial reefs. The wrecks provide a habitat for an incredible diversity of marine life, with corals, sponges, and other organisms adorning the structures. The wrecks attract an array of fish species, including snappers, groupers, lionfish, and schools of jacks, creating a vibrant underwater ecosystem.
The shipwrecks in Coron Bay stand as poignant reminders of the past and offer a unique opportunity for divers to explore a piece of World War II history. While the wrecks themselves hold historical significance, they have also become valuable marine habitats, contributing to the ecological diversity of the area. The combination of history, underwater beauty, and marine life has made Coron a world-class diving destination.
Irako Maru: The Irako Maru is one of the most popular shipwrecks in Coron. This 147-meter-long refrigeration ship was part of the Japanese Imperial Navy’s supply fleet. It now rests at a depth of around 40 meters. Divers can explore the cargo holds, engine rooms, and the iconic swim-through known as the “Irako Tunnel.” The wreck is adorned with colorful soft corals and is inhabited by a variety of marine life, including lionfish, groupers, and schools of snappers.
Okikawa Maru: Sunk during the World War II airstrikes in 1944, the Okikawa Maru is a 160-meter-long oil tanker sitting upright on the seabed. This wreck is particularly photogenic, with its massive propeller and intact structure. Divers can swim through the cargo holds, where you’ll find remnants of trucks, torpedoes, and even an intact Japanese tank. The wreck is teeming with marine life, including batfish, jacks, and fusiliers.
Akitsushima: The Akitsushima is a 118-meter-long seaplane tender that was used for reconnaissance missions during World War II. This wreck lies at a depth of around 35 meters, and divers can explore the deck area, gun turrets, and the remaining seaplane. The Akitsushima is adorned with vibrant corals and sponges, and divers may encounter schools of barracudas, lionfish, and other tropical fish.
Kogyo Maru: The Kogyo Maru, a cargo ship, is one of the shallower wrecks in Coron. Resting at a depth of around 25 meters, this 120-meter-long wreck offers an excellent opportunity for both beginners and experienced divers. The Kogyo Maru is known for its large cargo holds, which are accessible for exploration. The wreck is home to a wide variety of marine life, including nudibranchs, lionfish, and juvenile barracudas.
Olympia Maru: The Olympia Maru was a 122-meter-long freighter that was sunk during a raid in 1944. It now lies in relatively shallow waters at a depth of around 12 meters, making it suitable for snorkelers as well. The wreck is home to an abundance of corals and is frequented by colorful reef fish, including angelfish and butterflyfish.
East Tangat Gunboat: This small gunboat rests in shallower waters, making it an ideal site for novice divers or those interested in snorkeling. The wreck is covered in corals and serves as a home for various marine species, including angelfish, butterflyfish, and nudibranchs.
These shipwrecks in Coron offer divers an opportunity to explore while being surrounded by vibrant marine life. The wrecks provide a captivating glimpse into the past, showcasing the resilience of nature as coral reefs have taken root and become home to a diverse range of aquatic species.
These shipwrecks in Coron Bay provide a unique opportunity to explore the remnants of World War II history. It’s like being in an underwater museum of history, while immersing yourself in a thriving underwater ecosystem. Whether you are an experienced wreck diver or a beginner seeking an unforgettable adventure, Coron’s shipwrecks offer a captivating diving experience.
Pirates Diving Center is one of Coron’s leading facilitators, each day Pirates offer a 3 dive excursion to the best ship wrecks in the region. For more information you can contact Pirates at http://www.piratescoron.com whats app +639959537887 and Instagram @piratesdivingcoron

The Jacques Cousteau Influence

Pirates Diving Resort

I am old enough to remember diving pioneers like Jacques Cousteau and have been lucky enough to dive in some amazing places during my diving career, from quarries in England, Stunning reefs in Egypt, with Whale Sharks and Manta Rays in Thailand. Mating Leopard Sharks in Malaysia and just about everything you can imagine in the clear tropical waters of the Philippines.
There are many reasons people come to diving, some learn to dive young and others like myself learn at an older age. When I was young I loved to watch the amazing undersea adventures of Jacques Cousteau. I would even play scuba diving in the bath tub, complete with mask snorkel and fins. What a sight that must have been !

Jacque yeves cousteau
I was always around water, from six years old I lived most weekends on a boat together with a couple of annual boating vacations. I enjoyed swimming, snorkeling and the sea but never got around to trying out diving even though it had held that fascination for many years. I would go on vacations and often a local dive school would offer try out scuba in the hotel pool, but for some reason I would always make an excuse not to try it, I had heard about equalizing and think maybe I have a cold, I felt my ear on the flight there, or would plan to do something else instead. I’m not really sure why, I’m very competitive by nature and maybe subconsciously I feared not being able to breath underwater in front of others.
On vacation in Egypt I was taking a snorkel boat trip, something I had done many times before, and, in what I now know are some of the worlds best diving locations. I’m in the water and I see divers below looking at something. It frustrated the hell out of me’ that I couldn’t see what they were looking at. On the way back to my hotel I was telling my partner and she suggested I should book a dive at the hotel, yes maybe I replied and that was that.
Back in the hotel we had to visit the reception for something unrelated and I hear my partner asking about booking diving for the next day. Intermediately I went on the defensive I need to back out mode, Err I don’t know err its maybe expensive err what if we want to do something else – too late it was booked and I had finally run out of excuses.
So the next day I’m in the middle of the ocean on a boat wearing all this heavy equipment and lead weights on a belt and they tell me to jump in to the water, It didn’t feel much like Jacques Cousteau at this point “Cr**p I’m going to sink”, saying to myself as they pushed me to the edge. I had zero practice and virtually no instruction,with the exception of being shown two signals,’OK’ and the ‘Problem’ which was explained as this signal means calm down. So with a little nudge I was in the water, but I didn’t sink as I’d expected. instead the Instructor let the air out of my BCD and we started to descend slowly down a rope line. I remember to this day, it wasn’t the corals or the wonderful fish that fascinated me, or the clear water, it was how I was hearing myself breath and thinking how you stop breathing to swallow. Everything was so intensely apparent, I would never normally think about how I breath as a land dwelling animal.
So moving on, I liked the experience so much it triggered a change in my life of avalanche proportions, this first dive was followed by three more Discover Scuba Dives (try out dives) over the next 24 hours, Wednesday and Thursday. On the Friday evening I flew home to the UK, Saturday morning I signed up to an open water course and within a year I was a PADI instructor in Thailand.
Its not always been the easiest way to make a living, in some places I earned reasonably well, in others just enough to survive, I’ve had a few experiences that were not my favorite times in life, but I also had some wonderful times met many wonderful people and made some great friends. I now own my own dive school, and dive resort. I still like to go fun diving just for myself from time to time.
After more than 4000 dives I’m still in awe of what lies beneath the surface and how marine life comes in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and colors, and how it lives in all kinds of different environments, adapting to them perfectly. You can dive a site hundreds of times and still see something new, and sometimes very unexpected. I often wander back to those times watching Jacques Cousteau, who would have though back then I would become a professional diver and have the privilege to get paid for what I love to do.
My friends and acquaintances sometimes say I’m lucky to live on a beautiful tropical island doing what I do, and I guess I was lucky, but lucky to realise this is what I wanted to do. Actually anyone can do it, you just have to make the choice, sign up to a course and make it happen.

Pirates Diving Center in Coron Philippines is the perfect location to go professional with a Divemaster course