A 3-Day, 2-Night Dive Expedition Adventure
Introduction: Imagine diving into crystal-clear waters, exploring sunken shipwrecks, and experiencing vibrant marine life, all while staying on picturesque islands and a classic dive expedition boat. This dream adventure awaits you in Coron, Palawan, with Pirates Diving’s new 3-day, 2-night Dive Expedition. Dive into the wonders of the Calamian Island shipwrecks from the Black Revenge dive boat, sleep under the stars on Black Island and Pass Island, and divers can explore some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Coron and Busuanga area. The expedition features 9-dives from the Black Revenge dive boat and includes overnight stays on Black Island and Pass Island. With a carefully curated itinerary, Let’s embark on this thrilling journey
Day One: Exploring Barracuda Lake, Morazan Maru and the Black Island Wreck
Barracuda Lake (Depth Range 0m-30m)
Our adventure begins with a dive in Barracuda Lake, one of Coron’s most unique dive sites. Known for its thermocline and halocline layers, Barracuda Lake offers an extraordinary diving experience. The lake’s crystal-clear waters allow visibility up to 30 meters, revealing jagged limestone formations and stunning underwater topography. The lake is named after a resident barracuda, although sightings are rare.
Morazan Maru (Depth Range 14m-26m)
After the mesmerizing experience at Barracuda Lake, our dive expedition heads to the Morazan Maru, a Japanese freighter sunk during World War II. Resting at a depth of 25 meters, the Morazan Maru is a well-preserved wreck that has become an artificial reef teeming with marine life. Divers can explore the ship’s cargo holds, bridge, and engine room, which are now home to schools of fish, vibrant corals, and fascinating underwater flora.
Night Dive on Black Island Wreck, Nanshin Maru (Depth Range 20m -34m)
As the sun sets, we prepare for a night dive on the Black Island Wreck. Night dives are an entirely different experience, offering a glimpse into the nocturnal activities of marine creatures. Equipped with underwater lights, divers can witness the eerie beauty of the wreck illuminated against the dark waters. This dive site is particularly known for its biodiversity, including octopuses, lobsters, and various nocturnal fish species.
Overnight on Black Island
After an exhilarating day of diving, the expedition retreats to Black Island for an overnight stay. Black Island, also known as Malajon Island, is famous for its stunning white sand beaches and dramatic limestone cliffs. The island offers a peaceful and picturesque setting, perfect for relaxing after a day of underwater exploration. With only the sounds of nature and the gentle lapping of waves, it’s an ideal place to unwind and recharge.
Day Two: Diving the Okikawa Maru, Akitisushima, and Calumbayen Reef Drift Dive
Okikawa Maru (Depth Range 10m – 26m)
The second day of our safari begins with a dive on the Okikawa Maru, another World War II Japanese wreck. This oil tanker lies at a depth of 26 meters and is one of the largest wrecks in the area. The Okikawa Maru is covered in colorful corals and swarming with marine life, making it a favorite among wreck divers. The ship’s structure is largely intact, allowing for extensive exploration of its interior spaces.
Akitisushima ( Depth Range 22m-36m)
Next, we dive on the Akitisushima, a seaplane tender also sunk during World War II. The Akitisushima is unique due to its massive crane, which was used to lift seaplanes. This wreck lies at a depth of 36 meters and offers a fascinating dive with plenty to see, including the seaplane catapult and anti-aircraft guns. The wreck is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and is home to various marine species, including large groupers, barracudas, and schools of fusiliers.
Calumbayan Reef Drift Dive (Depth Range 4m-34m)
In the afternoon, The dive expedition shifts focus focus from wrecks to reefs with a drift dive on one of Coron’s pristine coral reefs. This dive site offers a kaleidoscope of colors with an abundance of hard and soft corals, sponges, and anemones. Divers can expect to see a variety of reef fish, such as parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish, as well as occasional sightings of turtles and reef sharks.
Overnight on Pass Island
After a full day of diving, we head to Pass Island for our second overnight stay. Pass Island is a small, idyllic island surrounded by turquoise waters and fringed with coconut palms. The island’s tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make it a perfect spot for a relaxing evening. With clear skies, it’s also an excellent place for stargazing, providing a serene end to an adventurous day.
Day Three: Diving the Olympia Maru, Kogyo Maru, and Twin Peaks Reef
Olympia Maru (Depth Range 21m- 32m)
Our final day begins with a dive on the Olympia Maru, a Japanese cargo ship that now lies at a depth of 30 meters. The wreck is largely intact and offers a fascinating dive with numerous points of interest, including the cargo holds and engine room. The Olympia Maru is adorned with corals and sponges, attracting a diverse array of marine life, such as lionfish, scorpionfish, and nudibranchs.
Kogyo Maru (Depth Range 14m-34m)
Next, we explore the Kogyo Maru, another World War II wreck. This cargo ship, resting at a depth of 34 meters, is famous for its well-preserved artifacts, including construction materials and a bulldozer. The wreck is encrusted with colorful corals and is home to a variety of marine species. Divers can explore the ship’s interior, providing a glimpse into its historical past.
Twin Peaks Reef (Depth Range 5m – 30m)
Our final dive of the expedition is at Twin Peaks Reef, a spectacular coral reef known for its vibrant marine life. The reef features two pinnacles that rise from the sea floor, covered in hard and soft corals. This dive site offers excellent visibility and is home to a wide variety of reef fish, including schools of snappers, sweetlips, and anthias. It’s the perfect end to our diving adventure, showcasing the beauty and biodiversity of Coron’s underwater world.
About Pirates Diving in Coron
Celebrating 30 years of diving excellence, Pirates Diving is a reputable dive operator based in Coron, renowned for its professional and experienced dive guides. Over the past three decades, we have offered a range of diving packages, including wreck diving, reef diving, and dive safaris. Our dive boat, the Black Revenge, is well-equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and safe diving experience.
Pirates Diving is committed to providing personalized service, catering to divers of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced. Join us as we celebrate our 30th anniversary and continue our legacy of delivering unforgettable diving adventures in Coron.
Revenge Dive Boat
The Black Revenge dive boat is designed for comfort and convenience, featuring spacious dive decks, comfortable seating, Bathroom, galley kitchen and modern dive equipment. The boat is equipped with safety gear, including emergency oxygen, first aid kits, and life vests. With experienced and knowledgeable crew members, divers can enjoy a safe and enjoyable diving experience.
Conclusion
A 3-day, 2-night dive safari with Pirates Diving in Coron, Palawan is an unforgettable adventure, offering a unique blend of wreck diving, reef diving, and island exploration. With dives at some of the most iconic sites in the Coron and Busuanga area, including Barracuda Lake, Morazan Maru, Okikawa Maru, Akitisushima, Olympia Maru, Kogyo Maru, and Twin Peaks Reef, this expedition promises an extraordinary underwater experience. Coupled with overnight stays on the serene Black Island and Pass Island, it’s the perfect way to explore the natural beauty and rich history of Coron. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a novice, this dive safari offers something for everyone, making it a must-do adventure for all diving enthusiasts
Information
Prices
Safari Per person 40,000-peso
Equipment rental per day 900 pesos
Torch per day 300peso
What’s included
9 dives, two nights’ accommodation, all meals, soft drinks, tea and coffee, divemaster guides, marine park and entry fees. air, weights, hotel pickup
What’s not included
Equipment rental, torches, PADI courses, gratuities
Minimum experience required
(for open water certified divers, it is possible to take the advanced open water course during this safari for an additional 20,000peso).
Group Sizes
Minimum Group Size 8 divers
Maximum Group size 12 divers
Additional Diving Expedition Days
Additional 3 dive, day excursions can be added at a discounted price of 5000 pesos per day, including Lunch, Marine Park fees and Guides
Departure and Return Times
Departs 8am
Returns approximately 5pm