Tag: Busuanga

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

Coron one of the worlds top dive destinations

Pirates Diving Resort

Perfect Destination

The perfect destination to learn to dive, its not just the perfect clear and calm waters, hard and soft coral reefs and abundant marine life or the 14 world famous wrecks that make Coron one of the top locations to fun dive, take your PADI Scuba Diver or Open Water Course, its that Coron not only matches and surpasses most other Dive destinations for its perfectly suited learn to dive sites, but that it offers a total experience that is unrivaled.

Their is so much choice, Coron offers something for everyone, even the most demanding will find what they want. Accommodation ranges from backpacker budget to total luxury, Restaurants and cafes offer simple street food to gourmet fine dining, most parts of this beautiful tropical paradise are still quiet and naturally unspoilt, while other parts have developed to provide shopping, food, bars and night life.

Beyond diving there are many other activities to entertain you , there are so many activities to keep you busy on none diving days. That is of course if you are not wanting to relax on one of the magnificent boat tours.

Ideal learn to dive environment

Its the Ocean that attracts the most visitors to Coron, its temperature ranging from a a low of 26 degrees in March to a high of 30 degrees in July, its perfect to learn diving. Pirates Divers is Coron’s number 1 learn to dive center, with a reputation for quality, safety, service and happy guests that is envied and respected by the rest of the Philippines diving community.

learn to dive options

On offer are three options; if you have never dived before but want to know what its like to Scuba Dive without committing to a course.  You can take the Discover Scuba Diver one day diving experience. With an experienced instructor you will undertake a thorough briefing, learn and practice some diving skills in shallow water off one of Coron’s  white sand beaches, before heading out by boat to make 2 dives on one of Asia’s best coral reefs.

If you have two full days The PADI Scuba Diver Course certifies you to dive to 12m with a professional guide and if you have three to four days the PADI Open Water Course qualifies you to dive independently any where in the world.