Film:"Coron wreck diving"
Your Journey to the wreck diving
About the Kogyo Maru Wreck
The Kogyo Maru Wreck lies in Coron Bay, Philippines. Once a 158-meter-long Japanese freighter, it was sunk during a U.S. air raid in 1944, during World War II. Today, the Kogyo Maru rests on its starboard side at a depth of around 34 meters. Divers can explore six large cargo holds, where remnants of construction materials—and even a submerged bulldozer—still remain. These spacious areas offer easy and safe penetration for wreck diving. The cargo was originally intended for building an airfield somewhere in the Pacific. You can also visit the engine room, the deck, and spot anti-aircraft guns still mounted in place—perfect for underwater photography. Marine life around the wreck is abundant, with groupers, barracudas, and a variety of colorful reef fish common to the Palawan region. Hard and soft corals, along with sponges, have gradually covered much of the ship, creating a vibrant underwater habitat. Because of its depth, the Kogyo Maru is best suited for advanced divers, though the straightforward layout makes it ideal for beginner wreck divers looking to practice safe penetration. Located near the Irako and Olympia Maru wrecks, it’s just a 15-minute speedboat ride from the resorts in Coron.
What Makes It Special
One of the most unique aspects of the Kogyo Maru is its cargo, which is still visible to divers. Construction equipment such as cement bags, bulldozers, and even rubber tires are scattered within the holds, providing a snapshot of wartime logistics. The wreck's structure is remarkably well-preserved, allowing divers to explore its decks, cargo holds, and engine room. Abundant marine life thrives here, including groupers, lionfish, and vibrant coral formations, making the dive both historically and visually rewarding.
Highlights of Diving the Kogyo Maru
- Depth: 22-36 meters
- Visibility: 10-20 meters
- Marine Life: Groupers, lionfish, snappers, and a variety of corals
- Unique Features: Construction equipment, including bulldozers and rubber tires
- Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced divers
Dive Tips for the Kogyo Maru Wreck
Given its depth and penetration opportunities, \ the Irako Maru is best suited for divers with Advanced certification and significant experience. Be sure to bring a dive light to explore the interior safely, and always dive with a buddy or guide who knows the wreck well.
Planning Your Dive
Umali Dive Center , we don’t just offer dives — we create unforgettable underwater experiences. Whether you're a seasoned diver or just starting your adventure, our expert team is dedicated to providing safe, exciting, and personalized diving trips. We explore the most stunning dive sites, offer high-quality equipment, and maintain the highest safety standards. What sets us apart is our passion for the ocean, our friendly atmosphere, and our commitment to making every dive memorable. Join a community of like-minded adventurers, discover vibrant marine life, and create stories you'll want to share again and again. Come dive with us — your next great adventure starts here!
Additional Information
The Kogyo Maru is part of the fleet of Japanese ships sunk in Coron Bay, offering divers the chance to explore a piece of history beneath the waves. The site is also known for its manageable current conditions, making it suitable for photographers and marine biology enthusiasts. Divers can expect a mix of history, underwater beauty, and thrilling exploration while visiting this wreck.