About the Irako Maru

The Irako Wreck is considered one of the best wreck dives in Coron Bay, Palawan—and even in the entire Philippines. This former Japanese refrigeration ship, measuring 147 meters long and 19 meters wide, was sunk in 1944 during a U.S. air raid in World War II. Today, the Irako rests at a depth of around 40 meters and remains largely intact. With generally good visibility and thriving marine life, it’s a top dive site near Busuanga Island. Divers can encounter hunting tunas and groupers, green sea turtles, lionfish, and often barracudas and trevallies circling the wreck. The superstructure is beautifully encrusted with hard and soft corals, enhancing the visual experience. The main deck lies at a depth of 34 meters and offers several penetration opportunities, including the wheelhouse and cargo bays. The engine room is also accessible, but due to the depth and complexity, it should only be explored by highly experienced divers with proper training and equipment. Because of its depth and the possibility of strong currents, the Irako is best suited for advanced divers. Diving with Nitrox is highly recommended to extend bottom time and maximize enjoyment. The Irako Wreck is located just 10 minutes by speedboat from Coron dive resorts and lies just south of another impressive wreck, the Kogyo Maru.

What Makes It Special

The Irako Maru is known for its excellent visibility and well-preserved structure, allowing divers to explore its cargo holds, engine rooms, and deck areas. Marine life thrives around the wreck, with schools of fish, soft corals, and even turtles frequently spotted in the area. The ship's eerie beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit for wreck diving enthusiasts.

Highlights of Diving the Irako Maru

• Depth: 30-42 meters
• Visibility: 10-20 meters
• Marine Life: Turtles, groupers, barracudas, and vibrant corals
• Experience Level: Advanced divers