Dive the Philippines: Explore World War II Wrecks & Reefs of the Palawan Provence
Discover the submerged wrecks and vibrant reefs of Coron in the Philippines’ spectacular Palawan Provence on an eight-day, small-group diving adventure (max. 16 travellers). Recognised as one of the best diving locations in the world, uncover the fascinating World War II shipwrecks, stunning coral reefs and the vibrancy of one of the most spectacular underwater ecosystems in the world. Includes seven nights’ accommodation at the oceanfront Busuanga Bay Lodge, a total of 10 dives—including Barracuda Lake, coral reefs and world-famous sunken shipwrecks—in the company of a professional dive master, all-inclusive meals including unique dining experiences like a seafood BBQ, a day trip to the stunning private island of South Cay with unlimited cocktails, return private airport transfers, unique insider experiences and so much more.
package Options
- Package valid for one person (twin share – you must purchase two packages)
- Seven nights of deluxe accommodation at the ultra-stylish Busuanga Bay Lodge overlooking the sparkling waters with a backdrop of the majestic mountains
- All-inclusive meals including daily breakfasts, lunches and dinners
- Ten spectacular dives with a professional dive master
- Diving equipment including: tanks, weights, buoyancy control device, regulator, mask, fins and wetsuit
- Airfills and complimentary nitrox for nitrox-certified divers
- Explore one of the world’s best concentration of sunken and preserved WWII shipwrecks in Coron
- Discover the renowned fresh and salt water Barracuda Lake
- Reef diving exploring spectacular coral and incredible marine life including parrotfish, barracuda and green sea turtles
- Day trip to the striking private island of South Cay including a decadent seafood BBQ lunch and unlimited cocktails
- Private return airport transfers and transportation throughout
- The services of expert local guides
- Limited Wi-Fi
- Additional certified open water courses available (additional cost)
- Package valid for one person (twin share – you must purchase two packages)
- Seven nights of deluxe accommodation at the ultra-stylish Busuanga Bay Lodge overlooking the sparkling waters with a backdrop of the majestic mountains
- All-inclusive meals including daily breakfasts, lunches and dinners
- Ten spectacular dives with a professional dive master
- Diving equipment including: tanks, weights, buoyancy control device, regulator, mask, fins and wetsuit
- Airfills and complimentary nitrox for nitrox-certified divers
- Explore one of the world’s best concentration of sunken and preserved WWII shipwrecks in Coron
- Discover the renowned fresh and salt water Barracuda Lake
- Reef diving exploring spectacular coral and incredible marine life including parrotfish, barracuda and green sea turtles
- Day trip to the striking private island of South Cay including a decadent seafood BBQ lunch and unlimited cocktails
- Private return airport transfers and transportation throughout
- The services of expert local guides
- Limited Wi-Fi
- Additional certified open water courses available (additional cost)
- Package valid for one person
- Seven nights of deluxe accommodation at the ultra-stylish Busuanga Bay Lodge overlooking the sparkling waters with a backdrop of the majestic mountains
- All-inclusive meals including daily breakfasts, lunches and dinners
- Ten spectacular dives with a professional dive master
- Diving equipment including: tanks, weights, buoyancy control device, regulator, mask, fins and wetsuit
- Airfills and complimentary nitrox for nitrox-certified divers
- Explore one of the world’s best concentration of sunken and preserved WWII shipwrecks in Coron
- Discover the renowned fresh and salt water Barracuda Lake
- Reef diving exploring spectacular coral and incredible marine life including parrotfish, barracuda and green sea turtles
- Day trip to the striking private island of South Cay including a decadent seafood BBQ lunch and unlimited cocktails
- Private return airport transfers and transportation throughout
- The services of expert local guides
- Limited Wi-Fi
- Additional certified open water courses available (additional cost)
- Package valid for one person
- Seven nights of deluxe accommodation at the ultra-stylish Busuanga Bay Lodge overlooking the sparkling waters with a backdrop of the majestic mountains
- All-inclusive meals including daily breakfasts, lunches and dinners
- Ten spectacular dives with a professional dive master
- Diving equipment including: tanks, weights, buoyancy control device, regulator, mask, fins and wetsuit
- Airfills and complimentary nitrox for nitrox-certified divers
- Explore one of the world’s best concentration of sunken and preserved WWII shipwrecks in Coron
- Discover the renowned fresh and salt water Barracuda Lake
- Reef diving exploring spectacular coral and incredible marine life including parrotfish, barracuda and green sea turtles
- Day trip to the striking private island of South Cay including a decadent seafood BBQ lunch and unlimited cocktails
- Private return airport transfers and transportation throughout
- The services of expert local guides
- Limited Wi-Fi
- Additional certified open water courses available (additional cost)
Whether you’re a novice diver or an experienced master, the underwater experiences that await in the striking region of Coron will appeal to all. From the world-famous, salt-water spectacle that is Barracuda Lake and the sunken Japanese Supply shipwreck of Olympia Maru; to the footprint-free sand and azure waters of South Cay Island (Pagbinit) and the vibrant reefs bursting with marine life, the beauty of Coron’s underwater nirvana awaits.
Not a diver? Discover the beauty of Philippines’ islands with our non-diving tour!
What You’ll Love…
The Experiences – Discover world-famous diving sites and spend a day on South Cay Island with unlimited cocktails
Named as one of the top 10 scuba diving sites in the world by Forbes Traveller Magazine, Coron’s fusion of underwater history, rich marine life and natural wonders is sought after by diving connoisseurs, beach-goers, sun-soakers and locals alike.
Float through the azure waters of the Philippines’ Palawan Provence as you discover an underwater museum of sunken WWII Japanese ships including the Olympia Maru, Irako Maru, Okikawa Maru, Ekkai Maru and Akitsushima. Existing as some of the best-preserved World War II shipwrecks anywhere in the world, these Japanese vessels now boast an eerie tranquillity as intact parts of history surrounded by vibrant sea life and coral growths.
Discover the nearby vivacious coral reefs boasting an incredible submerged ecosystem of 1,200 species. Swim through colourful schools of fish; past parrotfish, angelfish and cuttlefish; alongside serene barracuda and above huge green sea turtles.
Experience the natural wonder that is Barracuda Lake, perched on the island’s north shore. As one of the country’s most famous diving sites, the lake boasts some incredible marine life; however, its most unique feature is its unusual thermocline - multiple layers of cold, warm and hot water. Its mix of saltwater and freshwater gives way to dramatic temperature changes that are world-famous and provide a unique diving experience set against a backdrop of imposing, yet utterly striking, jagged limestone walls.
End your spectacular journey with a day trip to the private South Cay Island (also known as Pagbinit) where you can bask in the warm sun as you sip unlimited cocktails. If you haven’t had enough of the striking underwater world, enjoy a paddle board or kayak along the clear waters or grab the snorkelling gear for some more exploring of the cradling sea life. This tropical stretch of pristine sand dots the South China Sea in utter seclusion, allowing you to indulge in exclusive relaxation with a backdrop of seemingly-endless waters. Feast on some of the fresh local produce with a special BBQ lunch on the island before heading back to the resort.
The Accommodation – Seven nights in boutique indulgence with a backdrop of majestic mountains and sparkling waters
The primely-located Busuanga Bay Lodge fuses lsuh elegance with surrounding natural beauty to bring you an oasis perched on the sapphire-coloured waters of Busuanga Bay. Having been awarded a 2015, 2017 and 2018 Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Award as well as a Certificate of Excellence, the hotel provides all the deluxe amenities you could want including a spectacular infinity pool with sweeping ocean views, the blissful Kawayan Native Spa, four restaurants and bars, wine cellar, state-of-the-art fitness centre and an organic riverside farm that supplies the majority of the fruits and veg that hits your plate.
Unwind in a Waterfront King/Twin Room showcasing chic Bermuda-inspired décor combined with luxurious comfort and boasting floor-to ceiling windows that open up to a spacious balcony with sweeping sunrise views over the gorgeous sea.
Your Package Includes:
- Seven nights of deluxe accommodation at the ultra-stylish Busuanga Bay Lodge overlooking the sparkling waters with a backdrop of the majestic mountains
- All-inclusive meals including daily breakfasts, lunches and dinners
- Ten spectacular dives with a professional dive master
- Diving equipment including: tanks, weights, buoyancy control device, regulator, mask, fins and wetsuit
- Airfills and complimentary nitrox for nitrox-certified divers
- Explore one of the world’s best concentration of sunken and preserved WWII shipwrecks in Coron
- Discover the renowned fresh and salt water Barracuda Lake
- Reef diving exploring spectacular coral and incredible marine life including parrotfish, barracuda and green sea turtles
- Day trip to the striking private island of South Cay including a decadent seafood BBQ lunch and unlimited cocktails
- Private return airport transfers and transportation throughout
- The services of expert local guides
- Limited Wi-Fi
- Additional certified open water courses available (additional cost)
The tour begins and ends in Coron.
International flights are not included in your package and must be booked separately. Flights to Coron are available from all major cities with one to two stopovers. Carriers include Philippine Airlines, China Eastern, Cathay Pacific and more. You MUST complete your booking form within 48 hours of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements – including flights.
Private return airport transfers are included in your tour on the first and last day only. You may depart at any time after breakfast from Coron on Day 8.
A visa may be required to the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visa’s Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.
DAY 1: ARRIVE BUSUANGA ISLAND
Upon arrival at Francisco B. Reyes Airport in Coron, you will be met and transferred to your beachfront resort located on the island province of Palawan – a world-known, nature sanctuary famed for being Philippine’s last ecological frontier.
The entirety of the Palawan Provence is a combination of pristine white-sand beaches, dramatic rock formations, secret coves, rainforests, outstanding dive sites, majestic mountains and striking caves. It bursts with exotic flora and fauna and is cradled by a coral shelf that is alive and bursting with colourful marine life.
This evening, you will join your fellow divers on a welcome dinner and discuss the dive plan with the resident instructor.
Accommodation: Busuanga Bay Lodge
Meals: Dinner
DAY 2: WRECK DIVE
Following a cooked breakfast, you will head off for your two dives. Today you will be diving the Olympia Maru and the Irako Maru wrecks. These are two of the many Japanese vessels that have sunk in the nearby area and are known to be some of the best preserved in the world. Before you discover the beauty of the shipwrecks, you’ll learn about their history on the way to the dive sites.
Olympia Maru – which fascinatingly sits almost upright – is 112 metres long and was formally a Japanese supply ship from WWII which took on extensive damage by the bombs that sunk it in 1944. Due to the wreck being intact, this is a great diving sight surrounded by rich marine life that have made this wreck their home. The Irako Maru is a massive 200 metre refrigeration vessel that rests upright and starts at 28 metres and ends at a maximum of 40 metres. This sight is also home to giant groupers alongside shoals of yellowfin tuna, lionfish and scorpion fish. For those wishing to penetrate inside the wreck you can visit the machine shop compartment, where metal production machinery can still be seen.
Return from the dives and enjoy a sumptuous lunch. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
Accommodation: Busuanga Bay Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 3: WRECK DIVE
After breakfast you will first visit the Ekkai Maru wreck. This Japanese auxiliary supply ship sits between 10-25 metres of water, giving it good access to light producing incredible plate corals offering an incredible array of marine life. There is also a large salvage hole in the middle of the port side giving easy access into some of the large cargo holds.
For your second dive today, we head to the Terukaze Maru – a submarine chaser lying between 5-18 metres deep. Expect to see ancient ceramic, broken sake bottles, shoes and even an underwater periscope on this wreck! There is also a nearby reef brimming with vibrant sea life which you can also explore.
Accommodation: Busuanga Bay Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 4: REEF DIVE
Today comprises of two reef dives—which depending on the weather and currents will be Dynamite Point Reef, Calumbuyan Reef or Lusong Reef—where you can get your fix of the amazing underwater world Coron has to offer. The vivacious underwater ecosystem of Coron overflows with all sorts of marine life – 1,200 species to be exact – which is why it is high on many divers’ buckets lists. Expect to see parrotfish, angelfish, cuttlefish, barracuda and even some green sea turtles.
Accommodation: Busuanga Bay Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 5: WRECK DIVE
After breakfast you will be whisked away to see two of the best wrecks in the area: The Akitsushima and Okikawa Maru Oil Tanker. The Akitsushima holds one of Coron’s biggest mysteries: The ship was known to carry a seaplane but after countless scans and hours of exploration, the plane was never found. You will explore some of the amazing artefacts this wreck holds including a 127MM shell as well a perfectly upright anti-aircraft gun.
The largest-known wreck in Coron, the Okikawa Maru Oil Tanker sits at 170 metres long with a maximum depth of 26 metres. For those who want to penetrate the wreck, you are able to access the engine room via the propeller shaft as well as the oil storage holds and crew cabins. You’ll also be witness to the plethora of small fish and coral growths that live on and around the wreck.
Accommodation: Busuanga Bay Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 6: BARRACUDA LAKE DIVE
Your final day of diving boasts one of the most unique dive sites in the world - Barracuda Lake. It is known world over for its massive thermocline, which is around 14 metres deep and where the temperature of the water changes dramatically from a comfortable 28 degrees celsius freshwater to 38 degrees celsius saltwater.
Barracuda Lake presents the curious with a unique opportunity to dive in a harmonious mix of fresh and salt water set against a backdrop of imposing, yet utterly striking, jagged limestone walls. For advanced divers you may even have a chance to encounter with the one resident barracuda for which the lake was named who hides in the lake’s 30-metre cave.
Accommodation: Busuanga Bay Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 7: SOUTH CAY ISLAND
Enjoy your final day at Busuanga Bay Lodge by exploring South Cay Island - a stunning private island where you can spend the day sipping unlimited cocktails on one of the most incredible beaches in the area. Activities on the island include snorkelling, paddle boarding and kayaking or simply relax and take in the idyllic and tropical surrounds.
Feast on a special BBQ seafood lunch before you head back to the resort in time to freshen up for a farewell dinner alongside stunning views of the flaming sunset from the restaurant.
Accommodation: Busuanga Bay Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 8: DEPART BUSUANGA ISLAND
After breakfast, transfer back to Busuanga Airport for your onward departure.
Depending on your flight time, the day is at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
IMPORTANT NOTE: You must carry a valid open water diving certification to participate on this package. This must be presented to your dive master on arrival. If you do not have a valid certification or are unable to present it to your diver master, you will not be permitted to participate in any dives.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS:
PADI Open Water Course:
Non-divers can opt to do a PADI Open Water Course. This four-day course is a basic diving certification course which includes the equipment rental for the duration of the course, four open water dives and all theory and practice sessions.
Cost: AU$665 per person
PADI Advanced Open Water Course:
Complete your PADI Advanced Open Water Course as part of this package. Continue your diving education while getting certified to go deeper and learn about other diving specialities such as wreck diving. This theory-based course can be completed during 2 afternoons as part of this package. PADI certification, tuition and instruction included.
Cost: AU$525 per person
The ‘7 day change of mind guarantee’ does not apply for Tour bookings. Due to the high demand and limited departures any cancellation / refund requests must be made within 48 hours of purchase. Otherwise, the standard Refund Policy applies.
After you have made your booking, please follow the instructions on your confirmation email and ensure you complete your traveller information details within 48 hours.
DEPARTURE DATES:
LOW SEASON:
20 June 2019
18 July 2019
22 August 2019
19 September 2019
HIGH SEASON:
7 March 2019
4 April 2019
23 May 2019
17 October 2019
14 November 2019
12 December 2019
IMPORTANT NOTE: You must carry a valid open water diving certification to participate on this package. This must be presented to your dive master on arrival or arranged as per the below optional extras. If you do not have a valid certification or are unable to present it to your diver master, you will not be permitted to participate in any dives.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS:
**PADI Open Water Course: **Non-divers can opt to do a PADI Open Water Course either before or during the tour. This four-day course is a basic diving certification course which includes the equipment rental for the duration of the course, four open water dives and all theory and practice sessions.
Low Season:
- Cost during tour (purchase a non-diver package): AU$665 per person
- Cost prior to tour (purchase a diver package): AU$665 per person + 3 nights of pre-tour accommodation AU$1710 for two (or $1242 single supplement cost)
High Season:
- Cost during tour (purchase a non-diver package): AU$665 per person
- Cost prior to tour (purchase a diver package): AU$665 per person + 3 nights of pre-tour accommodation AU$1798 for two (or $1296 single supplement cost)
All Pre-tour accommodation includes full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner daily). All diver inclusive packages are non-refundable in the event that the course is not successfully completed prior to the tour itself.
**PADI Advanced Open Water Course: **Complete your PADI Advanced Open Water Course as part of this package. Continue your diving education while getting certified to go deeper and learn about other diving specialties such as wreck diving. This theory-based course can be completed during 2 afternoons as part of this package. PADI certification, tuition and instruction included.
Low Season:
- Cost during tour (purchase a non-diver package): AU$525 per person
- Cost prior to tour (purchase a diver package): AU$525 per person + 1 night of pre-tour accommodation AU$564 for two (or $414 single supplement cost)
High Season:
- Cost during tour (purchase a non-diver package): AU$525 per person
- Cost prior to tour (purchase a diver package): AU$525 per person + 1 night of pre-tour accommodation AU$599 for two (or $433 single supplement cost)
All Pre-tour accommodation includes full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner daily). All diver inclusive packages are non-refundable in the event that the course is not successfully completed prior to the tour itself.
Private Departures Available: Guests must be aged 18 years or older. If you wish to travel with children, or on your own private tour together with friends, please enquire for further information (minimum four travellers - surcharges apply).
Important: Please allow for travelling time from Australia. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive in Coron on your chosen tour start date.
Instant Booking: To secure your dates at purchase, click ‘Instant Booking’ and select your preferred package. Once your preferred package is selected you’ll click through to ‘Choose Your Dates of Travel’ and will be able to enter in your preferred tour commencement date.
Twin-share package: The package is valid for ONE PERSON aged 18 years or older (based on twin share). If you are travelling with another person you must purchase TWO PACKAGES, otherwise, an additional single traveller surcharge will apply. Single travellers will get their own room throughout the tour.
Guests must be aged 18 years or older.
This tour is guaranteed to depart with a minimum number of 2 guests. Maximum tour capacity is 16 people.
Luggage Allowance: Luggage allowance per person is 20kg maximum (unless otherwise stated) to allow for ease of transport on the journey.
The following courses are optional and in addition to your tour and incur an additional charge (please see the itinerary for more information):
PADI Open Water Course
PADI Advanced Open Water Course
Tour includes accommodation at the following hotels:
- Busuanga Bay Lodge (Waterfront King/Twin Room)
Accommodation is subject to availability and may be substituted for a hotel of a similar standard.
Maximum Room Capacity: The maximum room capacity is two adults.
Please note: Disability access is limited during the tour, please consider this when making your booking.
Packages do not include international flights to and from India, visa fees, travel insurance, additional activities and upgrades and anything else not listed in the itinerary
Travel insurance is compulsory. We suggest purchasing travel insurance as soon as possible after purchasing this package.
Strictly no refunds for this package for amendments and change of date.
Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or on existing reservations.
Any unused portion of the package is non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for other services or cash.
Additional expenses such as (but not limited to) flights are not included with this package.
Package cannot be split.
Multiple packages cannot be purchased or combined.
Offer only available for consecutive nightly stays.
Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond your intended stay overseas.
A visa may be required to the countries you are visiting and transiting. It is your responsibility to ensure you are holding a current visa.
The value and comparative savings have been determined based on published rack rates and the value of inclusions. Please be advised that rack rates may not be reflective of actual rates being charged, dependent on the timing and manner of your booking and therefore are only indicative of the level of saving
Occasionally our itineraries are updated prior to departure to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers’ feedback as well as updates from our ground operators. Please note that while we operate successful tours in this region throughout the year, some changes may be necessary due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route. The order and timing of included activities may also vary from time to time.
Tipping and gratuities are not included in the package and are at your own discretion (as a guide, approx. US$10-15 per person, per day is the industry standard).
All activities and services are subject to availability.
Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.