Coron Private Tour D: Reef and Wrecks

Coron Private Tour D: Reef and Wrecks offers a fantastic way to explore the underwater history and vibrant coral ecosystems surrounding Coron, Philippines. For $124 per person, you’ll spend roughly 8 hours with a private guide, visiting two WWII wreck sites—East Tangat and Lusong—and the colorful Lusong Coral Garden. Expect a relaxed pace, informative commentary, and a delicious picnic lunch.

What really drew us in was the chance to snorkel over historic wrecks covered in lively corals and the stunning scenery of Pass Island, known for its striking white sands and tall palm trees. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics straightforward, especially if you’re staying around Coron town. One consideration? The longer journey involved compared to some other tours might tire you out, but it’s often part of the adventure.

This tour suits travelers who love history, vibrant marine life, and scenic islands. If you’re comfortable in the water and eager for both underwater exploration and island beauty, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s especially good for those who appreciate guided stories and detailed descriptions of WWII wrecks—many reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge as a standout feature.

Key Points

• Highlights WWII wrecks at East Tangat and Lusong Gunboat, perfect for snorkeling and photography.
• Includes a picnic lunch, tropical fruit, and refreshments, making it a relaxed, all-inclusive day.
• Private group experience ensures personalized attention and a flexible schedule.
• Knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary on the shipwrecks’ history.
• Longer journey than some tours, ideal for those wanting a comprehensive exploration.
• Suitable for non-divers and snorkelers comfortable in shallow waters, with rentals available for gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into Coron Private Tour D: Reef and Wrecks

Coron’s underwater landscape is a treasure trove of history and marine beauty. This tour takes you around two shipwrecks from World War II—the East Tangat and Lusong Gunboat—along with a coral garden that’s bursting with color. It’s a well-balanced mix of exploring historical relics and enjoying vibrant marine life, all wrapped in a private, guided experience that values comfort and insight.

Visiting WWII Wrecks: East Tangat and Lusong Gunboat

The highlight for many is the chance to snorkel over WWII shipwrecks. The East Tangat wreck, believed to be either a tugboat or anti-submarine craft, sank during the war and now lies at a comfortable depth of about 10 to 22 meters. It’s a site that’s accessible for snorkelers—especially beginners—offering views of soft and hard corals, schools of small angelfish, and occasional large lettuce corals. The wreck’s listing to starboard, with the stern at 22 meters and the bow pointing toward a sandy slope, makes for striking photos and an engaging underwater scene.

The Lusong Gunboat, on the other hand, presents a more relaxed snorkeling experience. Because it was strafed and beached during WWII, it’s missing its top deck, but the remains are now blanketed with sponges and soft corals. This spot is also home to butterflyfish, pufferfish, and batfish, plus the chance to relax and take photos of the wreck’s soft coral-covered surfaces.

Reviewers like Emanuel mention that these wrecks are “good for snorkeling” and that guides like Daniel and Majun make the experience both educational and enjoyable. Emanuel notes, “This was the third tour with the same agency and guides, and it was really great the third time,” highlighting the consistency and quality of this experience.

The Lusong Coral Garden: An Underwater Kaleidoscope

Adjacent to the Lusong wreck is the Lusong Coral Garden, a breathtaking display of colorful corals and a bustling habitat for thousands of fishes. The variety of coral shapes and hues can be mesmerizing, and many snorkelers find it one of the most visually stunning parts of the trip. This vibrant coral garden is especially appealing for underwater photographers and those who just want to soak in the kaleidoscope of marine life.

Pass Island: The Tropical Dream

A brief but memorable stop is Pass Island, renowned for its white silica sands and swaying palm trees. Here, you can relax on the beach, enjoy a cold drink, or take a swim in the calm waters. It’s the perfect spot to unwind between snorkeling over wrecks.

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Logistics and Practicalities

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a big plus for hassle-free planning. The boat is equipped with life vests and the guide provides commentary on the wrecks’ histories—all part of the value for the price. The lunch is a picnic buffet with tropical fruit and refreshments, fueling you for the day’s adventures.

Gear rentals are available for masks, snorkel, fins, and water shoes—a wise investment if you don’t have your own. The tour lasts around 8 hours, with starting times varying based on availability, so it’s worth checking in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is excellent for history buffs, snorkelers, and those wanting a comprehensive coral and wrecks tour without diving. It’s also good for families or groups who prefer a private, guided setting, especially since reviews praise the guides’ knowledgeable commentary. But if you’re looking for deep-sea diving or very strong currents, this might not be your best fit.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Given the value for money, the personalized private group experience, and the chance to see both WWII wrecks and coral gardens, this tour offers a well-rounded day for those interested in underwater history and marine beauty. The guides’ knowledge and the scenic stops make it particularly appealing, especially if you appreciate a relaxed pace and informative commentary.

While the longer journey might be a consideration for some, it also means fewer crowds and a more intimate experience. The inclusion of lunch and transportation simplifies planning and enhances the overall value.

If you’re eager to see coral-covered wrecks, snorkel in calm waters, and enjoy beautiful islands, this trip hits all those marks. It’s a memorable way to get a taste of Coron’s underwater history and vibrant marine life in a private, guided setting.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable in shallow water. Snorkel gear is provided, and the sites are generally shallow enough for non-swimmers to enjoy with supervision.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, with specific start times dependent on availability. It includes transport, lunch, guided commentary, and snorkeling.

Are the wrecks deep underwater?
The East Tangat wreck is at a maximum depth of 72 feet (22 meters), making it accessible for snorkeling and suitable for beginners who are comfortable in shallow waters.

What should I bring?
Bring your own water shoes if you prefer, or rent them on-site. Snorkel gear is available to rent, but bringing your own mask and snorkel can enhance comfort.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for older children who are comfortable in the water, but pregnant women or non-swimmers might find it less ideal due to water and snorkeling requirements.

What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
Expect schools of small angelfish, butterflyfish (including Copper band butterflyfish), pufferfish, batfish, and soft and hard corals. Sea stars and crinoids are also present but less common.

Can I rent snorkeling gear if I don’t have my own?
Yes, gear is available to rent, making it easy if you don’t bring your own equipment.

In all, Coron Private Tour D: Reef and Wrecks offers a compelling blend of history, marine life, and island scenery for travelers eager to explore Coron’s underwater world in a relaxed, guided setting. Whether your interest is capturing stunning underwater photos, learning WWII history, or simply enjoying the tropical surroundings, this tour delivers on many fronts—making it a worthwhile choice for your Coron adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: