CORON:REEF AND WRECK – 2 JAPANESE WRECK AND PASS ISLAND TOUR

Coron: Reef and Wreck – 2 Japanese Wreck and Pass Island Tour offers an intriguing mix of history, natural beauty, and relaxation. For $51 per person, you’ll spend about eight hours exploring some of Coron’s most captivating underwater sites and pristine islands. The journey takes you to Pass Island, with its inviting white sands and calm waters, and two compelling wreck sites—the Lusong Gunboat and East Tangat Wreck—each with their own stories and underwater spectacles.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it makes diving into WWII history while still offering plenty of time to unwind on picture-perfect beaches. The guides, like Mr. Melvin and Ms. Thess, get high marks for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Plus, the inclusion of a picnic lunch and all permits helps keep costs straightforward without sacrificing quality.

A potential consideration is the distance to some sites, which means a bit of a boat ride—something to keep in mind if you’re prone to seasickness or just prefer shorter trips. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a balance of history, marine life, and relaxation, and who are comfortable spending several hours on the water. It’s ideal for those who want a well-rounded day without the complexities of multiple bookings or long travel times.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines WWII wreck exploration with island relaxation.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of history and marine life.
• Value for Money: Includes permits, lunch, and boat rides for $51.
• Suitable for Beginners: Shallow wrecks and calm waters make it accessible.
• Longer Boat Rides: Be prepared for some travel time to reach sites.
• Good for History and Nature Lovers: Offers snorkelers, divers, and beach lovers plenty of options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Coron Reef and Wreck Tour

If you’re looking for a genuine taste of Coron’s underwater history and natural beauty, this tour ticks many boxes. Starting from Lualhati Park, a common meeting point, the adventure kicks off with a boat ride to several key sites. With a professional guide leading the way, you’ll gain insights into the WWII vessels resting beneath the waves, as well as enjoy some time on the tranquil sands of Pass Island.

Tour Highlights and What They Mean for You

Pass Island is the perfect spot to kick off the day. Its white sandy beach and shallow waters are inviting for swimming, relaxing, or snapping photos. Travelers often mention the stunning seascapes and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal place to unwind after the boat ride. The island’s beauty is not just from the ground, but also from the air—it’s a drone photographer’s dream, offering panoramic views of the surrounding azure sea.

Next, the Lusong Gunboat Wreck provides a fascinating peek into WWII history. This Japanese gunboat, about 35 meters long, now lies on its side at around 10 meters depth, with its decks teeming with marine life. Snorkelers and divers can explore the wreck, which is well-preserved and accessible even to beginners. As one reviewer pointed out, “The wreckage is now a haven for marine life,” making it a fantastic spot for observing colorful tropical fish and corals around the wreck.

A short boat ride away is the Lusong Coral Garden, which is often highlighted for its spectacular coral formations and clear visibility. The current here is strong enough to create a drift snorkeling experience, where you glide effortlessly over vibrant corals and schools of tropical fish. This area is a favorite among snorkelers for both its beauty and ease of access, with the added benefit of nourishing nutrients brought in by the current, helping keep the marine environment healthy and lively.

The East Tangat Wreck is another WWII relic, this time a submarine hunter approximately 35 meters long. It rests on a sandy slope near a reef, with its bow starting at just 4 meters deep and sloping down to around 22 meters. This site is noted for its calm conditions, making it suitable for beginners and those who prefer shallow waters. The wreck is surrounded by coral and tropical fish, providing plenty of photographic opportunities and a chance to reflect on the region’s wartime history.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour schedule keeps your day moving smoothly:
– Start at Lualhati Park with a boat briefing.
– Lusong Gunboat Wreck (about 1 hour): Snorkeling and exploring the wreck.
– Lusong Coral Garden (about 1 hour): Drift snorkeling over colorful reefs.
– Pass Island (about 2 hours): Lunch, beach lounging, swimming, and more snorkeling.
– Return to Lualhati Park by late afternoon.

The lunch provided is a picnic with bottled water and snacks, giving you fuel for the rest of the day. Beach cottages at Pass Island allow for a respite before heading back.

The Experience of the Guides and Logistics

The guides are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the history come alive and helping beginners navigate underwater. As one traveler noted, “The activity itself was well planned,” though they also mentioned that “the boat was delayed by an hour without explanation,” highlighting some logistical issues to be aware of.

Transportation is covered with air-conditioned vans for hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes the start and finish effortless. The tour includes all permits and entrance fees, removing a common concern for travelers about hidden costs.

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What Travelers Say

Most reviews mention the stunning views and good value for money. One reviewer said, “The islands were beautiful and the activity was well planned,” emphasizing the quality of the experience. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see shipwrecks that hold both historical and marine life fascination.

However, some mention the distance to some sites—the boat ride can take around an hour to reach the wrecks and coral gardens. If you’re sensitive to seasickness, this is worth considering, or bringing motion sickness remedies. Rain was also noted in one review, so waterproof bags for your gear are recommended in case of showers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for those who want a balanced day of history, marine life, and relaxation without complicated logistics. It suits travelers who appreciate good value—with all permits, lunch, and gear included—and are happy to spend several hours on the water. It’s particularly friendly for beginners because of the shallow wreck sites and calm waters.

If you’re interested in WWII history, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on a quiet island, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. But if you’re prone to seasickness or seeking very short boat rides, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Coron Reef and Wreck Tour offers a genuine taste of the underwater past and natural beauty that makes Coron so special. It’s a thoughtfully organized experience that balances historical intrigue with marine biodiversity and beachside relaxation. The price point reflects good value, especially when you consider the inclusions—permits, lunch, guide, and transport.

This tour is a great fit for history buffs, snorkelers, and relaxation seekers alike. It’s straightforward, well-organized, and packed with memorable sights. The only caveats are the boat ride length and potential weather issues, but with proper planning, they shouldn’t detract too much from a rewarding day.

In the end, it’s a chance to step back in time, glide over lively coral reefs, and unwind on tranquil beaches—all in one affordable package. Perfect for those who want a manageable, authentic experience that captures the spirit of Coron’s natural and historical treasures.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the wrecks are shallow (around 4 to 10 meters), making them accessible for snorkelers and less experienced divers. The calm waters and guided support also help newcomers feel comfortable.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring your own snorkeling gear or aqua shoes, a waterproof bag, sun protection (sunscreen, hat), swimwear, a change of clothes, a camera, cash, and any personal medication. The tour provides some equipment, but many travelers prefer their own gear.

How long is the boat ride to the wreck sites?
The boat ride can last about an hour to reach some of the sites, which means plenty of time on the water. If you’re sensitive to seasickness, consider taking precautions.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price of $51 covers licensed guides, permits, boat transfers, snorkeling gear, lunch, bottled water, snacks, and beach cottages for relaxing.

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with pre-existing medical conditions or motion sickness are advised to consider this tour carefully, as it involves a fair amount of water travel and walking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour can also be rescheduled if canceled on the day due to weather or other issues, with a full refund if the tour is canceled by the operator.

This Coron tour balances historical discovery with natural beauty, offering a manageable day that leaves many travelers with stories to tell and memories to cherish. Whether you’re exploring WWII wrecks or basking on a quiet island, it’s an experience worth considering for your Palawan itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: