About this spot
The IRAKO wreck lies in Coron's famous wreck graveyard, a Japanese cargo vessel sunk during World War II. This is an advanced dive requiring solid navigation and air management skills. Depths range from 28 to 42 meters, pushing the technical limits for recreational divers. The wreck structure is intact in many sections, offering multiple entry points and exploration routes for experienced divers. You'll descend through water that reveals the ship's hold, engine room, and deck structures—each section tells the story of wartime loss in the Pacific. The IRAKO attracts divers serious about wreck penetration and maritime history. Coron's wreck diving is world-class partly because of wrecks like this one, which remain largely undisturbed. Nearby support infrastructure makes logistics straightforward despite the technical demands of the dive itself. Plan conservatively: deep wreck diving in warm Philippine waters demands respect for bottom time, decompression, and current.
📖 Guide: Diving in the Philippines: 119 Sites, Wrecks & Walls Worth the Flight
Dive types
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 📜 C-card + dive insurance (DAN)
- 📔 Dive logbook
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type A/B/C · 220V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 48%
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
From your departure country
- Visa: Visa on arrival · 30 days max
- Flight: 12h · direct
- Jet-lag: 11h east · 8 days recovery
FAQ
›When is the best time to dive the IRAKO?
The IRAKO is diveable year-round in Coron. However, sea conditions and visibility vary seasonally. Check local conditions with operators before booking, as weather can change rapidly in the Philippines.
›What experience level is required?
This is an advanced wreck dive. You need solid buoyancy control, wreck awareness, and experience diving to 40+ meters. Wreck-specific training is highly recommended. This is not a dive for beginners or intermediate divers without advanced certification.
›What marine life will I see?
Coron's wrecks attract reef fish, jacks, and occasionally larger pelagics. The wreck structure itself becomes habitat for smaller species. Exact species vary by season and time of day. Community videos are available to preview marine life encounters.
›Do I need permits to dive the IRAKO?
The IRAKO is not within a marine protected area, but Coron requires a municipal permit for diving. Licensed operators handle the paperwork. Confirm all requirements with your dive operator before arrival.
