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

If you’re heading to Coron, Palawan, and looking to get a balanced taste of both natural beauty and historical intrigue, the Coron Reef and Wreck Tour promises a full day of underwater adventures and island serenity. Although it’s not a luxurious, all-inclusive experience, it offers genuine value for those eager to explore beyond the usual beaches, especially at a friendly price point of $51 per person.

We love that this tour combines several iconic sites—like the Lusong Coral Garden and the WWII wrecks—into one day, making it a practical choice for travelers with limited time. The tour’s focus on accessible, beginner-friendly diving spots is a big plus, especially with the shallow depths at some wreck sites. Plus, the included picnic lunch, comfortable boat rides, and guided commentary add layers of convenience and insight. A small potential downside? The 8-hour schedule means early mornings and some travel time between sites, so flexibility and a sense of adventure are recommended.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, vibrant marine life, and island relaxation but aren’t necessarily looking for luxury or high-end amenities. It suits those who value authentic experiences, good guides, and a well-rounded overview of Coron’s underwater and coastal charms.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At $51, this tour offers a budget-friendly way to see some of Coron’s top sights.
• Diverse Highlights: Combines snorkeling, wreck exploration, and island relaxation in one day.
• Accessible Wreck Sites: Both WWII wrecks sit at shallow depths, making them suitable for beginners.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of the historical sites and marine environment.
• Time Commitment: Around 8 hours, including hotel pickup, so start early for maximum enjoyment.
• Practical Tips: Bring your own snorkeling gear, waterproof bags, and insect repellent to optimize your day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Coron Reef and Wreck Tour

This tour is structured to give you a taste of Coron’s most captivating underwater and island environments, all within a manageable schedule. From scenic boat rides to exploring submerged wrecks, you’ll get a mix of history, marine wonder, and sunshine, with plenty of time to relax and take photos.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Lualhati Park — As the meeting point, this spot is central and easy to find, usually behind the “I AM CORON” signage. Here, you’ll meet your guides and board the tourist boat, which comes with a professional vest for safety. Expect an early start, around 7:45-8:00 am, to make the most of your day. Keep in mind that some reviews mention a slight delay in departure, so patience is part of the experience.

Lusong Gunboat Wreck — Your first underwater encounter is with this approximately 35-meter Japanese gunboat sunk during WWII. Resting at a depth of around 10 meters and resting on its side, this site offers loads of interest for snorkelers and divers alike. You might find, as a reviewer did, that the wreck is surrounded by vibrant marine life, making it a fascinating glimpse into wartime history. The wreck is described as “a haven for marine life,” with colorful corals and tropical fish thriving around it.

Lusong Coral Garden — Just nearby, this site is a vibrant underwater canvas filled with coral formations and tropical fish. The strong current here is actually beneficial, bringing in nutrients that nourish the reef and creating a drift snorkeling experience. This means you get to effortlessly glide along the reef, enjoying the kaleidoscope of marine life without tiring yourself out. One reviewer mentioned that the visibility was excellent, adding to the overall enjoyment.

Pass Island — The highlight for many is this secluded island with pristine white sands and warm shallow waters. It’s a peaceful escape perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the view. The island’s beauty is best appreciated from above, making it a popular spot for drone photography. Here, you’ll enjoy a hearty picnic lunch, with around two hours allocated for lounging, swimming, and taking photos. Some guests noted that the distance to Pass Island can be a bit long—about an hour’s boat ride—but the scenic journey is part of the adventure.

East Tangat Wreck — The final wreck site is the East Tangat, a WWII-era submarine hunter. Resting on a sandy slope near the reef, it is accessible and shallow enough for most snorkelers and beginners. The wreck ranges from 4 meters at the bow to about 22 meters at the stern, making it a manageable exploration for novices. Marine life flourishes here, with colorful corals covering the wreck and tropical fish swirling around. One reviewer appreciated that the site is “easy to access,” making it a good option for families or those not comfortable with deep diving.

Return to Lualhati Park — After a full day of underwater exploration and island lounging, your tour wraps up in the late afternoon, leaving plenty of time to relax or explore Coron town on your own.

The Practical Details

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers most essentials: a licensed guide, a tour boat with life jackets, air-conditioned van transfers, permits, entrance fees, a picnic lunch, and access to beach cottages for relaxing. You’ll also get a medical kit for safety.

However, you’ll need to bring your own snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins) if you want the best fit and comfort. Many guests also find that bringing a waterproof bag, beach towel, or underwater camera enhances their experience. Insect repellent is recommended, especially if you plan to stay on the island for longer. Tips are not obligatory but appreciated if you feel the guides made your day special.

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Meeting Point and Timing

Meet at Lualhati Park, behind the “I AM CORON” signage. The tour usually departs around 8 am but check with your provider for exact timings and potential delays. The return is in the late afternoon, around 4-5 pm, depending on weather and group pace. The tour is in English, with guides like Mr. Melvin and Ms. Thess providing insights into each site’s history and marine environment.

Duration and Suitability

The full itinerary spans about 8 hours, including hotel transfers if you’re staying within Coron town. This makes it a full but rewarding day, especially since it’s designed for relatively easy access. While not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with severe medical conditions, it’s perfect for travelers who enjoy snorkeling and light exploration in calm waters.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One aspect that stood out from reviews is the guides’ knowledge—guests appreciated guides like Melvin for being well-informed about the sites’ history and marine ecology. They also highlighted the clarity of the water and the friendly atmosphere.

However, some comments pointed out logistical hiccups, such as a delayed departure without explanation, which can be frustrating but doesn’t detract from the overall experience. Be prepared for an early start, but also for the chance to see some of Coron’s most iconic sites in a single day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want an authentic, action-packed day in Coron without the fuss of luxury. It’s ideal if you’re interested in WWII history, vibrant coral reefs, and relaxing island time, all wrapped into one adventure.

It suits beginners or casual snorkelers given the shallow wrecks and drift snorkeling at Lusong Coral Garden. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive look at Coron’s underwater and coastal scenery, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Coron Reef and Wreck Tour offers a straightforward, value-packed way to see the best underwater and island sites that Coron has to offer. With knowledgeable guides, accessible wreck sites, colorful coral gardens, and serene beaches, it provides a well-rounded experience that appeals to those with a sense of adventure and curiosity.

While it’s not a luxury experience, the practicality, affordability, and authenticity make it a smart choice for many travelers. It’s especially suited for those happy to start early, embrace a full day of exploration, and enjoy the natural and historical highlights of Coron.

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of history, marine beauty, and island relaxation, this tour will serve you well—just remember to pack your snorkeling gear and waterproof bags!

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, if you are staying within Coron town, the tour offers free pickup and drop-off. Outside the town, there may be an additional fee.

What should I bring for the tour? Bring your own snorkeling gear, swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen (biodegradable recommended), insect repellent, cash, a camera, and personal medications.

How long is the tour? The full experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or people with pre-existing medical conditions or motion sickness.

What’s the best way to see the wrecks? Snorkeling is the main activity, with shallow depths at Lusong Gunboat and East Tangat Wreck making them accessible for beginners.

Is the boat crowded? The tour generally operates with a group size manageable enough to enjoy the sites comfortably, but exact sizing isn’t specified.

Can I take photos underwater? Yes, bringing your own underwater camera or GoPro is recommended to capture the vibrant marine life and wrecks.

What if it rains? The tour usually proceeds rain or shine, but weather conditions could lead to delays or cancellations, in which case a full refund or reschedule is possible.

How much does it cost? The tour is priced at $51 per person, offering great value for a full day of snorkeling, history, and island relaxation.

In summary, the Coron Reef and Wreck Tour is a practical, affordable way to explore some of the most iconic and photogenic sites in Coron. Whether you’re into history, vibrant reefs, or simply looking for a memorable day out, this tour offers a balanced snapshot of what Coron has to offer—with enough flexibility to suit casual travelers and adventure seekers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby