This dive site, the Tapilon Wreck, is the resting place of an unidentified World War II Japanese cargo carrier, torpedoed during the war. Named after a nearby mainland town, the vessel now lies in several distinct sections on the seabed, yet its original form as a ship is still clearly recognizable. Divers can explore the outer structure of the wreck, observing how marine life has reclaimed the metal hull, transforming it into an artificial reef.
The Tapilon Wreck is renowned for its vibrant abundance of marine life. Its surfaces are completely covered in beautiful black coral, which provides a habitat for countless smaller creatures. Among these are hundreds of almost invisible shrimp, often found dancing around the coral bushes, making it a fantastic spot for macro photography enthusiasts. Various reef fish also call this thriving ecosystem home.
The best time to visit the Tapilon Wreck, like many sites in the Philippines, is generally during the dry season from November to May, when water conditions are typically calm and visibility is excellent. Its relatively shallow maximum depth of 22 meters, with an average of 11 meters, makes it suitable for both beginner divers and experienced freedivers. Divers should be mindful of potential variable currents and respect the historical significance of the wreck.
