The “Landing Craft” in Coron Bay in the Philippines is a popular wreck diving destination, a former Japanese troop ferry from World War II. It is easily accessible for beginners as it lies in shallow water (approximately 10-26 meters), has an open front, and is often inhabited by many fish. It is ideal for snorkelers and beginner divers in a region famous for its WWII wrecks.
The LCT (Landing Craft Tank) Series 6 wreck is a nice historical site. Measuring 119 feet in length and 32 feet in beam, this class of vessel was significantly larger than the standard Higgins LCVP. Most were produced in 1943 by the Bison Shipbuilding Corp. in Buffalo, NY, and saw extensive service throughout the Philippines campaign. A key diagnostic feature for identifying this wreck is the placement of the wheelhouse and gun mount on the starboard side—though the specific history of how or why the vessel ended up at this exact location remains a mystery.
The Site Layout The wreckage is situated on a steep incline; the bow begins just a few meters below the surface, while the stern and keel rest at a depth of 18 meters. The bow ramp is locked in the “down” position and is now heavily encrusted with coral. While the forward hull sections rise prominently from the seabed, the rest of the vessel slopes downward toward a square, barge-like stern. While perhaps less imposing than the larger “Maru” shipwrecks, this LCT offers a fantastic, relaxing third dive in shallow, calm waters.
