The Okikawa Maru is one of the most famous wreck dives in the Philippines. It was a Japanese oil tanker from World War II, measuring around 160–168 meters long. The ship lies upright in Coron Bay, off Busuanga Island, at depths between 10 m and 26 m, making it accessible to both recreational and advanced divers.
History
Originally a civilian tanker built 1943 in Japan (Kobe), later used by the Japanese Imperial Navy. Sunk on September 24, 1944, during a U.S. air raid on Coron Bay. For years the wreck was confused with the Taiei Maru, but later research confirmed it is the Okikawa Maru.
The aerial image taken by the enemy shows the Okikawa (#1) shortly during the attack.
Diving
Suitable for beginner and advanced divers – the upper deck starts around 10 m deep. The bottom is about 27m deep. Penetration dives possible into the engine room, cargo holds, and propeller shaft areas. Covered in soft and hard corals, home to lionfish, groupers, snappers, and batfish. Moderate currents can occur, bringing nutrient-rich water and more marine life.
I dived and scanned the wreck in September 2025. But during rainy season the visibility was poor and it was quite a challenge to scan that huge wreck.
The Bow
The bow section is heavily damaged from bombing, giving the wreck a dramatic look.
Huge size
The size of this wreck is impressive:
– 161m long (528ft)
– 20m wide (68ft)
– 17,5m high (58ft)
Model
The 112cm big model took 288 3D printing hours (12days).
