Philippines

Dive Site: Camia II Wreck

18–30 mIntermediate
© EsriSource: Esri, Maxar, Earthstar, GIS Community · Labels © Esri, HERE, Garmin, FAO, NOAA, USGS

Which liveaboards dive Camia II Wreck?

About Camia II Wreck

The Camia II Wreck is a popular dive site located in Boracay, known for its accessible and largely intact cargo vessel. This 30-meter wreck rests upright on the seabed, providing an excellent opportunity for both recreational and advanced divers to explore its structure. It is one of Boracay's key dive attractions, easily reachable by boat from the main stations. The wreck's depths range from 18 to 30 meters, making it suitable for a wide range of certified divers. Divers can navigate through various sections of the vessel, including accessible cabin, engine room, and cargo hold areas. The surrounding reef and the wreck itself attract a diverse array of marine life. While the Camia II offers year-round diving, the dry season from December to April typically provides the best conditions with calm seas and excellent visibility, enhancing the exploration experience. This site caters to divers seeking both wreck penetration and macro photography opportunities, combining historical interest with rich biodiversity. Its proximity to shore allows for flexible dive scheduling, often integrated with other Boracay activities.

Highlights

Intact 30-meter cargo vesselAccessible wreck penetration optionsCabin, engine room, cargo holdVibrant reef ecosystemShark encounters (Yapak nearby)Macro photography subjectsUpright position on seabedBoracay accessible dive site

Season calendar

Best months to dive here
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Excellent
Good
Off-Season

Dec – Apr (Dec–Apr)

Best diving conditions across most regions. Calm seas, excellent visibility. Tubbataha Reef accessible Mar–Jun only. Thresher sharks year-round at Malapascua.

May & Nov (May, Nov)

Weather shifts between seasons. Still excellent diving in many areas. Fewer crowds and lower prices. Some regions still offer perfect conditions.

Jun – Oct (Jun–Oct)

Typhoon season — mainly affects northern regions. Southern Visayas and Mindanao still offer good diving. Reduced visibility. Best prices and fewest crowds.

Dive site facts: Camia II Wreck

Depth
18–30 m
Current
Mild to moderate
Visibility
15–30 m
Water temperature
25–30°C
Entry
Boat
Level
Open Water to Advanced
Dive type
Wreck, macro
Night dive
Possible
Region / port
Boracay Island, Western Visayas
Coordinates
11.0509° N, 122.0416° E

Conditions & Currents

Currents at the Camia II Wreck are generally manageable, making it suitable for a broader range of divers compared to more challenging sites like Yapak. However, conditions can vary, so divers should always consult with local dive operators for the most current information. Visibility at Boracay dive sites, including Camia II, typically ranges from 50 to 100 feet, though it can be even better during peak dry season months. The relatively mild conditions allow for comfortable wreck exploration and observation of marine life. Divers should still plan their air consumption carefully, especially if engaging in wreck penetration, to ensure sufficient bottom time and safe ascent. Entry is typically from a boat, allowing for direct descent to the wreck.

Marine life & sighting chances

Frogfish at the dive site Camia II Wreck

Frogfish

April (prime time) · occasional
Grey Reef Shark at the dive site Camia II Wreck

Grey Reef Shark

occasional
Barracuda at the dive site Camia II Wreck

Barracuda

occasional
Tuna at the dive site Camia II Wreck

Tuna

occasional
Snappers at the dive site Camia II Wreck

Snappers

common
Groupers at the dive site Camia II Wreck

Groupers

common
Nudibranchs at the dive site Camia II Wreck

Nudibranchs

occasional
Shrimp at the dive site Camia II Wreck

Shrimp

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Camia II typically begin with a boat entry, allowing divers to descend directly onto the wreck. The cargo vessel sits upright, with its deck around 18 meters and the deepest parts reaching 30 meters. Divers often start by exploring the exterior, observing the coral growth and schooling fish that congregate around the structure. Penetration into accessible areas like the cabin, engine room, and cargo holds is possible for appropriately certified divers, offering a detailed exploration of the ship's interior. The route usually involves a slow ascent along the wreck, allowing for thorough observation of both macro life and larger reef inhabitants. The safety stop is conducted in the shallower waters above or near the wreck, often at around 5 meters, before a final ascent to the surface.

Underwater photography

The Camia II Wreck provides excellent opportunities for both wide-angle and macro photography. For wide-angle shots, a fisheye or wide-angle lens is ideal to capture the full scope of the 30-meter vessel and its upright position, especially when light penetrates the shallower sections. Using external strobes can help bring out the vibrant colors of the soft corals and marine growth on the wreck. For macro enthusiasts, a macro lens will be invaluable for capturing the diverse array of critters inhabiting the wreck, such as frogfish, nudibranchs, and various shrimp. Good buoyancy control is essential, particularly during wreck penetration, to avoid stirring up silt and to protect the delicate marine life. Always maintain respectful distances from marine inhabitants and avoid touching the wreck structure.

Combine with nearby dive sites

Getting there & logistics

Boracay diving, including the Camia II Wreck, is highly accessible. Divers typically fly into Caticlan Airport (MPH), which is just a short 15-minute ferry ride from Boracay Island. Alternatively, flights to Kalibo International Airport (KLO) are available, followed by a bus or van transfer and a ferry to Boracay. Most dive operators are located on White Beach, offering day trips to sites within 30 minutes by traditional bangka boat. Dive packages often include two to three dives per day, with specific wreck dives usually forming part of the itinerary. There are no specific park fees mentioned for Camia II itself, but general dive operator costs apply. Boracay offers a resort-island experience, allowing divers to combine underwater exploration with beach activities and dining.

Safety & environment

Diving at Camia II Wreck should be conducted with a reputable dive operator. The nearest recompression chamber facilities in the Philippines are often located in larger cities or dive hubs, so emergency evacuation to these facilities would be part of a robust safety plan. Comprehensive dive insurance is highly recommended to cover potential medical emergencies and evacuation costs. Site-specific hazards for wreck diving include potential entanglement and overhead environments during penetration, requiring appropriate training and equipment such as a reel and cutting device. Divers must adhere to no-decompression limits and maintain excellent buoyancy control to prevent damage to the wreck and marine life, as well as avoid stirring up silt. Always follow the instructions of your dive guide.

Who it suits, and who it doesn't

Suited for

  • Open Water certified divers seeking wreck exploration
  • Advanced Open Water divers interested in wreck penetration
  • Macro photographers looking for diverse subjects
  • Divers who appreciate accessible dive sites close to shore
  • Those combining diving with resort-island activities

Less suited for

  • Divers who prefer pristine, untouched natural reefs exclusively
  • Beginners without adequate buoyancy control for wreck diving
  • Divers seeking only large pelagic encounters (Yapak is better for this)
  • Those uncomfortable with enclosed spaces (for penetration)

FAQ

Camia II Wreck FAQ

What is the history of the Camia II Wreck?
The Camia II is a 30-meter cargo vessel that now rests upright on the seabed off Boracay Island. While specific details about its sinking date or cause are not widely published, it has become a prominent artificial reef and a popular dive site, offering a fascinating glimpse into a sunken ship. Its intact structure and accessible internal sections make it a unique attraction for divers.
Can I penetrate the Camia II Wreck?
Yes, the Camia II Wreck offers several accessible penetration options, including the cabin, engine room, and cargo holds. However, wreck penetration should only be attempted by divers with appropriate training, such as a Wreck Diver Specialty certification, and with proper equipment. Always dive with a qualified guide familiar with the wreck's layout and potential hazards.
What kind of marine life can be seen at Camia II?
The Camia II Wreck acts as a vibrant artificial reef, attracting a variety of marine life. Divers can frequently spot schooling fish, snappers, and groupers around the exterior. Macro life like frogfish, nudibranchs, and various shrimp are often found camouflaged on the wreck's surfaces. Occasional sightings of blue-spotted ribbontail rays are also possible in the sandy areas nearby.
How deep is the Camia II Wreck?
The Camia II Wreck rests at depths ranging from 18 to 30 meters. The shallower sections of the deck are around 18 meters, while the deepest parts of the hull reach approximately 30 meters. This depth profile makes it accessible to both Open Water and Advanced Open Water certified divers, depending on their comfort and training.
Is the Camia II Wreck suitable for beginner divers?
While Open Water certified divers can explore the shallower sections of the wreck, extensive wreck penetration is not recommended for beginners. Divers should have good buoyancy control and comfort at depth. Local dive operators can provide guidance on suitability based on individual experience and offer introductory dives to the exterior of the wreck for less experienced divers.
How far is the Camia II Wreck from Boracay's main beaches?
The Camia II Wreck is located conveniently close to Boracay's main dive departure points. It is typically a short boat ride, usually within 30 minutes, from the main stations along White Beach. This proximity makes it a popular choice for half-day dive trips and allows for easy integration into a broader Boracay vacation itinerary.

Why dive Camia II Wreck from a liveaboard?

Camia II Wreck is one of Philippines's signature dive sites. A liveaboard sleeps you on the water and puts you in the water for three to four guided dives per day, including dawn and night dives that day-boat operators rarely offer. You skip the daily commute back to port and reach quieter, less-crowded sites in the same region on a single trip.

Below are the liveaboards that include Camia II Wreck on their Philippines itineraries.

Liveaboards diving Camia II Wreck

These liveaboards may visit Camia II Wreck on selected itineraries, the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Infiniti liveaboard at Camia II Wreck

Infiniti

Philippines

25 guests39 m
Seadoors liveaboard at Camia II Wreck

Seadoors

Philippines

16 guests25 m
Resolute liveaboard at Camia II Wreck

Resolute

Philippines

16 guests35 m
Dolphin liveaboard at Camia II Wreck

Dolphin

Philippines

18 guests31 m
Navis 1 liveaboard at Camia II Wreck

Navis 1

Philippines

22 guests23 m
Philippine Siren liveaboard at Camia II Wreck

Philippine Siren

Philippines

16 guests
Palau Sport liveaboard at Camia II Wreck

Palau Sport

Philippines

24 guests38 m
Philippines Aggressor liveaboard at Camia II Wreck

Philippines Aggressor

Philippines

26 guests43 m
Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard at Camia II Wreck

Stella Maris Explorer

Philippines

20 guests33 m
Solitude One liveaboard at Camia II Wreck

Solitude One

Philippines

24 guests52 m
Atlantis Adventurer liveaboard at Camia II Wreck

Atlantis Adventurer

Philippines

16 guests33 m
Philippines Aggressor II liveaboard at Camia II Wreck

Philippines Aggressor II

Philippines

26 guests43 m

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12 liveaboards run the Camia II Wreck route.

Three to four guided dives a day on Camia II Wreck and the other signature sites in the Philippines, sleeping right above the reef.