Lusong Gunboat – Wreck in the Philippines

Name: Lusong Gunboat
Address: Philippines

About Lusong Gunboat

The Lusong Gunboat, located just off Coron in Palawan, Philippines, is a fascinating and easily accessible World War II shipwreck. This Japanese vessel, sunk during the September 1944 aerial attacks by the US Navy, now rests in shallow waters, making it an ideal site for both snorkelers and divers. The shipwreck itself is approximately 25 meters long, lying at depths ranging from 5 to 15 meters. Over the decades, the gunboat has transformed into a thriving artificial reef, blanketed in a colorful array of hard and soft corals. This vibrant ecosystem attracts a diverse population of reef fish and other marine life, creating a dynamic underwater landscape. Diving the Lusong Gunboat offers a relaxed experience, often scheduled as a second, shallower dive of the day. The site is known for its light currents and good visibility, typically between 10 and 20 meters, though it can sometimes drop to 6 meters. Its shallow depth and generally calm conditions make it particularly suitable for beginner divers and those looking to extend their bottom time. The site is a favorite for underwater photography, especially macro subjects, given the abundant small creatures inhabiting the wreck and surrounding corals. Located just a short boat ride from Coron resorts, the Lusong Gunboat is a convenient and rewarding addition to any Coron diving itinerary.

Highlights

Shallow WWII shipwreckAbundant coral growthExcellent for snorkelingRich reef fish diversityIdeal for beginnersMacro photography havenEasy boat accessRelaxed dive profile

Season calendar

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Conditions & Currents

The Lusong Gunboat typically experiences none to light currents, making it a comfortable dive for most skill levels. While generally calm, divers should be aware that visibility can fluctuate, sometimes dropping to 6 meters, particularly if the wreck is stirred up. Entry and exit are usually boat-based, and the shallow depth means surface conditions are often reflected below, with flat calm waters being common. This generally gentle environment allows for extended bottom times and relaxed exploration of the wreck, but divers should always remain mindful of their buoyancy around the structure and potential boat traffic in the area.

Marine life & sighting chances

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Divers typically begin their descent directly over the Lusong Gunboat, which lies at a maximum depth of 15 meters, with parts of the wreck as shallow as 5 meters. You'll spend the dive exploring the exterior of the 25-meter long vessel, observing the vibrant coral growth that now covers its structure. The route often involves circumnavigating the wreck, allowing ample time to inspect different sections for macro life such as nudibranchs and frogfish, and larger reef fish like damselfish and parrotfish. Due to the shallow depth and generally light currents, bottom times are generous. The dive concludes with a gradual ascent, often incorporating a safety stop hovering over the shallower portions of the wreck or nearby coral gardens, providing additional opportunities for observation.

Underwater photography

The Lusong Gunboat is an exceptional site for underwater photography, particularly for macro and wide-angle subjects. For wide-angle shots, consider capturing the entire wreck silhouetted against the clear shallow waters, especially during low tide when parts of it are more visible, or showing divers exploring its coral-encrusted exterior. Due to the shallow depth, natural light is often sufficient, but strobes will enhance color and detail on the corals and fish. For macro enthusiasts, the wreck is teeming with small creatures; a macro lens will be invaluable for capturing nudibranchs, frogfish, and other tiny inhabitants. Good buoyancy control is essential to avoid disturbing the silty bottom and to navigate close to the wreck's delicate coral growth without causing damage.

Combine with nearby dive sites

Getting there & logistics

Access to Lusong Gunboat is typically arranged through dive operators in Coron town, Palawan. Most trips depart from Coron, which is accessible via flights to Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU). From the airport, a short transfer takes you to Coron town. Dive trips to the gunboat are usually part of a full-day island hopping or wreck diving itinerary, often combined with other shallow sites and snorkeling spots. Permits or fees are usually included in tour packages. Typical trip lengths can range from single day excursions to multi-day liveaboard experiences that explore numerous Coron wrecks and reef sites.

Safety & environment

Diving the Lusong Gunboat requires adherence to standard dive safety practices. Ensure your buoyancy is well-controlled, especially when navigating around the wreck to avoid disturbing silt or damaging corals. Be mindful of potential boat traffic overhead, as the site is popular with snorkelers and other tour boats. While currents are generally light, always be aware of your surroundings and dive with a buddy. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, necessitating a significant evacuation time in case of a serious diving emergency. Therefore, comprehensive dive insurance is highly recommended. Always follow your dive guide's instructions and local marine park guidelines.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

Suited for

Beginner divers seeking an accessible wreck
Snorkelers and freedivers
Macro photography enthusiasts
Divers interested in WWII history
Relaxed second dives of the day
Families with mixed diving and snorkeling abilities

Less suited for

Divers seeking deep, challenging wreck penetrations
Those looking exclusively for large pelagic encounters
Divers who prefer pristine, untouched natural reefs
Anyone unwilling to practice strict buoyancy control near fragile corals
Divers with limited time, as it's often part of a longer tour

FAQ

Lusong Gunboat FAQ

What kind of wreck is the Lusong Gunboat?

The Lusong Gunboat is a Japanese World War II shipwreck, believed to be a gunboat or a similar patrol vessel. It was sunk during an American aerial attack in September 1944. Today, it serves as a vibrant artificial reef, teeming with marine life and covered in corals.

Is the Lusong Gunboat suitable for beginner divers?

Yes, the Lusong Gunboat is highly suitable for beginner divers due to its shallow depth, ranging from 5 to 15 meters. It experiences light to no currents and offers good visibility, making it an ideal and safe introduction to wreck diving.

Can you snorkel at the Lusong Gunboat?

Absolutely. The shallow depth of the Lusong Gunboat, with parts of the wreck lying just 5 meters below the surface, makes it an excellent site for snorkeling. Snorkelers can easily observe the wreck and its marine inhabitants from above.

What marine life can be seen at the Lusong Gunboat?

The Lusong Gunboat is home to a rich variety of marine life. Divers and snorkelers can expect to see numerous reef fish such as damselfish, parrotfish, and lionfish, along with macro creatures like nudibranchs and frogfish. Moray eels and crabs are also common inhabitants of the wreck structure.

How long does it take to get to the Lusong Gunboat from Coron?

The Lusong Gunboat is conveniently located very close to Coron, typically just a 5-minute boat ride from resorts and dive centers. This short travel time makes it a popular and easily accessible spot for any diving or snorkeling itinerary in the area.

Why dive Lusong Gunboat from a liveaboard?

Lusong Gunboat 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.

Philippines

26 guests42.7 m

$247/day

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About Lusong Gunboat

Highlights

Season calendar

Dive site facts: Lusong Gunboat

Conditions & Currents

Marine life & sighting chances

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Underwater photography

Combine with nearby dive sites

Getting there & logistics

Safety & environment

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

Suited for

Less suited for

Lusong Gunboat FAQ

Why dive Lusong Gunboat from a liveaboard?

Liveaboards diving Lusong Gunboat

Dive sites similar to Lusong Gunboat

12 liveaboards run the Lusong Gunboat route.