Dive Site: USS New York

About USS New York

The USS New York, an 8150-ton armored cruiser, was commissioned in 1893 and saw service in the Spanish-American War, the Chinese Revolution, and WWI. To prevent its capture by invading Japanese forces, the ship was intentionally scuttled in Subic Bay on December 24, 1941. Today, it rests on its port side, transformed into a vibrant artificial reef, making it one of Asia's premier wreck dives. Lying at depths between 16 and 30 meters, the wreck is largely intact despite some damage to its starboard side. Divers can explore five decks and observe its massive 8-inch guns, which remain in place, along with one of its enormous propellers. The wreck provides a rich habitat for various marine species, offering an immersive historical and biological experience. Subic Bay offers protected conditions, shielding dive sites from strong currents and rough seas, ensuring mild conditions year-round. This makes the USS New York accessible for advanced open water divers, offering a unique opportunity to explore a significant piece of naval history teeming with life. Diving the USS New York is an unparalleled opportunity to connect with history while observing the thriving marine ecosystem that has claimed the wreck. Its accessibility within recreational dive limits, combined with the sheltered bay, makes it a highlight for divers visiting the Philippines.

Dive site facts: USS New York

Depth

16–30 m

Current

Mild

Visibility

Up to 15 m

Water temperature

27–30 °C

Entry

Boat

Level

Advanced Open Water

Dive type

Wreck, historical, photography

Region / port

Subic Bay, Luzon

Coordinates

14.7851° N, 120.2732° E

Conditions & Currents

Subic Bay is an enclosed body of water, providing protected conditions for its dive sites, including the USS New York. Divers can generally expect mild currents and calm seas year-round, which contributes to the wreck's preservation and ease of access. However, visibility can vary, occasionally reaching up to 15 meters on good days. The sheltered nature of the bay means divers rarely contend with strong surges or significant thermoclines. Entry to the wreck is typically straightforward from a dive boat, with descent guided by the dive master. These consistent, mild conditions make the site suitable for Advanced Open Water divers, allowing for focused exploration of the wreck's structure and marine inhabitants without the added challenge of strong water movement.

Marine life & sighting chances

Barracuda

common

Lionfish

common

Spotted sweetlips

common

Grouper

common

Lobsters

occasional

Spotted rays

occasional

Eagle ray

rare

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving the USS New York typically begins with a boat entry directly over the wreck. Divers descend along a line to the main structure, which rests on its port side. The wreck's depth ranges from 16 meters at its shallower points to 30 meters at the deepest sections. Key features to explore include the enormous propeller still visible and the impressive 8-inch guns. The dive often involves tracing the length of the 115-meter vessel, allowing divers to observe the historical details and the marine life that has colonized it. Penetration opportunities exist for appropriately trained technical divers. As the dive progresses, shallower parts of the wreck or nearby reef sections may be explored before ascending. The safety stop is usually performed in the clear, protected waters above the wreck, adhering to standard decompression protocols for a deep dive.

Underwater photography

The USS New York offers excellent opportunities for wide-angle photography, capturing the imposing scale of the 115-meter wreck and its prominent features like the 8-inch guns and propeller. A wide-angle lens with external strobes is recommended to illuminate the structure and bring out the colors of marine growth and resident fish. For macro enthusiasts, areas of the wreck can yield interesting subjects like lionfish, groupers, and smaller invertebrates if time allows. Buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing the silty bottom or delicate marine life, preserving visibility for both photographers and fellow divers. Patience is key for capturing resident barracuda and spotted sweetlips, which often frequent the wreck.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• El Capitan

  Wreck suitable for Open Water divers

• San Quentin

  Oldest shipwreck in the Philippines, shallow and rich in coral

• Coron Bay — Skeleton Wreck

  Further afield but a popular wreck destination

• Irako Wreck

  Further afield but a popular wreck destination

• Tangat Wreck

  Further afield but a popular wreck destination

Getting there & logistics

Subic Bay is located approximately 100-120 kilometers northwest of Manila, making it accessible via direct bus routes from Manila to Olongapo, typically taking 2-4 hours. Divers arriving internationally usually fly into Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL). Dive trips to the USS New York are generally conducted as day boat excursions from local dive centers in Subic Bay, such as Arizona Dive Shop. Liveaboard options also exist that include the USS New York in their itineraries, often as part of broader Philippines liveaboard cruises. There are no specific park fees mentioned for this site, but standard dive operation costs apply. The area's proximity to Manila makes it ideal for weekend dive trips or combining with other Luzon-based activities.

Safety & environment

Divers visiting the USS New York should possess Advanced Open Water certification due to the wreck's depth and the specific challenges of wreck diving. It is crucial to dive with a reputable local dive operator who is familiar with the site. The nearest recompression chamber is typically located in major metropolitan areas like Manila, highlighting the importance of proper dive planning and adhering to no-decompression limits. Divers should ensure their personal dive insurance covers wreck diving activities and potential emergency evacuations. While Subic Bay generally offers protected conditions with mild currents, divers must remain vigilant of changing weather, especially during the wet season. Always follow your dive guide's instructions and practice excellent buoyancy control to avoid entanglement or disturbing the wreck.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

USS New York FAQ

Liveaboards diving USS New York

These liveaboards may visit USS New York on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Philippines Aggressor

Philippines

26 guests42.7 m

$381/day

Philippine Siren

Philippines

16 guests

$309/day

Solitude One

Philippines

24 guests52 m

$460/day

Philippines Aggressor II

Philippines

26 guests42.7 m

$247/day

Seadoors

Philippines

16 guests25 m

$335/day

Palau Sport

Philippines

24 guests38.35 m

$215/day

MY Gypsy

Philippines

8 guests24.3 m

$281/day

Atlantis Adventurer

Philippines

16 guests32.5 m

$421/day

Navis 1

Philippines

22 guests23 m

$250/day

Dolphin

Philippines

18 guests31 m

$326/day

Resolute

Philippines

16 guests34.6 m

$314/day

Stella Maris Explorer

Philippines

20 guests33 m

$398/day