ETHANE - Anilao

The Ethane wreck in Anilao is one of those sites we always enjoy, even if it’s more about the mood than big fish. This old tanker, sunk during Typhoon Skip back in '88, now rests upright, starting in just a meter of water and sloping down to about 25m. It’s perfect for those long, slow dives, especially if you like exploring nooks and crannies. What we love here is how the wreck has just completely integrated with the reef. You'll see the bow sitting exposed at the surface, almost like a ghost ship, then descend into a world of corals and sponges clinging to every surface. The bridge section, around 15m, is our favourite; it's practically bursting with schooling glassfish, and we’ve often spotted lionfish tucked into the shadowed doorways. Inside the cargo holds, it gets properly dark, and that’s where you might find a turtle resting or a big grouper eyeing you from the gloom. It’s a site that rewards patience and a good torch, letting you pick out frogfish camouflaged on the hull or nudibranchs crawling along the railings. We usually try to dive it late afternoon, as the light filtering through the water takes on this incredible golden hue, making the whole place feel a bit magical.

Location
Anilao, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
13.225000, 121.808334
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Best Time to Dive in Anilao

The warmest water temperatures in Anilao occur in June, averaging 30.9°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 27.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.9°C
  • February: 27.5°C
  • March: 28.1°C
  • April: 29.2°C
  • May: 30.3°C
  • June: 30.9°C
  • July: 30.4°C
  • August: 29.8°C
  • September: 29.6°C
  • October: 29.4°C
  • November: 29.3°C
  • December: 28.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Anilao

Nearest Dive Centres to ETHANE

Marine Life in Anilao

Home to 88 recorded species including 83 reef fish, 2 crabs & lobsters, 1 sharks & rays, 1 sea urchins, 1 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ETHANE

Based on average water temperature of 29.3°C, currents 15 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at the ETHANE dive site?
The ETHANE dive site features a wreck that begins at a depth of 0 meters, meaning portions of the vessel may break the surface. As a classified wreck showing any portion of hull or superstructure, divers can explore the substantial remains of this tanker vessel. For more details on diving in Anilao, visit our sub-region guide.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at ETHANE?
Divers at the ETHANE dive site can expect to explore the impressive underwater features of a sunken tanker vessel. This wreck, measuring 50.3m x 8.8m, was a tanker that ran aground during Typhoon "SKIP" in 1988 and subsequently sank. Its classification as a wreck showing any portion of hull or superstructure suggests a substantial structure to investigate. For general information on marine life, please refer to our wildlife database.
How difficult is the ETHANE dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The ETHANE dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. This means it is generally not recommended for beginner divers who lack experience with wreck diving or similar conditions. Divers should possess appropriate skills and certifications to safely explore this fascinating site in Anilao.
What is the best time of year to dive at ETHANE for optimal visibility and conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility and conditions at the ETHANE dive site. However, for general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in the Philippines, you can consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to explore the ETHANE dive site?
While the data does not explicitly list specific certification requirements for the ETHANE dive site, its intermediate difficulty rating suggests that advanced or specialty certifications, such as wreck diving, may be highly recommended or required by local operators. Divers should always check with local dive centers in Anilao for precise requirements before planning their dive.
What are the prevailing currents and general water conditions like at the ETHANE dive site?
The available data for the ETHANE dive site does not provide specific details regarding prevailing currents or general water conditions. Divers planning to visit this wreck in the Philippines should consult with local dive operators for up-to-date information on currents and conditions before their dive.