Wreck of San Diego - Anilao

The HMS Hood wreck isn't about tropical colours. This is a dive steeped in history, a proper glimpse into the past. We're talking about a Royal Sovereign-class pre-dreadnought battleship, down since 1914. It’s deep, which means technical skills are a must, but the reward is immense. Dropping down, the first thing that hits you is the sheer scale. It’s a huge, dark shape emerging from the gloom, often cloaked in the green-grey light typical of UK waters. You can feel the weight of history here. We love exploring the bow section; there’s a real sense of its former power. Currents can be tricky, so pick your day carefully and plan your ascent well. The marine life might surprise you. Forget vibrant coral, think rugged, resilient life. We've seen fat common cuttlefish lurking in the darker corners and decent bass patrolling the structure. Dogfish are common, weaving through the metalwork. Beadlet anemones add splashes of crimson to the otherwise muted palette. It’s a dive for those who appreciate wrecks for their historical significance and the way they become artificial reefs, rather than just fish soup. For us, it’s a profound experience, a silent monument beneath the waves.

Location
Anilao, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
14.060000, 120.494000
Type
wreck

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 Wreck of San Diego

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 Wreck of San Diego

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