Irako - Apo Reef

Diving the Irako at Apo Reef is a proper wreck experience. She’s a Japanese freighter, sunk during World War II, sitting upright at around 30 to 40 meters. We usually start our descent along the mooring line, heading straight for the bow, which is often swarming with schools of jacks and fusiliers. Exploring her holds is a highlight, you’ll find plenty of sweepers and lionfish tucked away in the darker corners. The currents here can be unpredictable, so it’s best for divers comfortable with drift dives and good buoyancy control, letting you really appreciate the sheer scale of the wreck as you make your way along her length.

Location
Apo Reef, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
11.947975, 120.044174
Type
wreck

Best Time to Dive in Apo Reef

The warmest water temperatures in Apo Reef occur in June, averaging 30.3°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 27.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.1°C
  • February: 27.8°C
  • March: 28.2°C
  • April: 29.1°C
  • May: 30.1°C
  • June: 30.3°C
  • July: 29.9°C
  • August: 29.6°C
  • September: 29.7°C
  • October: 29.8°C
  • November: 29.5°C
  • December: 29.2°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Apo Reef

Nearest Dive Centres to Irako

Marine Life in Apo Reef

Home to 181 recorded species including 171 reef fish, 5 seagrass & algae, 2 other, 1 whales & dolphins, 1 hard corals, 1 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Irako

Based on average water temperature of 29.3°C, currents 8 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