wreck

Log This Dive

Tribird Plane Wreck

The Tribird Plane Wreck at Apo Reef isn’t just a wreck; it’s a time capsule, a genuine piece of history frozen at 29 metres. We love that this isn’t some artificial reef; this is a real World War II Japanese reconnaissance plane, shot down and left to become a home for the reef. You’ll fin down to the relatively intact fuselage, wings still clearly defined, and instantly feel the echoes of its past. Our favourite part is poking around the cockpit area, imagining the stories it holds. Inside, the metal has rusted away in places, creating natural swim-throughs where schools of yellow snapper now dart and hide. Look closely and you’ll spot crocodilefish camouflaged on the fuselage, their flat bodies blending perfectly with the encrusting sponges. We’d suggest going early in the morning, before any potential boat traffic, as the current can pick up later in the day, making photography a bit more challenging. It’s a dive for those who appreciate both history and the relentless power of nature to reclaim and transform.