CAMFAIR - Donsol & Sorsogon

CAMFAIR isn't your average recreational dive. This isn't about deep penetration, it's about scale and history, lying flat on a sandy bed at a mere 11 metres. We love it because it’s a gentle giant, accessible to almost anyone. The sheer length of the vessel, over 100 metres, means you can spend your entire bottom time just finning along the deck, imagining its former life. Our favourite part is the engine room, surprisingly open and inviting, where schools of batfish now hold court amongst the machinery. Look closely, and you’ll spot crocodile fish resting perfectly still on the growth covered steel, masters of camouflage. The bow, twisted and draped in soft corals, makes for some moody photographs, especially when the sun filters through the shallow water. It’s perfect for divers who appreciate the story a wreck tells, and for photographers looking for a unique, less-frequented subject.

Location
Donsol & Sorsogon, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
13.206667, 124.220000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
11m

Wreck History - CAMFAIR

Year Sunk
1988
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
unknown

The M/V Camfair began its life in 1979, built in Akitsu, Japan, by K.K. Taihei Kogyo. It sailed under the name 'Pakarti Empat' until 1986. By the time of its loss, it was owned by the Blue Sea Maritime Corporation. In December 1988, the Camfair was on a voyage from Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, when it sank off the coast of Donsol in the Philippines. The exact cause of the sinking remains undocumented, leaving a small mystery in its wake.

Today, the Camfair rests in only 11 metres of water, making it a fantastic and highly accessible wreck for novice divers and underwater photographers. Located in an area world-famous for whale shark encounters, this wreck offers a perfect second dive. Over the decades, it has transformed into a vibrant artificial reef, its structure providing a home for schooling fish, moray eels, and a host of macro critters. Its shallow depth allows for long, relaxed bottom times, giving divers plenty of opportunity to explore the coral-encrusted cargo holds and superstructure.

Marine Protected Area: Malilipot-Rawis-Lagbak (MARILAG) Fish Sanctuary and Marine Reserve

Best Time to Dive in Donsol & Sorsogon

The warmest water temperatures in Donsol & Sorsogon occur in January, averaging 27.1°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.1°C (air: 25.7°C)
  • February: 27.1°C (air: 25.7°C)
  • March: 27.1°C (air: 26.4°C)
  • April: 27.1°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • May: 27.1°C (air: 28.0°C)
  • June: 27.1°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • July: 27.1°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • August: 27.1°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • September: 27.1°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • October: 27.1°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • November: 27.1°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • December: 27.1°C (air: 26.3°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Donsol & Sorsogon

Marine Life in Donsol & Sorsogon

Home to 139 recorded species including 119 reef fish, 14 sea snails & nudibranchs, 3 seagrass & algae, 1 sharks & rays, 1 sea cucumbers, 1 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for CAMFAIR

Based on average water temperature of 27.1°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 27°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 CAMFAIR?
The CAMFAIR dive site, a fascinating wreck, is situated at a typical depth of 11 meters. This consistent depth provides an excellent opportunity to explore the historical vessel. Its relatively shallow nature makes it accessible for many divers.
What marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at CAMFAIR?
Divers exploring CAMFAIR can expect to encounter the impressive underwater topography of a large motor vessel wreck, measuring 104.5m x 17.2m. Sunk in 1988, this historical structure serves as the main attraction. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks typically become artificial reefs, attracting diverse marine species over time.
What is the difficulty level of diving at CAMFAIR, suitable for beginners or advanced divers?
Diving at the CAMFAIR site is rated as an intermediate difficulty level. Given its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," it is more suitable for divers who have some prior experience rather than absolute beginners. This ensures a safer and more enjoyable exploration of the site.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at CAMFAIR for optimal conditions?
The current data does not provide specific information regarding the best time of year or season to dive at CAMFAIR for optimal conditions. For the most up-to-date recommendations on when to dive this site, it is advisable to consult local dive centers in the Donsol & Sorsogon area.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at CAMFAIR?
The CAMFAIR dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty and classified as a "Dangerous wreck." While no specific certification is explicitly stated, divers should possess at least an Open Water Diver certification. Considering the nature of the site, additional training or experience in wreck diving is highly recommended for a safe exploration.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions like at the CAMFAIR dive site?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not contain specific information regarding the usual current and visibility conditions at the CAMFAIR dive site. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, it is recommended to contact local dive centers in the Donsol & Sorsogon area before your dive. They can provide real-time insights into the conditions.