DONA LOURDES - Donsol & Sorsogon

We love the Dona Lourdes for its sheer presence. Dropping onto the bridge, often with a slight current nudging you along, the ship spreads out below. It’s a carrier vessel, 70 metres of history lying on its port side at 40 metres. Built in Nagasaki, sunk in '83, you can feel the story as you move along the deck. The superstructure is still largely intact, allowing for some decent penetration if you’re comfortable with overhead environments and good on your air. The cargo holds are particularly interesting, now home to schools of snapper and fusiliers that swirl around you, thick enough to dim the ambient light. Keep an eye out for resident groupers peering from shadowy corners. We’d suggest a nitrox blend if you want to make the most of the bottom time, as 40 metres comes fast. It’s a proper deep wreck dive, best suited for advanced divers with some experience in current. Our favourite detail? The sheer number of lionfish perched on every railing and intact surface, their spines fanning out like underwater fireworks. It’s a dive that sticks with you.

Location
Donsol & Sorsogon, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
12.266666, 124.116670
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
40m

Marine Protected Area: San Isidro Marine Reserve Area

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 DONA LOURDES

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 maximum depth of the "Miracle of Life" (Miss Lourdies) shipwreck and what can divers expect to see at different depths?
The maximum depth for the Dona Lourdes wreck in Donsol & Sorsogon is 40m. While the question refers to "Miracle of Life" (Miss Lourdies), specific details about what divers can expect to see at different depths on the Dona Lourdes wreck are not provided in the current data. Divers can explore this wreck site, which is a carrier vessel sunk in 1983.
What kind of marine life and unique features, like the angel statue, can divers expect to encounter at the "Miracle of Life" shipwreck?
The provided data for the Dona Lourdes wreck does not specify details about marine life or unique features such as an angel statue. However, divers can explore the structure of this non-dangerous carrier vessel, which measures 70.1m x 11.6m. This wreck offers an interesting dive experience in the Philippines.
What is the diving difficulty level for the "Miracle of Life" (Miss Lourdies) wreck, and is it suitable for recreational or technical divers?
The diving difficulty level for the Dona Lourdes wreck is classified as intermediate. With a maximum depth of 40m, this site is suitable for experienced recreational divers with appropriate deep dive training, and also presents an excellent opportunity for technical divers. You can find this challenging dive in Donsol & Sorsogon.
What are the recommended certifications for diving the "Miracle of Life" (Miss Lourdies) shipwreck, especially for wreck penetration?
While specific certifications for the Dona Lourdes wreck are not detailed in the provided data, its intermediate difficulty and 40m depth suggest that advanced open water certification with deep dive specialty is recommended. Information regarding specific requirements or suitability for wreck penetration at this Donsol & Sorsogon wreck is not available.
What are the typical currents and underwater conditions like at the "Miracle of Life" (Miss Lourdies) dive site off Boca Raton?
The provided data for the Dona Lourdes wreck, located in Donsol & Sorsogon, Philippines, does not include details on typical currents or specific underwater conditions. Furthermore, the site is not located off Boca Raton. Divers should consult local dive operators for current conditions before visiting this dive site.
When is the best time of year to dive the "Miracle of Life" (Miss Lourdies) shipwreck for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data for the Dona Lourdes wreck does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or marine life sightings. For general guidance on diving seasons in the Philippines, you may refer to our When to Dive section. Always check with local Donsol & Sorsogon dive centers for the most current recommendations.