FRIENDSHIP VII

Best months: Jul–Sep

Why dive here

With 87+ marine species recorded in the area - including sea turtles, thresher sharks, lionfish and pufferfish - FRIENDSHIP VII offers some of Malapascua's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 28-31°C, warmest May, June, July.

Best timeJul–Sep

WetsuitNo wetsuit needed, or a rash guard

Marine lifeSea Turtles, Thresher Sharks, Lionfish and Pufferfish · 87+ species recorded

Water28-31°C · warmest May, June, July

CharacterWreck dive · max 8m

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

We love the Friendship VII, even if it's not the deep, dramatic wreck you might expect from Malapascua. Lying in just 8 metres of water, it’s a playful dive, especially for those looking for something a bit different or a second dive after an early morning thresher shark encounter. This is a Japanese motor vessel, sunk during World War II, and it’s now completely colonised by the reef. You can easily spend a full hour here just poking around. Swim through the open cargo holds, which are now wide enough for a small bus, and watch the schools of fusiliers darting in and out of the light. Look closely on the hull and deck for frogfish, scorpionfish, and the occasional moray eel peering out from a crevice. It’s a photographer's playground, with beautiful light filtering through the shallow water and plenty of macro subjects. We’d suggest going in the late afternoon; the light is softer and sometimes you’ll have the whole site to yourself. Keep an eye on the sand nearby for blue-spotted rays, too.

Typical FRIENDSHIP VII Dive Profile

Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

Safety Notes

Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

Today05:4017:3511h 56m daylightGolden hour 17:07

Reviews for FRIENDSHIP VII

Conditions

Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for FRIENDSHIP VII

FRIENDSHIP VII Ocean Conditions

Monthly averages for FRIENDSHIP VII, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (11.45, 124.02) (6km away)