KIOWA - Siargao

The Kiowa wreck off Siargao is a decent dive, a former cargo vessel that went down in Typhoon Nell back in '93. She sits upright, though definitely showing her age at 33 metres. You can swim through parts of the superstructure, where schools of batfish hang out in the gloom and the occasional reef shark cruises by. It's a proper wreck dive, dark and a little eerie, making it best for divers with some experience under their belt. We've often seen giant trevally circling the mast, making for a dramatic silhouette against the lighter water above.

Location
Siargao, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
9.015000, 125.501660
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
33m

Marine Protected Area: Poblacion Fish Sanctuary

Best Time to Dive in Siargao

The warmest water temperatures in Siargao occur in September, averaging 30.2°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 27.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.1°C
  • February: 27.7°C
  • March: 27.9°C
  • April: 28.4°C
  • May: 29.1°C
  • June: 29.3°C
  • July: 29.6°C
  • August: 30.1°C
  • September: 30.2°C
  • October: 30.0°C
  • November: 30.0°C
  • December: 29.4°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Siargao

Nearest Dive Centres to KIOWA

Marine Life in Siargao

Home to 87 recorded species including 62 reef fish, 7 sharks & rays, 5 seagrass & algae, 5 sea snails & nudibranchs, 3 crabs & lobsters, 2 hard corals.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for KIOWA

Based on average water temperature of 29.2°C, currents 2 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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving the Kiowa Wreck?
The Kiowa Wreck is found at a depth of 33 meters. This makes it an exciting deep dive for certified divers exploring the waters of Siargao.
What kind of wreck features and marine life can divers expect to see at the Kiowa Wreck dive site?
The Kiowa Wreck is a substantial motor vessel, measuring 74.7m x 11.3m, which sank on December 27, 1993, during Typhoon 'Nell'. Divers can explore the remains of this former EX-TAKASUGAWA MARU NO.5 '76, built in 1963. While specific marine life details are not provided in our current data, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
Is the Kiowa Wreck considered a difficult dive, and what skill level is recommended?
The Kiowa Wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Divers should possess appropriate training and experience for deeper wreck dives to safely explore this site in Siargao.
When is the best time of year to dive the Kiowa Wreck for optimal conditions?
Our current data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the Kiowa Wreck. For general information on diving seasons in the Philippines, you may consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Kiowa Wreck?
Given the Kiowa Wreck's depth of 33 meters and its classification as an intermediate dive, divers are generally recommended to hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification. For exploring the wreck itself, a Wreck Diver Specialty certification is highly advisable to ensure safe penetration and navigation of this dangerous wreck.
What are the typical current conditions at the Kiowa Wreck dive site?
Our available data does not specify the typical current conditions at the Kiowa Wreck dive site. Divers planning to visit this Siargao wreck should consult local dive operators for real-time information on currents and other environmental factors.