FU SAN - Subic Bay

The FU SAN is a surprisingly fun dive, especially when you’re looking for something shallow and relaxed in Subic. We love it for its sheer accessibility; sitting upright at a max depth of 5 metres, it’s practically a snorkel. This isn't some dramatic, deep wreck, but its size, 117 metres long, means you still get that proper wreck feeling. The FU SAN ran aground in a typhoon back in '74, and you can really see how the bay has claimed it over the decades. Glide over the deck, which is now a bustling flat for small reef fish. You'll spot schools of juvenile snapper flitting in and out of the rusted holds. We've often found ourselves just hovering, watching the nudibranchs inching their way across the barnacle-covered metal. It’s an ideal site for new divers getting their first taste of a big wreck, or photographers wanting to play with ambient light and wide-angle shots without worrying about deco. If you time it right, a calm morning offers the best visibility, letting you appreciate the scale of the wreck from bow to stern.

Location
Subic Bay, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
14.816667, 120.106670
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Marine Protected Area: Sabang Marine Protected Area

Best Time to Dive in Subic Bay

The warmest water temperatures in Subic Bay occur in May, averaging 31.4°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 28.2°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.4°C
  • February: 28.2°C
  • March: 29.4°C
  • April: 30.5°C
  • May: 31.4°C
  • June: 31.3°C
  • July: 30.8°C
  • August: 29.8°C
  • September: 30.0°C
  • October: 30.4°C
  • November: 30.4°C
  • December: 29.4°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Subic Bay

Nearest Dive Centres to FU SAN

Marine Life in Subic Bay

Home to 63 recorded species including 49 reef fish, 6 seagrass & algae, 5 hard corals, 2 sharks & rays, 1 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for FU SAN

Based on average water temperature of 30.0°C, currents 3 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 30°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 FU SAN dive site?
The FU SAN dive site, located in Subic Bay, has a maximum depth of 5 meters. This shallow depth makes it an interesting wreck to explore for divers looking for an accessible experience.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the FU SAN dive site?
The FU SAN is a significant motor vessel wreck, measuring 117.7m x 16.2m, that sank on November 28, 1974. While specific marine life details are not provided in our current data, divers can expect to explore the substantial structure of this vessel, built in 1951 by Nippon Kokan, Shimizu. It is classified as a dangerous wreck, indicating its unique features and the need for careful exploration.
How challenging is diving the FU SAN wreck, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving the FU SAN wreck is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. While its maximum depth is only 5 meters, the "Dangerous wreck" classification suggests that it is not suitable for beginner divers and requires appropriate experience and training for safe exploration.
What is the best time of year to dive the FU SAN wreck for optimal conditions?
Our current data for the FU SAN wreck does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. However, it notes the vessel ran aground during a typhoon, highlighting the importance of checking local weather conditions before planning a dive in Subic Bay.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the FU SAN wreck?
Given the FU SAN wreck's classification as an intermediate difficulty and a "Dangerous wreck," divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or specialized wreck diving training. This ensures divers have the necessary skills and experience to safely navigate and explore the site.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the FU SAN dive site?
Our current data for the FU SAN dive site does not include specific details regarding typical current or visibility conditions. Divers planning to visit this Subic Bay wreck should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on conditions.