wreck

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Oryoku Maru

The Oryoku Maru in Subic Bay is a visceral piece of history, a Japanese 'hell ship' sunk during WWII. Dropping onto its deck, you're immediately struck by the scale of it all – the sheer length, the huge cargo holds gaping open. We love exploring the bow, where the anti-aircraft gun is still mounted, pointing skyward. It’s a stark reminder of its past. Inside the holds, light filters down, illuminating schools of fusiliers swirling like silver confetti. Look for lionfish tucked into shadowy corners and moray eels peeking from pipes. The engine room is a highlight, for us, if you're comfortable with overhead environments. The machinery is still largely intact, covered in soft corals and sponges. We'd suggest going on a weekday if you can, as it gets popular, and try for a morning dive before the currents pick up too much. It’s an incredible wreck dive, suited for experienced divers comfortable with deeper profiles and potential currents, offering a profound sense of history interwoven with thriving reef life.