HOLY JAMES
Protected Area
Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary
Why dive here
With 554+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda, blacktip reef sharks, blue-spotted stingrays, manta rays and mobula rays (devil rays) - HOLY JAMES offers some of Visayas's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 28-31°C, warmest May, June, October.
The Holy James, lying just off Kawit Island, isn't your pristine, coral-encrusted wreck. It’s got a grittier story, a proper maritime tragedy from Christmas Eve, 1971. We appreciate that raw history, the way it reminds you of the sea’s power. Dropping down, you’ll see the bow first, often surrounded by a swirling cloud of fusiliers. It’s only 15 metres deep, so there’s plenty of time to really explore. Penetration is possible in a few spots if you’re wreck-trained and comfortable, but we prefer taking our time around the superstructure. Look for the prop, usually covered in anemones, and keep an eye out for lionfish tucked into shadowy corners. Inside, the light plays through gaps, illuminating schools of glassfish. It’s a site that feels alive, despite its somber past, and suits divers who love a wreck with a genuine narrative and character.
Typical HOLY JAMES 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.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Nearest Dive Centres to HOLY JAMES
Dive shops near HOLY JAMES
Aquaventure Whitetip Dive Supply
Blue Coral
Divers Point Cebu
Aquamundo
SSISP PHIL. CORP.
Pacifica Dive
Reviews for HOLY JAMES
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for HOLY JAMES
HOLY JAMES Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for HOLY JAMES, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (10.3, 124.07) (19km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
31°C
87°F · Range: 29.5–32.2°C
Air Temperature
24°C
76°F
Wind Speed
3.27 m/s
6.4 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1010 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
Plan & book
Ways to dive Visayas, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in VisayasPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Visayas.
Search stays in VisayasDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near HOLY JAMES
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.