JHUFEL - Visayas

We’ve explored a fair few wrecks in the Visayas, but the JHUFEL holds a special kind of charm. Sunk during Typhoon Mike in 1990, this old ferry, once the Yumeji Maru, rests at a max depth of 6m. It’s a shallow dive, almost a snorkel, perfect for extending a surface interval or shaking out the kinks after a long flight. What we love about the JHUFEL is its accessibility. You can spend a good 45 minutes just poking around the bow and stern. The superstructure is long gone, stripped away by the storm, but the hull remains surprisingly intact. Schools of juvenile snapper often shelter within the hull’s skeletal ribs. We’ve spotted lionfish perched on rusted plates, their fins fanning slowly, and the occasional moray peering out from a dark corner. Sunlight still penetrates every part of the wreck, painting the metal with shifting patterns. It’s a surprisingly photogenic site, especially on a sunny morning before the boat traffic picks up. Our pick for entry is a gentle giant stride from a small banca, dropping right onto the deck. Keep an eye out for nudibranchs, too; the growth on the hull is surprisingly rich. It’s a simple, relaxing dive, and sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.

Location
Visayas, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
10.308333, 123.925000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
6m

Marine Protected Area: Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary

Best Time to Dive in Visayas

The warmest water temperatures in Visayas occur in January, averaging 27.8°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.8°C (air: 23.3°C)
  • February: 27.8°C (air: 23.3°C)
  • March: 27.8°C (air: 24.2°C)
  • April: 27.8°C (air: 25.3°C)
  • May: 27.8°C (air: 25.7°C)
  • June: 27.8°C (air: 24.8°C)
  • July: 27.8°C (air: 24.7°C)
  • August: 27.8°C (air: 24.9°C)
  • September: 27.8°C (air: 24.8°C)
  • October: 27.8°C (air: 24.4°C)
  • November: 27.8°C (air: 24.3°C)
  • December: 27.8°C (air: 23.7°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Visayas

Nearest Dive Centres to JHUFEL

Marine Life in Visayas

Home to 577 recorded species including 463 reef fish, 24 sharks & rays, 21 hard corals, 19 sea snails & nudibranchs, 14 sea cucumbers, 9 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for JHUFEL

Based on average water temperature of 27.8°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°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 diving depth at the JHUFEL dive site?
The JHUFEL dive site offers a typical diving depth of 6 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers looking to explore this historic wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can I expect to see when diving JHUFEL?
When diving at JHUFEL, you can expect to explore the underwater features of a sunken ferry vessel, measuring 57.6m x 9.1m. This wreck, originally the EX- YUMEJI MARU, was sunk during Typhoon "Mike" in 1990. While the data doesn't specify particular marine life, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How difficult is diving at JHUFEL, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at JHUFEL is classified as intermediate difficulty. While its shallow depth of 6 meters might seem approachable, the "Dangerous wreck" classification suggests potential hazards that require more experience. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginners.
What is the best time of year to dive at JHUFEL for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the JHUFEL dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Philippines, you may want to consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at JHUFEL?
The data provided for the JHUFEL dive site does not explicitly state specific diving certifications required. However, given its "intermediate" difficulty and "Dangerous wreck" classification, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience with wreck diving is highly recommended. Always check with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
What are the usual currents and water conditions like at the JHUFEL dive site?
The available data for the JHUFEL dive site does not provide specific details regarding usual currents or water conditions. Divers should always consult with local dive centers or guides in Visayas for up-to-date information before planning their dive.