Dive-site story
The IJN Akitsushima is one of the few true purpose-built seaplane tenders sunk during World War II, resting on her port side in Coron Bay. Commissioned by the Imperial Japanese Navy to service large reconnaissance flying boats, the ship was hit by US aircraft during Operation Hailstone-style airstrikes in September 1944. Her massive three-ton stern crane lies splayed across the sandy bottom, while the severed hull reveals heavy machinery, anti-aircraft gun mounts, and multi-deck engine compartments that attract wreck specialists from around the globe.
Massive aircraft-handling crane collapsed beside the hull on the seabed
Twin anti-aircraft gun mounts intact on the deck superstructure
Intricate engine room penetration route for certified overhead divers
Schools of yellowtail barracuda and batfish patrolling the upper hull
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Dry northeast monsoon months bring the calmest sea conditions and most reliable dive access.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tall-fin BatfishPlatax teira | Common | ||||||||||||
| Great BarracudaSphyraena barracuda | Common | ||||||||||||
| Giant MorayGymnothorax javanicus | Common | ||||||||||||
| LionfishPterois volitans | Common | ||||||||||||
| CrocodilefishCymbacephalus beauforti | Seasonal |
Marine forecast
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