Oryoku Maru (Hell Ship) – Subic Bay (Zambales, Luzon) Dive Site

22m Max

10-35m Vis

boat

Site Overview

Oryoku Maru (Hell Ship) is one of Subic Bay (Zambales, Luzon)'s most rewarding dive sites, offering Japanese passenger freighter at 15 to 22 metres with sobering POW history, coral-encrusted structure, and abundant marine life in a historically significant wreck dive. The site's healthy marine ecosystem supports diverse fish populations and vibrant coral formations throughout the diving season, creating an underwater landscape that rewards repeated exploration by both new and experienced divers alike. With warm water temperatures and exceptional visibility depending on conditions and season, Oryoku Maru (Hell Ship) provides excellent conditions for underwater exploration across all certification levels throughout the year. The site's diverse topography creates multiple habitat zones supporting different species at various depths, from shallow coral gardens teeming with juvenile fish to deeper sections where larger species patrol the structure looking for prey. The Philippines' strategic position in the Coral Triangle ensures extraordinary species diversity with both reef-dwelling and pelagic influences contributing to the vibrant marine communities found at this location. Nutrient-rich waters sustain abundant filter-feeding invertebrates including gorgonian sea fans, barrel sponges, and colorful soft corals that add spectacular color and texture to the underwater scenery. Whether searching for rare macro critters among the reef bommies or observing larger pelagic visitors cruising past the formation, Oryoku Maru (Hell Ship) consistently delivers memorable and rewarding underwater experiences for all who dive here.

Dive Briefing

"Begin the dive at the shallowest point of Oryoku Maru (Hell Ship) and take a moment to orient yourself before descending along the historically significant hell ship wreck. Maintain excellent buoyancy throughout the dive to protect the fragile coral formations and diverse marine life inhabiting the reef structure. Swim along the formation exploring the various depth zones while observing the diverse habitats and marine species that occupy each zone. Check overhangs, ledges, and crevices for resting moray eels, lionfish, and cryptic critters that shelter from the current. Pay special attention to the coral bommies, sandy patches, and reef edges where smaller species like seahorses, frogfish, and nudibranchs can be found with careful observation. Monitor your depth and remaining NDL carefully throughout the dive and maintain conservative ascent profiles. Keep your dive buddy in visual contact and communicate regularly using standard hand signals. Complete your safety stop at 5 meters while deploying your DSMB before making a controlled ascent to surface."