Diving atCoron Virgin (Philippines)
Coron Virgin, an old sand barge, rests on a reef slope off the southern tip of Coron Island. Its stern extends deeper to approximately 22 meters (72 ft). Divers frequently pair this site with the nearby Cathedral Cavern for a combined trip.
Tonight's objective overview for Coron Virgin shows an air temperature of 29.5°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.3 m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
Dive Site Overview
Descending onto the site reveals an old sand barge, the Coron Virgin, reportedly sunk after hitting shallow rocks while engaged in illicit sand transport to Manila. Years of submersion transformed this vessel into a vibrant artificial reef, extensively adorned with both hard and soft corals.
Beyond its historical narrative, the wreck now serves as a dynamic habitat, inviting divers to observe how marine life reclaims man-made structures. Exploration opportunities are available for various diver certifications, reaching a maximum depth of around 40 m (131 ft). A distinct entry point is found where its stern lies deeper on the reef slope, allowing further investigation of the remaining structure.
This established underwater presence supports a thriving ecosystem, presenting intricate details and providing shelter for diverse species across its complex surfaces. Every dive offers visual rewards in this conversion of steel to a living reef.
Expect to navigate through sections where cargo holds once existed, now open corridors for fish. Corals blanket almost every surface, indicating the wreck's successful integration into the natural environment.
Currents here are generally mild, making for a manageable exploration, though always subject to change. Observe resident schools of fish swirling around the superstructure, a testament to the abundant life attracted to this artificial sanctuary.
Coron Virgin
Conditions are Good
Best Dive Window
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Coron Virgin show 30° air, 31° sea temperature, 0.4 m waves, and 22 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Diving at Coron Virgin is generally favorable for much of the year, though optimal conditions typically occur from March through October, when 'Good' to 'Excellent' dive scores are most common. Air temperatures during these months consistently range between 27-28°C (81-83°F), creating comfortable topside conditions. For instance, April and October often see lower average rainfall, with only 0.86 mm and 8.47 mm respectively, contributing to better overall visibility. While water temperatures usually stay between 24-31°C (79-88°F), the warmer periods fall within the summer months. Visibility can vary significantly, from 7 to 30 m (23 to 100 ft), often improving during the winter months despite slightly higher winds and moderate dive scores.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Conditions at Coron Virgin generally present a welcoming environment for divers. Water temperatures typically range from 24-31°C (79-88°F), ensuring a warm and comfortable dive experience. Visibility varies depending on tides and currents, usually offering 10 to 30 meters (33 to 100 feet) of clear viewing. Its wreck structure is largely encrusted with a diverse array of corals, transforming the sunken vessel into a living reef. Exploring this saline environment offers a compelling journey through a historical artifact, now a vibrant habitat, requiring boat entry to reach the site. Currents are generally mild, but can pick up, especially around the deeper sections of the wreck. Encountering other dive groups is common, given the site's popularity, so maintaining situational awareness is beneficial. The overall ambiance is one of serene exploration amidst abundant marine growth.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
When planning a dive at Coron Virgin, divers should consider their experience level, as the site reaches depths of up to 40 meters (131 ft). Proper buoyancy control is crucial to avoid disturbing the fragile coral growth on the wreck and the surrounding reef slope. Always ensure you dive within your certification limits and follow local dive operator guidelines. Maintaining a safe distance from the wreck's structure helps preserve its integrity and protects divers from potential hazards. It's prudent to review dive plans with your guide, especially if pairing this site with other deeper or more complex dives in the area.
Recommended Equipment
Deep dive hazard. Increased narcosis and gas consumption risk.
Overhead / entanglement risk. Wreck penetration requires proper training.
- Dive Computer
- DSMB
- Primary & Backup Lights
- Wreck Reel
- Cutting Tool
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Coron Virgin, Philippines. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
Forecast trends indicate similar diving conditions over the next few days.
Factors such as dive duration, depth, and activity level can influence how warm a diver feels underwater.
Dive skin or rash guard typically balances flexibility and thermal protection in these temperatures. Divers preparing to enter the water at Coron Virgin will likely find temperatures around 31°C (87°F) today. Surface air temperatures are resting at 30°C (85°F).
Due to technical issues with our weather providers, data hasn't been fetched for over 48 hours. The data above reflects the conditions at the time of the last successful fetch.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Coron Virgin.
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN World.
+1-919-684-9111- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
Marine Life at Coron Virgin
Coron Virgin barge has become a dynamic hub for marine life, with corals wonderfully encrusted all over its structure. Divers frequently observe a multitude of critters and macro life, including various nudibranchs, crabs, shrimps, and other crustaceans that have made homes within the artificial reef. Rays, turtles, and occasional reef sharks are known to patrol the surrounding sandy areas. Larger reef species like eels, grouper, and barracuda lurk within its nooks and crevices. Schooling fusiliers, sweetlips, batfish, yellow-tailed snapper, and angelfish create a vibrant, active backdrop. Encounters with colorful reef fish are guaranteed, providing constant visual interest throughout the dive. A closer inspection of the coral growth often reveals smaller, camouflaged creatures.
Dive Sites Near Coron Virgin
View all dive sites in PhilippinesDiscover more underwater gems in this area.
Dive Centers Near Coron Virgin
Working Hours
Today: 07:30 - 21:00
Coron Divers Dive Center
Neptune Dive Center
Gunter'S Dive Center
Dugong Dive Center
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Search Flights
Check available flights and routes on Expedia, using the nearby airports listed in this section.
Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently Asked Questions
What kind of wreck is the Coron Virgin?
An old sand barge, Coron Virgin, rests on a reef slope. Its stern lies deeper, transformed into a thriving artificial reef covered in hard and soft corals.
What is the maximum depth at Coron Virgin?
Divers can reach a maximum depth of 40 meters (131 feet) at Coron Virgin. A barge's stern is situated at approximately 22 meters (72 feet).
What is the typical water temperature?
Water temperatures at Coron Virgin are generally warm, ranging from 24-31°C (79-88°F). Warmer conditions are typically experienced during the summer months.
What kind of marine life can be seen around the wreck?
Various marine life inhabits the wreck, including nudibranchs, crabs, shrimps, eels, grouper, and barracuda. Schooling fish like fusiliers, sweetlips, and angelfish are also commonly observed.
What is the visibility like at the dive site?
Visibility at Coron Virgin can be quite varied, typically ranging from 10 to 30 meters (33 to 100 feet). Conditions depend on tides and currents, with better visibility often noted during the winter months.
Is this dive site suitable for beginner divers?
While the Coron area offers options for various skill levels, the maximum depth of 40 meters at Coron Virgin suggests it's more suitable for certified divers with experience in wreck diving or deeper dives. Beginners should consult with local dive operators for suitability.
Planning to dive Coron Virgin?
Send one inquiry and receive offers directly from the best verified local dive operators.
Coron Virgin
Conditions are Good
Best Dive Window
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Coron Virgin show 30° air, 31° sea temperature, 0.4 m waves, and 22 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.