Airplane Wreck

The Airplane Wreck dive site in Moalboal, Philippines, is a unique artificial reef featuring an American 2-seater Lancair plane, purposely sunk in the 1990s by Savedra Dive Center to create an engaging underwater attraction. The plane is located on a sandy slope at the edge of a wall, approximately 20-22 meters deep, with the wall dropping off to about 50 meters. Divers typically begin their descent to an 18-meter sandy plateau, following a mooring buoy rope down to the wreck. The fuselage of the aircraft is mostly intact, though it has been stripped of its internal components. Both wings are detached but remain positioned in a simulated flying stance, perfect for underwater photography. One tail fin is broken away and lies near the left wing, creating an interesting environment for exploration. Beyond the wreck, the sloping reef transitions from sandy patches with seagrass to rocky areas, adorned with diverse coral formations such as staghorn, table corals, impressive sea fans, and delicate sea whips. While the shallower sandy plateau is suitable for beginner divers, reaching and fully exploring the deeper wreck typically requires an Advanced Open Water certification due to the depth and potential for currents. Visibility at the site usually ranges between 5-20 meters, influenced by currents and recent weather. Currents can be a notable factor, with reported speeds of 1-3 knots, potentially offering exhilarating drift diving experiences along the wall. The site is a focal point for both macro enthusiasts and wreck divers, providing a refreshing break from the area's natural reef and wall dives. Marine life around the wreck is vibrant, with hard and soft corals thickly covering the plane, providing a home for numerous tropical reef fish. Shoals of sardines are frequently seen passing through the shallows, accompanied by schools of jacks, snappers, and groupers. Macro life includes pipefish, feathered starfish, mantis shrimps, and porcelain crabs. Other sightings include triggerfish, turtles, sweetlips, nudibranchs, and devil scorpionfish. Nitrox is recommended for certified divers to allow for extended bottom times to explore the wreck and its inhabitants thoroughly. The site is located approximately 6km from Panagsama Beach, an 11-minute banca boat ride, and about 20 minutes by speedboat from Cebu Fun Divers, heading north towards Ronda Bay. The Airplane Wreck offers a memorable diving experience, showcasing both a fascinating man-made structure and thriving marine ecosystem.