Daryl Laut (Wreck)

Daryl Laut (Wreck), Anilao

Prepare to explore Anilao's most iconic wreck dive site, the Daryl Laut. Once a bustling floating hotel-casino in the late 1970s to 1980s, this unique structure met its end when it caught fire and sank off the western side of Caban Island. Local lore offers two intriguing theories for its demise: a dramatic lightning strike or a more cynical insurance fire, leaving divers to ponder its mysterious past as they descend. Originally built in Thailand as a floating youth hostel, it later became a resort in Anilao after being seized and auctioned due to smuggling issues. Its name, Dari Laut, means "From the Sea" in Malay, or is derived from the owner's name, Dari, and "laut" (sea) in Filipino, a fitting title for its final resting place.

Diving the Wreck

The Daryl Laut dive site is considered intermediate in difficulty, requiring an Open Water certification. It's also a popular choice for advanced Open Water divers looking to gain experience with deep dives due to its accessible depths. The skeletal remains of the barge lie tilted down a reef slope, with its shallower sections beginning around 12 to 13 meters and the deeper foot of the wreck reaching approximately 28 meters. Beyond the main structure, the sandy bottom can extend to a maximum depth of 45 meters, offering opportunities for deeper exploration.

As divers explore the wreck, they will find its steel frame completely encrusted with a vibrant tapestry of hard and soft corals, sponges, and tunicates. This transformation has turned the former casino into a thriving artificial reef, teeming with life. While currents are generally negligible to mild, divers should be aware that they can occasionally be strong, so monitoring conditions is always recommended. Visibility typically ranges from 12 to 18 meters but can extend up to 25 meters, especially during the drier months. Water temperatures in Anilao generally range from 22°C to 29°C, with cooler temperatures in January and February and warmer conditions from March to September.

Marine Life and Hazards

The Daryl Laut is a macro photographer's dream and a haven for diverse marine species. Divers can expect to encounter resident schools of Longfin Batfish circling the structure. Keep a keen eye out for the masters of camouflage, such as the Painted Frogfish, often blending seamlessly with the wreck's encrustations. The site is also renowned for its incredible variety of Nudibranchs in countless bright colors, along with flatworms and Peacock Mantis Shrimp. Other fascinating creatures divers may spot include squirrel fish, trumpet fish, pufferfish, clownfish, electric clams, mandarin fish, crab eye gobies, big eye snappers, pipefish, lionfish, parrotfish, wrasses, and glassfish.

While exploring this captivating dive site, divers must remain mindful of potential hazards. The wreck's sharp metal edges and the possibility of entanglement require careful buoyancy control and streamlined gear. Due to the depth and the overhead environment created by the wreck's structure, we recommend proper training and awareness to ensure a safe and enjoyable dive.