IJN Akitsushima

Dive the IJN Akitsushima: Coron's Seaplane Tender Wreck

For divers seeking a truly unique and historically significant wreck experience in Coron, the IJN Akitsushima offers an unforgettable adventure. This 118 m, 4,650-tonne Imperial Japanese Navy seaplane tender, bombed and torpedoed by US Task Force 38 aircraft on September 24, 1944, is widely regarded as one of the most warship-like among the famous Coron Bay wrecks. Lying on her port side, the Akitsushima presents a challenging yet rewarding dive for those with the appropriate certification and experience.

A Glimpse into History

The Akitsushima was designed to service large flying boats, providing maintenance, repairs, and supplies in remote forward bases. Her final resting place in Coron Bay sees her largely intact, despite the catastrophic damage that led to her sinking. Divers will find the starboard hull at a minimum depth of 22 m, while the deck and bottom lie deeper, reaching 35–38 m. The mid-section is visibly cracked open from the bomb hit, and the bridge has collapsed, yet many iconic features remain. We can explore the impressive radio tower, the massive main crane—once used to hoist seaplanes aboard and now resting on the sandy bottom—and even the four powerful diesel engines within the engine room. An anti-aircraft gun is also visible near the seabed.

Exploring the Depths

This dive site is classified as technical, with an average depth around 26-28 m and a maximum depth of 38 m. Currents here are typically moderate, though they can become strong and unpredictable, particularly around the mast and crane. Visibility in Coron Bay generally ranges from 7 to 30 m, often at its best between November and May.

The Akitsushima is a vibrant artificial reef, teeming with marine life. While exploring the wreck, divers can expect to encounter schools of Bigeye Trevally, barracudas, jacks, and various groupers. Look closely, and you might spot lionfish, scorpionfish, pufferfish, and even crocodile fish camouflaged against the wreck's structure. Schools of giant batfish often patrol the wreck, adding to the dramatic underwater scenery. The wreck itself is beautifully encrusted with corals and sponges, providing shelter for smaller reef fish, nudibranchs, and pipefish.

For those with advanced wreck diving certification, there are opportunities for swim-throughs and penetrations, notably into the engine room to observe the machinery and the four engines. However, due to the inherent hazards of an overhead environment, sharp metal, and depth, we strongly recommend that such explorations only be undertaken by properly certified wreck divers.

Dive Conditions and Requirements

• Difficulty: Technical
• Depth: The wreck spans from 22 m (shallowest point) to 38 m (deck/bottom).
• Current: Moderate, with potential for strong and unpredictable currents.
• Water Temperature: Divers will find comfortable water temperatures ranging from 27°C to 30°C year-round.
• Certification Required: Advanced Open Water certification is mandatory. For any wreck penetration, a specialized Wreck Diver certification is essential.
• Hazards: Be aware of the overhead environment, sharp metal edges, and the significant depth of the dive site. We recommend wearing gloves for protection.
• Recommendations: Nitrox is highly recommended to maximize bottom time on this deeper wreck. A dive light and a reel are also advisable for exploration.