Monkey Wreck

Monkey Wreck: A Macro Haven in Puerto Galera

Nestled on a sandy patch within the vibrant coral slope of Monkey Beach, the Monkey Wreck dive site offers an accessible and rewarding experience for divers exploring Puerto Galera's rich underwater world. This small wooden sailboat, approximately 6 meters long, lies tilted on its side at a depth of around 18 meters, making it an ideal add-on to a reef dive.

Diving Conditions and Certification

With a beginner difficulty rating and generally mild currents, Monkey Wreck is perfectly suited for those holding an Open Water certification. While currents are typically gentle, divers may occasionally experience a mild drift, adding a dynamic element to the exploration. The water temperature in Puerto Galera is inviting, averaging between 26°C and 29°C for most of the year, though it can dip to around 25°C during the cooler months of December to February and reach up to 30°C in the peak summer from May to August.

What Divers Will Discover

Though modest and gradually degrading, the wreck itself acts as a vibrant artificial reef, concentrating marine life far denser than the surrounding sandy flats. Divers will find it to be a self-contained oasis, teeming with fascinating creatures. Keep a keen eye out for the resident ambush predators, such as the masters of camouflage, the Hairy Frogfish (Antennarius striatus), often spotted blending seamlessly with the wreck's structure or nearby corals. The notorious Reef Stonefish (Synanceia verrucosa) also calls this site home, so we recommend maintaining good buoyancy and situational awareness, especially given the potential hazard of sharp metal from the wreck.

The wreck is a reliable spot for observing symbiotic relationships, with numerous Skunk Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) diligently working along the hull, attracting fish in need of a clean. Divers are also likely to encounter the graceful Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), often seen cruising by or resting on the reef. Look for the distinctive Yellow Boxfish (Ostracion cubicus) among the reef fish that congregate around the structure.

Beyond the listed species, the Monkey Wreck and its surrounding reef offer a macro photographer's delight. Divers can often spot peacock mantis shrimp darting across the sand, shy jawfish peeking from their sandy burrows, and a variety of nudibranchs. Schools of fusiliers and long-jawed mackerel frequently animate the mid-water, adding to the site's lively atmosphere.

We recommend combining your exploration of Monkey Wreck with the adjacent Monkey Beach coral slope, known for its diverse hard and soft corals, sponges, and sea fans, creating a comprehensive and memorable dive experience in Puerto Galera.