Planning a trip to the Philippines and looking for a memorable day filled with vibrant marine life, intriguing history, and stunning scenery? The Coron Reef & Wrecks Tour might just be your ideal adventure. Offering an 8-hour journey through some of Coron’s most captivating spots, this tour combines snorkeling, sightseeing, and a little touch of history—all with the convenience of included transfers and a tasty buffet lunch.
What we love about this tour is how it balances nature and history seamlessly, giving you the chance to witness colorful coral gardens and sunken WWII ships in one trip. Plus, the enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides seem to make all the difference, helping you get the most out of your experience. The only potential downside? Since weather conditions can affect the itinerary, some spots might be skipped or rescheduled, so flexibility is key.
This adventure suits travelers who want a well-rounded taste of Coron’s underwater world without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It’s perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone eager for a full day of exploration in a setting that’s both relaxing and awe-inspiring.
Key Points
- Balanced experience: Combines snorkeling, sightseeing, and a visit to Pass Island’s beaches.
- Historical appeal: Includes visits to WWII wrecks that are now vibrant habitats.
- All-inclusive comfort: Transfers, lunch, permits, and equipment rental are included.
- Guided expertise: Knowledgeable guides make the experience more informative and enjoyable.
- Flexible schedule: The itinerary can vary depending on weather, ensuring safety.
- Great value: At $48, it’s a comprehensive day out that covers a lot for the price.
An In-Depth Look at the Coron Reef & Wrecks Tour
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Busuanga.
Starting Point and Logistics
The tour kicks off with pickup options from McDonald’s Coron or Coron Town Plaza around 8:30 AM. If you’re staying nearby within 4 km of Coron Town, the included van transfer is straightforward and hassle-free, making your morning less stressful. For those staying farther out, an extra PHP 100 (~$2) gets you pickup — a small fee for convenience.
The guide and driver will meet you at your accommodation, helping you board the van with a friendly attitude. The transfer to the boat departure point takes about 15 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in before the day’s adventures begin.
The Stops: What Makes Each Special
Pass Island
After a short boat ride, your first stop is Pass Island, famous for its powdery white beaches and crystal-clear waters. This spot offers a perfect blend of relaxation and light activity—whether you want to lounge on the sand or jump into the water. The reviews highlight Pass Island as a relaxing highlight, with one traveler noting it as a “nice relaxing time where you can relax on the beach or in the sea”. It’s a great way to unwind before heading underwater.
Lusong Coral Garden & WWII Wrecks
Next, the tour moves to Lusong Gunboat, a sunken WWII relic now teeming with marine life. This site is particularly appealing to snorkelers because of the vivid coral formations and the chance to spot colorful fish, sea turtles, or other marine creatures. Travelers have expressed excitement about seeing two WWII shipwrecks, which add an element of history to the underwater landscape.
The Lusong Gunboat is described as “a captivating underwater experience,” and while sightings of sea turtles and specific fish are not guaranteed, the chance to see such creatures in a well-preserved wreck is a big draw.
Lusong Coral Garden
Following the wrecks, you’ll explore Lusong Coral Garden, often called a snorkeler’s paradise. The shallow waters are filled with lush coral reefs, creating underwater tunnels of color. From the reviews, visitors mention “amazing corals and marine life,” making this stop ideal for those wanting a closer look at coral ecosystems and the chance to snap some waterproof photos.
East Tangat Wreck
The final highlight is the East Tangat Wreck, a WWII shipwreck now serving as an artificial reef. Its impressive structure offers an intriguing glimpse into history while providing a habitat for marine biodiversity. For many, this wreck is a visual marvel, and exploring it offers both a sense of adventure and respect for its historical significance.
What to Expect and Practicalities
Throughout the day, the tour is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to snorkel, take photos, or just enjoy the scenery. The boat transfers run smoothly, and the guides are known for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, making the cloudy details about marine life and wrecks accessible even to beginners.
Equipment rentals—masks, snorkels, aqua shoes, and even clear kayaks—are available for a modest fee. If you want to rent gear, booking in advance is recommended to avoid missing out. Remember to bring your own waterproof camera, sunscreen, towel, and swimwear—a few essentials that make the day more comfortable.
The tour includes a buffet lunch, which is generally well-received, offering a good break in the middle of your adventure. Drinks are not included, so carry some cash if you’d like to purchase refreshments.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Variability of the Itinerary
One of the key features of this tour is its flexibility. The order of the stops may change depending on weather conditions, and in some cases, certain sites might be skipped for safety reasons. This ensures a safer experience, but also means you might not get to see every spot on your wish list.
In case of bad weather or cancellation, the provider offers rescheduling, alternative tours, or a full refund—your safety and satisfaction are clearly a priority.
Analyzing the Price and Overall Value
For $48 per person, this tour offers an impressive amount of value. It covers all boat and van transfers, permits, an expert guide, and lunch—a package that’s usually more expensive if booked separately. The inclusion of equipment rentals at extra cost makes it flexible for travelers who prefer to bring their own gear.
Compared to the cost of individual snorkeling or wreck dives, this outing provides a comprehensive experience with relatively little hassle. The reviews support this, with travelers describing it as “excellent” and “so amazing,” emphasizing the guides’ helpfulness and the stunning views.
The Experience and Authenticity
From personal anecdotes shared in reviews, guides like James add a lot of value with their funny, helpful, and informative approach. You’ll learn about each wreck’s history and what marine life to watch for, making each snorkel session more meaningful.
The scenery is breathtaking—bright corals, lively fish, and the rusted relics of WWII—creating a sense of discovery and appreciation for nature and history alike. Many reviewers mention the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful scenery that makes this tour a highlight of their trip.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded day experiencing Coron’s marine environment without the need for advanced diving skills. It’s ideal for snorkelers or non-divers eager to see wrecks and colorful reefs, and for those who appreciate guides who can enhance their understanding of what they’re seeing. If you’re comfortable with some light walking and water activities, you’ll find this tour approachable and rewarding.
If your main goal is relaxation paired with underwater adventure, this trip hits all the right notes. However, if you’re seeking a deep sea diving expedition or want a tour that covers other islands or wildlife like dugongs or sea turtles specifically, you might want to explore other options.
The Sum Up
The Coron Reef & Wrecks Tour offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, history, and convenience at a very reasonable price. From the white sands of Pass Island to the fascinating WWII wrecks, every stop provides something memorable. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge enhance the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.
This tour is perfect for snorkelers, history enthusiasts, and first-time visitors who want to maximize their time in Coron without the stress of planning each detail. Its flexible itinerary and all-in-one package mean you’ll leave with a well-rounded impression of what makes Coron truly special.
For travelers seeking an authentic, enjoyable, and value-packed day on the water, this tour ticks most boxes. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure, some sunscreen, and a waterproof camera—then sit back and enjoy one of the Philippines’ most beautiful marine settings.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip van transfers within 4 km of Coron Town, boat transfers to each destination, a guided commentary, buffet lunch, life vests, medical kit, cottage rental, all permits, entrance fees, and government taxes.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting at 8:30 AM and finishing around 5:00 PM. The schedule can vary slightly depending on weather and other conditions.
Can I rent snorkeling equipment?
Yes, masks and snorkels are available for rent at PHP 150 (~$3). Aqua shoes and clear kayaks are also available for a small fee. Booking in advance is recommended.
What are the main highlights of the tour?
Highlights include snorkeling in vibrant coral gardens, exploring WWII wrecks like Lusong Gunboat and East Tangat Wreck, and relaxing at Pass Island’s beautiful beach.
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers or kids?
While the tour involves snorkeling, it is generally friendly for non-divers who can comfortably swim or are comfortable in water. However, it’s not recommended for wheelchairs or unaccompanied minors for safety reasons.
What should I bring?
Bring cash, your passport or ID, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera (optional), and any personal items. Equipment rentals are optional and payable on the day.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent safe participation, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. In such cases, you’ll be offered an alternative or a full refund, ensuring your experience is safe and pleasant.