Coron, at the northern tip of Palawan, has some of the best wreck snorkelling in the world - a fleet of Japanese ships sunk in 1944 now lying in clear,...
PANA.PH · Philippines travel teamUpdated July 1, 2026 · 5 min read
Snorkelling Coron's reefs and wartime wrecks
Coron, at the northern tip of Palawan, has some of the best wreck snorkelling in the world - a fleet of Japanese ships sunk in 1944 now lying in clear, shallow-enough water to explore from the surface. This tour pairs those famous wrecks with Coron's vivid coral reefs, so you spend the day floating over both living gardens and history. You do not need to dive: many of the wrecks sit shallow enough that snorkellers can see the ghostly shapes below.
The wrecks
Coron Bay holds nearly a dozen WWII shipwrecks, and several rise close enough to the surface to snorkel. Hovering above a hull draped in coral and circled by fish, with shafts of light cutting through the blue, is eerie and beautiful in equal measure. Your guide knows which wrecks suit snorkellers on the day's conditions and points out the features below.
The reefs and lagoons
Coral gardens
Between wreck stops the boat visits Coron's reefs - shallow coral gardens alive with reef fish, and warm, glassy water ideal for easy snorkelling. Some itineraries also swing past the area's signature limestone scenery and a swim stop in a sheltered cove.
The tour suits swimmers and snorkellers of most levels, with life vests for the less confident; the wrecks are a bonus you can admire from the surface. Bring swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a towel and an underwater camera - gear is normally provided. Coron is at its best in the dry season from late November to May, when seas are calm and visibility is high. Book ahead, especially in peak months when the best boats go early.
Good to know before you book
Duration: typically a full day (around 8 to 10 hours including transfers), though half-day and multi-day options exist - check the listing.
Best for: active travellers, couples and friends.
What is included: the boat, snorkelling gear, a guide and often lunch; marine-park or environmental fees may be extra.
Pickup: most tours offer hotel or central pickup; confirm your point and time when booking.
Book through: the GetYourGuide button on this page, which shows live availability and pricing.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Coron Reefs and Wrecks Snorkeling Tour take?
Most departures run as a full day - roughly 8 to 10 hours including pickup, travel and the activities themselves - so plan to set aside the whole day. Some operators offer shorter or private versions; the exact timing for your date is shown when you book through the GetYourGuide button on this page.
What is included in the Coron Reefs and Wrecks Snorkeling Tour?
Typically the price covers the boat, snorkelling gear, a guide and often lunch; marine-park or environmental fees may be extra. Inclusions vary by operator, so always read the specific listing - it spells out exactly what is provided and what you pay for separately, such as entrance or environmental fees.
What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen applied early and sparingly, a towel and an underwater camera. Snorkelling gear is normally provided. It is also worth carrying some cash for local fees, drinks and tips, plus any personal medication, since card facilities can be limited outside the cities.
Is the Coron Reefs and Wrecks Snorkeling Tour suitable for beginners or families?
It is suitable for swimmers and snorkellers of most levels, with life vests available for the less confident. For scuba elements you will need the appropriate certification. Children can usually join with a vest and supervision. If you have specific concerns about age, fitness or swimming ability, message the operator before booking - they can advise on the best option for your group.
When is the best time to do this tour?
The best conditions are usually the dry season from late November to May, when seas are calmest and skies clearest. That said, the Philippines is a year-round destination, and many of these experiences run in any season - just expect the occasional shower and check the forecast for the day.
How do I get to Coron?
To reach Coron, fly into Puerto Princesa, El Nido or Coron (Busuanga) airport, then transfer by road or boat. Many tours include transfers from nearby towns or hotels, so confirm your pickup arrangement when you book so the day runs smoothly from the start.
Do I need to book the Coron Reefs and Wrecks Snorkeling Tour in advance?
Yes - booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially in the dry-season peak and on weekends, when popular tours and the best operators sell out. Reserving online also locks in your spot and lets you compare timings and inclusions easily.
How much does the Coron Reefs and Wrecks Snorkeling Tour cost?
Prices vary with the season, group size and exactly what is included, so we do not list a fixed figure here. Tap the GetYourGuide button on this page to see the current, accurate price and availability for your chosen date.
Can I do the Coron Reefs and Wrecks Snorkeling Tour as a private or customised tour?
Many operators offer a private version of this experience for couples, families or small groups who want a flexible pace and a guide to themselves, and some can tailor the route or add stops. If a private or custom option matters to you, check the listing or message the operator before booking, as availability and prices differ from the standard shared tour.
What else is worth doing around Coron?
Coron rewards travellers who linger. Beyond the Coron Reefs and Wrecks Snorkeling Tour, set aside time for the local beaches, markets, food and viewpoints, and ask your guide or host for their personal favourites - the small, lesser-known spots rarely make the guidebooks. Pairing this experience with a day at a slower pace, plus one of the other tours and activities we feature in the area, turns a single outing into a genuinely memorable trip and gives you the full flavour of this part of the Philippines.
Ready to explore Coron?
From planning to the moment you arrive, the Coron Reefs and Wrecks Snorkeling Tour is one of the most rewarding ways to experience this corner of the Philippines - and booking it is simple. Use the GetYourGuide button on this page to check live availability, compare timings and secure your spot, then turn up and let the local guides handle the rest while you focus on the views, the water and the memories.
