Sangat Island in the province of Coron is a hidden gem that's waiting to be discovered by adventurers and sea enthusiasts alike. From the sunken ships of the WWII to the rich underwater wildlife, this island is a must-visit for deep water scuba divers and snorkeling enthusiasts.
In this blog post, we'll explore the wonders of Sangat Island, Coron, and what makes this small island a top tourist destination in the Philippines.
Getting to Sangat Island
Located in the northwest part of Coron, Sangat Island can be reached by airplane or ferry from Manila or Puerto Princesa. You can take an internal flight to Busuanga Airport, then transfer via shuttle or private car to the Coron port. From there, you can ride a ferry to Sangat Island.
Pro tip: It's best to schedule your trip during the low season (June to November) to avoid the crowd and have a better chance at lower rates for accommodations.
Shipwreck Diving
Sangat Island is famous for its shipwreck diving sites. During the WWII, the Imperial Japanese Navy sank several ships in the waters around Coron. These ships are now home to a diverse marine life and have become favorite diving spots for adventurers and deep-water scuba divers.
The Akitsushima Maru warship, Irako Maru, and the Kyokuzan Maru are just a few of the sunken ships around Sangat Island that you can explore. You can witness how these ships slowly turned into amazing coral reefs, providing shelter to rare and vibrant marine creatures.
Snorkeling
If you're not a fan of deep water diving, snorkeling is the next best option. You can marvel at the amazing coral formations and underwater wildlife that varies from small schools of fish to barracudas, reef sharks, and more.
Sangat Island has several snorkeling spots where you can observe the colorful aquatic life. Banana Island, Malpagalen Island, and Pass Island are some of the popular islands that offer these activities.
Lodging and accommodation
Sangat Island provides travelers with excellent accommodations that cater to all types of budgets. From cottages to luxurious villas, you can choose your lodging option that suits your taste.
The Sangat Island Resort offers guests spacious rooms with sea-facing views, outdoor activities, guided tours, and an on-site dive center. The resort offers an all-inclusive package that includes meals, drinks, and airport transfers.
Underwater wildlife
Sangat Island is home to an array of underwater wildlife that will fascinate marine life enthusiasts. Alongside the shipwrecks, you can witness a variety of fish, corals and other sea life.
Shark Diving
If you're looking for a more extreme underwater experience, shark diving at Sangat Island is the adventure for you. This activity is for advanced divers who are prepared for the thrill that comes with diving with the reef sharks that live here.
With the guidance of professional dive instructors and a full set of diving equipment, you're sure to enjoy a memorable experience.
In conclusion, visiting Sangat Island in Coron is a great way to explore the underwater beauty that the Philippines’ untouched oceans offer. Whether you're a deep-water scuba diver or a snorkeler, Sangat Island offers an array of underwater wildlife, shipwrecks and adventures that will make your heart beat faster.
