the El Capitan in Subic Bay - Philippines

Among its many dive sites and centers, the El Capitan in Subic remains one of the most visited, both by newcomers and also the veteran divers. This should come as no surprise to those who frequent the place, as it is one of the most picturesque.

Part of what makes this particular wreck site so popular is the lack of information, giving it an air of mystery. What is known is that she was a freighter, powered by steam, and measures over 130 meters in length. It is estimated to weigh about 3,000 tons, and there is very little in the way of actual damage, save those caused by nature. She is believed to have been of Spanish or Cuban make, although this cannot be ascertained either. Exactly why the ship was scuttled is not known too.

When you get to the El Capitan in Subic among the locations that you will want to explore are the boiler room and a couple of areas where cargo was kept. The hull itself has been eroded almost completely, but in its place are some of the most colorful and beautiful aquatic life forms you will see. Adding to the beauty of the scenery are the light rays that go through the ship, making them ideal spots to take photographs.

The entire vessel is actually nestled on a sloping area and less than 20 meters deep, making it an attractive choice for divers who do not want to get in too deep.

The El Capitan in Subic is at Ilanin Bay and any guide can take you there without difficulty. The cost of diving will depend on the type of package tour you have obtained from your hotel, but if you are interested in going to the dive shops in and around the area, the starting cost is $80 to $100.

For the more advanced training including decompression and usage of other specialized equipment it can reach up to $800. For most tourists and travelers, the basic lessons are all that is needed to explore this wreck site so you do not have to spend a lot of money. Also, you can go diving with more experienced friends or even helpers.

The El Capitan in Subic is often singled out as the best place for beginners to explore. With its many attractions and relatively easy learning curve, it can be a great way to start off your exploration of the seas under Subic Bay.