Famous Shipwrecks in Maldives – The Tragic Wonders of the Ocean

The Indian Ocean is famous for its varied and exciting marine life, with the Maldives repute out as a leading diving destination. Beyond its perfect coral reefs and see-through waters, the Maldives is also house to a series of intriguing shipwrecks that offer a thrilling adventure for divers.

The shipwrecks in these waters have facilitated the increase of thriving marine ecosystem, with coral reefs invasive the wrecks and attracting a multitude of sea creature. Exploring these submerge relics provides a unique viewpoint on the island paradise’s submarine world, where history and oceanic ecosystem interweave.

Keyodhoo Shipwreck

In the crystal-clear lagoon of Keyodhoo in Vaavu Atoll, this wreck is supposed to be an Indonesian vessel that met its end at this point. The partly submerged wreck provides a remarkable sight, with its mast occasionally flouting the surface. Divers can discover the ship’s constitution; including the captain’s chalet and facade with the iconic bicycle affix to the wreck while favorable the healthy corals and vivacious marine life that now call this wreck home. Snorkeling above the wreck offers an exciting perspective, and free divers can experience the tranquility of gliding during the hollow vessel.

Vaavu Atoll is well-known for its outstanding dive sites. Highlights contain a nighttime jump at Alimathaa, where divers encounter resting nurse sharks, and the Golden Wall dive site, which resemble a lush undersea garden. For a truly unforgettable incident, discover Fotteyo Kandu, known for its encounters with hammerhead sharks, eagle rays, and teasing pod of dolphins. Vaavu Atoll offers a variety of lodging option like NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, and NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi.

The Shipyard

The Shipyard in Lhaviyani Atoll is a must-visit for wreck diving fanatic. This site features two prominent shipwrecks, with the bow of Skipjack II rising elegantly from the water. Originally a fish factory vessel, the Skipjack II radically met its end, catching flames and dipping stern first. The second wreck lies 40 metres absent and now rests 30 meters below the surface. Both wrecks are covere+ d in a variety of soft and hard corals attract a variety of marine life, with yellow sweepers, butterfly fish, and Napoleon wrasse. Nurse sharks and grey reef sharks can too be spotted here. The Shipyard offers a thrilling dive for both experienced divers and beginners, though strong current may occasionally challenge divers.

Lhaviyani Atoll is located in the northern Maldives and is simply available from the capital city. The atoll’s spectacular geography includes white sandy beaches, lagoons, and colorful coral reefs. Resort option in Lhaviyani Atoll includes Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, Hurawalhi Island Resort, and Komandoo Island Resort & Spa. Each offers a exclusive blend of lavishness and natural beauty, ensure a unforgettable stay.

SS Seagull Wreck

Embark on a voyage back in time with a dive to the SS Seagull, a large steamship that sank in 1879 through its voyage from London to Calcutta. Located northeast of Gaafaru Island, this 1,000-tonne wreck is partly covered by coral, making it somewhat demanding to stain. The ship’s anchor, which rests just one meter below the surface, is visible through low wave, representing its site. The wreckage is crack into two section and lean at a 45-degree slant on the reef edging, extend to 30 metres.

This site is a sanctuary for thrill-seekers, with numerous sightings of mantarays, stingrays, eels and barracudas. Divers may also encounter parrotfish, blue tangs, blennies, trumpet fish, and frogfish. Due to its serious coral coverage and sprinkled remainder, the SS Seagull is an exciting dive for those looking for historical conspiracy and varied marine life. Nearby resorts include Kagi Maldives Resort and Spa, Patina Maldives Fari Islands, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, Oaga Art Resort Maldives and Jumeirah Olhahali Island Maldives.

Hembadhoo Tug Boat Wreck

Just a short expanse from the jetty of Hembadhoo lies a little yet charming wreck. This previous tugboat, intentionally ruined by a dive centre in 1988, is a hidden treasure that can be reached straight from the seashore. The wreck, which dealings 16 metres in extent, rests at a depth of 22 metres and has become a successful locale for varied oceanic species.

Divers explore the tugboat will find it swarming with bluefin jacks, black and midnight snappers, and tiger cardinal fish. The interior of the wreck is decorated with bushy black coral, adding a touch of creepy beauty to the place. As divers make their method reverse to the pier, they can imagine encountering still additional marine life, making the Hembadhoo Tug Boat Wreck a rewarding dive for those stay at Taj Coral Reef Resort.

British Loyalty Wreck

The British Loyalty, a 5,583-tonne oil tanker originally built in 1928, holds an important place in the Maldives’ history. After existing an early torpedo attack in 1942, it was used as a storage space vessel in the Addu Atoll before creature torpedoed over in 1944. The wreck now lies on its starboard side at 33 meters depth, between the islands of Maradhoo and Hithadhoo.

This remarkable 140-metre-long wreck, covered in hard and soft corals, is house to a collection of marine life, with blue-fin jacks, turtles, manta rays, and sharks. The vessel features two large holes—one on the deck and a new on the keel—allowing divers to realize its interior. The British Loyalty scuttle in 1946, is a prime site for divers looking for together historical notice and exciting oceanic ecosystems. The wreck is located in a secluded area confirmed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of the Maldives in 2018. Nearby resorts surround Canareef Resort Maldives also Equator Village.