The Top Wreck Dives in the World

Welcome to our latest addition to the Entertainment and Hobbies section of our blog! As you embark on your sailing adventures with your family, one of the most thrilling and educational activities you can partake in is wreck diving. Exploring the underwater world and discovering the history and stories behind these sunken vessels is an experience like no other. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the top wreck dives in the world, providing you with all the information you need to plan your next underwater adventure.

SS Thistlegorm, Red Sea, Egypt

The SS Thistlegorm is one of the most famous wreck dives in the world, and for good reason. This British cargo ship was sunk by German bombers in 1941 during World War II, and now lies at a depth of 30 meters (98 feet) in the Red Sea. The ship is incredibly well-preserved, with its cargo of motorcycles, trucks, and even a couple of locomotives still visible in the hold. Divers can also explore the crew quarters, engine room, and anti-aircraft guns on the deck. The warm, clear waters of the Red Sea make this an ideal dive site for both beginners and experienced divers alike.

Best Time to Dive: May to September

Skill Level: Intermediate

USS Oriskany, Florida, USA

The USS Oriskany, also known as “The Great Carrier Reef,” is an Essex-class aircraft carrier that was intentionally sunk in 2006 to create an artificial reef in the Gulf of Mexico. At 275 meters (900 feet) long, it is one of the largest artificial reefs in the world and has become a haven for marine life. Divers can explore the flight deck, hangar bays, and even the ship’s island, where the bridge and navigation equipment are located. Due to its depth, ranging from 24 meters (80 feet) to 64 meters (210 feet), the USS Oriskany is best suited for advanced divers.

Best Time to Dive: April to October

Skill Level: Advanced

Fujikawa Maru, Truk Lagoon, Micronesia

Truk Lagoon, also known as Chuuk Lagoon, is home to one of the largest collections of shipwrecks in the world, the result of a massive US air attack during World War II. The Fujikawa Maru is one of the most popular wrecks in the lagoon, a Japanese cargo ship that now rests at a depth of 34 meters (110 feet). The ship is famous for its cargo of Zero fighter planes, which can still be found in the hold, along with other military equipment. The wreck is also covered in beautiful coral formations and teeming with marine life, making it a must-see for any wreck diving enthusiast.

Best Time to Dive: Year-round, but December to April has the best visibility

Skill Level: Intermediate

SS President Coolidge, Vanuatu

The SS President Coolidge was a luxury ocean liner that was converted into a troopship during World War II. In 1942, the ship hit two mines and sank off the coast of Vanuatu, coming to rest at a depth of 20-70 meters (65-230 feet). The wreck is massive, stretching over 200 meters (650 feet) in length, and offers divers a unique opportunity to explore the remains of a luxury liner and a military vessel in one dive. Divers can swim through the grand ballroom, visit the ship’s barber shop, and even see the famous “Lady and the Unicorn” statue in the first-class dining room. Due to its size and depth, the SS President Coolidge is best suited for advanced divers.

Best Time to Dive: April to October

Skill Level: Advanced

The Yongala, Queensland, Australia

The Yongala is a 110-meter (361 feet) long passenger ship that sank off the coast of Queensland, Australia, in 1911 during a cyclone. The wreck now lies at a depth of 14-28 meters (45-92 feet) and is one of the most famous dive sites in Australia. The ship is covered in stunning coral formations and is home to a diverse array of marine life, including turtles, sea snakes, and even the occasional shark. The strong currents at the site can make diving challenging, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Best Time to Dive: June to November

Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Zenobia, Cyprus

The Zenobia was a Swedish roll-on/roll-off ferry that sank on its maiden voyage in 1980 off the coast of Larnaca, Cyprus. The ship now lies at a depth of 16-42 meters (52-138 feet) and is considered one of the best wreck dives in the Mediterranean. The wreck is largely intact, with its cargo of trucks and trailers still chained to the deck. Divers can explore the ship’s bridge, engine room, and even the crew’s quarters, which are still furnished with beds and personal belongings. The warm, clear waters of Cyprus make this an ideal dive site for divers of all skill levels.

Best Time to Dive: May to October

Skill Level: Intermediate

As you sail around the world with your family, be sure to add these incredible wreck dives to your itinerary. Each site offers a unique glimpse into history and the underwater world, providing unforgettable experiences for divers of all skill levels. Remember to always dive within your limits, and consider taking a wreck diving specialty course to enhance your skills and knowledge. Happy diving!