Joanna James
The Maldives, with its pristine waters and abundant marine life, holds secrets beneath its waves. These wrecks tell tales of storms, navigation mishaps, and the ocean's unforgiving nature, now softened by the beauty of coral life. Here are five fascinating shipwrecks you can explore in the Maldives.
Perhaps the most famous shipwreck in the Maldives, the Maldives Victory sank in 1981 near Male. This cargo ship struck a reef, but its wreckage now rests peacefully about 35 metres below the surface. Enveloped by vibrant coral and teeming with fish like snappers and groupers, it has become a hotspot for seasoned divers. Its proximity to the Velana International Airport makes it one of the easiest wrecks to access. Exploring this site feels like stepping into a page of maritime history, with every turn offering glimpses of nature reclaiming human creations.
Lhaviyani Atoll is home to not one but two fascinating shipwrecks. One of these, known as The Skipjack 1, sits upright, half-submerged above the water and half beneath, providing a unique photo opportunity. The surrounding waters are ideal for diving, with visibility so clear you can almost see the coral gardens carpeting the wrecks. The best luxury resorts in Maldives make it convenient for divers to access this site. The wrecks are now bustling marine sanctuaries, with schools of fish darting through their rusty skeletons.
Located near Addu Atoll, the British Loyalty tells the story of war and survival. This British oil tanker was torpedoed by the Japanese during World War II but managed to stay afloat, only to be scuttled later. Today, it rests at a depth of around 30 metres, becoming a magnet for marine life. The NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort offers access to incredible diving opportunities near this wreck. Divers can spot lionfish, groupers, and even the occasional turtle navigating its hauntingly beautiful corridors.
Unlike other shipwrecks, the Halaveli Wreck was intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef near North Ari Atoll. Once a cargo ship, this wreck now provides a habitat for numerous marine species, from vibrant parrotfish to lurking reef sharks. It’s a must-visit for divers seeking to explore the symbiosis of manmade structures and natural ecosystems. With coral growth spreading across its frame, it’s a visual delight and an example of how wrecks can benefit the environment.
This Japanese ship lies at a depth of around 40 metres in the northern Maldives and is a lesser-known gem for advanced divers. Its hull is adorned with soft corals, while its cargo hold still contains relics like bottles and machinery. Due to its depth, diving here requires experience, but the rewards are immense. Schools of fish dance through the waters, and the eerie calm of the wreck is captivating. Those staying at nearby resorts will find this dive site to be a perfect blend of history and adventure.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
