Shipwreck

The Maldives is renowned for its pristine waters and incredible marine biodiversity, and the Underwater Treasures of the Maldives are best experienced through its shipwrecks.
Wrecks & Wonders
Historic shipwrecks
Discover the hidden side of the Maldives — where sunken ships become vibrant underwater habitats filled with life and colour.
Hembadhoo Wreck
North Malé AtollA purpose-sunk 16-metre cargo ship resting at 15–25 metres, now a vibrant artificial reef draped in soft and black corals. Home to moray eels, lionfish, stingrays, Napoleon wrasse, reef sharks and colourful reef fish, with pink anemones on the surrounding reef — and an exceptional night dive.
Kudhima Wreck
South Ari AtollA purpose-sunk 50-metre cargo ship transformed into a vibrant artificial reef since 1998. Resting between 12 and 30 metres, it offers exciting wreck exploration, colourful corals, sponges and abundant reef life — with occasional strong currents, making it a favourite for adventurous intermediate divers.
Maldives Victory Wreck
Hulhulé ReefAn 83-metre cargo ship and National Heritage site resting upright at 35 metres. A legendary dive destination, it offers advanced divers a thrilling wreck experience surrounded by rich marine life.
British Loyalty
Addu AtollThe Maldives' largest shipwreck — a 140-metre oil tanker resting at 33 metres in Addu Atoll. Once a World War II survivor, it now serves as a protected marine sanctuary teeming with fascinating history and marine life.
Machchafushi Wreck
South Ari AtollA 52-metre Japanese cargo ship transformed into a vibrant artificial reef. Resting upright at 30 metres, it offers exciting wreck exploration, safe penetration and encounters with abundant marine life.
Halaveli Wreck
North Ari AtollA 40-metre cargo ship resting at 28 metres, now thriving as a vibrant artificial reef. Famous for stingrays, moray eels, colourful corals and easy exploration, it's a favourite for divers and underwater photographers.
Rannamaari Shipwreck
North Malé AtollA former sand dredger resting at 30 metres, transformed into a thriving marine sanctuary. With vibrant coral growth, sharks, giant moray eels and incredible photo opportunities, it's a must-visit wreck dive.
UNESCO Biosphere Reserves
Protected waters worth the trip
Three of the Maldives' atolls carry UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status — living laboratories of marine conservation and some of the richest waters you can dive.
Baa Atoll
UNESCO since 2011
Internationally renowned for its rich marine ecosystems and iconic manta ray and sea turtle gatherings at Hanifaru Bay — a globally significant destination for marine conservation and sustainable ecotourism.
Addu Atoll
UNESCO since 2021
A symbol of conservation in the southern Maldives. Its rich ecosystems, vibrant wetlands and strong community involvement make it a benchmark for sustainable ecotourism and environmental stewardship.
Fuvahmulah
UNESCO since 2021
Recognised for its unique ecosystem and exceptional marine life. Renowned for its tiger shark encounters, the island is a premier destination for researchers, divers and ecotourists.
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