If you’re bored of the usual island getaways — snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, sunbathing on powdery beaches, or kayaking through calm lagoons — here’s something that might shake up your next tropical escape: shipwreck diving.
Beneath the waters of Southeast Asia lie remnants of maritime history — warships, cargo vessels, and freighters that have long surrendered to the sea. Over time, they’ve transformed into vibrant underwater ecosystems, where coral reefs bloom over rusted steel and schools of fish dart through forgotten cabins. Whether you’re in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, or the Philippines, shipwreck diving offers a fascinating blend of history, mystery, and adventure.
1. Sugar Wreck (Perhentian Islands, Malaysia)
Off the coast of Terengganu lies the MV Union Star, better known as the Sugar Wreck. This cargo ship sank during a monsoon in 2000 while transporting — you guessed it — sugar. Today, it’s one of Malaysia’s most popular wreck dives, thanks to its accessibility and the sheer abundance of marine life it attracts. Expect to see bamboo sharks, lionfish, and massive schools of snapper weaving through the coral-covered hull. Best of all, it’s suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.
2. USS Liberty (Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia)
The USS Liberty is arguably Southeast Asia’s most famous wreck — and it’s just a few meters from shore. Torpedoed by a Japanese submarine during World War II, this American cargo ship now rests peacefully off the black sands of Tulamben. Over the decades, corals have claimed its structure, turning it into a kaleidoscope of colour. Even snorkellers can enjoy it, as parts of the wreck lie just 5 meters below the surface.
3. HTMS Sattakut (Koh Tao, Thailand)
If you’re diving in Koh Tao, the HTMS Sattakut is a must. This former U.S. Navy vessel was intentionally sunk in 2011 to create an artificial reef and dive site. It’s perfect for wreck diving courses, with swim-throughs and gun turrets still intact. Marine life here is thriving — expect to spot groupers, fusiliers, and sometimes even barracudas circling the wreck. Calm conditions and good visibility make it an ideal spot for divers of all levels.
4. Sangat Island Wrecks (Coron, Philippines)
Coron in the Philippines is often called the “Wreck Diving Capital of Asia,” and for good reason. In 1944, a U.S. air raid sank a fleet of Japanese ships here, leaving behind around a dozen diveable wrecks. The Irako Maru and Okikawa Maru are among the highlights — both colossal, hauntingly beautiful, and draped in soft corals. Diving here feels like flipping through pages of a history book, with nature reclaiming what once was.
5. Kudat Maru (Sabah, Malaysia)
Hidden off the northern tip of Borneo, the Kudat Maru is a lesser-known gem for divers seeking something off the beaten path. The wreck, believed to be a Japanese cargo ship from World War II, sits in about 40 meters of water. While it’s a deeper and more challenging dive, the reward is spectacular — large pelagic fish, healthy coral growth, and a quiet, eerie beauty that few have experienced.
A Different Kind of Island Adventure
Shipwreck diving isn’t just about exploring what’s left behind — it’s about witnessing how nature breathes new life into history. From Malaysia’s coastal waters to Indonesia’s volcanic shores, these wrecks tell stories of loss, resilience, and rebirth beneath the waves. So the next time you plan a beach holiday, swap your usual snorkeling trip for something a little bolder — and dive into the past.