The Ultimate Wreck Divers Guide

THE ULTIMATE WRECK DIVERS GUIDE

Are you new to scuba diving or a seasoned wreck diving enthusiast looking for expert tips and advice to elevate your underwater adventures? If so, The Ultimate Wreck Diver’s Guide is exactly what you need.

Let me be clear—this is not your average “Wreck Diving Guide.”

In this guide, I’ll explore what wreck diving truly is, delve into the types of wreck diving you can experience, and share some of my top picks for the best wreck diving destinations. I’ll also reveal a few of my personal favorite wrecks to dive and provide practical recommendations for gear I’ve relied on time and time again over my 20+ years of teaching wreck diving.

What you won’t find here are fleeting “trends.” Instead, you’ll get tried-and-true insights and tools to help you make the most out of every wreck dive.

Of course, every diver has their own go-to wrecks and must-visit destinations around the world. I’d love to hear about yours—please share your favorites in the comments below!

CONTENTS

The Ultimate Wreck Divers Guide includes:

1. What is Wreck Diving?
2. Types of Wreck Penetration Dives
3. Top 10 Reasons to Wreck Dive
4. Top Wreck Diving Destinations
5. Best Wreck Dives
6. Hazards of Wreck Penetration Diving
7. Top Tips for Safer Wreck Diving
8. What Equipment is Necessary for Wreck Diving?
9. Why is Wreck Diver Training important?
10. Ultimate Wreck Diving Guide Summary

---

WHAT IS WRECK DIVING?

Are you a wreck diving enthusiast looking for tips to enhance your dives? Or perhaps you’re curious about diving into this thrilling underwater activity for the first time? Look no further! This Wreck Diver’s Guide offers everything you need, from essential gear and safety tips to dive planning and etiquette, helping both new and experienced divers unlock the wonders of wreck diving.

Wreck diving is an exciting and challenging form of scuba diving that allows you to explore sunken ships, planes, and other man-made structures resting beneath the ocean’s surface. These underwater sites are often brimming with history, mystery, and vibrant marine life, making every dive a unique adventure.

Getting Started with Wreck Diving

To begin your journey, it’s essential to gain the proper training and certification. Start with an SSI Wreck Diver certification, which provides the foundational skills for exploring external wreck structures. If you’re eager to take it further, the SSI Advanced Wreck Diver certification prepares you for wreck penetration and more advanced dives.

Once certified, research and plan your dives carefully. Select sites within your skill level and comfort zone, ensuring each dive is safe and enjoyable. Essential equipment includes:

• A well-fitting scuba mask and fins.
• Buoyancy Control Device (BCD or wing).
• Reliable cylinder, regulator, and gauges.
• Appropriate exposure suit for water conditions.
• Dive lights to illuminate dark areas inside wrecks.
• A cutting tool for emergencies or entanglement risks.

Diving Responsibly

Wreck sites are often fragile and hold historical significance. To minimise your impact:

• Avoid touching artifacts: Leave the wrecks as they are for others to enjoy.
• Follow safe diving practices: Ascend slowly, maintain buoyancy control, and avoid disturbing the seabed.
• Be prepared for emergencies: Carry a cutting tool to handle entanglements with debris or fishing lines.

Why Wreck Diving?

Wreck diving offers a blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. From the eerie remains of a sunken ship to the vibrant marine ecosystems they foster, these dives are a gateway to unparalleled underwater experiences.

So, what are you waiting for? With the right training and preparation, your next wreck diving adventure awaits—start planning today!

---

TYPES OF WRECK PENETRATION DIVES

Wreck penetration dives can be categorised into three main types: Non-Penetration, Limited Penetration, and Full Penetration. Each type requires different levels of skill, training, and equipment. If you’re planning to expand your wreck diving abilities or embark on a wreck diving trip, proper preparation is essential. Many dive centers and boat operators will require proof of specific certifications to ensure your safety and help you fully enjoy the experience.

Non-Penetration Diving:

Non-penetration dives are the most common and safest type of wreck diving. These dives involve exploring the exterior of the wreck without entering the structure. Divers typically view features such as:

• Hull plates and portholes.
• Engine propellers.
• External structures like masts or cranes.

This type of wreck diving is ideal for beginners or those new to wreck exploration, as it avoids the risks associated with enclosed spaces. It also provides a great introduction to the history and marine life around wrecks.

Limited-Penetration Diving:

Limited penetration dives allow divers to enter partway into the wreck’s interior, such as open hulls or large cabins. These dives are often considered intermediate and provide opportunities to:

• Explore open spaces inside the wreck without venturing into enclosed areas.
• Gain a closer look at structural details or artifacts.

Divers undertaking limited penetration dives should have experience in wreck diving and be comfortable with navigation, buoyancy, and maintaining situational awareness within the wreck.

Full-Penetration Diving:

Full penetration dives are the most advanced type of wreck diving. They involve entering fully enclosed spaces within a wreck, such as rooms, passageways, or engine rooms. These dives come with increased risks, including:

• Reduced visibility due to silt disturbances.
• Potential disorientation in tight or complex spaces.
• Greater risk of entanglement or emergency situations.

Full penetration dives require:

• Advanced training, such as the SSI Advanced Wreck Diver certification.
• Specialised equipment, including redundant air supplies, dive lights, and cutting tools.
• Extensive experience with wreck, cavern, or cave diving.

Plan Ahead for Safety

Each type of wreck penetration dive offers unique experiences and challenges. Before diving, ensure you have the appropriate training, equipment, and dive plan to match the type of dive you’re undertaking. Remember, safety always comes first, so know your limits and dive within your certification and comfort level.

No matter your experience level, wreck diving provides incredible opportunities to explore history, marine life, and the wonders hidden beneath the waves!

---

Top 10 Reasons to Wreck Dive

Are you seeking an exciting adventure beneath the waves? Wreck diving offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the ocean’s hidden treasures, from relics of the past to thriving marine ecosystems. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should give wreck diving a go—and get trained to do it right!

• Explore Underwater History: Dive into the past by visiting sunken ships and artifacts that tell stories from bygone eras.
• Witness Marine Life: Experience vibrant ecosystems as marine creatures transform wrecks into thriving artificial reefs.
• Uncover Hidden Treasures: Discover unique artifacts like anchors, machinery, and personal items lost to time.
• Feel the Adventure: Navigate through mysterious corridors and decks, offering an exhilarating sense of exploration.
• Master New Skills: Improve buoyancy, navigation, and wreck-specific techniques, pushing your diving abilities to the next level.
• Expand Your Horizons: SSI Wreck and Advanced Wreck specialties unlock access to incredible dive sites worldwide.
• Dive Deeper into Conservation: Support marine life by exploring wrecks that serve as artificial reefs, contributing to underwater biodiversity.
• Earn Certifications: Achieve milestones like SSI Specialty Diver (2 Specialities) or Master Scuba Diver (5 Specialities including Stress and Rescue and 50 logged dives) while building expertise.
• Gain Confidence: Comprehensive training ensures you’re equipped to handle challenges, from wreck navigation to penetration dives.
• Create Lasting Memories: Every wreck dive offers a unique and unforgettable blend of history, adventure, and discovery.
• Embark on an Exciting Journey Beneath the Waves.  Wreck diving is an exhilarating underwater adventure that lets you explore the depths of the oceans and uncover their hidden mysteries. Whether you’re examining unique historical structures, spotting rare marine life, or simply soaking in the beauty of underwater landscapes, wreck diving offers an incredible variety of thrilling experiences.

---

TOP WRECK DIVING DESTINATIONS

Wreck diving is one of the most exciting and adrenaline-pumping types of diving out there, with some of the best wreck dive sites located all around the world.  Whether you are looking for historic wrecks or modern wrecks teeming with marine life, there is something for everyone when it comes to wreck diving. Here are just a few of the top wreck diving sites around the world.

Truk Lagoon, Pacific Ocean

Located in the western Pacific Ocean, Truk Lagoon is considered by many to be one of the best wreck dive sites in the world. Known as "Ghost Fleet" prior to its designation as a national park, this area is home to more thatn 50 Japanese ships and aircraft that were damaged and sunk during the Battle of Truk Lagoon in 1944.

Panama, Coiba National Park

Situated within the UNESCO listed Coiba National Park, these wreck dives offer some truly spectacular underwater scenery that yo uwon't find anywhere else. The park is home to a large number of ships that were sunk during pirate attacks back in the 17th and 18th centuries as well as modern vessels that have met their end in more recent years.

Egypt, Red Sea

With several wrecks located just off the coast of El Gouna, Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt, the Red Sea offers some truly amazing wreck diving opportunities. From huge cargo ships to small wooden fishing boats, you will find all sorts of fascinating wrecks here, many of which are teeming with brightly coloured fish and other marine life.

Malta, Mediterranean

Malta is a wreck divers paradise, with many sunken shipwrecks to explore. Many of these ships sank during the Great War, when Malta was under siege, along with some deliberately sunk for divers benefit, and are now part of the Maltese maritime history. The wrecks offer a unique opportunity for divers to experience history first-hand.

Scapa Flow, Orkneys, UK

A macca for wreck divers, with three massive battleships and four light cruisers are amongst the best wrecks in the world. On 21 June 1919 and under the mistaken belief that peace talks had failed, the command was given to scuttle / sink the entire fleet. A total of 52 ships sank to the seafloor – it remains the greatest loss of shipping ever recorded in a single day.

---

BEST WRECK DIVES

Wreck diving is one of the most exciting and adrenaline-pumping types of diving out there, with some of the best wreck dive sites located all around the world.  Whether you are looking for historick wrecks or modern wrecks teeming wiht marine life, there is somtheing for everyone when it comes to wreck diving. Here are just a few of the top wreck diving sites around the world and ARE NOT in any particular order:

The SS President Coolidge (Vanuatu)

Located off the coast of Espiritu Santo in Vanuatu, the SS President Coolidge is one of the world's largest accessible shipwrecks and a popular dive site for both beginner and experienced divers. This large passenger liner was badly damaged when it struck a mine during World War II, but many parts of its deck remain intact today, offering an amazing opportunity to explore this historic wreck up close.

The HMHS Britannic (Greece)

One of the most famous shipwrecks in history and the worlds largest fully intact wreckm tge HMHS Britannic offers a truly unique diving experience. Located near the Greek iland of Kea, this Olympic-Class liner was sunk by a mine during World War I and has remained largely untouched ever since.

The Truk Master Wreck (Bahamas)

Located just off the coast of Bimini Island in the Bahamas, the Truk Master Wreck offers divers a chance to explore one of history's most famous shipwrecks - the USS Truxtun sunk by German U-boats back in 1942. This huge cargo vessel is also home to an amazing array of marine life including sharks, rays, and a wide variety of tropical fish.

SS Thistlegorm (Egypt)

Another popular wreck dive site in the Red Sea is the SS Thistlegorm, a large British cargo shope that SMS Margraf, a German WWI battleship scuttled in Scapa Flow in 1919. Divers can explore its massive structure, marvel at its turrets, and discover the rich history preserved beneath the waves.sank after being bombed by German warplanes in 1941. Divers can explore this historic wreck and observe its many rusted artifats up close, including trunks, motors, airplane parts, and even motorcyles.

The Yongala Wreck (Australia)

Located off the coast of Queensland in Australia's Great Barrier Reef, the Yongala Wreck is one of the top spots in the world for shark diving due to its abundance of reef sharks and other species. This 110-meter passenger steamer was sunk during a cyclone back in 1911, and today it serves as home to countless species of fish and coral.

SS Yongam (South Korea)

Sunken just off the coast of Jeju Island in South Korea in 1986, this 228-metre long cargo vessel is now one of the top wreck dive sites in Asia. With an abundance of marine life including sea turtles, eels, rays, sharks, and schools of tropical fish, scuba divers will have plenty to explore in this historic shipwreck.

SMS Margraf (Orkney Islands, UK)

SMS Margraf, a German WWI battleship scuttled in Scapa Flow in 1919. This wreck rises from a maximum depth of 47 meters at the bow, to 24 meters at its shallowest. This really gets the scale of these things into perspective, with her twin rudders standing 3.5 meters high. Divers can explore its massive structure, marvel at its turrets, and discover the rich history preserved beneath the waves.

---

Exploring the depths of shipwrecks is a thrilling and unique diving experience, but it also comes with inherent risks. The overhead environment, unpredictable structures, and various external factors demand specialized training, equipment, and caution. Here are some of the most critical hazards divers may face when penetrating wrecks:

---

1. Structural Instability

Over time, wrecks degrade due to the ocean’s relentless forces. This deterioration can result in:

• Unsecured objects breaking off and obstructing pathways.
• Rusting doors and walls becoming unstable or collapsing.
• Twisted angles that create disorienting spaces, making navigation difficult.

2. Entrapment or Entanglement

Wrecks often serve as artificial reefs and popular fishing spots, which can leave behind hazards like monofilament fishing lines and ghost nets. These can be difficult to spot and pose serious risks if a diver becomes entangled. Training equips divers to:

• Use cutting tools to free themselves.
• Identify and avoid potential entanglement risks.

3. Disorientation and Getting Lost

Wrecks often rest at awkward angles, with collapsed sections and cluttered interiors, making it easy to become disoriented. This risk is amplified in low visibility. To mitigate disorientation:

• Wreck reels provide a reliable path to the exit.
• Training in navigation techniques helps divers maintain orientation in complex environments.

4. Unplanned Diver Separation

In confined and dark spaces, losing sight of a buddy can quickly escalate into a dangerous situation. Common causes include:

• Equipment malfunctions.
• Reduced visibility due to silt-outs or tight quarters.
  Proper dive planning, communication signals, and protocols for separation are essential.

5. Silt-Outs and Visibility Loss

The fine sediment surrounding wrecks can easily become disturbed, creating a “silt-out” that eliminates visibility. This can occur due to:

• Poor buoyancy control.
• Improper finning techniques.
  Divers should:
• Use precise, controlled movements.
• Carry backup lights and navigate with reels to ensure a safe exit.

6. Loss of Gas

Running out of breathable gas in a confined space is a life-threatening emergency. To reduce this risk:

• Carefully calculate air consumption before the dive.
• Use redundancy systems like twinsets, stage cylinders, or pony bottles with long-hose regulators.
• Obtain advanced training, such as the SSI Advanced Wreck Diver certification, to handle emergencies effectively.

Staying Safe

Wreck penetration diving is an extraordinary experience, but it requires meticulous preparation. Key safety measures include:

• Investing in proper training and certifications.
• Using the right equipment, such as reels, cutting tools, backup lights, and redundant gas systems.
• Conducting thorough pre-dive planning and communication with your team.

By understanding these hazards and how to mitigate them, divers can safely enjoy the incredible exploration opportunities that wreck diving offers.

---

Top Tips for Safer Wreck Diving

Wreck diving is one of the most thrilling and rewarding forms of scuba diving. Whether you're exploring the exterior of a sunken ship or penetrating its interior, these tips will help you stay safe and make the most of your dive.

1. Master Buoyancy Control

Good buoyancy control is crucial when wreck diving to avoid disturbing the wreck or kicking up silt, which can reduce visibility for you and other divers. Practice maintaining neutral buoyancy and avoid using your fins near the seabed or wreck surfaces.

2. Refine Your Finning Technique

Learn and practice specialized finning techniques such as frog kicks or modified flutter kicks. These techniques reduce silt disturbance and help you navigate tight spaces with precision. Consider enrolling in an SSI Fundamentals course to enhance your finning skills.

3. Use the Right Wreck Diving Gear

While non-penetration wreck dives require minimal specialized equipment, a good dive light is essential for exploring darker areas and peering into openings. If you plan to penetrate wrecks, you'll need additional gear like reels, cutting tools, and redundant air systems.

4. Be Aware of Water Movement

Wrecks often create unique water dynamics, such as surges, suction effects, or hidden currents. Always check for potential currents before entering and stay within safe areas. Follow the wreck's natural channels to avoid exerting yourself unnecessarily.

5. Watch Out for Sharp Edges

Wrecks can be covered in jagged metal, rust, and protruding objects that can damage your gear or injure you. Always wear proper exposure protection like gloves and a sturdy wetsuit or drysuit, and navigate carefully around hazardous areas.

6. Stay Within Your Training Limits

The temptation to explore deeper into a wreck can be strong, but it’s essential to stay within your certification and skill level. Proper training, such as the SSI Wreck Diver and SSI Advanced Wreck Diver certifications, equips you with the skills to manage gas, navigate safely, and exit wrecks without incident.

7. Follow Buddy Separation Rules

Maintain close contact with your buddy, especially in the confined spaces of a wreck. If separated, follow the one-minute rule: look around for your buddy for 60 seconds. If you cannot locate them, ascend safely and reunite at the surface.

8. Avoid Overexertion

Wreck diving can be physically demanding, especially in areas with currents or when navigating debris fields. Move deliberately and efficiently to conserve energy and air.

9. Research the Wreck in Advance

Learn about the wreck’s history, layout, and potential hazards before your dive. Familiarity with the site helps you plan your dive more effectively and reduces the risk of surprises during the dive.

10. Practice Safe Entry and Exit

Always use a guide reel or line for penetration dives to ensure you can find your way out, even in low visibility. Never enter a wreck without proper training and equipment, and always plan for a safe exit strategy.

By following these tips, you'll be better prepared to enjoy the incredible adventure of wreck diving while minimising risks. Remember, every wreck holds its own story—respect the site, dive responsibly, and explore safely!

---

WHAT EQUIPMENT IS NECESSARY FOR WRECK DIVING?

Wreck diving is an exhilarating activity that combines exploration with an added sense of adventure. However, the unique environment of shipwrecks requires careful preparation and specialised equipment to ensure safety and maximise the experience. Here’s a list of essential gear for wreck diving:

1. Dive Lights

A reliable dive light is indispensable for wreck diving, especially when exploring dark or murky interiors.

• Primary Light: Use a powerful torch with a lanyard, wrist strap, or boltsnap attachment for secure handling.
• Backup Light: Always carry a secondary light in case of malfunction.
• Optional Head Torch: For hands-free illumination in confined spaces.

2. Dive Knife or Cutting Tool

A cutting tool is critical for dealing with entanglement risks such as fishing lines, nets, or other debris.

• Choose a knife or line cutter suitable for the environment.
• Position it where it’s accessible with either hand for emergencies.

3. Wreck Spool or Reel

A wreck reel ensures safe navigation by marking your route when penetrating a wreck.

• Helps maintain orientation and ensures you can find your way out, even in poor visibility.
• Use a durable, tangle-free reel with a high-visibility line.

4. Marker Buoys

Surface Marker Buoys (SMBs) with GPS capabilities are excellent tools for:

• Marking the wreck’s exact location.
• Enhancing surface visibility for boat operators and dive teams.

5. Extra Breathing Gas

Carrying redundant breathing gas (e.g., a pony bottle or twinset) is vital for wreck penetration dives.

• Accounts for unexpected delays or emergencies inside the wreck.
• Provides peace of mind and a greater safety margin.

6. Dive Computer

A dive computer is essential for tracking:

• Time, depth, and ascent rates in real-time.
• Decompression limits, especially for multilevel or prolonged dives.
• It offers more flexibility compared to traditional dive tables.

7. Underwater Slate

An underwater slate is invaluable for communication and mapping.

• Enables effective communication with your buddy.
• Useful for sketching layouts or taking notes during exploration.

8. Thick Gloves

Gloves protect your hands from:

• Sharp edges, metal, and other hazards.
• Coral or debris you may inadvertently contact.
• Gloves also provide grip when pulling yourself through currents.

9. Appropriate Exposure Suit

Depending on the water temperature, wear a wetsuit or drysuit to ensure thermal protection.

• A drysuit may be preferable for deeper or colder wreck dives.

10. Spare Essentials

Always bring extras of the following:

• Torch batteries: To ensure uninterrupted light during the dive.
• Mask: A spare mask can be a lifesaver in case of damage or fogging.

Why Specialised Equipment Matters?

Wreck diving often takes place in overhead environments where visibility, orientation, and access to the surface may be compromised. Being prepared with the right equipment can mean the difference between a safe, enjoyable dive and a risky situation.

Equip yourself properly, train thoroughly, and dive responsibly to unlock the mysteries of the deep while staying safe.

---

WHY IS WRECK DIVER TRAINING IMPORTANT?

Wreck diving is a thrilling and adventurous activity, drawing divers of all levels to explore sunken ships, aircraft, and artificial reefs. However, wreck diving presents unique challenges and hazards that require proper training and preparation.

At Dive Rutland, we offer two specialised recreational courses—SSI Wreck Diver and SSI Advanced Wreck Diver—designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed for safe and successful wreck dives.

Key Benefits of Wreck Diver Training

1. Safety and Risk Management

Wreck diving involves overhead environments, potential entanglement risks, reduced visibility, and the possibility of disorientation. Proper training prepares you to:

• Manage risks and respond to emergencies.
• Navigate safely in enclosed spaces.
• Use essential equipment like reels, cutting tools, and redundant air supplies effectively.

2. Improved Navigation Skills

Training introduces advanced navigation techniques, enabling you to:

• Plan safe entry and exit routes.
• Use wreck reels or spools to avoid getting lost inside a wreck.
• Navigate complex and confined environments confidently.

3. Development of Specialised Techniques

Each SSI Wreck Diver course teaches specific skills tailored to wreck exploration:

• SSI Wreck Diver: Focuses on non-penetration dives, external exploration, and basic techniques.
• SSI Advanced Wreck Diver: Covers advanced penetration techniques, silt-out management, gas planning, and emergency procedures.

4. Enhanced Dive Confidence

Training builds your confidence by providing hands-on experience and practical exercises, ensuring you’re well-prepared for real-world scenarios.

5. Access to Exciting Dive Opportunities

Many dive sites require specific certifications for participation. Completing SSI Wreck Diver training ensures you meet these requirements, opening up a world of exploration.

---

Why Choose Dive Rutland?

Whether you’re just starting your wreck diving journey or seeking advanced skills, Dive Rutland offers comprehensive courses tailored to your experience level. Our training includes:

• Expert instruction on safe wreck diving practices.
• Opportunities to practise techniques in controlled environments before venturing to real wreck sites.
• Guidance on selecting and using specialised wreck diving equipment.

Discover the Thrill of Wreck Diving

Wreck diving is a rewarding and fascinating way to explore the underwater world, offering unparalleled experiences of history, marine life, and adventure. By investing in proper training, you ensure your dives are not only safe but also enjoyable and fulfilling.

So why wait? Sign up for one of our SSI Wreck Diver courses today and unlock the secrets of the deep!

---

ULTIMATE WRECK DIVING GUIDE SUMMARY

Before you embark on a wreck diving adventure, preparation is key. Here's a quick summary of the essential steps and tips for a safe and enjoyable experience:

Research Your Dive Sites

• Understand the wreck you're diving to, including its history, layout, and potential hazards.
• Be aware of local conditions such as currents, visibility, and marine life.

Invest in the Right Equipment

• A reliable dive computer is crucial for monitoring depth and dive time.
• Essential equipment includes torches, spare batteries, cameras, reels for navigation, and gloves for protection.
• Carry an extra light source and a cutting tool for safety.

Know the Marine Life

• Familiarise yourself with the creatures you might encounter, including potentially dangerous species, to avoid any surprises.

Plan Your Dive Carefully

• Research the dive site and plan your descent, route, and exit strategy.
• Ensure you're prepared for all potential scenarios, including emergency ascents or gas shortages.

Respect the Environment

• Always explore wrecks with caution to avoid causing damage to the wreck or disturbing the surrounding ecosystem.
• Do not touch or disturb artefacts and follow all environmental guidelines to preserve these historical sites.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

• Always have a backup air supply, know emergency ascent procedures, and stay calm in stressful situations.

Safety First and Always Dive with a Buddy

• Never dive alone and always follow safety protocols, including maintaining close contact with your buddy and following standard dive safety practices.

By following these guidelines, you can explore the exciting world of wreck diving safely, responsibly, and respectfully. Enjoy the adventure, and dive smart!