Dive-site story
Sunk off the coast of Batticaloa by Japanese dive bombers during World War II, this historic vessel is the world's first purpose-built aircraft carrier. The massive hull rests on its port side on the open seabed, offering an imposing profile complete with intact gun turrets, control tower, and aircraft crane machinery. Thick black coral trees and soft corals carpet much of the steel plating, while large pelagics patrol the surrounding open blue.
Historic aircraft carrier wreck with intact naval guns and aircraft crane structures
Massive island superstructure and propellers encrusted with black coral
Frequent encounters with oceanic pelagics and large groupers around the hull
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Calm seas and optimal water clarity on the east coast coincide with the southwest monsoon season, when the western coast is blown out.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Potato GrouperEpinephelus tukula | Common | ||||||||||||
| Giant TrevallyCaranx ignobilis | Common | ||||||||||||
| Dogtooth TunaGymnosarda unicolor | Seasonal | ||||||||||||
| Spotted Eagle RayAetobatus narinari | Seasonal | ||||||||||||
| Black CoralAntipathes sp. | Common |
Marine forecast
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