Dive-site story
The SS Conch was an early ocean-going steam oil tanker that struck the Akurala reef and sank in 1903. Broken into separate sections scattered over the seabed, the wreckage features massive boilers, engine parts, and twisted iron hull plates overgrown with hard corals and encrusting sponges. Divers can explore open framework sections and examine machinery while schools of reef fish shelter around the metal structures.
Historical wreck of one of the world's earliest bulk oil tankers
Prominent steam boilers and machinery assemblies
Large schools of sweetlips and snappers congregating within the open hull frames
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Sri Lanka's southwest coast enjoys calm seas and optimal diving conditions during the northeast monsoon window.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honeycomb MorayGymnothorax favagineus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Oriental SweetlipsPlectorhinchus vittatus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Great BarracudaSphyraena barracuda | Common | ||||||||||||
| LionfishPterois volitans | Common | ||||||||||||
| Emperor AngelfishPomacanthus imperator | Common |
Marine forecast
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