This is probably the most popular wreck dive site on Bali when you visit the island, and it is one of the must-see dive sites – dive sites around the world. The USAT Liberty wreck is only a start, considering that it is the largest and most famous of all wrecks in Indonesia. This ship sank more than 60 years ago and has been a wreck dive site ever since a volcanic eruption in 1963 moved it from the beach to the water. Wreck diving in Bali is a totally different experience from a normal dive trip and requires experience, skill and coolness, as you can be in one place and do not have to travel to the reef for a routine dive. Wreck diving is fun and exciting, but it can also have serious health side effects, especially if you do not dive regularly prior to the dive holiday. So what are things you need to know before the wreck trip?
Do you need special certification for wreck diving in Bali?
Bali wreck diving should include this page in your list; it is an experience you should not miss when you travel to this exotic destination. However, like most wrecks in this island, they generally sit (or placed, as some are intentionally got sunken) in shallow waters.
The phenomenal USAT Liberty wreck often become beginners’ very first open water diving destination in the end of their course. Amed’s Japanese ship wreck is even accessible for snorkelers! So, no. You are generally not required to have special wreck certification to dive the wrecks in Bali. Unless you want to dive the deeper part of the USAT Liberty that lies on 30 meters deep below the surface. For that, you will need to complete the Advanced Open Water certification and, if you want, take the wreck dive specialty course.
See what’s around the wreck
There are excellent dive sites in the northwest of Bali and although there are not many dive sites or dive operators, it is worth visiting Pemuteran Menjangan Island where it is located. One of the highlights for the locals in Candidasa is the Selang Sea, which comes from a small island directly off the coast, if you do not let the strong current disturb you. Also have a look at the liveaboard option, where you can see more of Indonesia’s diving. It might be harder to get there, but I’ve seen there are some good deals out there.
Bali is a great place for diving and snorkeling if you want to see species you will never see in America or Europe. Some of Bali’s best slugs can be found in front of the Biaha shark caves and you can also see a variety of other species of sharks, crabs and other marine life.
Getting to wreck diving sites in Bali
Arranging transportation is vital when you are planning to have several wreck diving in Bali. Most of the diving resorts in Bali offer diving tours and day trips to most of the best dive sites and dive enthusiasts can arrange a day trip to the USAT Liberty Tulamben and other dive sites. Many dive operators in Bili will offer 2-3 dives per area for liveaboard safari and many more for day trips.
More Diving and Travelling:
The Essentials of Scuba Diving Lessons for Beginners
Best Scuba Diving Gears to Buy for Beginners
Scuba Diving Vacations For Beginners, A New Adventure For Next Holidays
When is the best time to explore the sunken ships?
Diving in Bali is possible all year round, but many tourists think that the best time to visit this incredibly idyllic area is between September and November. During the summer months Bali gets crowded and many of the most popular dive sites are at their best in the high season. The best time to dive in Bali is generally between December and February, as visibility is highest and the December to February is the rainy season, which can affect visibility at most dive sites. Besides the dry season, which takes place between April and September, dives in Bali can also take place during the rainy season, and then visibility can be high due to good weather conditions and visibility.