British Loyalty Wreck
Dive into history at the British Loyalty Wreck, the Maldives' largest diveable WWII tanker, now a vibrant artificial reef teeming with marine life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Optimal visibility for exploration
British Loyalty Wreck
Best Time
Optimal visibility for exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dive into history at the British Loyalty Wreck, the Maldives' largest diveable WWII tanker, now a vibrant artificial reef teeming with marine life.
"Certainly the best wreck dive in the Maldives and one of the top wrecks for underwater photographers worldwide."
Choose Your Dive Operator Wisely
Select reputable dive centers in Addu Atoll for guided tours and safety.
Wreck Diving Certification
Consider getting a wreck diving specialty certification for a safer and more immersive experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic British Loyalty
Addu Atoll
Explore the largest diveable wreck in the Maldives, a 134-meter WWII tanker teeming with marine life.

Coral Gardens on Steel
On the wreck's hull
Witness nature's artistry as vibrant corals and anemones transform the historic wreck into an underwater reef.

Abundant Marine Life
Around the wreck
Encounter schools of fish, turtles, and other fascinating sea creatures that call this sunken vessel their home.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dive into History: The British Loyalty Wreck
Addu Atoll's Underwater Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Choose Your Dive Operator Wisely
Select reputable dive centers in Addu Atoll for guided tours and safety.
Wreck Diving Certification
Consider getting a wreck diving specialty certification for a safer and more immersive experience.
Respect the Marine Life
Observe the abundant fish and turtles without disturbing their natural habitat.
Camera Ready!
Bring an underwater camera to capture the stunning corals and historic wreck.
Tips
from all over the internet
Choose Your Dive Operator Wisely
Select reputable dive centers in Addu Atoll for guided tours and safety.
Wreck Diving Certification
Consider getting a wreck diving specialty certification for a safer and more immersive experience.
Respect the Marine Life
Observe the abundant fish and turtles without disturbing their natural habitat.
Camera Ready!
Bring an underwater camera to capture the stunning corals and historic wreck.
Be Aware of Depth
The wreck lies at 30-33 meters, so ensure you have the necessary training and air supply.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The British Loyalty Wreck is hailed as the premier wreck diving site in the Maldives, praised for its historical significance and the stunning coral growth that has transformed it into a thriving marine habitat. Divers consistently highlight the abundance of fish and turtles, making it a memorable experience for underwater photographers and wreck enthusiasts alike. Some minor oil seepage is noted, but it doesn't detract from the overall beauty and ecological richness of the site.
"Number 1 wreck diving site in the Maldives.
Many turtles and fishes are visible. As the wreck is 60+years old the coral habitats are also magnificent. Enjoy your memorable wreck dive at Addu atoll."
Ibrahim Saeed
"On the last diving day of our Easter safari 2025 we were able to dive in the Addu Atoll, on the historic wreck of the "British Loyalty".
The World War II tanker lies 32 meters deep and is the largest diveable wreck in the Maldives.
At an impressive 140 meters, it is of course far too large to explore the entire ship in just one dive.
The tanker has a very special history. It served as a "mobile gas station" for the British Navy and was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in 1942 - but did not sink. In March 1944 the ship was torpedoed by the German submarine U-183, but was refloated by the British Navy as a transhipment ship.
After the end of the war in 1946, the British sank their own, well-deserved supply ship in the middle of the atoll - probably to save disposal costs. This led to an oil spill and to this day - almost 80 years later - oil is still leaking from the wreck in small quantities. Nevertheless, the wreck has now developed into a coral reef full of colorful life.
Although the visibility in the sandy interior of the atoll is not optimal, we managed to take a few very usable photos. Certainly the best wreck dive in the Maldives and one of the top wrecks for underwater photographers worldwide."
Jürgen Gangoly
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The British Loyalty Wreck is located in Addu Atoll, the southernmost atoll of the Maldives. You'll typically fly into Velana International Airport (MLE) and then take a domestic flight or speedboat to Addu Atoll. Many dive resorts in Addu Atoll offer direct access or boat trips to the wreck.
The most common way is to take a domestic flight from Malé to Gan International Airport (GAN) in Addu Atoll. From there, local transfers to your resort or dive center will be arranged.
Yes, most dive centers and resorts in Addu Atoll offer boat excursions specifically to the British Loyalty Wreck. These trips are usually part of their diving packages.
Addu Atoll is accessible via domestic flights from Malé. Some liveaboard dive boats also include Addu Atoll in their itineraries, offering a comprehensive diving experience.
A domestic flight from Malé to Gan takes approximately 1.5 hours. Boat transfers within Addu Atoll to the wreck site are usually short, depending on your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need a separate ticket for the wreck itself, but you will need to book a dive trip with a certified dive operator. These operators handle all necessary permits and boat arrangements.
The cost varies depending on the dive center and package. Expect to pay anywhere from $80 to $150 USD per dive, which usually includes boat, guide, and tank.
While the wreck itself doesn't have a specific entry fee, some areas within the atoll might have conservation fees as part of your resort or dive package. It's best to confirm with your chosen operator.
Dive centers typically operate from morning to late afternoon, with multiple dive slots available throughout the day. It's advisable to book your dives in advance, especially during peak season.
The British Loyalty Wreck is primarily an attraction for divers due to its depth. Snorkeling is generally not feasible or recommended at this site.
🎫 🤿 Onsite Experience
The British Loyalty Wreck lies at a depth of approximately 30 to 33 meters (98 to 108 feet). This makes it suitable for advanced divers or those with wreck diving certifications.
You can expect to see a vibrant array of marine life, including schools of fish, turtles, moray eels, and various coral species that have made the wreck their home.
Visibility can vary, often ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 feet). It can be affected by currents and sediment, especially within the sandy interior of the atoll.
Yes, it is safe when dived with experienced professionals and proper certification. The wreck is stable, and dive operators are well-versed in navigating its structure.
Limited penetration into the wreck is possible for certified wreck divers, but caution is advised. Many divers prefer to explore the exterior and the surrounding reef.
📸 📸 Photography
The bow and stern offer dramatic perspectives, while the deck and surrounding coral formations provide excellent opportunities. The abundance of marine life also makes for fantastic shots.
An underwater camera with a wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the scale of the wreck and its surroundings. Good lighting is also crucial due to the depth.
Generally, no specific restrictions apply, but always be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing marine life or other divers.
Focus on details like the ship's structure, any visible artifacts, and the contrast between the man-made wreck and the natural marine growth.
Mid-day dives often offer the best natural light penetration, but early morning or late afternoon dives can provide unique lighting conditions and potentially more active marine life.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Underwater Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the British Loyalty
After the war concluded, the British Loyalty was intentionally sunk in Addu Atoll in 1946, likely to avoid disposal costs. This act led to an oil spill, and even today, small amounts of oil can still be detected. However, this historical event has inadvertently created a unique underwater habitat.
Over the decades, the wreck has transformed into a thriving artificial reef. Nature has reclaimed the steel structure, with corals, anemones, and a diverse array of fish species colonizing its surfaces. It's a poignant reminder of wartime history and the resilience of marine ecosystems.
Diving the British Loyalty: What to Expect
Visibility at the wreck can vary, often ranging from 15 to 30 meters, influenced by the sandy bottom of the atoll. Despite the historical oil leaks, the wreck has become a vibrant coral reef. Expect to see a spectacular display of marine life, including various reef fish, turtles, and possibly sharks, all making the sunken vessel their home.
When planning your dive, it's crucial to choose a reputable dive operator in Addu Atoll. They will provide the necessary equipment, guidance, and ensure your safety while exploring this historical underwater site. Many operators offer specialized wreck diving courses, which can enhance your experience and understanding of the wreck.
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