Bali: Tulamben Bay and the USAT Liberty Wreck Dive

Bali’s Tulamben Bay is home to one of the world’s most renowned wreck dive sites – the USAT Liberty. Sunk during World War II, this 120-meter cargo ship now lies just meters from the beach, its hull completely covered in vibrant corals teeming with marine life. Divers who venture to this underwater masterpiece can explore the wreck and its surrounding coral gardens, where they’ll encounter a diverse array of dazzling creatures. But what secrets does this wreck hold, and what other wonders await those who take the plunge?

Key Points

• Tulamben Bay in Bali is home to the renowned USAT Liberty wreck, a World War II cargo ship sunk by torpedoes in 1942 and now teeming with vibrant corals and marine life.
• The USAT Liberty wreck is situated just 30 meters from the beach and is a world-class dive site, measuring 120 meters in length and offering exceptional visibility.
• Tulamben Village, located along the volcanic slopes of Mount Agung, provides easy access to the wreck dive site and offers a peaceful setting for divers before and after the dive.
• The USAT Liberty wreck is completely covered in a vibrant tapestry of corals, making it an underwater masterpiece and a haven for a diverse array of marine species.
• The waters surrounding Tulamben Bay, including Alamanda Reef, Batu Kelebit Reef, and Kubu Reef, are renowned for their healthy, colorful coral gardens and abundant marine life.

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Overview of the USAT Liberty Wreck

The USAT Liberty, a World War II cargo ship, sank just off the coast of Tulamben, Bali on January 11, 1942 after being torpedoed by a Japanese submarine.

Today, the wreck lies in shallow waters just 30 meters from the beach, making it one of the most accessible wreck dives in the world.

Completely covered in vibrant corals and teeming with marine life, the USAT Liberty has become a world-renowned dive site.

Measuring 120 meters in length, the wreck provides an incredible underwater adventure for divers of all skill levels.

With average visibility ranging from 15 to 20 meters, the USAT Liberty is a must-see attraction for any scuba enthusiast visiting Bali.

Journey to Tulamben Village

To experience the USAT Liberty wreck, one must first journey to the village of Tulamben on the north-east coast of Bali.

Situated along the volcanic slopes of Mount Agung, this quaint fishing village provides easy access to the renowned dive site.

Just a short trek from the beach, divers can enjoy the wreck’s rich history and vibrant marine life.

The serene village setting offers a peaceful respite before and after the dive, allowing visitors to fully savor the unique opportunity.

With its stunning natural backdrop and proximity to the wreck, Tulamben serves as the ideal gateway to one of Bali’s most iconic underwater adventures.

Tulamben Bay and the Wreck Dive

Upon arriving in Tulamben, divers head to the nearby bay to embark on their wreck dive adventure.

Situated just meters from the beach, the iconic USAT Liberty wreck invites explorers to enjoy its captivating history and vibrant marine ecosystem.

This World War II cargo ship was sunk by torpedoes in 1942 and now lies completely covered in corals, home to hundreds of species of fish.

Divers can explore the 120-meter wreck with experienced instructors, getting up close to the diverse marine life and lush coral gardens.

Night dives are also popular, offering mesmerizing views with an average visibility of 15-20 meters.

The Tulamben Bay wreck dive is a must-do experience for certified divers visiting Bali.

Exploring the Coral-Covered Wreck

As divers descend into the crystal-clear waters, they’re immediately captivated by the USAT Liberty wreck’s stunning transformation – a once-functional cargo ship now utterly blanketed in vibrant corals and swarming with a diverse array of marine life.

Swimming through the wreck’s cavernous holds and corridors, divers encounter schools of curious fish, from glittering anthias to majestic barracuda. Soft corals cling to the vessel’s exterior, creating a lush underwater garden that plays host to shrimp, nudibranchs, and other invertebrates.

With average visibility reaching 15-20 meters, the wreck offers exceptional photographic opportunities, allowing divers to capture the wreck’s ethereal beauty. Truly, the USAT Liberty has become an underwater masterpiece, a testament to the ocean’s power to reclaim and transform.

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Encountering Marine Life and Coral Gardens

Divers venturing beyond the wreck itself uncover a vibrant tapestry of coral gardens teeming with an abundance of marine life.

The Alamanda Reef and Batu Kelebit Reef offer a stunning display of healthy, colorful corals that attract a diverse array of species. Drifting among the reef structures, divers might spot playful clownfish, vibrant parrotfish, and elegant sea turtles.

The pristine Kubu Reef is another highlight, with its crystal-clear waters and captivating underwater landscapes. Whether it’s marveling at the delicate sea fans or witnessing the graceful movements of a school of barracuda, divers are sure to be enthralled by the exceptional marine biodiversity found in the waters around Tulamben Bay.

Visibility and Night Diving Opportunities

The average visibility in Tulamben Bay typically ranges from 15 to 20 meters, making it an ideal destination for night diving enthusiasts.

Nighttime dives around the USAT Liberty wreck often reveal a dazzling array of nocturnal marine life, from vibrant nudibranchs to elusive frogfish and sleeping parrotfish. The wreck’s intricate structure provides ample hiding spots for these creatures, offering an enchanting underwater experience.

Night diving adds an extra layer of excitement, with the eerie glow of the wreck and the potential for unexpected encounters. Whether you’re a seasoned night diver or new to the experience, the USAT Liberty at Tulamben Bay offers a unique opportunity to explore the marine world in a whole new light.

Dive Experience and Instructor Guidance

Certified divers can embark on a guided wreck dive led by experienced instructors, who provide expert navigation and point out the wreck’s captivating features. Divers will have the opportunity to explore the USAT Liberty’s expansive 120-meter frame and observe the vibrant marine life and coral gardens that have flourished on the wreck over the decades.

Dive Experience	Instructor Guidance
Wreck Dive	Navigation Expertise
Coral Exploration	Feature Identification
Marine Life Encounters	Safety Protocols
Average Visibility (15-20m)	Certification Requirements
Night Diving Available	Group Size Management

These expert-led dives allow divers to fully enjoy the wreck’s remarkable ecosystem and gain a deeper appreciation for this renowned underwater attraction.

Pickup Coverage and Additional Charges

Coverage for pickups includes central Nusa Dua, Jimbaran Beach, central Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak, though remote areas like Uluwatu/Pecatu, Canggu, and Ubud will incur an additional charge.

This is to account for the increased travel time and distance to reach these more isolated locations.

The pickup service is included for the convenience of divers, ensuring they’re transported safely and efficiently to the dive site at Tulamben Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Depth of the USAT Liberty Wreck?

The USAT Liberty wreck lies just 30 meters from the beach, making it easily accessible for divers. Its depth of 30 meters allows divers to explore the well-preserved wreck and its abundant marine life.

Can I Bring My Own Scuba Equipment?

Yes, you can bring your own scuba equipment for the dive. However, it’s important to ensure it’s properly maintained and in good working condition. The dive operator can also provide rental equipment if needed.

Are There Any Special Permit Requirements for This Dive?

No special permits are required for this dive. The dive is open to certified divers, and the tour operator will handle all necessary arrangements. Just bring your certification card and be ready to explore the iconic USAT Liberty wreck.

Is There a Minimum Number of Divers Required?

No, there is no minimum number of divers required. The activity is open to certified divers, though the tour operator may have a maximum group size for practical and safety reasons. Divers can participate individually or in small groups.

Can I Extend My Stay in Tulamben Village?

Yes, visitors can extend their stay in Tulamben village. Many accommodation options are available, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. This allows divers to explore the area and dive sites at their own pace.

Recap

The USAT Liberty wreck in Tulamben Bay, Bali, is a unique and captivating dive site, offering divers the chance to explore a historic World War II shipwreck.

The wreck is teeming with vibrant marine life, and features exceptional visibility and diverse coral gardens.

It’s no wonder the Liberty wreck has become a world-class destination for underwater enthusiasts. A must-visit for any diver exploring the waters of Bali.

You can check availability for your dates here: