Bali: Tulamben USAT Liberty Wreck Scuba Diving

Bali’s northeastern coast is home to the Tulamben dive site, where adventurers can explore the iconic USAT Liberty wreck. This 120-meter American cargo ship, sunk during World War II, lies in shallow waters accessible to divers of all skill levels. What awaits beneath the surface is a thrilling underwater experience, with the wreck transformed into an artificial reef teeming with vibrant marine life. For those seeking a unique scuba diving adventure, the Tulamben USAT Liberty wreck promises a captivating journey into Bali’s subaquatic world.

Key Points

• The Tulamben dive site in Bali is home to the USAT Liberty wreck, a 120-meter-long American cargo ship sunk during World War II.
• The wreck lies in shallow waters, making it accessible to divers of all skill levels, with depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters.
• The dive site offers a vibrant underwater ecosystem, featuring colorful schools of fish, corals, and other marine life.
• The diving package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, diving equipment, an experienced dive instructor, and refreshments.
• Diving certification is required, and a minimum 18-hour rest period is necessary before any flights after the dive.

Overview of Tulamben Dive Site

Tucked away on Bali’s northeastern coast, Tulamben is home to one of the island’s most renowned dive sites – the USAT Liberty wreck.

This 120-meter-long American cargo ship, sunk during World War II, now lies just offshore in shallow waters, making it accessible to divers of all skill levels.

From beginners to advanced, the site offers a unique opportunity to explore a well-preserved shipwreck teeming with marine life.

Vibrant schools of fish, corals, and other fascinating underwater creatures make this dive site a must-visit for any scuba enthusiast in Bali.

Whether you’re looking for an easy beach dive or a more challenging wreck penetration, Tulamben has something to offer divers of all experience levels.

Itinerary for the Diving Tour

The diving tour in Tulamben starts with a pickup from the hotel in the Denpasar area, a 2.5-hour drive to the dive site.

Once there, divers will visit two popular dive spots – a drop-off wall teeming with schools of fish, and the famous USAT Liberty wreck, which sits in waters ranging from 5 to 30 meters deep.

After the dives, the tour returns to Denpasar, another 2.5-hour drive.

Throughout the day, divers will enjoy a provided lunch, mineral water, and hot drinks.

An experienced dive instructor accompanies the group, and all necessary diving equipment, including two tanks and weight belts, is included in the tour.

Inclusions in the Diving Package

The Bali diving package includes a range of valuable services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for divers. Travelers receive hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a provided lunch, mineral water, and hot drinks throughout the day.

Plus, the package features an experienced dive instructor to guide the group and provides all necessary diving equipment, including two tanks and weight belts. The entrance fee and porter services are also covered, allowing divers to focus on their underwater exploration.

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced diver, this comprehensive package ensures you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable dive at the iconic USAT Liberty wreck in Tulamben, Bali.

Diving Certification and Restrictions

Only certified divers are permitted to explore the USAT Liberty wreck in Tulamben. Participants must present their valid dive certifications before the excursion, as the site is not suitable for beginner or uncertified divers. Children under 10 years old, pregnant women, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions are also restricted from joining the dive due to safety concerns.

Dive Requirements	Allowed	Not Allowed
Certification	Certified Divers	Uncertified Divers
Age	Adults	Children under 10
Health Conditions	Healthy Individuals	Pregnant Women, Respiratory/Heart Issues

To ensure a safe and enjoyable dive, these restrictions are strictly enforced. Divers must also observe an 18-hour rest period before any flights after the dive.

Booking and Reservation Details

Reserving the Tulamben USAT Liberty wreck dive excursion can be done in advance, with recommendations to book at least 3 days prior to the desired date. Last-minute bookings are subject to availability. Visitors can opt to pay later when reserving their spot.

The itinerary includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, mineral water, hot drinks, an experienced dive instructor, entrance fees, and the necessary diving equipment like two tanks and weight belts.

However, there are some restrictions – the activity is only suitable for certified divers, and not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with respiratory or heart issues. Divers must also observe an 18-hour rest period before flying.

Highlights of the USAT Liberty Wreck

Nestled within the crystalline waters off Bali’s northeastern coast lies the iconic USAT Liberty wreck, a captivating dive site that attracts adventurous scuba enthusiasts from around the globe.

Once a US Army cargo ship sunk during World War II, the Liberty wreck now serves as a thriving underwater ecosystem, teeming with vibrant marine life. Divers can explore the 120-meter-long vessel, marveling at its ghostly silhouette that descends from the surface to a maximum depth of 30 meters.

The wreck’s unique layout and abundant coral growth provide an exhilarating experience for divers of all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.

Swim through the ship’s cavernous holds and darkened passageways.

Encounter schools of tropical fish, including snappers, sweetlips, and parrotfish.

Witness the wreck’s gradual transformation into an artificial reef, covered in vibrant corals and sponges.

Spot elusive marine creatures like nudibranchs, shrimp, and crabs hiding among the wreckage.

Capture stunning photographs of the Liberty’s eerie, yet hauntingly beautiful, wreck.

Exploring the Underwater Landscape

Divers exploring the USAT Liberty wreck are immersed in a captivating underwater landscape, where the vessel’s ghostly silhouette rises from the seabed and vibrant marine life flourishes amidst its weathered structure.

Schools of colorful fish dart between the wreck’s openings and crevices, creating a mesmerizing display. Soft corals and sponges have taken root, transforming the wreck into an artificial reef teeming with life.

The wreck’s various depths, from 5 to 30 meters, offer ample opportunities for exploration, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver.

With its dramatic setting and thriving ecosystem, the USAT Liberty wreck provides a truly remarkable scuba diving experience.

Preparing for the Diving Adventure

Preparing for the dive adventure begins with securing a reservation, as Bali’s most popular dive site at Tulamben often books up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

The itinerary includes a 2.5-hour drive from Denpasar, visiting two dive sites, and a return trip of the same duration.

Inclusions cover essential elements such as:

• Experienced dive instructor to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience
• Entrance fees and diving equipment like tanks and weight belts
• Nourishing lunch, mineral water, and hot drink to refuel

However, there are restrictions to consider, as the dive site is suitable only for certified divers. Plus, a mandatory 18-hour rest period is required before any flights post-dive.

With careful planning, adventurers can embark on an unforgettable underwater exploration at Tulamben’s USAT Liberty wreck.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Get a Refund if I Need to Cancel My Booking?

The booking policy states that a full refund is available if the reservation is canceled at least 3 days prior to the scheduled date. Last-minute cancellations may not be eligible for a refund and are subject to availability.

Is There a Weight Limit for Diving Equipment?

There’s no specific weight limit for the diving equipment, but it’s essential that the gear fits the diver comfortably. The operator will provide the appropriate equipment based on the diver’s size and needs to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Will I Be Able to Take Photos and Videos Underwater?

Yes, divers are generally allowed to bring an underwater camera to take photos and videos during the dive. However, the size and type of camera may be limited by the dive operator’s policies and the diver’s skill level.

Can I Request a Specific Dive Instructor or Buddy?

Divers can request a specific instructor or buddy, but availability is subject to the dive company’s scheduling. It’s best to communicate any preferences when booking to increase the chances of the request being accommodated.

What Is the Policy for Lost or Damaged Diving Gear?

The dive operator’s policy is to charge for lost or damaged gear at fair market value. Clients are responsible for personal equipment and should ensure it’s well-maintained. Specific requests for dive buddies or instructors are subject to availability.

Recap

Tulamben’s USAT Liberty wreck offers an unforgettable scuba diving experience.

Divers can explore the ghostly shipwreck, teeming with vibrant marine life.

The shallow depth and diverse underwater landscape make this site accessible to divers of all skill levels, providing a thrilling and memorable adventure in Bali’s northeast coast.