British Loyalty (Wreck)

The British oil tanker, weighing 5583 tons, holds a unique history of sinking not once, but twice! Following its recovery and repair from the first incident, it faced another torpedo attack. Eventually, the vessel was meticulously towed to its final resting place and sunk by British gunfire on January 5th, 1946 in the remarkable Addu Atoll of the Maldives.

This sunken vessel has transformed into a stunning habitat for marine life, boasting exceptional coral growth that entices a diverse array of underwater species. The wreck serves as a protective shelter for juvenile fish, making it a captivating site for both wreck enthusiasts and history lovers.

Divers of all levels - beginners, advanced, and experts - should not miss exploring this notable British oil tanker which was based in the Maldives during World War II. The ship lies at a depth of 33m, stretching 134m in length and resting on its port side. The propeller can be found between depths of 23m and 28m. While there are intriguing open areas to discover on the wreck, the deck side offers the most compelling exploration opportunities, although penetration is not advised for safety reasons.

Covered in rich coral formations ranging from gorgonians to soft and table corals, the ship's body is a captivating sight. Dive enthusiasts can also expect to encounter a plethora of macro life, with frequent visits from graceful turtles. Visibility in this area can vary between 2m and +20m depending on conditions, but reaches its zenith from January to March, where it can extend up to 30m.

Location: Aboohuraa, Hithadhoo, Addu, 19030, Maldives.