SS President Coolidge (Wreck)

The SS President Coolidge, located in the waters of Vanuatu, is renowned as the ultimate wreck dive destination in the world. Originally a luxurious passenger liner, it was transformed into a troop carrier during WWII. Tragically, while making its way through the Segond Channel, the ship encountered a mine and, despite the captain's efforts to salvage it, it quickly sank.

Today, the SS President Coolidge serves as an extraordinary haven teeming with an abundant variety of fish life. Divers are often delighted by the presence of not only an array of vibrant fish species, but also the occasional sightings of dugongs, turtles, and moray eels in the nearby shallows.

During WWII, Espiritu Santo, the island on which the dive site resides, acted as a crucial military base, heavily fortified with mines. Regrettably, the sailing orders of the President Coolidge failed to provide vital information about the safe entry into the harbors of Espiritu Santo. Unaware of the lurking mine fields and fearing Japanese submarines, the ship attempted to enter the harbor through the most conspicuous channel, resulting in its collision with a mine near the engine room, followed by another devastating explosion near its stern.

Divers exploring the SS President Coolidge can expect a visibility of approximately 16 meters and a maximum depth of 34 meters. This dive site caters to divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced experts. Whether you're looking to embark on an unforgettable underwater adventure or explore the historical significance of this iconic wreck, the SS President Coolidge is a must-visit destination. Located on President College Street in Banban, Sanma, the site offers an unforgettable diving experience that combines awe-inspiring marine life with a rich wartime history.