Diving atUsat Liberty Shipwreck (Indonesia)
Descending onto the USAT Liberty Shipwreck, divers explore a site welcoming a broad spectrum of experience levels. Accessible from very shallow water, the wreck gradually slopes down, offering entry points for snorkelers and extending to depths suitable for technical divers. Its close-to-shore position allows straightforward access and flexible dive planning, facilitating multiple explorations of its structure, which stretches from approximately 5 m (16 ft) to 28 m (92 ft) below the surface.
Tonight's objective overview for Usat Liberty Shipwreck shows an air temperature of 26.5°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.52m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
-8.2740, 115.5931
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
USAT Liberty Shipwreck, a relic of World War II, lies broken on a sandy slope, transforming over decades into a dynamic artificial reef. Originally a cargo vessel, it was torpedoed in 1942 and subsequently beached.
A volcanic eruption in 1963 later pushed it back into the sea. Its immense structure, over 120 m (400 ft) in length, now rests on its side, largely intact yet fractured into sections.
Divers navigate the wreck's various features, including the stern, visible between 5 m (16 ft) and 20 m (66 ft), with its rudder at 10 m (33 ft) and portholes at 15 m (49 ft). Deeper, between 20-25 m (66-82 ft), a stern gun and its platform are identifiable.
Towards the central sections, engine steam boilers sit at 15 m (49 ft) and remnants of Cargo Hold #3 are at 17 m (56 ft). Exploring the bow section, divers find it stretches to 20-28 m (66-92 ft), revealing further mechanical parts like ladders at 25 m (82 ft), offering intricate exploration opportunities.
Best Time to Dive
Focusing on optimal underwater visibility, diving conditions at the USAT Liberty Shipwreck are generally favorable throughout the year. Drier months, specifically August through October, typically present clearer waters, aligning with periods of minimal rainfall, averaging between 0.3 mm and 0.7 mm. Air temperatures during this time range comfortably from 26.5°C to 28.8°C (79-84°F). Diving maintains a 'Good' rating across all months. A slight decrease in wave height and wind speed, observed from November to April, might contribute to calmer surface conditions, potentially enhancing visibility closer to shore. Divers should anticipate tropical air temperatures consistently between 26°C and 29°C (79-84°F) regardless of the season.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Access to the USAT Liberty Shipwreck is a beach entry, making it straightforward for divers of all levels, including those less experienced with boat dives. A gentle slope allows divers to choose between exploring shallower sections or venturing into deeper reaches, adapting to their certification and comfort. Surface conditions generally present average wave heights ranging from 0.5 to 1.0 meters (1.6 to 3.3 ft), with wind speeds typically between 10 to 19 km/h (6 to 12 mph); however, these conditions can vary depending on daily weather patterns. Given consistently warm air temperatures, ranging from 26°C to 29°C (79-84°F), thermal protection needs are usually minimal, often requiring only a 3mm wetsuit or shorty.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
While diving at the USAT Liberty, adherence to general wreck diving safety protocols is paramount. No specific hazards are consistently reported for this site, but prudent diving practices are always recommended. Divers should maintain appropriate buoyancy to avoid damaging the historical wreck or disturbing its resident marine life. Because the site is not highly rated as a protected area, divers are encouraged to practice responsible interaction with the environment, ensuring no marine life is touched or removed. It's advisable to dive with a local guide who can navigate the wreck's structure and identify subtle currents, enhancing both safety and the overall dive experience.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Water temperatures at Usat Liberty Shipwreck are currently estimated to be around 30°C (87°F), shaping the overall diving conditions for today. Surface air temperatures are resting at 27°C (80°F).
Many divers choose dive skin or rash guard when diving in similar conditions. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds.
Short-term weather patterns suggest stable conditions for divers visiting the area.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
Check local Indonesia medical facilities.
Entry Requirements
View Indonesia Visa Hub
Currency
IDR
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Marine Life at Usat Liberty Shipwreck
USAT Liberty Shipwreck has transformed into a thriving artificial reef, attracting a rich variety of marine species divers will notice almost immediately. Hawksbill turtles are often sighted, gracefully navigating the wreck's contours. Schools of barracudas and batfish frequent the site, alongside trevally. Garden eels populate the surrounding sandy bottom. Look closer, and you might spot sweetlips, groupers, trumpetfish, and various angelfish, including Emperor and Koran species. Clownfish inhabit the anemones. Those with a keen eye for macro life can find leaf scorpionfish, octopus, cuttlefish, and ornate ghost pipefish. Notably, large schools of bumphead parrotfish and jackfish tornados, once common sights during sunrise dives, are not consistently observed anymore.
Sweetlips
Ornate Ghost Pipefish
Scorpionfish
Anemone
Batfish
Trumpetfish
Hawksbill Turtle
Emperors
Garden Eel
Barracuda
Cuttlefish
Grouper
Angelfish
Clownfish
Trevally
Bumphead Parrotfish
Dive Sites Near Usat Liberty Shipwreck
View all dive sites in IndonesiaDiscover more underwater gems in this area.
Dive Centers Near Usat Liberty Shipwreck
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth of the USAT Liberty Shipwreck?
USAT Liberty extends to about 28 m (92 ft) at its bow section. Divers can explore various features within this recreational depth range, accommodating different certification levels.
Is the USAT Liberty Shipwreck suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is. Proximity to shore and shallow sections, starting around 5 m (16 ft), make it highly accessible for snorkelers and entry-level certified divers. More experienced divers explore deeper parts.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
This dive site hosts diverse marine life, including hawksbill turtles, barracudas, and batfish. Divers can spot garden eels, groupers, trumpetfish, and various angelfish. Macro life possibilities include leaf scorpionfish, octopus, cuttlefish, and ornate ghost pipefish.
What are the typical water conditions?
Generally good visibility prevails, though conditions vary. Surface waves typically range from 0.5 to 1.0 meters (1.6 to 3.3 ft). While specific water temperatures aren't consistently reported, the tropical climate suggests warm conditions.
How long has the USAT Liberty been a dive site?
USAT Liberty Shipwreck became a captivating dive site in the 1980s. Its evolution from a World War II casualty to a thriving artificial reef has attracted divers for decades.
Are there any specific parts of the wreck to look for?
Key features include the stern (5-20 m), rudder (10 m), portholes (15 m), and stern gun platform (20-25 m). Engine steam boilers (15 m), Cargo Hold #3 (17 m), and ladders (25 m) are also identifiable. Bow sections offer further exploration.
Liveaboards Sailing to Usat Liberty Shipwreck
Explore highly rated liveaboards visiting this dive site and discover the best routes in Indonesia.
Resorts & Accommodation
Find partner hotels and dive resorts directly accessing the reef.
Around This Area
Explore top-rated restaurants, activities, and attractions near Usat Liberty Shipwreck reviewed by travelers.
Planning to dive Usat Liberty Shipwreck?
Send one inquiry and receive offers directly from the best verified local dive operators.