Diving atS S Rangoon (Sri Lanka)
Situated directly in front of the historic Galle Fort, the SS Rangoon wreck offers a compelling dive opportunity near the mouth of Galle Harbor. This impressive 60 m (196 ft) long steamer, weighing 1800 tons, lies upright on a beautiful white sandy bottom. Its position provides divers with a distinct structural landmark to explore.
Tonight's objective overview for S S Rangoon shows an air temperature of 26.5°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 2.1 m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
Dive Site Overview
Descending upon the historic SS Rangoon wreck is a journey back in time, revealing a well-preserved vessel that sank in 1871. Built by Samuda Bros of London in 1863, this sailing/steamer rests at a maximum depth of 32 m (104 ft), with its shallower sections starting around 25 m (82 ft).
The wreck's front section, sometimes likened to a Viking ship, adds a unique visual element. While most of the structure remains well-defined, some minor parts have fragmented and settled into the sand, creating new habitats for marine life. Divers can experience remarkable water visibility, often extending up to 32 m (104 ft), allowing for extensive observation of the ship's features and its surrounding ecosystem.
This site is specifically recommended for advanced divers due to its depth and the nature of wreck exploration.
S S Rangoon
Conditions are Moderate
DIVE WARNING
High Swell Advisory. Not recommended.
Current conditions near S S Rangoon show 27° air, 29° sea temperature, 2.1 m waves, and 23 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
The most favorable period for diving the S S Rangoon contrasts sharply with periods of increased monsoon activity. Optimal conditions are typically found from November to April, aligning with the absence of monsoon season when dive scores are consistently 'Good'. During these months, wave heights average around 1.2-1.4 meters, creating calmer surface conditions. Rainfall is minimal, particularly from January to April. Air temperatures remain warm year-round, generally ranging between 25-35°C (77-95°F), ensuring comfortable topside conditions. Water temperature at the wreck is consistently around 28°C (82°F) throughout the year, requiring minimal thermal protection.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
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
Approaching the SS Rangoon, divers gain an immediate sense of scale, with impressive visibility often revealing the entire wreck from a distance. The steamer rests proudly upright, presenting an intact profile for exploration. Diving here offers a tangible sense of history, as the ship's 19th-century construction details remain discernible despite years underwater. Typical clarity at this site allows appreciation for the 60 m (196 ft) hull's structural integrity, even in deeper sections. Maximum depth of 32 m (104 ft) places it within recreational limits but requires confident depth management. Water movement can vary, though excellent visibility is a consistent highlight.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Navigating the S S Rangoon wreck presents a rewarding challenge, particularly given its depth and the need for appropriate skill levels. Advanced diver certification is a prerequisite for visiting this site due to its operational depth range of 25-32 m (82-104 ft). Maintaining careful buoyancy control is essential to prevent disturbing sediment and to safely explore the wreck without entanglement. Divers should remain aware of their no-decompression limits, especially during extended bottom times. Always dive with a reputable local operator who understands the specific characteristics and potential currents of the Galle Harbor area.
Recommended Equipment
Deep dive hazard. Increased narcosis and gas consumption risk.
Overhead / entanglement risk. Wreck penetration requires proper training.
- Dive Computer
- DSMB
- Primary & Backup Lights
- Wreck Reel
- Cutting Tool
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for S S Rangoon, Sri Lanka. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
With water temperatures around 29°C (84°F), many divers find a 2-3mm shorty or light wetsuit provides comfortable protection.
Being prepared with flexible exposure options is a common approach among experienced divers.
The next few days appear likely to bring similar environmental conditions.
Due to technical issues with our weather providers, data hasn't been fetched for over 48 hours. The data above reflects the conditions at the time of the last successful fetch.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to S S Rangoon.
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN World.
+1-919-684-9111- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
Marine Life at S S Rangoon
The SS Rangoon wreck forms a thriving artificial reef, creating a complex underwater landscape that attracts a diverse range of species. Many reef inhabitants have found new homes within the fragmented ship parts and along its defined structure. You'll often encounter large schools of blue striped snappers, alongside smaller aggregations of Sri Lankan and Javanese rabbitfish. Grey snappers are commonly observed, while dashing bluefin trevally patrol the wreck's periphery. Numerous red soldierfish and millions of tiny glassfish also reside amid the wreck, enhancing the vibrant marine scene. Several types of jellyfish drift through the water column, adding another layer of interest to the site's biodiversity.
Dive Sites Near S S Rangoon
View all dive sites in Sri LankaDiscover more underwater gems in this area.
Dive Centers Near S S Rangoon
Working Hours
Today: 09:00 - 17:00
Fun Diving Centre
Unawatuna Diving Center Staff House
Divinguru Unawatuna, Padi 5 Star Idc Dive Resort, S
Sea Horse Divers Padi Resort Unawatuna
Sun Diving Center
Submarine Diving
Nature Worio
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Search Flights
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Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth of the SS Rangoon wreck?
SS Rangoon lies at a maximum depth of 32 m (104 ft). Shallower sections of the wreck begin around 25 m (82 ft).
What skill level is required to dive the SS Rangoon?
Diving the SS Rangoon is recommended for advanced divers. Its depth and the nature of wreck exploration require experience and appropriate certification.
When is the best time to dive the SS Rangoon wreck?
Optimal diving conditions occur from November to April, which avoids the monsoon season. Expect calmer seas and best overall conditions for visibility and comfort during these months.
What is the typical water temperature at the site?
Water temperature at the SS Rangoon wreck consistently averages around 28°C (82°F) throughout the year. These warm conditions make for comfortable diving.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
A variety of marine life inhabits the wreck, including blue striped snappers, Javanese rabbitfish, grey snappers, bluefin trevally, red soldierfish, and numerous glassfish. Several types of jellyfish are also often present.
How old is the SS Rangoon?
Built in 1863 by Samuda Bros of London, SS Rangoon sank in 1871. It has rested on the seabed for over 150 years.
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S S Rangoon
Conditions are Moderate
DIVE WARNING
High Swell Advisory. Not recommended.
Current conditions near S S Rangoon show 27° air, 29° sea temperature, 2.1 m waves, and 23 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.