The Boga Wreck lies close to the Liberty Wreck, just a short drive up Bali’s coast. It is also known as the Kubu Wreck, it was purposely sunk in 2012 to create an artificial reef. This was done to bring more marine life to the area and give divers another exciting site to explore. Now, the wreck attracts a variety of sea creatures, turning the ship into a thriving underwater habitat.

Before becoming a dive site, the Boga served as a Dutch-built patrol vessel for Indonesia. Resting now off Kubu, just north of Tulamben, it offers a fresh experience for divers looking to go beyond the Liberty. The intentional sinking of the Boga created a unique and thriving reef, drawing marine life and divers alike.

Dive Site Characteristics and Depth of the Boga Wreck

entering Boga Wreck

This wreck sits between 14 and 40 meters deep and offers a chance to explore at different levels. The varied depths make it a thrilling spot to dive. It’s perfect for advanced divers and those looking to practice deep diving skills.

inside first floor of boga wreck

Getting to the Boga Wreck is easy, with shore access available just 300 meters off Kubu beach. Divers can get porter assistance to help carry equipment, making entry smooth and straightforward. The wreck’s location and depth make it a rewarding dive for those with experience, drawing divers eager for a memorable underwater adventure.

Underwater Structure and Unique Features

inside boga wreck

This wreck has a well-preserved structure that allows divers to see the ship’s full layout. Parts like the bow, propeller, and upper deck are still clearly visible. Its intact design makes it easy to explore and adds to its overall appeal.

steering wheel at boga wreck

You can find a sunken VW car, Buddha statues, scuba tanks, and a wooden steering wheel create a scene unlike any other. These additions make the Boga Wreck a visually stunning dive

Marine Life and Biodiversity

marine life at boga wreck

Marine life is flourishing around this unique wreck. Divers often see a wide variety of species, including moray eels, barracudas, batfish, lionfish, nudibranchs, and octopuses.

As a newer artificial reef, this wreck is rapidly developing its own ecosystem. Fish and invertebrates have settled here, creating a lively habitat. Occasionally, larger marine creatures

Check out our other dive sites.
Dive with us at the Bogu wreck contact me via email or whatsapp: +62 8165 819 35

If you want a unique dive experience, Tulamben Wall is an unforgettable spot in Bali. Also known as the Drop Off, this site lies just off Tulamben Village. It stands out with black volcanic sand and a steep reef wall. Every dive here is memorable. The wall has a dramatic drop covered in vibrant coral and bustling with marine life.

Exploring the Wall

gentle slope to the wall

The dive begins with a gradual descent. The slope drops into a vertical wall that goes down over 70 meters. This cliffside was formed by lava from Mount Agung’s eruption in 1963. Now, it’s an underwater playground for fish, corals, and curious divers. Visibility is great, letting you enjoy a clear view of this colorful landscape.

As you move deeper, you’ll spot overhanging rocks and coral-filled ledges. These ledges shelter many creatures. You’ll find lionfish showing off their fins. Angelfish glide around, and you can recognize them by their striking colors and distinct gill markings.

A World of Marine Life

electric clam diving in bali tulamben

Tulamben Wall is full of marine life that makes each dive exciting:

  • Lionfish: These fish spread their fins wide. They use their spines to herd smaller fish. Watch them as they move along the coral.
  • Angelfish: Blue-faced and emperor angelfish add vivid colors to the scene. They’re easy to spot and always a delight for divers.
  • Corals and Sponges: Look for black corals, large sea fans, and tube sponges. These filter feeders stretch out into the currents, gathering food and creating habitats for other fish.
  • Hidden Gems: Keep an eye out for hiding in the coral. Moray eels, scorpionfish, and anemonefish also thrive here, tucked away in cracks and crevices.
  • The electric clam

Nearby Dive Sites to Explore

Tulamben Wall isn’t the only great site around. Here are two other must-visit dive sites Tulamben:

  1. USAT Liberty Wreck: The USAT Liberty Shipwreck in Tulamben, Bali, offers an easy-to-reach dive spot teeming with history and marine life. Lying just a stones throw offshore, the wreck starts shallow at 4 meters and descends to 30 meters, making it ideal for divers of all levels. Covered in vibrant corals and home to over 400 fish species, it’s a must-see. Divers can explore by day, at sunrise, or during an unforgettable night dive.
  2. Batu Kelebit: This is a boat-accessible dive site near Tulamben Wall, known for its rich marine life and deeper waters. Divers can encounter reef sharks, barracudas, and large schools of fish among vibrant corals and rocky formations. It’s a great spot for those looking to see Bali’s impressive underwater biodiversity.

Why Tulamben Wall?

anemone in tulamben new the wall

Tulamben Wall offers an accessible dive full of variety. The reef’s topography, the diversity of fish, and the colorful coral make every dive unique. 

This is Bali diving at its best. Don’t miss it on your next trip to Bali.

Is a Dive Certificate required to do the drop-off dive?

Yes, a dive license is required to do the Drop Off dive. This site has a vertical wall that descends to significant depths, so having an Open Water certification helps ensure safety and control. The certification equips divers with the skills needed to handle deeper dives and navigate the unique topography of the wall.

The USAT Liberty Shipwreck is one of the most famous dive sites in Bali. It attracts divers and snorkelers from around the world. The wreck’s history, stunning marine life, and easy access make it a top destination.

The shipwreck lies just off the beach in Tulamben, making it simple to reach. Its shallow sections start at only 4 meters, while deeper parts go down to around 30 meters. This range is ideal for both beginners and advanced divers. Even snorkelers can enjoy exploring the upper parts of the wreck.

Because of its unique mix of history and marine diversity, the USAT Liberty Shipwreck is a must-visit for underwater enthusiasts.

History of the USAT Liberty Shipwreck

The USAT Liberty ship was built in 1918 in Philadelphia. It was originally named the SS Liberty Glo and was used as a cargo ship during World War I. In 1919, the ship hit a mine off the coast of the Netherlands. The damage was severe, but the ship was repaired and continued to operate.

In World War II, the ship was taken by the US Navy and renamed the USAT Liberty. It was converted into a supply ship, carrying military goods. In 1942, while sailing through the Lombok Strait, a Japanese submarine struck the ship with a torpedo. The ship was badly damaged and began to take on water. It was towed by two other ships, but could not reach safety. The crew made the decision to beach it on the shores of Tulamben, Bali.

Mount Agung Eruption: How the Liberty Became a Dive Site

The ship stayed on the beach for over 20 years. In 1963, the nearby Mount Agung volcano erupted. The force of the eruption and tremors pushed the ship off the shore and into the water. The Liberty slid down into its current location and broke into two pieces.

Today, it is one of Bali’s top dive sites. Over time, the wreck has become covered in corals and marine life. This transformation has turned the USAT Liberty from a war relic into a thriving marine sanctuary.

Location and Accessibility: How to Get to the Liberty Shipwreck in Tulamben

The USAT Liberty is just 50 meters from the shore. It can be reached through a simple shore dive. Divers can walk from the beach and swim straight to the wreck. Guided dives are also available, making it easy for beginners and experienced divers alike.

Best Times to Visit and Conditions

The best time to dive the Liberty wreck is early in the morning. Visibility is usually better, and there are fewer divers around. In the afternoon, the site can get crowded. The water is warm year-round, with temperatures around 29°C, making it ideal for diving any time of year.

A Unique Night Dive Experience

The Liberty wreck is also famous for its night dives. At night, the wreck transforms as nocturnal creatures emerge. Colorful corals glow under the light, and tiny shrimps and crabs can be seen crawling over the ship’s surface. Night dives here offer a completely different experience and are considered some of the best in Bali.

For those in Amed or Tulamben, you can contact EcoDive Bali. They can help arrange your dive and travel to the site.

Exploring the Liberty Wreck: A Step-by-Step Dive Guide

The USAT Liberty wreck lies parallel to the shore in Tulamben. The ship is 120 meters long and split into two main sections. The bow points north, while the stern rests towards the south. Its shallowest part is only 4 meters deep, making it easy to access. The deepest point reaches 30 meters, where the wreck’s structure merges with the sandy seabed.

Key Points of Interest

  • Stern: The dive often starts at the stern, where you can see the rudder area and a series of portholes.
  • Midship: Here, the remains of the engine room and collapsed bulkheads are visible. This area is rich in coral and marine life.
  • Bow: The bow section has swim-throughs and overhangs filled with vibrant soft corals and fans. The foredeck gun is a popular spot for underwater photography.

Best Routes for Different Experience Levels

  • Beginners: Start at the shallow parts of the stern and swim along the hull. Stick to areas around 12 meters deep.
  • Advanced Divers: Explore the deeper sections of the bow and midship. Look for the boiler room and swim through the larger parts of the wreck.
  • Night Dives: Begin at the stern and follow the outline of the ship. Focus on the midship area, where nocturnal creatures become active.

Tips for Avoiding Crowds

The Liberty wreck can get busy, especially in the afternoon. To avoid crowds, dive early in the morning or plan a late afternoon dive. For a unique experience, try a sunrise or night dive when the site is less crowded and marine life is more active.

Marine Life at the USAT Liberty Wreck

The USAT Liberty wreck is a haven for marine life. It is home to over 400 species of fish and various invertebrates. The mix of reef fish, pelagic visitors, and small critters make it a must-see site for divers.

Reef Fish and Pelagic Visitors

Divers can see schools of trevallies swirling around the wreck. Parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish are also common. Groupers and sweetlips are often found hiding in the nooks and crannies of the ship. Larger visitors, like barracudas and Napoleon wrasse, sometimes pass through, hunting smaller fish.

Macro Critters and Muck Diving Opportunities

The wreck is not just for big fish enthusiasts. It’s also a great spot for macro lovers. Nudibranchs, and crustaceans can be found in the rubble and sandy areas near the ship.

Iconic Sightings: What Makes the Liberty a Famous Dive Site in Bali

One of the most unforgettable encounters is the school of bumphead parrotfish. These massive fish often appear at sunrise, at shallow depths. The occasional sighting of a giant barracuda patrolling the wreck adds to its appeal as one of Bali’s top dive sites.

Nearby Tulamben Dive Sites

The USAT Liberty is just one of many dive sites in Tulamben. Exploring nearby locations can make your trip even more memorable. Each site offers a unique underwater experience.

Coral Garden: Shallow Reef Exploration

Coral Garden is a beautiful site for beginners and snorkelers. The reef is shallow, ranging from 3 to 12 meters deep. The area is filled with soft corals, anemones, and vibrant fish. You can spot colorful reef species like angelfish, butterflyfish, and ribbon eels.

The Drop-Off: A Dramatic Wall Dive Experience

The Drop-Off starts as a gentle slope and then turns into a steep wall. The wall drops to over 40 meters and is covered in large gorgonian fans and sponges. You might see the electric clam and nudibranchs along the way.

Batu Kelebit and Emerald Bay: Pelagic Encounters

Batu Kelebit and Emerald Bay are deeper sites, great for spotting big fish. These sites often have strong currents, attracting larger pelagics. Divers can see barracudas, reef sharks. The reefs here are rich with corals and teeming with life, making them ideal for adventurous divers looking for something special.

The tulamben wreck dive with EcoDive Bali

Dive through coral-covered shipwreck, and witness this part of history under water. Ready to add this iconic wreck to your bucket list? Contact EcoDive Bali at  to plan your dive and explore Bali’s most famous underwater attraction!

Frequently Asked Questions about Diving the Tulamben Shipwreck

Do you need a Dive License or Certification to dive Tulamben liberty wreck?

No, you don’t always need a full dive certification. The Liberty wreck can be explored through the Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) program. This is an introductory dive for beginners. You will be guided by a professional instructor and can dive safely without a license. However for deeper sections, a certification is mandatory, either Open Water to reach 18m or Advanced Open Water if you want to go deeper than 18m.

How long is a typical dive to do the Liberty Shipwreck in Tulamben?

A typical dive at the Liberty wreck lasts around 45 to 60 minutes. The duration depends on your air consumption and dive plan. Many divers prefer to do two dives—one for the shallow areas and another for the deeper parts of the wreck.