Thermopylae Sierra Shipwreck Dive: 2 Epic Wreck Dives at Dehiwala

About this activity

Dive into History with Island Scuba: Exploring the Thermopylae Sierra Wreck near Dehiwala, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s vibrant shores offer more than just stunning beaches; beneath the waves lies a world of adventure. For certified divers seeking a unique experience, the Thermopylae Sierra wreck near Dehiwala provides a thrilling journey into maritime history. WeLoveSriLanka.com, in partnership with Island Scuba, invites you to explore this underwater treasure.

A Legacy Beneath the Waves:

The Thermopylae Sierra, a Greek cargo ship, met its fate off the coast of Dehiwala in 1981. Today, the wreck rests at depths ranging from 12 to 24 meters, transformed into an artificial reef teeming with marine life.

A Diver’s Paradise with Island Scuba:

We partner with Island Scuba, a local expert dive center, to offer you a safe and memorable exploration of this incredible site. The Thermopylae Sierra is best suited for divers with Open Water certification or above. While Island Scuba offers Discover Scuba Diving, it’s not recommended for this particular wreck dive due to the depth and conditions.

As you descend with Island Scuba, sunlight filters through the clear water, illuminating the imposing silhouette of the ship. Schools of vibrant fish dart around the encrusted hull, while playful octopuses and curious crustaceans peek out from crevices. The wreck tells a silent story of past voyages, and with a trained eye, you might spot remnants of its former life. Lush coral formations have colonized the structure, creating a vibrant ecosystem.

Your Dive Day with Island Scuba: A Detailed Itinerary

Here’s what you can expect on your day diving the Thermopylae Sierra:

• 7:30 AM: Arrival and Refreshments at Pink Salt: Your day begins at Pink Salt Restaurant (58/6 De Alwis Pl, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia 10350, Sri Lanka), our designated meeting point. Enjoy complimentary self-service morning tea and coffee while meeting fellow divers and the Island Scuba team.
• 8:00 – 8:30 AM: Safety Briefing and Equipment: The Island Scuba team will conduct a comprehensive safety briefing covering dive site details, procedures, safety protocols, and hand signals. If you’ve opted for equipment rental ($10), you’ll be fitted at this time.
• 8:30 AM: Boat Departure: Board the boat for a scenic 30-minute ride to the Thermopylae Sierra wreck site.
• 9:00 AM (approx.): Arrival and Dive 1: A final site-specific briefing will be given before you enter the water for your first dive.
• Dive 1 (40 minutes – 1 hour): Explore the wreck with your experienced dive master (typically one per five divers). Depths range from 12 to 24 meters, offering diverse exploration. Witness the rich marine life inhabiting the wreck.
• Surface Interval (1 hour): Return to the boat for a one-hour surface interval. Relax, enjoy provided snacks and refreshments, and discuss the dive. This break is crucial for nitrogen off-gassing.
• Dive 2 (40 minutes – 1 hour): Embark on your second dive, exploring different areas of the wreck or revisiting highlights from the first dive.
• 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM (approx.): Return to Shore: The boat will return to Pink Salt Restaurant.
• Lunch (Optional): Lunch and soft drinks are not included but can be ordered at Pink Salt at your own expense.