Tulamben Shipwreck Dives: Explore Bali's Underwater History
Discover iconic WWII wrecks and vibrant marine life on guided dive and snorkel tours in Tulamben, Bali.
Tulamben, a quiet coastal village on Bali's northeast shore, is globally renowned for its accessible and spectacular shipwreck diving. The star attraction is the USAT Liberty, a United States Army Transport ship torpedoed by the Japanese in World War II and beached on the rocky shore. Over decades, the Liberty has been transformed into an artificial reef, teeming with an astonishing array of marine life. Visibility is generally excellent, making it a dream destination for divers of all levels, from beginners trying their first dive to seasoned underwater photographers seeking vibrant coral formations and pelagic encounters. Beyond the Liberty wreck, Tulamben offers a diverse underwater landscape. Just a short swim from shore, you'll find the 'Coral Garden,' a shallower reef area flourishing with colorful corals and a dense population of reef fish. For those seeking a more challenging dive, the 'Drop Off' at nearby Kubu provides a dramatic wall dive, plunging into the deep blue and offering chances to spot larger marine species. These dive sites are exceptionally well-preserved, a testament to the local community's commitment to marine conservation. Exploring these sites through guided tours ensures you’ll discover the best spots, understand the history, and safely navigate the underwater environment. Whether you're a certified diver or a snorkeler eager to glimpse the underwater world, Tulamben's wrecks and reefs promise an immersive and rewarding experience.
Featured Tulamben Shipwreck Dives Tours
Discover our top picks for tulamben shipwreck dives in Tulamben
Tulamben diving is a water activity that will make your holiday special. Tulamben is a small village in Bali, located in the northeast area. The area has black sand with smooth rocks. Because of the gentle current and waves, this located is ideal for diving. There are several diving spots there, but most tourists like visiting the Coral Garden and USAT Liberty Wreck. On each location, you have 30 minutes to 40 minutes to explore the areas. Depending on the diving operators, you can generally enjoy two times diving time. The package includes a professional guide as well as safety equipment. It even includes a pickup service from the hotel at 8 AM. Diving here can be done by beginners accompanied by professional instructors
This full-day Bali Scuba Diving Trip takes you to the spectacular USS Liberty Shipwreck in Tulamben, eastern Bali. Alongside a PADI certified instructor, you’ll experience two 35-minute dives and see diverse marine life and the submerged ruins of a Soviet ship. All equipment, a Balinese lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off at select Bali hotels are included. The best choice for you who looking for: Bali Scuba Diving, USS Liberty Shipwreck Dives in Bali, Scuba Dive in Bali, and Best Scuba Diving in Bali.
There’s no better way to explore our beautiful island than scuba diving and discovering Bali’s amazing marine life! If you’ve never been diving before or are not certified, then this is the diving trip for you! This day trip includes basic training and two dives in the world-famous diving destination of Tulamben. You will go with your own dive master. Lunch, transport to/from your hotel (see details below), and dive equipment are all included.
If you have always dreamt of learning to dive, discover new sensations or just want to explore the diversity of the ocean, the Discover Scuba Diving course is your starting point towards underwater adventure. This diving initiation is made for you ! Please be reassured, the learning curve is progressive. After a short briefing, one of our instructors will take you to Coral Garden. You will perform a few excercises in shallow enough water to stand to aquire the confidence you need, then off you go to explore the site. It is truly a enormous aquarium! After returning to the dive center for a short rest and refuel, we will take you to the famous USAT Liberty shipwreck. Maximum depth 12 meters (40 feet).
Tulamben is one of the most famous dive sites for certified divers fascinated about wreck diving. Here we can see the USAT Liberty shipwreck as well as other artificial dive sites in hot waters of approximately 29 degrees all year round.
Enjoy a dive at the famous USS Liberty shipwreck that underwater photographers and videographers a like love. This is a shore based dive, located at Tulamben, a small fishing village (now resort) just two hours by road from Sanur. This tour is designed for certified divers only and is suitable for newly qualified divers to experienced professionals.
• Enjoy the thrill and adventure of breathing underwater and exploring the fantastic shipwreck of the USAT Liberty " Try Scuba Diving program" - Discover Resort Diving. • Our package includes free pick up and drop off from your accommodation (Central Nusa Dua to Seminyak & Sanur).& 2 fantastic Scuba Diving Experiences in the ocean • Our Dive leader and customer service team prepares all the equipment and gives a short briefing, we only take two participants per Dive Leader for extra safety. • The first dive takes in midships to bow and the maximum depth of this program is 12 metres • After the first dive we have a tasty light lunch and refreshment at the beachside cafe • The second dive takes in midships to the stern section of this wreck • Returning to our Dive Centre for a quick debrief, before one of our shuttle buses returns you to your accommodation about 5pm
Unlike other places for snorkeling, Tulamben offers unique underwater scenery visible from the surface: the USAT Liberty shipwreck. The ship has been sunken for more than 40 years making it a top scuba diving destination in Bali. Luckily snorkelers can also see it from the surface without having to dive deep into the water.
You will be accompanied by a local snorkel guide to one of the best places for snorkeling points, which is above the surface of a shipwreck that has been stranded for more than 50 years. Shallow fish and other similar fish will pass in front of your face as look like they have been friends with you.
Tulamben was a very anonymous fishing village in the dry lands of Karangasem for a very long period. Nowadays, it’s the busiest diving destination in Bali. Since the discovery of the USS Liberty as a diving destination back in the 1980’ies, USS Liberty Shipwreck • Type: Shore Dive • Level: All Levels • Current: None • Depth: 10 - 30 meters This is the most famous dive site in Bali. The USS Liberty Shipwreck is a 120 meter long shipwreck just 50 meters off the shore in Tulamben. It lies between 10 and 30 meters, with a small part a bit more shallow. This dive site has everything for everyone. It is the easiest wreck dive in the world. The Liberty is covered with coral and has an abundance of fish life around it.
The USS Liberty Wreck, a World War Il transport ship that rests on the seabed near Tulamben, is a favorite Bali dive destination. But you don't need to spend the night in Amed or Tulamben to experience it. This convenient private package gets you there with 2-way hotel transfers from Ubud and much of south Bali (if option selected), an Indonesian lunch, and two dives with a guide. • Spend the day diving the USS Liberty Wreck in Tulamben • Two-dive package is suitable for both certified divers and beginners • No hidden extras—package includes diving equipment and a guide • Private tour gives you space to spread out on the long drive Check
Explore the northeastern part of Bali on a snorkeling safari starting from the clean and clear Tulamben beach. Snorkel locations rich in flora and fauna in the coral garden or above the surface of the USAT Liberty shipwreck. Experience marine life that is different from life on land accompanied by an experienced local snorkeling guide. The location is far from the tourist center in the city of Bali. Activities in the village and mixed with local residents.
You can come directly to the location for those who are in the Tulamben area. And round-trip shuttle transportation available upon request. An exciting and spooky underwater experience challenges your adrenaline. An adventure with 2 dives in two different places will make your diving experience memorable. Diving on a warship that has been sunk for almost a century is a challenge that needs to be done.
Tulamben is most famous for the USAT Liberty shipwreck. This snorkeling location is excellent because of the warm waters, diverse marine life and beautiful scenery and coral reefs.
Certified diver? We can offer you 2 dives at Tulamben USAT Liberty Wreck, Drop off or Coral garden. Tulamben is located about 2,5 hours drive from South Bali. Dives here are from the shore settled at the front of the beach restaurant. Just a few fin kicks away is famous USAT Liberty shipwreck covered by impressive corals and dotted by a lot of reef fishes. At the same time bottom surrounding wreck is a macro paradise for underwater photographers. Trip will start at 7:30 am from your hotel and will finish at 5 pm.
Why Choose Tulamben Shipwreck Dives in Tulamben?
Iconic WWII Wreck
Dive the legendary USAT Liberty, a fascinating piece of history transformed into a thriving artificial reef.
Accessible for All Levels
From beginner divers and snorkelers to experienced wreck enthusiasts, the sites are suitable for various skill levels.
Abundant Marine Life
Expect to see colorful coral gardens, schools of reef fish, turtles, moray eels, and possibly larger pelagic species.
Underwater Photography Paradise
The clear waters, diverse marine life, and the wreck itself provide incredible opportunities for stunning underwater photos.
Conservation Focus
Many tours support local conservation efforts, ensuring the reefs remain healthy for future generations.
Easy Shore Entry
The main dive sites, including the Liberty wreck, are easily accessible directly from the shore, minimizing boat travel.
Types of Tulamben Shipwreck Dives in Tulamben
Certified Diver Packages
These tours cater to certified scuba divers, offering guided dives at the USAT Liberty and other nearby sites. They typically include two dives with a professional divemaster. Equipment rental is usually available as an add-on.
Snorkeling Adventures
Ideal for non-divers, these tours allow you to witness the shallower parts of the USAT Liberty wreck and the vibrant Coral Garden from the surface. Mask, snorkel, and fins are provided, and flotation devices are often available.
Discover Scuba Diving
For those curious about scuba diving but not certified, these introductory experiences provide basic skills training in shallow water, followed by a supervised dive on the USAT Liberty wreck. A great way to try diving.
Underwater Photography Tours
Tailored for enthusiasts keen on capturing the beauty of Tulamben's underwater world. These tours often focus on specific dive sites known for macro life or wrecks, and guides are experienced in positioning divers for the best shots.
What to Expect on Tulamben Shipwreck Dives Tours
Duration
Most tours last between 3 to 4 hours, typically including two dives or one snorkeling session, along with travel time to and from your accommodation.
Weather
Bali's tropical climate means warm temperatures year-round. While rain is possible, especially during the wet season (October-April), it rarely impacts visibility significantly and often comes in short, intense bursts. Water temperatures are consistently warm.
Group Size
Group sizes vary, but many operators aim for smaller groups of 4-8 divers per guide to ensure personalized attention and safety. Snorkeling tours might be slightly larger.
What's Included
Typically includes dive tanks, weights, and weights. Rental of full dive gear (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, mask, fins) is often extra but sometimes bundled. Snorkeling tours include mask, snorkel, fins, and sometimes a life vest.
Meeting Point
Tours often include pick-up and drop-off services from hotels in the Tulamben area. For those staying outside Tulamben, meeting points are usually at the dive center itself.
Costs
Prices start around $30 USD for snorkeling trips. Certified dives typically range from $40-$70 USD for a single dive or $60-$100 USD for a two-tank trip, not including gear rental or park fees if applicable.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred dive slots and operators.
If you're not a certified diver, consider a Discover Scuba Diving experience; the USAT Liberty is an excellent first wreck dive.
While the Liberty wreck is accessible from shore, many operators include transport from your accommodation, so confirm this when booking.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching coral or marine life to help preserve the delicate ecosystem.
Consider bringing your own mask if you have a specific fit preference, though rental masks are generally good quality.
Even for snorkeling, a wetsuit can provide warmth and sun protection, especially for longer sessions.
Check the weather forecast, but be aware that brief tropical showers are common and usually don't disrupt dive plans.
Many dive operators in Tulamben are PADI or SSI certified, so look for recognized affiliations for quality and safety assurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Can I snorkel the USAT Liberty shipwreck?
A: Absolutely! The USAT Liberty is shallow enough for snorkelers to get a fantastic view of the wreck from the surface. Many tours are specifically designed for snorkelers and are a great way to experience the site without scuba gear.
Q:Do I need to be a certified diver to visit the shipwreck?
A: No, you don't need to be certified for snorkeling. If you're interested in scuba diving but aren't certified, you can take a 'Discover Scuba Diving' course which allows you to dive under direct supervision on the wreck.
Q:What's the best time of year to dive in Tulamben?
A: Tulamben offers excellent diving conditions year-round. Visibility is generally good throughout the year. The wet season (October-April) might see occasional rain, but it rarely affects dive operations significantly. Dry season (May-September) often has calmer seas.
Q:What marine life can I expect to see?
A: The USAT Liberty is home to an incredible variety of marine life. You'll commonly see large schools of fish, turtles, moray eels, nudibranchs, and colorful coral formations. There's also a chance to spot reef sharks or even larger pelagics on occasion.
Q:How deep is the USAT Liberty shipwreck?
A: The wreck lies at varying depths, with the shallowest parts (the stern) accessible to snorkelers and beginners starting around 5 meters (16 feet). The deepest parts of the hull extend down to about 30 meters (100 feet), making it suitable for a range of diving certifications.
Q:Is dive gear included in the tour price?
A: It varies by operator. Often, the price for certified dives includes tanks and weights. Full equipment rental (wetsuit, BCD, regulator, mask, fins) is usually an additional cost, so it's best to check the specific inclusions when booking your tour.
Q:How do I get to Tulamben for the dive tours?
A: Tulamben is located on Bali's northeast coast. Many tour operators offer pick-up and drop-off services from popular tourist areas like Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, and Kuta. Alternatively, you can hire a private driver or take a taxi.
Q:What should I bring for a Tulamben dive tour?
A: Bring your swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. If you have your own mask, fins, or wetsuit, you're welcome to bring them. Don't forget your dive certification card if you're a certified diver.
Why Visit Tulamben?
Dive into vibrant coral reefs and encounter diverse marine life just steps from shore.
Experience the iconic USAT Liberty Shipwreck, a world-renowned underwater historical site.
Enjoy a peaceful coastal village atmosphere far from the bustling tourist hubs.
Discover ancient Balinese temples nestled amongst lush green rice paddies.
Savor fresh, locally caught seafood prepared with authentic Balinese spices.
Connect with genuine local culture in a laid-back, unpretentious setting.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Tulamben experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The dry season generally runs from April to September, offering sunny days and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The wet season, from October to March, brings higher humidity and more frequent, though usually short-lived, rain showers. The ocean temperature remains consistently warm throughout the year.
Best Months
The best months to visit Tulamben are typically from April to November, during the dry season, when you can expect plenty of sunshine and calmer seas for diving and snorkeling.
Peak Season
Peak season in Tulamben usually aligns with the dry season months of July and August, coinciding with school holidays. During this time, expect the best weather conditions but also higher numbers of tourists and potentially slightly higher prices for accommodation.
Off Season
The off-season falls within the wet season, from December to March. While you might encounter more rain, it's often in brief bursts, and the rest of the day can still be pleasant. This period offers fewer crowds and often better deals on accommodation and tours.
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Plan Your Tulamben Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Tulamben is quite straightforward. Most visitors stay within walking distance of the dive sites and local eateries. For longer distances or exploring nearby attractions, renting a scooter is a popular and affordable option, costing around IDR 70,000-100,000 per day. Alternatively, local 'bemo' (minivans) can be flagged down, though schedules can be infrequent. Many accommodations can also arrange private car transport for day trips, which is convenient but more expensive. Taxis are available but less common than in larger towns.
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