The USAT Liberty dive is just forty metres from Tulamben Bay’s pebble beach. The ship was an American cargo ship that was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine during World War II. Luckily no one was hurt, but the damage to the ship was irreversible and rendered it a useless hull. The 120 metre long wreck now rests on its starboard side with the deck turned towards the open sea. Coral has covered the wreck, turning the ship into a haven for an unimaginable amount of marine life. Many view the ship as a microcosm of the most spectacular diving you can find in Bali.

The best way to experience the USAT Liberty is to set out very early in the morning and dive different parts throughout the course of the day. The sea life have adjusted to the daily peak times for visitors, so it’s best to come at a quieter time, around 6 am if you can, if you want to see the best the dive has to offer. If it’s your first time, you’ll make the most of your trip underwater if you hire a good guide to show you all the marvels of the wreck. If you’re brave and decide to dive after dark, then you’re in for a creepy but enthralling experience. Be prepared to feel disoriented at times, but the guides will show you exactly where to find the incredible and secretive creatures that come out at night.

The underwater paradise often houses trevally, bream and fusilier, and batfish, angelfish and anemone fish lurk in cracks and crevices. Scorpionfish, hawkfish, lionfish, parrotfish and trout are all over the place, as well as pufferfish, gobies, shrimps and blennies. The wreck is easily reached from the beach and is also a magical place for snorkelling. The deepest point of the ship is 30 metres.

Author