Discover Thailand’s Deepest Secrets: 5 Unmissable Wrecks for PADI Technical Divers
Guest blog by Tim Lawrence | All photos by Mario Guido Rossi
For many, diving vibrant coral reefs and swimming among exotic marine life is enough to satisfy their underwater dreams. But for those seeking more challenge and discovery, PADI Technical Diving in Thailand offers a whole new level of excitement.
With depths beyond 30 meters (98 feet) and historic wrecks few have ever seen, Thailand is one of Southeast Asia’s top destinations for technical diving. From torpedoed World War II ships to mysterious sunken vessels, these dive sites are only accessible to certified PADI TecRec divers.
Here are five legendary wrecks you won’t want to miss on your next tec diving adventure in Thailand.
1. Tattori Maru – Koh Tao
Once known as the “hell ship,” the Tattori Maru has a dark and haunting history. Used during WWII to transport survivors of the Bataan Death March, the inhumane conditions aboard led to 20 fatalities during the voyage.
In 1944, the USS Hammerhead sank the ship with a torpedo strike to the bow. Today, it rests on its starboard side at 75 meters (246 feet) deep and 120 nautical miles east of Koh Tao, making it an exclusive site for advanced technical divers. With over 128 meters (419 feet) of wreck to explore and excellent visibility, it’s a breathtaking yet somber dive that tells a powerful story beneath the sea.
Keywords: Koh Tao wreck diving, WWII wrecks Thailand, technical diving Thailand
2. Burma Maru – West Cambodia
Believed to be carrying royal gifts from the King of Thailand to Japan’s emperor, the Burma Maru was sunk in 1942 by the USS Swordfish. While legends suggest gold-encrusted swords were aboard, no treasure has ever been found.
Lying in 67 meters (219 feet) of water, just 60 nautical miles off the coast of Cambodia, this rarely visited wreck holds many secrets. The bow, dramatically separated from the main hull, makes this a mysterious and thrilling dive.
Keywords: secret wrecks Southeast Asia, tec diving Cambodia, deep wreck dives
3. Sea Crest (Scan Queen) – Koh Tao
Sunk during a deadly typhoon in 1977, the Sea Crest, also known as Scan Queen, was a former oil and gas exploration ship. Located about 100 nautical miles east of Koh Tao, the wreck rests at 50–70 meters (164–230 feet).
The wreck’s superstructure, machinery, and hanging pipeline create a dramatic underwater scene, perfect for technical divers and underwater photographers.
Keywords: Koh Tao technical diving, oil rig wreck Thailand, Scan Queen wreck dive
4. USS Lagarto – Koh Losin
The USS Lagarto, a WWII submarine, was lost in action on May 3, 1945, in a battle with the Japanese minelayer INJ Hatsutaka. All 88 crew members perished, making the site a solemn war grave.
Found upright in 67–75 meters (220–246 feet) of water near Koh Losin, the wreck still has open torpedo tubes, suggesting it went down fighting. Spanning over 95 meters (308 feet), this is a must-see for history enthusiasts and experienced tec divers.
Keywords: USS Lagarto wreck, WWII submarine Thailand, Koh Losin diving
5. HTMS Pangan – Koh Tao
This military transport ship, sunk in 1961 during a sudden storm, has an eerie legacy. Thai sailors once claimed to hear the cries of a high-ranking officer whose body was aboard when the ship went down—sparking local ghost legends.
Today, the HTMS Pangan rests at 53–60 meters (174–197 feet) deep, 60 nautical miles northeast of Koh Tao. With large holds perfect for wreck penetration diving, it’s a favorite among seasoned tec divers and underwater photographers.
Keywords: haunted wreck Thailand, HTMS Pangan dive, wreck penetration Koh Tao
Ready to Dive Deep?
Whether you’re a seasoned PADI TecRec diver or ready to begin your technical diving journey in Thailand, these wrecks promise world-class adventure, rich history, and unmatched underwater experiences.
Start your training and discover a new dimension of diving. Visit a certified PADI TecRec Center in Thailand and prepare to explore the depths like never before.
👉 Contact DJL and start planning your next technical diving adventure in Thailand today!
- 🌐 Website: https://davyjoneslocker.asia/
- 📧 Email: hello@davyjoneslocker.asia
- 📍 Location: 5/52 Moo 2 Mae Haad, Koh Tao, Thailand
- 📞 Phone/WhatsApp: +66 (0)98 223 2175
