New Pearl River - Kenting National Park

The *New Pearl River* is a proper hulk, a 182-metre bulk carrier that went down in 1999 during a force 10 gale. We love a wreck with a story, and this one’s got a dramatic one – a sinking in a storm, a missing master. It sits upright at 29 metres, and while it’s classified as dangerous, the sheer scale of it is what pulls us back. Dropping down, the ship materialises out of the blue, a vast, dark shadow. We’ve found the bow to be particularly atmospheric, often swathed in schools of fusiliers so thick they momentarily block out the light. Inside the cargo holds, it’s dark, almost cathedral-like, with shafts of light occasionally piercing through where the hull has deteriorated. You’ll see plenty of barracuda hovering in the current off the deck, and we always spot nudibranchs tucked into crevices around the superstructure. It’s a site for advanced divers, no question, due to the depth and potential for currents. Our tip: go slow, take your time exploring the different sections, and bring a good torch to really appreciate the scale of this place. It’s a proper dive into history.

Location
Kenting National Park, Taiwan, East Asia
Coordinates
23.673065, 119.995390
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
29m

Marine Protected Area: 嘉義縣鰲鼓野生動物重要棲息環境

Nearby Dive Sites in Kenting National Park

Nearest Dive Centres to New Pearl River

Marine Life in Kenting National Park

Home to 546 recorded species including 442 reef fish, 75 hard corals, 9 sharks & rays, 6 sea cucumbers, 5 sea snails & nudibranchs, 3 other.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth and visibility at the New Pearl River dive site?
The typical diving depth at the New Pearl River dive site is 29 meters. Specific visibility data for this site is not provided in the current information, so it's always wise to check local conditions before your dive.
What kind of marine life and underwater attractions can be seen when diving in New Pearl River?
When diving at New Pearl River, the primary underwater attraction is the impressive wreck of a bulk carrier vessel, which sank on December 21, 1999. This substantial wreck measures 182.8 meters by 28.4 meters. While specific marine life sightings are not detailed in the available data, wrecks often become artificial reefs teeming with various species over time.
What is the difficulty level for diving at New Pearl River, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The difficulty level for diving at New Pearl River is classified as intermediate. Therefore, this dive site is not typically suitable for beginner divers and is recommended for those with more experience and appropriate training.
What are the best times of year to dive at New Pearl River for optimal conditions and visibility?
Specific information regarding the best times of year to dive at New Pearl River for optimal conditions and visibility is not available in the current data. For general guidance on dive seasons in Taiwan, you might consult DivePlnr's When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving at New Pearl River?
Given the 29-meter depth and intermediate difficulty classification of the New Pearl River wreck, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is highly recommended. This ensures divers have the necessary training for deeper dives and potential wreck exploration, especially since it is classified as a "Dangerous wreck".
Are there any notable currents or specific water conditions divers should be aware of at New Pearl River?
Divers should be aware that the New Pearl River wreck is classified as a Dangerous wreck. This classification suggests potential hazards that divers should approach with caution and appropriate training. While specific current information for diving is not provided, the original sinking occurred during Force 10 winds, indicating the area can experience significant weather events.