YAMAHAGI MARU - Kenting National Park

The Yamahagi Maru is a beast of a wreck, completely different from anything else in Kenting. We’re talking about a former steamship, nearly 126 meters long, bombed by US aircraft in 1944. It sits shallow, around 2 meters, making it less about the challenge and more about the sheer history you can soak in. What we love about the Yamahagi Maru is how accessible its history feels. You can swim right over the bow, peering down into vast cargo holds where schools of fusiliers often swirl, so thick they almost obscure the bottom. The metal is heavily encrusted, painted in a mosaic of corals and sponges. Look for the resident moray eels peeking from crevices. It’s a great site for photographers, especially on a sunny day when the light penetrates deep into the wreck's interior. We'd suggest going early to avoid the crowds, as it can get busy. It suits anyone keen on exploring a significant piece of wartime history without needing deep dive certifications.

Location
Kenting National Park, Taiwan, East Asia
Coordinates
22.616667, 120.250000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: 台南市四草野生動物保護區

Nearby Dive Sites in Kenting National Park

Nearest Dive Centres to YAMAHAGI MARU

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 maximum depth and average depth for diving the Yamagiri Maru wreck?
The Yamahagi Maru wreck is located at a depth of 2 meters. This shallow depth makes it highly accessible for divers of various experience levels.
What specific cargo, artifacts, and marine life can divers expect to encounter on the Yamagiri Maru?
The provided data for the Yamahagi Maru wreck does not specify details about its cargo, artifacts, or the marine life divers can expect to encounter. For general information on marine life in the region, you might explore our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level for diving the Yamagiri Maru, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
Diving the Yamahagi Maru wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. While its shallow depth of 2 meters is accessible, its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" suggests it may not be suitable for absolute beginners or those without proper wreck diving training.
What are the best months or seasons to dive the Yamagiri Maru for optimal visibility and conditions?
The provided data for the Yamahagi Maru does not specify the best months or seasons for optimal visibility and conditions. For general guidance on dive seasons in Taiwan, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What dive certifications are required to dive the Yamagiri Maru, particularly for exploring inside the wreck?
While the specific certification requirements for diving the Yamahagi Maru are not detailed in the provided data, its classification as a Dangerous wreck and intermediate difficulty strongly suggest that advanced training, such as a Wreck Diver certification, would be highly recommended, especially for any penetration. Always consult with local dive operators for precise requirements.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions experienced at the Yamagiri Maru dive site?
The provided data for the Yamahagi Maru does not include details on typical current or visibility conditions at the dive site. It is always advisable to check with local dive centers in Kenting National Park for up-to-date site conditions before planning your dive.