Cargo Wreck - Hikkaduwa & South Coast

The Cargo Wreck, or *Pecheur Breton* as she was originally known, is a substantial dive. This 90-meter cargo carrier sits upright, offering certified divers a deep dive into the hold and superstructure. We've often found schooling batfish hanging around the main deck, and look closely within the nooks and crannies for moray eels. It’s a rewarding dive for those who enjoy exploring the history and the marine life that now calls these sunken vessels home.

Location
Hikkaduwa & South Coast, Sri Lanka, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
6.850000, 79.850000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
20 metres/65 feet

Marine Protected Area: Muthurajawela

Best Time to Dive in Hikkaduwa & South Coast

The warmest water temperatures in Hikkaduwa & South Coast occur in January, averaging 28.4°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 28.4°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.4°C (air: 25.8°C)
  • February: 28.4°C (air: 26.4°C)
  • March: 28.4°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • April: 28.4°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • May: 28.4°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • June: 28.4°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • July: 28.4°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • August: 28.4°C (air: 26.8°C)
  • September: 28.4°C (air: 26.6°C)
  • October: 28.4°C (air: 26.4°C)
  • November: 28.4°C (air: 25.9°C)
  • December: 28.4°C (air: 25.9°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Hikkaduwa & South Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to Cargo Wreck

Marine Life in Hikkaduwa & South Coast

Home to 95 recorded species including 65 reef fish, 6 whales & dolphins, 6 hard corals, 5 sea snails & nudibranchs, 3 other, 2 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Cargo Wreck

Based on average water temperature of 28.4°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the depth of the Cargo Wreck dive site?
The Cargo Wreck dive site has a shallowest point of approximately 20 metres/65 feet. However, divers should be aware that the starboard side of this massive wreck sits deeper than this, offering varying depths for exploration.
What marine life and features can divers expect to see at the Cargo Wreck?
Divers at the Cargo Wreck can expect to explore a massive 90 metre/295 feet cargo carrier named Pecheur Breton. This impressive wreck is also a haven for a wide variety of marine life, both big and small, making it a vibrant underwater ecosystem.
How difficult is the Cargo Wreck dive, and is it suitable for Open Water divers?
The Cargo Wreck dive is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it offers a massive wreck to explore for certified divers, its depth and nature as a wreck site suggest it might be more suitable for divers with advanced certifications or experience beyond basic Open Water.
What is the best time of day or year to dive the Cargo Wreck for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of day or year to dive the Cargo Wreck for optimal conditions. For information on seasonal conditions in Hikkaduwa & South Coast, please consult our When to Dive guide.
What dive certifications are required to dive the Cargo Wreck, especially for wreck penetration?
The Cargo Wreck is suitable for certified divers, with an intermediate difficulty rating. While the data doesn't explicitly state specific certifications for wreck penetration, generally, advanced wreck diving certifications are required for safe entry into overhead environments.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the Cargo Wreck dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current and visibility conditions at the Cargo Wreck dive site. Divers should always check with local dive operators for the most current conditions before planning their dive.