CHIEF DRAGON - Hikkaduwa & South Coast

The Chief Dragon is one of those wrecks we keep coming back to. We find her sitting upright at 33 metres, her sheer size immediately apparent. She’s a big bulk carrier, 112 metres long, and has been down since ’83, giving the ocean plenty of time to turn her into a reef. Descending, you can often feel a slight thermocline around 20 metres, then the water cools a little and visibility often opens up as you reach the deck. There’s plenty to explore here. We love dropping into the cargo holds, where the light filters down in eerie shafts, illuminating schooling snappers and fusiliers. Keep an eye out for giant morays peeking from the darker recesses and the occasional reef shark patrolling the perimeter. The engine room is accessible if you’re comfortable with overhead environments, a truly atmospheric penetration for experienced wreck divers. This site is a proper deep wreck dive, best for advanced divers comfortable with depth and currents, which can pick up a bit out here. Go early in the morning for the calmest conditions and best light.

Location
Hikkaduwa & South Coast, Sri Lanka, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
6.958924, 79.762314
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
33m

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 CHIEF DRAGON

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 CHIEF DRAGON

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 typical depth range for diving the Chief Dragon wreck?
The Chief Dragon wreck offers a typical diving depth of 33 meters. This depth makes it an exciting dive for those comfortable with deeper wreck explorations.
What kind of marine life and unique wreck features can divers expect to encounter at the Chief Dragon dive site?
The Chief Dragon is a substantial bulk carrier vessel, measuring 112.8m x 22.9m, providing extensive wreck features to explore. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks of this size typically become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting diverse aquatic species. Divers can anticipate navigating the impressive structure of this vessel, which sank on March 18, 1983.
How challenging is the Chief Dragon wreck dive, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
The Chief Dragon wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for divers with some experience. It is also noted as a "Dangerous wreck," which implies additional considerations for safety and dive planning. Divers should ensure they have the appropriate training and comfort level for such a dive.
What is the best time of year to dive the Chief Dragon wreck in Sri Lanka for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Chief Dragon wreck for optimal conditions. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in Sri Lanka, please refer to our When to Dive guide.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive the Chief Dragon wreck?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed, given the Chief Dragon's depth of 33 meters and intermediate difficulty, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is generally recommended for such dives. Additionally, a Wreck Diver specialty certification would be highly beneficial, especially considering its classification as a "Dangerous wreck." Always consult with your local dive center in Hikkaduwa & South Coast for precise requirements.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at the Chief Dragon dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding the typical current and visibility conditions at the Chief Dragon dive site. Conditions can vary, so it's always best to check with local dive operators in Hikkaduwa & South Coast for the most up-to-date information before your dive.