EXTRACTO 1 - Hikkaduwa & South Coast

Extracto 1 is less a deep dive, more an exploration of a ghost from the past, sitting just five meters down. We love this site for its sheer accessibility; you can practically snorkel over sections of it. The wreck itself, a substantial 127-meter motor vessel called the Pearl River, ran aground in '81 and now sprawls across the seabed. You'll spend your time navigating around massive metal plates, peering into cargo holds that still hint at their former purpose, and spotting the schools of snapper and fusiliers that have made this their home. It's a fantastic spot for photographers, particularly on sunny days when the light penetrates directly, illuminating the wreck and its resident fish.

Location
Hikkaduwa & South Coast, Sri Lanka, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
6.015050, 80.222000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Marine Protected Area: Rumassala SAN

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 EXTRACTO 1

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 EXTRACTO 1

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 scuba diving at EXTRACTO 1?
The typical depth for scuba diving at EXTRACTO 1 is 5 meters. This makes it a relatively shallow wreck dive, accessible to many divers looking to explore the site.
What marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at EXTRACTO 1?
Divers at EXTRACTO 1 can expect to explore the impressive remains of a motor vessel, measuring 127.7m x 18.3m, which sunk in 1988. As a prominent wreck, it provides a fascinating underwater topography of a sunken ship, often attracting various marine species. For more on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level for diving at EXTRACTO 1, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The difficulty level for diving at EXTRACTO 1 is classified as intermediate. While not suitable for absolute beginners, divers with an Open Water certification and some experience may find it manageable.
What is the best time of year to dive at EXTRACTO 1 for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Specific data regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and marine encounters at EXTRACTO 1 is not provided in the current information. We recommend consulting our comprehensive When to Dive guide for general seasonal information about the Hikkaduwa & South Coast region of Sri Lanka.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at EXTRACTO 1?
Given the intermediate difficulty level of EXTRACTO 1, an Open Water Diver certification with some prior experience is generally recommended. For enhanced safety and enjoyment, especially when exploring the wreck, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification would be beneficial.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at EXTRACTO 1?
Information regarding the typical current conditions and visibility at EXTRACTO 1 is not available in the provided data. Divers should always check local conditions with a dive operator before planning their dive at this wreck site.