Panadura Wreck - Hikkaduwa & South Coast

The Panadura Wreck, sometimes called the Panadura Nilkete, sits upright in a very accessible 12 metres of water. It's a proper introduction to wreck diving in Sri Lanka, close enough to shore for a quick boat trip from Panadura. The wreck itself is reasonably intact, offering plenty of nooks and crannies to peer into, though penetration is really for those with proper training. You'll find batfish often schooling around the main structure, and the occasional moray eel peeking from a darkened hold. It’s a solid dive for certified divers looking for something a bit different from the usual reef.

Location
Hikkaduwa & South Coast, Sri Lanka, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
6.683300, 79.883300
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
12 metres/40 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 Panadura 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 Panadura 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 maximum depth of the Panadura Wreck dive site?
The Panadura Wreck dive site has a maximum depth of 12 metres (40 feet). This makes it an accessible wreck dive for many certified divers looking to explore the underwater world off Hikkaduwa & South Coast, Sri Lanka.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Panadura Wreck?
The Panadura Wreck is a dedicated wreck dive site, also known as the Panadura Nilkete Wreck. While specific marine life details are not provided, divers can expect to explore the features of the wreck itself, offering a great introduction to wreck diving in Sri Lanka.
How difficult is the Panadura Wreck dive, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Panadura Wreck dive is rated as intermediate difficulty. It is a popular site specifically for certified divers, suggesting it may not be suitable for absolute beginners without prior certification or experience. This wreck offers a good challenge for those ready to explore Sri Lanka's underwater historical sites.
What is the best time of year to dive the Panadura Wreck for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the Panadura Wreck is not available in our current data. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the region, you may want to consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Panadura Wreck?
The Panadura Wreck is described as a popular site for certified divers. While a specific certification level beyond "certified" isn't detailed, divers should ensure they possess the necessary training and experience for an intermediate level wreck dive at 12 metres (40 feet). This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience exploring this Sri Lankan wreck.
What are the typical underwater visibility and current conditions at the Panadura Wreck?
Our current data does not specify the typical underwater visibility or current conditions at the Panadura Wreck. We recommend checking with local dive operators in Hikkaduwa & South Coast for the most up-to-date information before planning your dive.