THERMOPYLAE SIERRA - Hikkaduwa & South Coast

The Thermopylae Sierra sits upright on the seabed at 22 metres, a fairly recent wreck, scuttled in 2012. This bulk carrier is enormous, 155 metres long, offering plenty to explore. We found the sheer scale impressive, especially when you swim along the deck towards the bridge, where schools of batfish often hang out. It’s a good wreck for those who enjoy penetrating larger structures, with wide-open cargo holds to fin through. Keep an eye out for resident groupers and lionfish tucked into crevices. This site suits divers comfortable with depth and navigating a big wreck.

Location
Hikkaduwa & South Coast, Sri Lanka, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
6.786949, 79.840530
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
22m

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 THERMOPYLAE SIERRA

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 THERMOPYLAE SIERRA

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 Thermopylae Sierra dive site, and how deep is the main deck?
The maximum depth of the Thermopylae Sierra dive site is 22 meters. While the specific depth of the main deck isn't detailed, as a bulk carrier vessel measuring 155m x 27m, divers can expect various parts of the superstructure to be shallower than the maximum depth.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Thermopylae Sierra?
Divers exploring the Thermopylae Sierra can expect to encounter the impressive features of a large bulk carrier vessel. This wreck, measuring 155m x 27m, offers extensive hull and superstructure elements to explore. The site is classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure, providing a substantial artificial reef environment.
Is the Thermopylae Sierra wreck dive suitable for beginner divers, or is it considered an advanced dive?
The Thermopylae Sierra wreck dive is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This means it is not typically suitable for absolute beginner divers, but it is also not considered an advanced dive requiring extensive technical training. Divers with some experience and appropriate certification will find it a rewarding exploration.
What is the best time of year to dive the Thermopylae Sierra for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the Thermopylae Sierra dive site is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on diving seasons in Sri Lanka, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the Thermopylae Sierra?
Given that the Thermopylae Sierra is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, certifications such as Advanced Open Water Diver or a Wreck Diver specialty certification are typically recommended. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary skills and experience to safely explore a site of this nature, which reaches a depth of 22 meters.
What are the typical current and water conditions like at the Thermopylae Sierra dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information about the typical current and water conditions at the Thermopylae Sierra dive site. Divers should always consult with local dive operators in Hikkaduwa & South Coast for the most up-to-date conditions before planning their dive.