VELA VI
Protected Area
Muthurajawela
Why dive here
With 91+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, giant moray eels, humpback whales, orcas and sea turtles - VELA VI offers some of Hikkaduwa & South Coast's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 28-31°C, warmest March, April, May.
The Vela VI is one of those wrecks we keep coming back to. She’s a motor vessel, about 48 metres long, that went down in ’84 when her cargo shifted in heavy seas. Now, sitting upright at 31 metres, she’s a proper dive. We love the way the light filters through the superstructure, highlighting the shoals of fusiliers that swirl around her. Visibility here can be a bit variable, but when it’s good, the stern is our favourite part to explore. You can still see the propeller, encrusted with sponges and home to some rather territorial lionfish. Keep an eye out for moray eels tucked into crevices, and we’ve spotted giant trevally cruising the deck. The forward holds are largely collapsed, but the general shape is still clear. It’s a compelling dive for anyone comfortable at depth, offering a real sense of history. We’d suggest going in the morning; the currents tend to pick up later in the day.
Typical VELA VI Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Deep dive (31m) - monitor air consumption closely. Advanced certification recommended.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for VELA VI
VELA VI Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for VELA VI, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (6.45, 79.98) (12km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
29°C
84°F · Range: 27.7–30°C
Air Temperature
26°C
79°F
Wind Speed
5.07 m/s
9.9 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1010.1 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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