HONG LIAN - Kalpitiya & Northwest

The Hong Lian is a proper old-school wreck, lying in just six metres of water. We love a shallow wreck, especially one that’s been down for a while, and this one has settled beautifully into the seabed. You’re not going to get deep here, which means plenty of bottom time to really poke around her remains. The hull is breaking up in places, giving you these lovely swim-throughs where you can duck in and out, feeling the cooler water as you pass through. It’s perfect for new wreck divers, or anyone who just wants a relaxed dive with a bit of history. What makes the Hong Lian special, for us, is how the ocean has just taken over. There are lionfish everywhere, just hanging out under ledges, and we’ve seen some seriously chunky moray eels peering out from gaps in the plating. Look closely and you’ll spot nudibranchs crawling across the corroded metal, tiny pops of colour on the grey. Visibility can be a bit variable here, depending on recent weather, so we’d suggest heading out after a few calm days if you can. It’s a site that rewards a slow pace, letting your eyes adjust to the shadows and the life that now calls this old freighter home.

Location

Kalpitiya & Northwest, Sri Lanka, Indian Ocean & East Africa

Coordinates

9.159166, 79.415340

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

6m

Marine Protected Area: Adam's Bridge NP