ARISTAIOS

Best months: May, Oct

Protected Area

Peramu Soil Reclamation Forest

Why dive here

With 143+ marine species recorded in the area - including sea turtles and whale sharks - ARISTAIOS offers some of Redang Island's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 28-31°C, warmest April, May, June.

Marine lifeSea Turtles and Whale Sharks · 143+ species recorded

Water28-31°C · warmest April, May, June

CharacterWreck dive · max 9m

The Aristaios wreck is a real character, a shallow site that always delivers something interesting. This 138-meter motor vessel went down in 1973 after a leak, grounding itself right there at 9 meters. It’s perfect for a long, relaxed dive, especially if you’re into exploring nooks and crannies without worrying about bottom time. We love finning slowly along the deck, picking out details of the superstructure. The masts are still clearly defined, reaching up towards the surface, and they're home to schools of fusiliers so thick they almost block the sun. Look closely into the shadowed holds, and you’ll often spot batfish schooling, sometimes a grumpy stonefish, or a moray eel peeking out. Visibility here can vary, but we’ve had some truly stunning dives when it's settled, the light filtering down onto the rusted metal. It’s a site that feels alive, not just a historical relic. We’d suggest going early in the morning to get the best light and fewer other divers.

Typical ARISTAIOS Dive Profile

Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

Safety Notes

Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

Strong currents typical this month (avg 73 cm/s). Good buoyancy control essential.

Today06:0318:1612h 13m daylightGolden hour 17:48

ARISTAIOS Wreck History

Year Sunk

1973

Vessel Type

cargo ship

Cause

grounding

Tonnage

6,711 GRT

Originally built as the SS Cape Possession in 1944 by the California Shipbuilding Corp, this vessel was a C1-S-AY1 type cargo ship that served the United States during the latter stages of World War II. After the war, she was sold into commercial service, changing hands and names several times before eventually being christened the Greek-owned MV Aristaios.

In August 1973, while on a voyage from China to Europe with a load of general cargo, the Aristaios struck the seabed near Redang Island. The impact ripped a hole in her hull, causing a severe leak. To prevent the ship from sinking in deep water, the captain made the decision to deliberately ground her on the reef. Despite these efforts, the vessel was flooded and declared a constructive total loss, abandoned where she lay.

Today, the Aristaios rests in the calm, clear waters of Redang Marine Park at a very accessible depth of just 9 meters. Its shallow grave makes it a perfect site for novice divers and snorkelers. The large, broken-up hull has transformed into a thriving artificial reef, home to a vast array of tropical fish, corals, and invertebrates, making it one of the most popular and vibrant wreck dives in the region.