TYCHONG - Redang Island

Tychong, a carrier vessel sunk off Redang in 1975, is one of our favourite wreck dives in Malaysia. She sits upright, largely intact, and has become a true artificial reef. We love descending onto her deck, often finding batfish schooling over the main superstructure, their silver scales catching the light. This isn’t a wreck for penetration, but there’s plenty to explore externally. You can swim along her main deck, peeking into cargo holds now home to lionfish and moray eels. Look closely for the bicycles and sewing machines from her final cargo - a real blast from the past. The stern section, in particular, attracts large groupers and the occasional green turtle grazing on the corals that have started to encrust the metalwork. It’s a comfortable dive, usually with mild currents, making it perfect for divers who appreciate history and the way the ocean reclaims its own.

Location
Redang Island, Malaysia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
4.941333, 103.351500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Rantau Abang Turtle Sanctuary

Best Time to Dive in Redang Island

The warmest water temperatures in Redang Island occur in May, averaging 30.5°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 28.0°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.0°C
  • February: 28.0°C
  • March: 28.8°C
  • April: 30.2°C
  • May: 30.5°C
  • June: 29.9°C
  • July: 29.5°C
  • August: 29.4°C
  • September: 29.5°C
  • October: 29.9°C
  • November: 29.6°C
  • December: 28.6°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Redang Island

Nearest Dive Centres to TYCHONG

Marine Life in Redang Island

Home to 153 recorded species including 101 reef fish, 34 hard corals, 7 sea cucumbers, 3 other, 3 seagrass & algae, 2 sharks & rays.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for TYCHONG

Based on average water temperature of 29.3°C, currents 53 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins (stiff blade recommended for strong currents)
  • 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 available for scuba diving at TYCHONG?
The data for the TYCHONG dive site indicates a depth of 0m. This suggests that at least a portion of the wreck, classified as a carrier vessel, is visible at the surface. Divers should consult local guides for the full depth profile of the submerged sections of this intermediate-difficulty wreck.
What underwater features and attractions can divers expect to see at TYCHONG?
Divers visiting TYCHONG can explore the remains of a carrier vessel that sank on December 23, 1975. The wreck is classified as showing any portion of its hull or superstructure, offering an interesting historical dive. You might also discover remnants of its original cargo, which included bicycles, sewing machines, and carbide.
What is the difficulty level for diving at TYCHONG, and is it suitable for beginners?
The TYCHONG dive site is classified with an intermediate difficulty level. Due to this rating, it is generally not considered suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for intermediate wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to visit TYCHONG for optimal diving conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year to visit TYCHONG for optimal diving conditions, including specific seasons or months, is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on diving seasons, please refer to our When to Dive resource.
What specific scuba diving certifications are required to dive at TYCHONG?
The provided data does not specify any particular scuba diving certifications required to dive at TYCHONG. While the site is rated as intermediate difficulty, specific certification requirements should always be confirmed directly with local dive operators in Redang Island.
What are the typical water conditions, including currents and visibility, at TYCHONG?
Specific information regarding typical water conditions, such as currents and visibility, for the TYCHONG dive site is not available in the provided data. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive centers for up-to-date conditions before their dive.