American Wreck
Protected Area
Pulau Rusukan Besar Marine Park
Why dive here
With 142+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda, blue-spotted stingrays, eagle rays, sea turtles and sperm whales - American Wreck offers some of Sipadan's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 28-31°C, warmest August, September, October.
The American Wreck on Sipadan isn’t about big schools or shark action, it’s a quiet counterpoint to the usual whirlwind. We love it for that change of pace. Dropping down, you’re greeted by the ghostly outline of an old landing craft, thought to be a Japanese vessel from WWII, not American at all, despite the name. It sits upright, mostly intact, though time and the ocean have started to peel back its layers. Swim through the cargo holds, where sunlight dapples the interior and resident sweepers dart into the shadows. Look closely at the hull for nudibranchs and flatworms, camouflaged against the rust. Our favourite part is the bow, often home to a large moray eel peeking from a crevice. It’s a slow dive, perfect for photographers or anyone wanting a break from the current-swept reefs. The wreck isn't deep, usually around 20-25 metres, so you get plenty of bottom time to explore every nook. It’s a gentle reminder of history beneath the waves.
Typical American Wreck 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.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
American Wreck Wreck History
Vessel Type
unknown
Cause
unknown
Shrouded in mystery, the "American Wreck" is a dive site whose origins and name remain largely undocumented. Located in the world-renowned waters of Sipadan, Malaysia, this wreck adds an element of intrigue to one of the planet's most celebrated diving destinations. Without a known history, divers are left to imagine the story of the vessel's final voyage as they explore its remains. The allure of the dive lies not in a famous story, but in the thrill of discovery and the spectacular marine ecosystem it now supports.
Whatever its past, the American Wreck has been fully claimed by the sea, transforming into a bustling artificial reef. Divers can expect to be greeted by the incredible biodiversity that makes Sipadan legendary. The structure is often patrolled by reef sharks, visited by graceful sea turtles, and is home to countless species of reef fish. Exploring the wreck is as much about witnessing the power of nature to reclaim and repurpose as it is about the vessel itself, making it a memorable stop on any Sipadan diving itinerary.
Nearest Dive Centres to American Wreck
Dive shops near American Wreck
LABUAN RUSUKAN BESAR TOUR AND TRAVEL SDN. BHD
Oceanic Quest Dive Centre
Poni Divers
Reviews for American Wreck
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for American Wreck
American Wreck Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for American Wreck, sourced from Copernicus Marine satellite data
August Averages
Sea Temperature
30.56°C
87°F
Current Speed
14.04 cm/s
Direction: N (355.9°)
Chlorophyll-a
0.086 mg/m³
Very clear (oligotrophic)
Salinity
32.69 PSU
Data sources: Copernicus Marine Service (EU)
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