wreck

Log This Dive

MV EXCELLENCY 77

The MV EXCELLENCY 77 is one of our favourite wreck dives in Sipadan, mostly because it’s a bit of a departure from the usual wall dives. This isn’t some ancient galleon, it’s a modern tugboat, purposely scuttled in 2006 to create an artificial reef. Dropping onto the deck at 23m, you’re immediately struck by how intact it still is, especially the wheelhouse, which is perfect for a quick swim-through. We love peering into the engine room, often seeing marble groupers lurking in the shadows. Look closely at the hull and you’ll spot nudibranchs, often some colourful *Chromodoris*. It’s a small wreck, around 18 metres long, so you can really take your time exploring all the nooks and crannies. The soft corals and sponges have really taken hold, making it feel less like a rusty hulk and more like a living reef. We often see schools of yellow fusiliers swirling around the mast, and if you’re lucky, a turtle might glide past, heading for the deeper water just beyond the wreck. It’s a brilliant dive for photographers seeking something different and for those who appreciate seeing how quickly nature reclaims what we put in the ocean.